Value management (VM) has become an accepted approach in the past decade, using tools and methods that have been ordinarily understood. VM is often subjected to time and res ource pressure. The determination of the possible critical success factors (CSFs) of VM in the building projects in developing countries is an essential matter to success these projects. This study identified 34 factors and drivers to adopt VM in the construction industry. This was achieved through qualitative approach by conducting interviews with fifteen experts with substantial years of experience in building projects. Results revealed that some new factors appeared in the Egypt context that have not existed in previous studies. These factors can aid the adoption of VM practices in the building projects in the Egypt construction industry. The findings thus represent the true reflection of the VM drivers in Egypt, and their recommendations effectively encourage the adoption of VM by Egypt and also other developing countries, as they face similar problems and need similar drivers in promoting the adoption of VM in the building industry when building projects are carried out in similar method, and style. © Published under licence by IOP Publishing Ltd.