Successful project management is more than delivering the agreed-upon outcome on time and within budget. Problems at each stage of the project cycle can cause delays, cost overruns, and even failure. Why Projects Fail in the Public Sector provides the tools international development practitioners need to identify and address critical failure points. In addition to a practical overview of project planning and procurement, this book highlights the warning signs of project failure and offers useful guidance on expectation management, dispute resolution, and accountability and ethics in today's global development network. Case studies drawn from the authors' decades of development experience illustrate the on-the-ground realities faced by project managers in the field. In the quest to achieve sustainable development, countries worldwide have invested billions in public projects, trusting development practitioners to achieve their goals. This handbook will help new entrants into the development field as well as experienced professionals to deliver efficient, effective, and sustainable project results.