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Journal of Information and Optimization Sciences

(Since 1980)
Hybrid ·Peer-reviewed·ISSN (Online): 2169-0103·ISSN (Print): 0252-2667

WoS  JIF 2026 : 0.4 (Q4)

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Monthly Journal: Publishes theoretical and applied research on topics in information and optimization sciences.

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Journal of Information and Optimization Sciences
Open Access Research Article

Sustainability issues in project management : A systematic literature review

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pp. 2629–2639Vol. 46Issue 8November 2025DOI: 10.47974/JIOS-2085XML
Received:
12 Feb 2025
Published Online:
29 Nov 2025
Article type:
Research Article
Language:
EN
Article no.:
JIOS-2085
Pages:
2629–2639

Abstract

The increasing integration between digital transformation and sustainability values profoundly influences project management. Not only does digitalisation make processes more efficient, but it also enables ESG objectives to be attained. In our study, we conduct a systematic literature review (SLR) to examine the impact of digital technology and sustainability on the field of project management. Drawing on keyword networks and text mining analysis, we reveal the most significant trends in terms of research and pinpoint the areas in which digitalization enables sustainable development in projects. Using the PRISMA methodology, we reviewed English-language articles from 2018 to 2023 in the Scopus and Web of Science databases. With VOSviewer’s network analysis and text mining, we investigated the intersection of digital innovation, sustainability, and project management. Keyword clustering identified seven prevailing thematic topics, including key terms such as “change management,” “sustainable development,” and “agile,” highlighting the increasing importance of ESG considerations in project management practices. As a continuation of our previous research, we conducted an in-depth analysis of the 5th and 6th topics and aim to address the following research questions: ●    What are the main trends and patterns emerging in the international literature regarding the integration of ESG principles into project management? ●    Based on keyword network analyses, which keywords play a key role in the relationship between ESG and project management? ●    According to the results of text mining analyses, which thematic areas deserve special attention in the context of sustainability, organizational change, and change management within project management? The research outcomes indicate that corporate strategies increasingly adopt methods that consider ESG compliance at the organizational level, particularly in in supply chain management, digitalization in construction, and risk management. ESG compliance is becoming more widely integrated into project management to establish sustainable and competitive corporate operations. The research has the potential to pave the way for exploring the practical application of ESG approaches in industries and project environments.

Keywords

DigitalizationProject managementSustainable developmentSystematic literature researchText miningESG approaches

Subject Classifications

91B7668T09

References

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