Critical success factors for industrial automation projects in Southern Africa

Automating projects is essential in ensuring the optimal operability and safety of new and existing plants. Automation systems relative to project execution results in minimal costs, improve quality, reduce inventory, enhance response time, and improvements in ergonomics. Less than 20 percent of automated projects accomplish defined goals in the three strategic domains of projects. These include scope, schedule, and budget. This paper investigates the critical success factors for industrial automation projects in Southern Africa. A comprehensive list of critical success factors essential relative to enhancing automation project success is explored. The paper explores multiple projects as case study scenarios towards achieving a better understanding of the problem. The subset case study scenarios are collected based on extensive literature review of failed and successful automation projects at a South African branch of a global technology firm. The paper results suggest 12 essential success factors for industrial automation projects which include risks addressed/assessed/managed, good performance by suppliers/contractors/ consultants, a realistic schedule, strong/detailed plan kept up to date, sufficient/ well-allocated resources, adequate budget, effective monitoring/control. The paper presents essential implications for managers and project professionals. Recommendations are suggested towards enhancing industrial automation projects completion.