  This paper asks, "Do classics exist in megaproject management?" We identify
three types of classic texts: conventional, Kuhnian, and citation classics. We
find that the answer to our question depends on the definition of "classic"
employed. First, "citation classics" do exist in megaproject management, and
they perform remarkably well when compared to the rest of the management
literature. A preliminary Top Ten of citation classics is presented. Second,
there is no indication that "conventional classics" exist in megaproject
management, i.e., texts recognized as definitive by a majority of experts.
Third, there is also no consensus as to whether "Kuhnian classics" exist, i.e.,
texts with paradigmatic clout. The importance of classics seems to be accepted,
however, just as work to develop, discuss, and consolidate classics is seen as
essential by megaproject scholars. A set of guidelines is presented for
developing classics in megaproject management research.
