The Standish Group - CHAOS Report

A must read - the report is over 10 years old, but the findings, approach and underlying information is still valid (which shows how little progress has been made in ten years):
http://www.standishgroup.com/sample_research/chaos_1994_1.php

And the follow up - Unfinished Voyages:
http://www.standishgroup.com/sample_research/unfinished_voyages_1.php

From the Report - success scale - performing this exercise itself would most likely improve your project's probability of success

SUCCESS CRITERIA	POINTS
1. User Involvement	19
2. Executive Management Support	16
3. Clear Statement of Requirements	15
4. Proper Planning	11
5. Realistic Expectations	10
6. Smaller Project Milestones	9
7. Competent Staff	8
8. Ownership	6
9. Clear Vision & Objectives	3
10. Hard-Working, Focused Staff	3
TOTAL	100