Abstract:
This study investigated the role of strategic management practices in influencing the outcomes development projects in the Western Province of Sri Lanka. It aimed to identify the key practices that contributed to project success and examined how these practices addressed the challenges faced in development projects, such as stakeholder conflicts, resource constraints, and risk management. The significance of this study lay in its contribution to understanding the importance of strategic
management in development project success, particularly in complex and uncertain environments. The findings offered practical insights for project managers and policymakers on how to enhance project performance by implementing effective strategic management practices. A qualitative research design was employed, with data collected through semi-structured interviews with project managers, team members, and key stakeholders involved in major development projects. The analysis focused on key strategic management practices, including stakeholder engagement, resource allocation, and risk management. The study used thematic analysis to identify patterns and insights from the interviewee. The study found that effective stakeholder engagement, proactive risk management, and efficient resource allocation were crucial for achieving project success. Projects that adopted a strategic approach to managing these practices tended to complete on time, within budget, and with higher stakeholder satisfaction. Additionally, leadership support and organizational culture played a significant role in the successful implementation of these practices. This study provided practical recommendations for enhancing strategic management practices in development projects. It contributed to the broader understanding of strategic management in development contexts and suggested avenues for improving project outcomes in Sri Lanka's development sector
