Application of the systemic lessons learned knowledge model to learning in complex projects: how project practitioners are shaping their learning.

Kamudyariwa, Xebiso Blessing; Osobajo, Oluyomi A.; Oke, Adekunle; Adebayo, Yetunde

Abstract

Learning in projects is frequently emphasized in practice and the literature for knowledge creation, yet there is limited research on how project practitioners articulate learning particularly in complex projects. This study applies the Systemic Lessons Learned Knowledge model to investigate how project practitioners conceptualize learning in complex projects. The research method consisted of narrative inquiry which is considered insightful and useful in acquiring data through storytelling. The research establishes how beyond the alignment of the people and system elements (learning, culture, social, technology, process, and infrastructure), an awareness of complex project attributes can positively influence project practitioners' learning capability. This study also identifies and discusses the enablers and challenges of transferring lessons learned into knowledge.

Citation

KAMUDYARIWA, X.B., OSOBAJO, O.A., OKE, A. and ADEBAYO, Y. 2025. Application of the systemic lessons learned knowledge model to learning in complex projects: how project practitioners are shaping their learning. Management learning [online], OnlineFirst. Available from: https://doi.org/10.1177/13505076251339433

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Jun 16, 2025
• Online Publication Date: Jun 16, 2025
• Deposit Date: Jun 24, 2025
• Publicly Available Date: Jun 24, 2025
• Journal: Management learning
• Print ISSN: 1350-5076
• Electronic ISSN: 1461-7307
• Publisher: SAGE Publications
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1177/13505076251339433
• Keywords: Knowledge management; Lessons learned; Project learning; Project practitioner; SYLLK model
• Public URL: https://rgu-repository.worktribe.com/output/2892022