Abstract

Project success constitutes an indefinite and ambiguous concept for which a commonly acceptable definition cannot be featured. The evaluation of project success is considered a dynamic research issue significantly differentiated based on the perspectives and expectations of project stakeholders. Multicriteria decision making/analysis (MCDM/MCDA) refers to the appropriate methods/techniques applied for the evaluation of a set of alternatives through multiple and contradictory criteria in context of the determination of the optimal/ideal alternative. The main objective of this article is the investigation of the application of multicriteria decision making/analysis methods (MCDM/MCDA) for the evaluation/assessment of project success. Various multicriteria methods are continually applied in engineering and construction within the last decades for the resolution of important decision-making and management problems/issues. A systematic literature review (SLR) is conducted in Web of Science academic database leading to the collection of 21 scientific publications for the period 2010-2024. The results of the research demonstrate the prevalence of AHP method usually employed in single applications and occasionally combined with TOPSIS, DEMATEL, and PROMETHEE in terms of the evaluation of project success and its two fundamental components in civil engineering and construction. Further research is recommended in order to identify the potential challenges of the application of multicriteria decision making/analysis methods (MCDM/MCDA) in adjacent scientific fields/areas.

Keywords:Multicriteria Decision Making (MCDM); Multicriteria Decision Analysis (MCDA); Project Success; Project Success Evaluation; Project Success Assessment; Success Criteria (SC); Critical Success Factors (CSFs); Engineering; Construction

Introduction

Multicriteria Decision Making (MCDM) or Multicriteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) consists an extremely widespread scientific topic in operational/business and management level that has emerged since the beginning of the 18th century. It is essentially the important decision-making process in various fields/industries considering multiple and, possibly, contradictory evaluation criteria. The multicriteria decision making/analysis methods (MCDM/MCDA), developed during 1950 and 1960, refer to the evaluation process of a predetermined set of alternatives under specific qualitative and/or quantitative criteria aiming at the selection of the ideal/appropriate alternative [1]. According to Roy [2], the multicriteria decision making/analysis methods (MCDM/MCDA) can resolve four distinct types of decision problems: the selection of a specific alternative, the identification and sorting of alternatives, the ranking/prioritizing of alternatives, and the description of alternatives respectively. In general, the multicriteria decision making/analysis methods (MCDM/MCDA) can be distinguished into multiple attribute decision making/analysis methods (MADM) and multiple objective decision making methods (MODM) [3,4,5,6]. The multiple attribute decision making methods (MADM) are usually based on a limited number of predetermined alternatives and the final selection originates from consecutive comparisons and trade-offs. In contrast, the multiple objective decision making methods (MODM) do not require a predetermined number of alternatives, which are initially identified and designed through their restrictions in order to achieve acceptable levels of objectives/goals [1]. Alternatively, it could be considered that the multiple attribute decision making/analysis methods (MADM) focus on problems/issues with discrete reference field, whilst the multiple objective decision making methods (MODM) focus on problems/issues with a more continuous reference field [7,8,1]. Indicatively, the most well-known multiple attribute decision making methods (MADM) include Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS), VIseKriterijumska Optimizacija I Kompromisno Resenje (VIKOR), Analytic Network Process (ANP), Preference Ranking Organization METHod for Enrichment of Evaluations (PROMETHEE), ÉLimination Et Choix Traduisant la REalité (ELECTRE), Full MULTIplicative Form Multi-Objective Optimization by Ratio Analysis (MULTIMOORA), Multiple Attribute Utility Theory (MAUT), Complex Proportional Assessment (CORPAS), Additive Ratio Assessment (ARAS), Decision Making Trial And Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) and their fuzzy variations (fuzzy sets/methods), while the multiple objective decision making methods (MODM) enclose Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA), Vector Optimization, Weighting Method, Global Criterion Method, De Novo Programming, Satisficing Trade-Off Method (STOM), Given Unknown Equations Setup Solve (GUESS), Interactive Method for Nondifferentiable Multiobjective Optimization Problems (NIMBUS), Evolutionary Multi-Objective Optimization (EMO) and their fuzzy and other variations respectively [1]. In addition, the multiple attribute decision making methods (MADM) are generally divided into six categories, namely the multiple attribute utility/value functions, the pairwise comparisons methods, the distance/ratio to reference point methods, the outranking-based MADM methods, the fuzzy set methods and their variations, and other MADM methods. Accordingly, the multiple objective decision making methods (MODM) can be distinguished into four categories: the no-preference methods, the methods with a priori information, the methods with posteriori information, as well as the methods with progressive information [1]. Another categorization of multicriteria decision making/analysis methods (MCDM/ MCDA) originates from Belton and Steward [9], as conveyed by Abdel-malak et al. [10], which mainly reflects the range of their application. In particular, the multicriteria decision making/analysis methods (MCDM/MCDA) are classified into three general categories: the value measurement models with numerical scores among alternatives, the goal of reference level models with desirable levels of goal achievement between various alternatives, and the outranking models with pairwise comparisons and ranking among alternatives respectively [10].

Furthermore, multicriteria decision making (MCDM) includes specific mathematical models that are used for the subjective evaluation of a set of alternatives through multiple criteria [11]. The multicriteria decision making problems (MCDM problems) refer to significant issues in which the optimal/ideal alternative is extracted through the examination of multiple, non-comparable and, possibly, contradictory evaluation criteria. In general, the multicriteria decision making problems (MCDM problems) can be divided into two categories depending on the type of the available evaluation data, the multiple criteria discrete alternative problems, as well as the multiple criteria optimization problems. The first category encloses evaluation data concerning the individual performances of the examined alternatives on specific criteria, whilst the second refers to pairwise comparison matrices between the various alternatives based on the evaluation criteria [12]. The multicriteria decision making/analysis methods (MCDM/MCDA) applied to resolve the aforementioned problems/issues could be also distinguished into two general categories, the ones based on pairwise comparisons (e.g. AHP, ANP, PROMETHEE, ELECTRE), as well as the ones based on utility values (e.g. TOPSIS, VIKOR, WSM) [13].

The present article aims at the investigation of the applicability of multicriteria decision making/analysis methods (MCDM/ MCDA) for the evaluation/assessment of project success in civil engineering and construction. The pertinent literature includes sufficient surveys referring to the application of multicriteria decision making/analysis (MCDM/MCDA) in engineering and construction, but simultaneously presents some deficiencies in the evaluation/assessment of project success and its two fundamental components (success criteria, critical success factors). This research would address the gaps in the literature by focusing on the evaluation of project success using multicriteria decision making/ analysis methods (MCDM/MCDA). Section 2 examines the development of the research activity considering the application of multicriteria decision making/analysis methods (MCDM/MCDA) in engineering sciences and construction, whilst Section 3 briefly describes the adopted research methodology of the article. In Section 4 the results of the systematic literature review (SLR) are presented and discussed in detail. Finally, the most important concluding remarks and findings of the research are provided.

The Application of Multicriteria Decision Making/ Analysis Methods (MCDM/MCDA) in Engineering and Construction

Jato-Espino et al. [14] investigate in detail the application of multicriteria decision making methods (MCDM/MCDA) in construction industry, which encloses plenty of processes with intense complexity and uncertainty. Initially, the research of Jato-Espino et al. (2014) includes the collection of totally 88 articles/in scientific journals and conference proceedings that directly refer to the application of multicriteria decision making methods (MCDM/ MCDA) in construction during the time period 1992-2013. The literature review demonstrates single as well as hybrid approaches based on the widespread application of 25 different multicriteria decision making methods (MCDM/MCDA). The main research objective is the presentation of the value and benefits gained from the application of multicriteria decision making methods (MCDM/ MCDA) via thorough analysis of the collected scientific publications related to the construction industry. According to the results of the research, Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) obviously presents the highest frequency of reference/occurrence in construction, whilst TOPSIS (in hybrid approaches), ELECTRE (in individual applications), ANP, DEA, MIVES, VIKOR and PROMETHEE are the following multicriteria decision making methods (MCDM/ MCDA) in descending ranking. However, a special emphasis is given to the systematic use of fuzzy sets theory, as a supplementary option to the traditional multicriteria methods enabling to resolve the emerging issues of uncertainty and ambiguity. Regarding to the application areas of the multicriteria decision making methods (MCDM/MCDA), the categories of Building and Structures, Bidding, Project Management, Geotechnics, and Roads and Highways preponderate (in descending order). Particularly, the correlation analysis on the data of the hybrid applications of the multicriteria decision making methods (MCDM/MCDA) demonstrates the high complementarity between AHP and ANP used by the research for the comparison of their results in terms of the same problem/issue resolution. Moreover, the inconsistency among the multicriteria methods AHP and TOPSIS is strongly highlighted, as they can be applied in combination in many scientific fields. Nevertheless, the majority of hybrid applications based on VIKOR method, usually use ANP for data weights calculation. It should be noted that the multicriteria methods VIKOR and ANP have the similar structural principles with TOPSIS and AHP, as a consequence they can both considered as direct alternatives. Eventually, the regression analysis is implemented in order to investigate the intertemporal evolution of the applications of multicriteria decision making methods (MCDM/MCDA) in construction. In particular, only individual applications of multicriteria decision making methods (MCDM/MCDA) are observed during 1992-2007. Since 2007, a significantly increasing growth rate of the scientific publications with individual applications of multicriteria methods is prevailing, in parallel with the gradual emergence of the hybrid applications respectively. The combinatorial application of multicriteria decision making methods (MCDM/MCDA), as an alternative to address the identified weaknesses and deficiencies of the traditional ones, comprises a necessary condition with high perspectives in the construction industry [14].

Zavadskas et al. [8,15] conduct an extensive survey aiming at the examination of the intertemporal evolution and the application of multicriteria decision making methods (MCDM/MCDA) in civil engineering. In particular, a systematic literature review is carried out through a recognized academic database in terms of the development of multicriteria decision making methods (MCDM/MCDA) during 1991-2015. Regarding to the intertemporal evolution of research on the multicriteria decision making methods (MCDM/ MCDA), a relatively small percentage of scientific publications is dedicated to the field of civil engineering, and most of them have been emerged since 2010. The detailed analysis of Zavadskas et al. [8] also includes the presentation of the distribution of the examined scientific publications based on the reference area, the authors, and the scientific journals. The multicriteria decision making methods (MCDM/MCDA) presenting the highest application frequency in civil engineering are the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), TOPSIS, fuzzy sets theory, Analytic Network Process (ANP), and PROMETHEE respectively. Further examining the research of Zavadskas [15], the totally 114 corresponding scientific publications are appropriately separated into distinct research areas and domains. According to the results of the detailed analysis, the individual research areas widely applying the multicriteria decision making methods (MCDM/MCDA) within the field of civil engineering are Water Resources Management, Construction Building Technology, Transportation, and specific topics of Engineering (in descending order). Additionally, the applications of multicriteria decision making methods (MCDM/MCDA) are categorized into individual domains within the examined research areas. The research area under consideration (Construction Building Technology) is divided into the following domains: building structures, modernization/reconstruction, demolition, sustainable building, intelligent building, and seismic retrofitting [15].

Mardani et al. [11] conduct an extensive literature review in respect with the methodologies and applications of fuzzy multicriteria decision making methods (FMCDM). The adopted research methodology includes the collection and review of totally 1081 references extracted from academic databases for the time period 1994-2014, which are initially distributed into traditional (MCDM) and fuzzy multicriteria decision making methods (FMCDM). Subsequently, the identified applications of fuzzy multicriteria decision making methods (403 articles/papers) are appropriately separated based on the examined scientific fields (engineering, management and business, science, technology), as well as the type of study (FMCDM utilizing research, FMCDM developing research, FMCDM proposing research) respectively. Regarding to the engineering field, the majority of the applications of fuzzy multicriteria decision making methods belong to the category of methods utilizing research, whilst the methods developing research and those containing proposals follow with significant difference. Additionally, the applications of fuzzy AHP and fuzzy TOPSIS are mainly distinguished in combination with other multicriteria methods, while the hybrid use of fuzzy ANP, fuzzy VIKOR, ELECTRE, DEMATEL and PROMETHEE present remarkable frequency of reference/occurrence in the corresponding literature. It should be noted that a significant portion of the reviewed articles/ papers encompasses the hybrid applications of some contemporary multicriteria decision making methods (e.g. ARAS, WASPAS, SWARA, MULTIMOORA). The research of Mardani et al. [11] also distributes the examined articles/papers in terms of the publication year and the geographical scope. The application of fuzzy multicriteria decision making methods (FMCDM) presents an exponential development with auspicious future prospects during 1994-2014, where the highest volume of research is performed in the year 2013-2014.

The application of hybrid multicriteria decision making methods (HMCDM) consists a rapidly expanding trend in the field of decision making over the last two decades. According to Zavadskas et al. [16], this practice encloses the combinatorial application of various multicriteria decision making methods (MCDM/MCDA) in order to evaluate/assess the relative importance of the criteria and the final ranking of the examined alternatives. In general concept, the most common combination types of the multicriteria decision making methods (MCDM/MCDA) within the corresponding literature are: multicriteria method combined with multicriteria method, multicriteria method combined with criteria evaluation method, multicriteria method combined with fuzzy sets theory/grey numbers, and multicriteria methods combined with other methods respectively. Zavadskas et al. [16] investigate the development and application of the hybrid multicriteria decision making methods in the field of engineering. In first level, the literature review refers to the consideration of the relevant scientific publications via a recognized academic database for the time period 1999-2015. Regarding to the primary findings of the research, a small part of the examined scientific publications refers to the application of hybrid multicriteria decision making methods (HMCDM) within totally 32 scientific areas, half of which are specialized in the field of engineering. Furthermore, a particularly significant increase in research activity on hybrid multicriteria decision making methods (HMCDM) is observed during 1999-2015, while it could be characterized as rapid in the last five years (2011-2015). Specifically, the totally 83 collected articles/ papers are appropriately divided into three distinct application fields, namely the industrial and manufacturing engineering, the engineering economic and management, and the engineering multidisciplinary (in descending order of occurrence). It is noted that the three application fields of engineering are also separated into individual important decision-making issues, such as technology selection, production selection/development, supplier evaluation and selection, performance evaluation, project selection, personnel selection, and multidisciplinary applications respectively. Generally, the most predominate multicriteria methods applied in hybrid applications within all application fields are AHP, ANP, DEMATEL, TOPSIS, VIKOR, and their fuzzy variations, whilst ELECTRE, PROMETHEE and the newer CORPAS, SWARA, WASPAS occasionally appear in the corresponding literature. In conclusion, the hybrid applications of the multicriteria decision making methods (HMCDM) have gained wider acceptance in the recent years due to the diversity and complexity of information in projects [16].

Abdel-malak et al. [10] review the most popular multicriteria decision making methods (MCDM/MCDA) that are used in various manners in civil engineering projects (CEPs). The proper selection of the appropriate multicriteria method(s) consists an imperative need for addressing any certain problems/issues in civil engineering projects (CEPs). According to Abdel-malak et al. [10], the most widespread multicriteria decision making methods (MCDM/ MCDA) applied in civil engineering projects (CEPs) within the corresponding literature are AHP, TOPSIS, CBA, as well as fuzzy logic/ theory. In addition, the contribution and limitations of the specific multicriteria decision making methods (MCDM/MCDA) are briefly described, whilst special emphasis is drawn on the gradual integration of fuzzy logic inside their application process in the examined projects. Finally, the multicriteria methods of AHP and fuzzy TOPSIS are selected and compared in detail, as the most prevalent in the literature, the combination of which can produce beneficial results in civil engineering projects (CEPs).

Zavadskas et al. [17] examine in detail the sustainable decision making in civil engineering and construction building technology through the application of multicriteria decision making methods (MCDM/MCDA). Generally, it is highlighted that the research activity on the use of multicriteria decision making methods (MCDM/ MCDA) in the corresponding scientific field presents especially increasing rate during 1991-2017. The research methodology adopted by Zavadskas et al. [17] encompass the systematic review of totally 195 references referring to the application of multicriteria decision making methods (MCDM/MCDA) in civil engineering and construction building technology for the time period 2015-2017. Preliminary, the thorough research reflects the significant increment of the scientific publications regarding multicriteria decision making methods (MCDM/MCDA), as well as the remarkable expansion of their geographical scope. Moreover, the investigated scientific publications are divided into seven distinct application domains within the field of civil engineering and construction building technology. More specifically, the two most important application domains in the examined literature are sustainable construction and construction technology, followed by building structures and systems, construction management, retrofitting, building maintenance, and location selection problems in the final ranking (in descending order). Relating to the most commonly applied multicriteria decision making methods (MCDM/MCDA), AHP, fuzzy sets, TOPSIS, MIVES, PROMETHEE, ARAS, and VIKOR are dominant respectively. The remarkable conclusions of the research of Zavadskas et al. [17] also include the gradual integration of the fuzzy sets theory/logic into the traditional multicriteria decision making methods (MCDM/MCDA), as well as the increasing appearance of their combinatorial/hybrid applications during 2015-2017. Finally, the multicriteria decision making methods (MCDM/MCDA) are distinguished as a convenient, suitable and flexible tool that can be used for the evaluation of various alternatives in terms of sustainable development in construction industry [17].

The research of Darko et al. [18] focuses on the multifarious application of the popular Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) in the field of construction management. The main research questions are the investigation of the established literature referring to the application of AHP, as well as the identification of the individual application areas and the concerning decision problems/issues within the examined field. Initially, the systematic literature review is based on the final collection of 77 relevant publications in 8 distinguished scientific journals for the time period 2004- 2014. In general concept, the literature review demonstrates that the AHP method is applied in numerous decision problems/ issues and it can be considered particularly useful and reliable for making proper decisions in a wider range of construction management. According to descriptive statistics, the research activity on the application of AHP in construction management presents a consistently increasing rate during 2004-2014, whilst a possibly randomized surge is observed for the period 2007-2008 respectively. However, the identified increasing rate of research activity reveals sings of recession at the end of the examined period due to the emergence of newer multicriteria decision making methods (MCDM/MCDA) in the international literature. In particular, the top application areas of the AHP within construction management include (in descending order) risk management, sustainable construction, transportation, housing, contractor prequalification and selection, and competitive advantage. Regarding to the application type of the AHP, the integrated applications dominate the stand-alone ones in almost all the distinct areas. It is highlighted that the fuzzy sets theory (FSs) comprises the most common methodology combined with AHP applications within the examined literature. Furthermore, the intensive application of the AHP multicriteria method for the resolution of problems/issues in construction management is mainly due to the non-requirement of large sample size, the achievement of high consistency, the simplicity of application, and the availability of user-friendly software respectively [18].

The research objective of Stojčić et al. [19] is the investigation of the literature referring to the application of multicriteria decision making methods (MCDM/MCDA) in sustainable engineering. The adopted methodology encloses the combinatorial search for published references using keywords via an established academic database and search engines for the time period 2008-2018. Specifically, the concurrent research leads to the identification of totally 329 scientific publications regarding to the application of multicriteria decision making methods (MCDM/MCDA) through the academic database and 108 publications form the special search engine respectively. Generally, the majority of the collected scientific publications are distributed to the field of civil engineering, while a remarkable increment of the appearance frequency is observed over the examined time period 2008-2018. Additionally, the 108 reviewed scientific publications form the concurrent research, referring to the application of multicriteria decision making methods (MCDM/MCDA) in sustainable engineering, are appropriately classified into five distinct categories, namely civil engineering and infrastructure, energy, transport and logistics, supply chain management, and other engineering disciplines (in descending order). Considering the field of civil engineering and infrastructure, the multicriteria methods AHP, TOPSIS and MIVES prevail, in individual and hybrid applications, whilst the integration of fuzzy numbers and grey numbers theory for the resolution of problems with strong uncertainty is also noteworthy. Summarizing, the multicriteria decision making methods (MCDM/MCDA) are considered an appropriate option for addressing decision problems/issues in the field of sustainable engineering, where AHP is established as the most widespread multicriteria method in all application categories [19].

Zhu et al. [1] attempt the thorough investigation of the evolutionary development of the application of multicriteria decision making methods (MCDM/MCDA) in construction. In particular, a systematic literature review is conducted through a recognized academic database (with keywords) leading to the collection of totally 530 scientific articles with reference to the application of multicriteria decision making methods (MCDM/MCDA) in construction during 2000-2019. In first level, the major application areas of multicriteria decision making methods (MCDM/MCDA) in construction field are distinguished via content co-occurrence analysis, which enclose contractor/subcontractor/staff/supplier selection, cost/time/quality performance assessment, design/ system/method/project/portfolio selection, layout/location selection, material/equipment selection, risk/safety management, and sustainability/environment assessment respectively. Subsequently, the reviewed scientific publications are distributed in terms of the publication year, the publisher, and the authors. As it is observed, the application of both categories of multicriteria decision making methods (MADM and MODM) in construction field has shown consistently increasing rate since 2012, where multiple attribute decision making (MADM) is dominating throughout the examined period 2000-2019. Furthermore, the number of scientific publications using hybrid multicriteria decision making methods is vastly greater than those using single multicriteria decision making methods since 2008, a trend that is inversed during the immediately preceding period (2000-2007). Regarding to the most common multicriteria decision making methods (MCDM/ MCDA) in construction field, the individual applications of AHP, ANP, TOPSIS, DEA, EMO and fuzzy sets theory, as well as the hybrid applications of fuzzy AHP-TOPSIS, fuzzy ANP, ANP-DEMATEL, and fuzzy DEMATEL are distinguished. Generally, the hybrid applications involving AHP and integrating fuzzy sets theory are prominent during the time period 2000-2019 [1].

Wen et al. [20] investigate the applications of fuzzy multicriteria decision making methods in civil engineering, which encloses a multiplicity of significant and complex decision-making problems/ issues. The fuzzy sets theory comprises a supplementary mathematical approach enabling the treatment of the high level of ambiguity and uncertainty in decision-making problems/issues. The use of fuzzy multicriteria decision making methods has demonstrated particularly increasing rate in civil engineering in the recent decades, without receiving rigorous investigation. The research methodology of Wen et al. [20] includes an extensive literature review via an established academic database (using keywords) with respect to the application of fuzzy multicriteria decision making methods in civil engineering, which leads to the collection and examination of totally 52 scientific publications for the time period 2016-2020. The specific references are appropriately classified according to the examined decision-making problem/ issue, as well as to the type (single or hybrid) of the implemented fuzzy multicriteria decision making methods. Combining the results of the detailed literature review and the statistical analysis, the most prevalent multicriteria decision making problems/ issues in the field of civil engineering deal with risk assessment, strategy selection, contractor/supplier selection, technology selection, material selection, construction project selection, location selection, personnel selection, and others respectively (in descending scale). In general, risk assessment is considered the most popular multicriteria decision-making problem/issue, and cost is the most widespread evaluation criterion in the field of civil engineering. Furthermore, the individual applications of fuzzy multicriteria decision making methods significantly outweigh the hybrid applications, where fuzzy AHP, fuzzy TOPSIS, fuzzy ANP, fuzzy synthetic evaluation method, and fuzzy weighted sum model present the comparatively higher frequency of reference/occurrence in the reviewed literature. It should be also highlighted that the combinatorial application of fuzzy AHP and fuzzy TOPSIS is distinguished as the most common hybrid approach in civil engineering. Eventually, the major challenges surrounding the research scope of Wen et al. [20] include the high necessity of differentiation of fuzzy information evaluation tools, examination of possible interactions between evaluation criteria and expansion of application of various fuzzy multicriteria decision making methods, as well as the incomplete development and application of hybrid multicriteria decision making methods respectively [20].

Štilić and Puška [21] provide a comprehensive review of various multicriteria decision making methods (MCDM/MCDA) and their applications in the field of sustainable engineering. The main motivation of their research is to address the necessity to integrate sustainability into modern practices, as well as to make documented and balanced decisions through the multicriteria methods in engineering sciences. The research methodology includes the search and collection of references via established academic databases related to the application of multicriteria decision making methods (MCDM/MCDA) in sustainable engineering for the time period 2018-2023. The literature review is based on the selection of specific case studies with explicit reference to the use of multicriteria decision making methods (MCDM/MCDA) in sustainable engineering aiming at the identification and analysis of the examined decision problems/issues, the evaluation criteria, the extracted results/conclusions, and the possibilities and limitations of the application of multicriteria methods respectively. In general, the considered scientific publications in the field of sustainable engineering present a particular variety in terms of the publishers and cover a wide range of subjects/issues in different research areas (e.g. decision making, multicriteria decision making methods, analytic hierarchy process, sustainability, sustainable development, fuzzy sets, supply chain management). Specifically, the multicriteria decision making methods (MCDM/MCDA) are widely applied in the field of sustainable engineering, where AHP and TOPSIS (individual and hybrid applications) occupy the first positions in the ranking followed by ANP, DEMATEL, BWM, VIKOR and GRA based on their frequency of reference in the corresponding literature. Moreover, the progressive integration of fuzzy sets theory and the use of entropy method in traditional multicriteria decision making methodologies are considered noteworthy. Finally, the case studies investigated in the research, which encompass real-world applications of multicriteria decision making methods (MCDM/ MCDA), are appropriately classified into the following areas of sustainable engineering: energy engineering, manufacturing and production engineering, transportation engineering, and environmental engineering. It is noted that the success of these applications depends significantly on the quality and availability of data, the accuracy and reliability of evaluation criteria, as well as on the engagement of the project stakeholders respectively [21].

The Research Methodology

The research methodology of the present article includes the conduct of a systematic literature review (SLR), which is a prerequisite for the configuration of the basic theoretical and scientific background. The rationale of the systematic literature review (SLR) is based on a meticulous and repetitive research process leading to transparent, objective and unbiased findings and conclusions [22,1]. It is also noted that the systematic literature review (SLR) has been widely applied in various scientific disciplines within the last decades.

In first level, the two fundamental research questions of the literature review refer to the intertemporal development and application of multicriteria decision making/analysis methods (MCMD/MCDA) in engineering and construction, as well as the applicability of them for the evaluation/assessment of project success. In general, the application of multicriteria decision making/ analysis methods (MCDM/MCDA) tends to be considered especially widespread in engineering and construction (Section 2). The adopted literature review focuses on the application of multicriteria decision making/analysis methods (MCDM/MCDA) for the evaluation/assessment of project success and the two fundamental components (success criteria, critical success factors) (Figure 1). The Web of Science (WoS) Core Collection academic database is appropriately selected for the rigorous search and collection of the pertinent literature consisting of scientific publications (articles and conference proceedings) within prominent peer-reviewed journals. Subsequently, the advanced search query builder provided by Web of Science (Wos) database is preferred in order to restrict the search scope according to the research objectives. The totally 27 keywords used in the specialized field “Author Keywords (AK)” of the advanced search include the following combinations with the assistance of the Boolean functions “and” and “or”: (AK=(multicriteria decision making or multi-criteria decision-making or MCDM or multicriteria decision analysis or multi-criteria decision analysis or MCDA or multi-criteria methods or multi-attribute decision-making methods or analytic hierarchy process or AHP or TOPSIS or ANP or fuzzy AHP or fuzzy TOPSIS or fuzzy ANP )) AND AK=(project success or project success evaluation or project evaluation or project selection or success criteria or critical success factors or CSFs or project success factors or construction projects or construction project management or civil engineering or building construction). The potential literature (N = 740 publications) encloses the available scientific publications written in English language, which have been published between 2010 and 2024 in established peer-reviewed journals and conference proceedings. The specific timespan (2010-2024) is selected due to the minimum number of pertinent scientific publications registered in Web of Science (WoS) Core Collection before 2010. Therefore, the baseline literature sample consists of totally 626 scientific publications (articles and conference proceedings) in 141 international peer-reviewed journals, as retrieved during the advanced literature search on 15th March 2025. Additionally, the thorough literature screening is executed in two rounds on behalf of the corresponding authors adopting specified inclusion and exclusion filters in order to formulate the final literature sample. In particular, the first filter eliminates the potential publications whose scope does not coincide with the research objectives after the reading of the titles and abstracts and the examination of the full contents respectively (N = 98 publications). Furthermore, the second filter excludes the potential literature that do not thematically belong to the targeted scientific fields of civil engineering and construction. It should be remarked that the international literature is not adequately developed in terms of the specialized research objectives of the present article. Finally, the executed literature screening results in the collection of totally 21 scientific publications within 11 peer-reviewed journals (N= 21 / J=11) for the time period 2010- 2024 after removing the potential duplicate records (Table 1).

Results and Discussion

The multicriteria decision making/analysis methods (MCDM/ MCDA) have been widely applied in diverse scientific fields and disciplines demonstrating a distinctive growth rate in engineering and construction within the last decades. After the concise presentation of the intertemporal development and application of multicriteria decision making/analysis methods (MCDM/MCDA) in engineering and construction, the present survey focuses on the research activity that (directly or indirectly) interconnects them with the evaluation/assessment of project success and its two fundamental components (success criteria, critical success factors). The main research objective is the investigation of the applicability of multicriteria decision making/analysis methods (MCDM/ MCDA) for the evaluation/assessment of project success within the international literature (Table 2).

Pinter and Pšunder [23] examine the ways of calculation of construction project success, comprising a multidimensional problem/issue that requires multicriteria decision analysis. The calculation of construction project success is based on the achievement degree of the objectives for the individual success criteria that may be interdependent between each other. Specifically, Pinter and Pšunder [23] propose a fundamental approach for the evaluation of general construction project success using the slightly modified multicriteria method TOPSIS (M-TOPSIS). The additional modifications of the M-TOPSIS method concern the relativization and transfer of the results according to the planned parameters of each project, set prior to its execution, so that the extracted results can be represented as a percentage of its general success from the minimal to the planned alternative solution. The aim of the proposed method is the comparison of the general construction project success between different projects [23].

Zavadskas et al. [24] analyze the common project management problems/issues and investigate the success factors that can be used for the evaluation of the overall performance of construction projects. The selection of success criteria set for the evaluation of the construction projects performance is based on the results of a thorough research on completed/executed construction projects in Lithuania, in accordance with the judgements of the experts/ professionals. The proposed framework for the evaluation of construction projects performance applies the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), as well as the Multiplicative Exponential Weighting (MEW) in order to determine an aggregate index regarding to the overall project performance. Consequently, the considered construction projects can be compared and ranked based on the aggregate performance index, which may also indicate the overall success degree [24].

Gudienė et al. [25] review in detail the critical success factors that influence the implementation/execution of construction projects in Lithuania. In general, the adopted research methodology encloses two distinct sections, namely the general survey and the evaluation process. Initially, the literature review leads to the extraction of totally 71 critical success factors, which are appropriately classified into seven general factor categories. These critical success factors are evaluated under a predefined scale in terms of their relative importance on behalf of 27 project management professionals and experts [44]. Subsequently, the application of the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) is selected aiming at the comprehensive identification and evaluation of the considered critical success factors. The evaluation process is addressed to five experts with minimum ten years of experience in construction project management requesting the completion of a specially designed questionnaire based on the AHP method. Additionally, five other experts specialized in construction project management compare the critical success factors by successively applying the AHP. The final ranking of the impact of the examined critical success factors on implementation/execution of the construction projects in Lithuania depend on the determination of the global weights of the general categories and the local weights of the enclosed critical success factors respectively. The findings of the research of Gudienė et al. [25] could systematically contribute to the indication of the most important aspects for the successful implementation/ execution of construction projects in Lithuania.

Nilashi et al. [26] elaborately investigate the identification and evaluation of the critical factors influencing the success of construction projects in Malaysia. An extensive literature review referring to the identification of critical success factors is carried out, eventually adopting the conceptual framework of Chan et al. [45] that includes five general categories/dimensions and 43 individual critical success factors. The novel multicriteria decision making model of construction project is arranged in three consecutive implementation stages. In the first stage, the Grey Relational Analysis (GRA) is employed in order to evaluate and separate the most important of the 43 examined critical success factors based on the corresponding judgements (under a predefined scale) of the 12 surveyed experts in the construction sector of Malaysia. As consequence, the total number of critical success factors is significantly reduced to 28 through the use of GRA method allocated again into the five general categories/dimensions of project success. Subsequently, DEMATEL method is applied for the identification of the potential interdependencies between the five categories/ dimensions, and the 28 critical success factors in construction projects. The detection of the causal relationships among the examined critical success factors via the use of DEMATEL method is considered as a crucial step for the further development of the proposed model. It is also noted that the data required for the employment of the DEMATEL method originate from the evaluations/ judgements of the 12 surveyed experts in the construction sector. In the third stage, the results extracted from DEMATEL method are integrated into the Analytic Network Process (ANP) methodology so as to determine the relative importance (weights) of the five general categories/dimensions and the 28 critical success factors of construction projects in Malaysia. In general context, the proposed hybrid application of the multicriteria model of construction project success evaluation contributes to the identification of the complex interactions and interdependencies among the five general success categories/dimensions and the 28 individual critical success factors through a specialized cause-and-effect diagram, as well as to the determination of their relative importance respectively [26].

The survey of Polat et al. [27] focuses on the selection process of the appropriate construction project, which depends on different factors and can significantly determine the subsequent achievement of project success. Specifically, an integrated approach is introduced for the selection of urban renewal projects using the multicriteria decision making/analysis methods (MCDM/MCDA). The proposed framework encloses the combinatorial application of AHP and PROMETHEE methods and consists of four consecutive stages. The first stage refers to the precise identification of the evaluation criteria and the configuration of the initial decision matrices by the decision-making team that is responsible for the evaluation and final selection of urban renewal projects. In the second stage, the AHP is employed for the calculation of the relative importance (weights) of the individual evaluation criteria. The third stage includes the application of the multicriteria methods PROMETHEE I and PROMETHEE II aiming at the prioritization of the alternative urban renewal projects. In the final stage, the selection of the appropriate construction project is accomplished according to the final ranking provided by the application of PROMETHEE method. Supplementary, Polat et al. [27] present the application of the proposed approach as a case study in a construction company in Turkey, which concerns the selection of the appropriate urban renewal project among twelve alternatives. The introduced multicriteria approach is a considered a simple, useful and effective tool that could be utilized by any construction company specialized in urban renewal projects.

Prascevic and Prascevic [28] study the applicability of multicriteria decision making/analysis methods (MCMD/MCDA) for the evaluation and selection of the appropriate alternatives in construction project management. Construction project management reflects the necessity of making important/critical decisions through the evaluation of multiple criteria aiming at the successful project implementation/execution. The main research objective is the configuration of a novel process for the determination of the criteria weights and the ranking and selection of the optimal alternative in significant problems/issues concerning construction project management via the use of fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (FAHP). In particular, the AHP method is applied through the integration of trapezoidal fuzzy numbers theory for the computation of the eigenvalues and eigenvectors of the considered evaluation criteria and alternative options, whilst the local and global weights of the alternatives are obtained through the utilization of linear programming. In final stage, the use of a special formula for the ranking of the alternative options based on fuzzy numbers thetheory is proposed in terms of the application of fuzzy AHP method. Additionally, a case study of the proposed process is presented in order to sort and select the best alternative in an important construction project management problem/issue in Serbia. Moreover, the results of the proposed evaluation process are compared with the corresponding ones from other established multicriteria decision making methods (e.g. AHP, TOPSIS), demonstrating remarkable convergence regarding to the final ranking of the examined alternatives. Generally, the introduced methodology is considered simple and suitable for the resolution of critical decision-making problems/issues in construction project management through the hybrid application of AHP method (FAHP) [28].

The survey of Maghsoodi and Khalilzadeh [30] concentrate on the identification of the critical success factors in construction projects, as well as the application of multicriteria decision making methods (MCDM/MCDA) for their evaluation and ranking within the literature. Initially, the most important success criteria and critical success factors are provided by the preceding literature review. Secondly, the initial decision matrix is created, via a questionnaire survey and personal interviews with professionals and experts in construction projects of Iran, which encloses the importance evaluations of the identified critical success factors under the four success criteria. Subsequently, fuzzy TOPSIS is employed so as to prioritize the examined critical success factors in construction projects. Additionally, a comparative analysis between the results from the application of fuzzy TOPSIS and fuzzy MULTIMOORA in terms of the ranking of the critical success factors is carried out indicating significant divergences. In general, it can be considered that the application of fuzzy TOPSIS contributes to the identification and ranking of critical success factors in construction projects of Iran, while also highlighting the possible applicability of other recognized multicriteria decision making/analysis methods (MCDM/MCDA) for the same research purpose [30].

The research questions of Kiani Mavi and Standing [31] refer to the identification of critical success factors in construction project management and the determination of their causal relationships and weights through the use of multicriteria decision making/ analysis methods (MCDM/MCDA). The critical success factors of sustainable construction projects are classified into five general categories (project, project management, organization, external environment, sustainability), as provided by the systematic literature review and evaluated in a questionnaire survey by engineers and project managers in the construction sector of Australia. The adopted research methodology initially encompasses the application of fuzzy DEMATEL method in order to determine the possible interdependencies among the five general factor categories in construction sector. Subsequently, the fuzzy Analytic Network Process (FANP) is selected for the calculation of the global weights of the five general factor categories, and by extension, the final determination of the local eights of the examined critical success factors in the construction sector of Australia. Consequently, the combinatorial application of the fuzzy DEMATEL and fuzzy ANP methods could significantly enhance the achievement of project success by focusing on specific aspects of sustainable project management [31].

Hatefi and Tamošaitienė [32] examine the issue of construction project evaluation in terms of sustainable development. The literature review leads to the identification of 26 sub-criteria/indicators that are distributed into the three fundamental categories of sustainable development (economic, social, environmental) in construction projects. The proposed model includes the combinatorial application of fuzzy AHP method and Grey Relational Analysis (GRA) in order to evaluate six construction projects in Iran based on the considered sustainable development criteria. Specifically, a special questionnaire survey is carried out to 20 experts in construction project management referring to the evaluation of the examined criteria and sub-criteria of sustainable development. The extracted data are essentially the basis for the creation of the initial decision matrices required for the implementation of the two combined evaluation methods. The fuzzy AHP method is applied to determine the weights of the criteria and sub-criteria of sustainable development, whilst the Improved GRA method is employed for the computation of the weights and the final ranking of the six considered construction projects in Iran. Consequently, the results from the application of the proposed model could indicate the optimal/best construction project based on the principles of sustainable development [32].

Erdogan et al. [29,34] concentrate on the identification of the major problems/issues in contemporary project management, as well as on the detection of their resolution/treatment ways via the use of multicriteria decision making/analysis methods (MCDM/ MCDA). They characteristically remark that the rational project management consists one of the critical factors that significantly influences the success of sustainable construction projects. Initially, the extensive literature review aims at the investigation of the application of multicriteria decision making/analysis methods (MCDM/MCDA) for the resolution of multiple project management problems/issues. Subsequently, a comprehensive multicriteria decision-making model in construction project management is presented, which follows specific steps in order to select the best alternative. The introduced decision-making model is applied as a case study in a construction project in Turkey, where AHP is utilized for the final selection of the optimal alternative in terms of an important project management problem/issue (e.g. contractor/ subcontractor selection). Particularly, AHP is used for the calculation of the weights of the evaluation criteria, determined by experts and project stakeholders, as well as the identification of the best alternative option in the context of the successful implementation/ execution of the considered construction project [29,34].

According to Issa et al. [35], multicriteria decision making (MCDM) in civil engineering projects is an extremely complex issue due to the existence of multiple and, potentially, contradictory evaluation criteria and alternative options. In addition, they ascertain that multicriteria decision making/analysis methods (MCDM/MCDA) are considered as an appropriate solution for the confrontation of many decision problems/issues related to civil engineering projects (e.g. contractor/supplier selection, material selection, construction method selection). Consequently, Issa et al. [35] develop a multicriteria decision support model that uses various types of data in order to evaluate and select the best alternative in civil engineering projects. The proposed model consists of two distinct modules, the individual application of AHP method, and the combinatorial application of AHP and fuzzy TOPSIS methods respectively. It is also executed with the assistance of an appropriate software resolving significant issues related to the lack of time for decision making, the insufficiency and uncertainty of available data, and the contradiction of the considered factors. The first module refers to the employment of AHP method under precise and intangible or non-quantitative and qualitative data for the calculation of the relative weights of evaluation criteria and the ranking of alternatives. The second module is related to undocumented, inadequate and fuzzy data and uses the combinatorial application of AHP and fuzzy TOPSIS methods through three consecutive stages. It should be noted that the AHP method is employed for the calculation of the relative importance of the evaluation criteria, while the fuzzy TOPSIS method is used for the final ranking of the individual alternatives. Subsequently, the proposed multicriteria decision making model is subjected to verification through the utilization of data from two preceding case studies, where the compared results demonstrate significant convergence. Eventually, Issa et al. [35] present in detail the implementation of the proposed model in order to resolve a critical decision-making problem/issue in a construction project in Saudi Arabia.

Mohammed et al. [33] attempt to evaluate success criteria related to project management via the use of multicriteria decision making/analysis methods (MCDM/MCDA). Specifically, the fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (FAHP) is applied for the evaluation of the five major project success criteria based on the judgements of a project manager with significant experience in various projects in Iraq. The utilization of fuzzy AHP for the prioritization of project management criteria could contribute to the selection and/or configuration of the most appropriate decision-making strategy on behalf of the main project stakeholders, whilst the perspective of the combinatorial application of other established multicriteria methods for further research purposes is also remarked [33].

Gunduz and Almuajebh [36] focus their research on the identification of the critical success factors that contribute to the achievement of project success. The systematic literature review indicates 40 different critical success factors in construction projects, which are appropriately classified into seven general categories. The critical success factors are evaluated (under a predefined scale) via a questionnaire survey by experts and professionals (e.g. owners, contractors, project managers, management consultants, employees) in the construction sector. Gunduz and Almuajebh [36] use the Relative Importance Index (RII) and the Analytic Hierarch Process (AHP) for the calculation of the importance of the examined critical success factors, as well as the impact estimation of the seven general factor categories on project success. It is noted that the extracted results for the Relative Importance Index (RII) are transposed to the implementation process of the AHP method, so as to sort the 40 examined critical success factors based on the perspectives of the different project stakeholders. In general, the main contribution and differentiation of the research of Gunduz and Almuajebh [36] is the systematic categorization of the critical success factors in construction sector, and the assessment of the impact of each factor category on the accomplishment of project success.

Alyamani and Long [37] investigate the critical issue of sustainable project selection among a set of different alternatives, which is a process that depends on various criteria and can decisively contribute to the accomplishment of project success. The survey employs fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (FAHP) for sustainable project selection based on the ranking of five important sustainable criteria. The integration of fuzzy numbers theory is recommended to resolve ambiguity and uncertainty in the individual judgements/evaluations of the experts. Specifically, the fuzzy AHP (FAHP) multicriteria method is used for the calculation of the relative importance of the five distinct sustainable criteria. It is remarked that the primary data for the creation of the initial decision matrices are provided by distinguished studies on sustainable project selection within the examined literature. The results of the research of Alyamani and Long [37] significantly converge with the ones retrieved from reviewed literature referring to the relative importance of evaluation criteria. Generally, this research approach can be adopted for the evaluation of different types of sustainable projects regardless of environment and location.

Miranda et al. [39] emphasize that the decision to implement/ execute a project, plan or strategy possibly constitutes the most important selection with high impact on the whole project lifecycle. The investment success in public projects is largely based on the creation of social value and the provision of public benefits, which demonstrates the high necessity of selecting the most appropriate projects. In other words, the success of public projects is predetermined by the selection of the appropriate projects that will produce the expected benefits, converge with the needs and requirements of project stakeholders, and remain sustainable throughout the lifecycle. Miranda et al. [39] present the application of Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), with some minor adjustments, aiming at the evaluation and prioritization of different investment alternatives in public projects in Portugal. It should be noted that the evaluation criteria for the application of AHP method are provided from a preceding study and the judgements of experts specialized in public projects. Consequently, multicriteria decision analysis is contradicted with the use of traditional evaluation methods and techniques for the selection of investments in public projects demonstrating the main directions to make the most rational decisions.

Belay et al. [38,40] deal with the detailed study of critical success factors that can influence the successful completion of construction projects in developing countries. Initially, a systematic literature review is performed through established academic databases (with keywords) for the time period 2005-2021, which results in the identification of 31 critical success factors. The 19 selected critical success factors of construction projects, after some preliminary controls, are assessed in terms their relative importance through a questionnaire survey on behalf of 84 professionals and experts (e.g. clients, contractors, consultants, academics) of the construction sector in Ethiopia. The results of the judgments/evaluations of the respondents are appropriately utilized for the formulation of the initial decision matrix, and Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) is employed into three individual hierarchical levels. The purpose of the application of AHP method is the identification and prioritization of critical success factors related to construction project success based on the various perspectives of project stakeholders. It is also noted that the executed sensitivity analysis demonstrates the individual performances of the examined critical success factors in case of possible changes in their relative importance (weight). Consequently, the research of Belay et al. [40] provides a standard multicriteria analysis methodology in order to enhance decision-making in construction projects in developing countries.

Mohammadnazari et al. [41] regard that the success of post-disaster reconstruction projects significantly depends on making the proper decisions during project final selection. Consequently, they attempt an integrated application of various multicriteria decision making/analysis methods (MCDM/MCDA) for the prioritization of post-disaster reconstruction projects. The adopted research methodology consists of two consecutive implementation stages. Initially, the hybrid application of recognized multicriteria decision making/analysis methods (MCMD/MCDA) for the prioritization of the examined reconstruction projects is presented, and the Artificial Neural Network (ANN) algorithm is employed to estimate their project success degree. In particular, the hybrid multicriteria approach encloses the use of Best Worst Method (BWM) for the calculation of the weights of the evaluation criteria, as derived from the literature review, as well as the application of TOPSIS, ELECTRE III, VIKOR and PROMETHEE multicriteria methods for the final ranking of the reconstruction projects. Subsequently, the proposed methodology of Mohammadnazari et al. [41] is tested in terms of a case study based on real data of a large construction organization in Iraq. Finally, the results of the hybrid application of TOPSIS, ELECTRE III, VIKOR and PROMETHEE methods are compared with each other and with the corresponding results of the use of Artificial Neural Network (ANN) in order to extract further research implications.

According to Ayalew et al. [42], project performance is considered as a major issue in construction sector, which significantly influences the subsequent achievement of project success. Ayalew et al. [42] introduce an innovative hybrid methodology that applies exploratory factor analysis and fuzzy AHP method in order to identify and evaluate the factors affecting the performance of building construction projects in Ethiopia. The prioritization of success factors, and the concentration on the most important ones, enables professionals/experts to take the appropriate management actions in order to improve the performance of construction projects, and by extension, to achieve project success. Initially, the thorough investigation of the relevant literature leads to the identification of 36 success factors, which are classified into six distinct factor categories. The specific success factors are assessed (under a predefined scale) through a questionnaire survey by 68 professionals/experts with adequate knowledge and experience in the construction sector aiming at the execution of exploratory factor analysis. The results of factor analysis and the further preliminary controls restrict the initial pattern of the examined success factors to 23, while are also distributed into the six distinct factor categories. The 23 finally extracted success factors are evaluated (under a predefined scale) in terms of the relative importance by a group of ten professionals/experts so as to create the hierarchical problem structure (goal, factor categories, subfactors) and the initial decision matrix. Finally, the fuzzy AHP method is applied for the evaluation and prioritization of the examined success factors based on the extracted global and local weights. As a consequence, the survey of Ayalew et al. [42] progressively contributes to the identification of the most important factors affecting the performance of the building construction projects in Ethiopia through an integrated methodology of application of exploratory factor analysis and fuzzy AHP method respectively.

Kiani Mavi et al. [43] develop a comprehensive set of project success criteria aiming at the accurate evaluation of success of medium and large construction projects in Australia and New Zealand. In first level, a rigorous literature review related to the most important success criteria is conducted, whilst the application of multicriteria decision making/analysis methods (MCDM/ MCDA) in the field of construction management is also investigated. The 19 extracted project success criteria are appropriately classified into five distinct success dimensions and are subjected to assessment via a questionnaire survey by 28 project managers with sufficient engagement in the construction sector of Australia and New Zealand. The research methodology of Kiani Mavi et al. (2024) includes the hybrid application of fuzzy DEMATEL and fuzzy AHP methods in order to identify the most important success criteria in medium and large construction projects. More specifically, the fuzzy DEMATEL method is employed for the determination of the interdependencies and the detection of possible causal relationships among the examined success criteria, whilst the fuzzy AHP method is applied for the final calculation of their relative importance (weights) respectively. The selection of these specific multicriteria decision making/analysis methods (MCDM/ MCDA) enables the detailed analysis of the structural and causal relationships between the most important success criteria of construction projects. Consequently, the project stakeholders can identify and understand the interdependencies between a set of important success criteria and efficiently allocate the available project resources so as to enhance the achievement of project success. The combinatorial application of fuzzy DEMATEL and fuzzy AHP methods constitutes a synergistic approach that contributes to the resolution of the major problem/issue of success criteria analysis and evaluation in the construction sector [43].

Conclusion

Multicriteria decision making (MCDM) or multicriteria decision analysis (MCDA) constitutes a widely discussed topic within international literature since the decade of 1950. The multicriteria decision making/analysis methods (MCDM/MCDA) are the expedient mathematical models referring to the evaluation/ assessment and ranking process of a predetermined set of alternatives/ choices through multiple and often contradictory criteria. The ultimate objective is the identification of the ideal/optimal alternative for the resolution of a specified decision problem/issue. The present research focuses on the evolutionary development of the multicriteria decision making/analysis methods (MCDM/ MCDA) in the fields of engineering and construction with special emphasis given to the applicability of them for the evaluation/assessment of project success. In preliminary stage, the research activity referring to the development and application of multicriteria decision making/analysis methods (MCDM/MCDA) in engineering sciences is analyzed considering the most indicative scientific publications within international literature. Subsequently, a novel systematic literature review (SLR) is presented for the advanced search and identification of the references regarding to the evaluation/ assessment of project success and the two fundamental components (success criteria, critical success factors). The systematic literature review (SLR) is performed via the Web of Science (WoS) Core Collection database using 27 specific keyword combinations according to the two main research questions (RQs). Additionally, four inclusion and exclusion filters are adopted during the tworound rigorous literature screening, which leads to the final collection of 21 scientific publications within 11 peer-reviewed journals for the examined period 2010-2024. It should be highlighted that some research difficulties emerged during the executed literature screening process due to the uniqueness and peculiarity of the research scope, as well as the inadequate development of the corresponding research activity respectively.

Regarding to the reviewed literature, the Analytic Hierarch Process (AHP) is considered as the most prevalent multicriteria decision making/analysis method (MCDM/MCDA) mainly used in individual/single applications and occasionally combined with some other established multicriteria methods (e.g. TOPSIS, PROMETHEE, DEMATEL). The fuzzy numbers theory has been intensively integrated into the conventional multicriteria decision- making processes since 2017 in order to deal with the inherent conditions of uncertainty and ambiguity in the evaluations/ judgements of the experts. Furthermore, the present research reveals that the scientific publications referring to the direct evaluation/assessment of project success through the application of multicriteria decision making/analysis methods (MCDM/MCDA) are essentially minimal within the corresponding literature. However, the majority of the scientific publications focus on the evaluation/ assessment of the critical success factors (CSFs) and the alternative selection/ranking in the fields of civil engineering and construction. In general, the research activity pertaining to the examined scope has presented an increasing growth rate since 2017 expecting further evolutionary perspectives in the near future. The applicability of the multicriteria decision making/analysis methods (MCDM/MCDA) in terms of the evaluation/assessment of project success remains a dynamic research challenge in the fields of civil engineering and construction, which encompass particularly important decision-making and management problems/ issues.

Summarizing, the adopted research methodology has some important strengths and limitations. Firstly, the present research focuses on the development and application of multicriteria decision making/analysis (MCDM/MCDA) in engineering and construction presenting extremely high evolution rates in the last decades. Civil engineering and construction constitute significant scientific fields enclosing various critical decision-making problems/ issues for the professionals and companies. Secondly, this article deals with a specialized and distinctive research scope that could be considered as inadequately investigated within international literature until nowadays. Therefore, it significantly contributes to the body of knowledge of Project management and Decision-making by providing a novel and systematic methodology for the examination of project success evaluation/assessment through the application of multicriteria decision making/ analysis methods (MCDM/MCDA). Moreover, the advanced literature search and screening is performed in rigorous manner on behalf of the corresponding authors in order to identify the pertinent scientific publications that could decisively contribute to the promotion of the examined research scope. On the contrary, the systematic literature review (SLR) is only based on the Web of Science (WoS) academic database in order to follow a more comprehensive evaluation process. The supplementary use of other established academic databases and search engines (e.g. Scopus, Ebsco, ResearchGate, Google Scholar) might contribute to the identification of more scientific publications, but would also generate some complexity and irregularity issues. Furthermore, the inclusion and exclusion filters are appropriately selected by the corresponding authors according to their individual judgements. Consequently, some scientific publications may be included or excluded following an objective intuition during the detailed literature screening in Web of Science (WoS) database. Finally, the final literature sample could be considered as relatively limited and, therefore, the adopted systematic literature review (SLR) presents some deficiencies within the corresponding research activity for the time period 2010-2024. In general, future research is highly recommended referring to the application of multicriteria decision making/analysis methods (MCDM/MCDA) for the evaluation/ assessment of project success in expanded scientific fields or research areas.

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