A Lesson Learned from the UK Rail Project: An Analysis of Critical Success Factors (CSFs) through the Project Life Cycle (PLC)

Abstract

This study examines the critical success factors (CSFs) of railway construction projects through the lens of the Project Life Cycle (PLC), addressing the defining, planning, implementing, and closing phases. Although CSFs have been widely studied, their systematic application to Thailand’s railway sector remains limited, particularly in linking lessons from international best practices. Employing a systematic literature review and content analysis, the research synthesizes evidence from major United Kingdom projects, including Crossrail and High Speed 2 (HS2), and compares them with experiences in Thailand. The analysis identifies governance, stakeholder collaboration, and risk management as decisive CSFs across all PLC phases. Key findings highlight that early participatory consultations enhance legitimacy, structured risk registers and stakeholder mapping strengthen planning, while real-time monitoring and independent audits improve implementation oversight. In the closing phase, structured handovers and training programs are vital for operational continuity. By integrating international lessons with a PLC perspective, this study provides policymakers and practitioners with a structured framework for improving the governance, efficiency, and sustainability of Thai railway projects. Beyond this sectoral focus, the PLC–CSFs framework demonstrates wider applicability to large-scale infrastructure initiatives, contributing to both theoretical advancement and practical guidance for sustainable transport development in Thailand.