Evaluating the Use of Artificial Intelligence Tools in Managing IT Projects: Opportunities and Challenges

Abstract

This study investigates the adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools and their impact on Information Technology (IT) project performance within the private sector of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Adopting a quantitative, cross-sectional design, data were collected through a structured questionnaire from a valid sample of 241 IT professionals. The conceptual framework, grounded in the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) and the Technology-Organisation-Environment (TOE) models, was empirically tested using multiple regression and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). The findings reveal that perceived AI benefits and the depth of organisational AI adoption significantly enhance project performance. Interestingly, a heightened awareness of AI-related barriers also demonstrated a positive correlation with success, indicating that navigating complex regulatory and technical challenges is a hallmark of high digital maturity. Conversely, AI adoption levels did not moderate the relationship between perceived benefits and performance, highlighting a critical strategy-execution gap. Furthermore, no significant performance differences were found based on professional experience or organisational size. Ultimately, the study concludes that AI acts as a profound operational equaliser, democratising predictive capabilities across diverse firm sizes and experience levels. To maximise project success, organisations must prioritise targeted human capital upskilling alongside technological procurement.