Target group
This article calls upon project managers, consultants, and decision makers looks to making a decision on certification in project management. Its relevant for both experienced leaders and those who wish to advance their professionalism in an international context.
Motivation
As projects grow in complexity and calls for higher degrees of collaboration and competency, we see a growing need for project methods that are flexible, competency-based, and globally recognized. PMI’s PMP-certification offers a modern approach combining different technical project management methodologies with strategic and global awareness – for which reasons many chose PMI over IPMA or PRINCE2. As PMI largely has global recognition, the certification is not only an advancement of collaboration but also personal and professional competency.
Usability
PMIs method is based on their best practice PMBOK® Guide, which does not praise one certain project model but instead offers a framework that can adapt both agile, traditional, and hybrid projects. This makes PMI especially usable in organisations where projects vary in size, complexity, and methodology. Opposite, as one could argue, to PRINCE2 which is very structed and set in its processes of method. Also, when compared to IPMA which is more focused on personal competency to carry the project. In short PMI offers a well-documented and flexible approach.
Main message
PMI’s strength lies in its holistic and integrated approach to project management with a strong focus on outcome and value creation. The certification in PMP is globally recognized and builds on the combination of technical skills, leadership, and strategic business knowledge and understanding. PMI embraces the entire project life cycle and supports project managers in thinking about creating value – not only output. Focus on behavioral and leadership competencies are amongst the most important parts of PMI’s approach.
Sub message
PRINCE2 is well suited for projects with a high degree of governance and documentation, especially in public sector projects and IT-oriented projects. IPMA has its strength in the value of personal and social competencies and offers a European-centric approach with certifications built on different levels. PMI sets itself apart by combining the best of both: a structured approach to project management and a deep understanding of human and strategic aspects. Therefore, the method is very popular in big international companies. A certification in PMI is other words a good and tested foundation for strong cross-cultural collaboration.
Important take-away knowledge
If you want a certification that:
… then PMI and the PMP-certification is a strong choice for you. It not only gives you tools to strengthen your projects – it provides competencies to lead them with insight and effect.
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