A Benefits Management Strategic Decision-Making Framework for Transport Infrastructure Planning: The Case of Abu Dhabi

Abstract

This research presents a strategic decision-making framework for benefits management, designed for transport practitioners in Abu Dhabi. The framework aims to foster accountability and provide a structured approach for achieving both short- and long-term benefits from the initial stages of transport infrastructure project planning. Key variables in infrastructure projects, including project characteristics, lifecycle, and anticipated benefits, are examined in the literature review, supported by relevant references. A quantitative research method was used, with a sample of 374 qualified respondents, to explore the dynamics of transport infrastructure projects. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics, reliability tests, correlation analysis, and regression analysis, ensuring the research's validity and reliability. The formulated model was further verified through interviews and validation questionnaires. This study contributes to the field through three main insights: (1) it documents recent advancements in infrastructure planning in Abu Dhabi, (2) it addresses a gap in the development of decision-making frameworks specific to transport infrastructure projects, and (3) it proposes a strategic framework that comprises of end-to-end process determinants, performance measures and key tracking metrics. The proposed framework is intended to support sustainable and environmentally friendly transport system planning in Abu Dhabi, aligning local practices with global standards. Its implementation is expected to enhance transport infrastructure planning in Abu Dhabi, contributing to sustainable development and improved project outcomes. Keywords: Transport infrastructures project, Infrastructure project characteristic, Project lifecycle, Strategic decision- making framework, Abu Dhabi, Benefits management.