Social Networks: Mediator of Project Communication and Perceived Project Success
Arthur Ahimbisibwe, Sudi Nangoli

Abstract
This study examines the mediating effect of social networks in the relationship between project communication and perceived project success in Uganda’s philanthropic projects. It was prompted by the increased failure of most philanthropic projects in Uganda to meet their explicit objects in terms of time, quality, and budget and enhanced corporate awareness which could be attributed to neglect of ‘soft’ factors. Despite numerous classical studies that are reported in different domains involving project communication, social networks and perceived project success, no existing empirical study has examined the mediating effect of social networks in this relationship. This study therefore aims at answering the following research question: Do social networks have a mediating effect in the relationship between project communication and perceived project success in Uganda’s philanthropic projects? Using Structural Equation Modelling to test for mediation, a cross sectional and quantitative survey of all philanthropic projects conducted by commercial banks in Uganda, reveals that social networks is a significant mediator in the relationship between project communication and perceived project success. Also, findings confirmed a full type of mediation between project communication, social networks and perceived project success. This study has both practical and theoretical implications that are discussed.

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