Analysis of Factors Affecting Motivation in Projects: A Case Study in Oil and Gas Industry in the Sultanate of Oman

Motivation is a key element for successful project execution. However, different people are motivated by various means in different sectors. Hence, this work aims to study, analyze and define the main motivational factors in project execution in the oil and gas industry. To achieve this, a dedicated survey is prepared and distributed among employees working in the oil and gas industry in Oman. To ensure diversifications and minimize biases, the survey is distributed randomly to people working in projects in different organizations in the oil and gas industry. Altogether, 86 respondents completed all the survey questions. The study revealed that, in general, external (extrinsic) factors have a significant motivational influence on employee performance in which money is considered as a powerful motivator. Moreover, task achievement is found to be the major intrinsic motivational factor influencing the employee’s performance. The study also reveals that irrespective of years of experience, organizational type and the level at which employee works, lack of management support will have a significant influence in lowering team motivation in the Oil and gas project. The study can serve as a guideline for the Oil and gas industry to target the specific factor which helps enhance the level of motivation of a specific segment of employees.