Phase-Related Leadership in Projects: A Literature-Based Perspective on Leadership in the Course of a Project
Phase-Related Leadership in Projects: A Literature-Based Perspective on Leadership in the Course of a Project

Summary/Abstract: This study examines whether the project manager’s leadership style differs across the individual project phases. The focus is on the balanced leadership approach and a split in leadership responsibility between the project manager (vertical leadership) and the project team (horizontal leadership). A theoretical analysis and combination of project phases and leadership approaches was carried out using a literature review. The results of the analysis and combination show that leadership is not a static style, but a dynamic process of influence. At the beginning of the project life cycle, leadership responsibility lies primarily with the project manager. In the planning and definition phase of the project, the degree of responsibility assumed by the project team increases, while in the execution phase, situational change is most effective. In the final phase, it also makes sense to shift leadership responsibility between the project manager and the project team. In conclusion, it is clear that balanced leadership is a useful leadership approach in project phases.

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