Symbolic megaprojects: historical evidence of a forgotten dimension

Abstract

By combining an historical analysis of three megaprojects and an organizational theory approach based on the notion of symbolism-intensive organizations, this research attempts to shed light on how symbols are constructed, communicated, translated, and captured in megaprojects. We conclude that, when it comes to symbolic projects, a number of proj¬ect features may not be mirrored in the out¬come’s observable traits. We propose a novel analysis dimension: the symbolism-intensive project; in other words, projects that are car¬ried out aimed at delivering long-awaited needs, a supreme mission, annihilation of the past, or even the reification of heroes, or success.