Project management consists of many disciplines, and the choice of method can be decisive for the success of the project. A project-mature organisation has already considered how well-chosen approaches create clarity, promote collaboration, and ensure that both goals and resources are managed effectively.
The project management method is often already chosen for us by our organisation in the form of a project model or other process descriptions, so certification is more about knowing how we can best put that knowledge into play in our organisation and in our projects.
The answer depends on the existing project culture, the organisation’s needs, external relations, and which competencies need to be developed.
At the same time, new figures from the Mannaz Project Manager Survey, conducted in collaboration with Roskilde University, show that about 50% of respondents work in organisations where either there is no project model or the existing one is not used consistently.
So, if you are to choose a certification, how do you navigate the choice between PMI, IPMA, and PRINCE2?
In this article, we will therefore provide you with an understanding of the differences and focus of the methods and help you find the certification that best supports the frameworks and types of projects you work with.
Read on to gain insight into what each of the three universal project models offers – and how you can make an informed decision about your own certification.
Then PMI, which offers a balanced and flexible approach, may be a good choice.
PMI (Project Management Institute) is an American project management organisation that has developed a comprehensive series of methods, standards, and practices for carrying out projects of all types. The PMI PMBOK Guide is the basis for certification as a project manager. The PMBOK Guide covers all aspects of project management and is ideal for you if you work in an international context and with larger and/or complex projects where managing uncertainty and change is in focus.
PMI allows you to tailor your approach and tools to the context in which your project is being carried out. PMI guides you on which processes to choose and determines whether your project should be executed in a plan-driven, agile, or hybrid way. Globally, PMI is the most widespread method due to its holistic and flexible approach to processes, which makes it scalable and adaptable to current needs.
See more here about our PMP course, or contact Louise Rosa Manning at lma@mannaz.com for more information.
Then PRINCE2, which offers clear control and documentation, may be the right choice.
PRINCE2 (Projects in Controlled Environments version 2) was originally developed for the public sector in England as a project management tool and is well suited to organisations with high demands for control, documentation, and governance due to high complexity. The method is process-driven and provides clear roles, responsibilities, and phases, as well as a clear structure for governance. If you work in an organisation where projects must follow strict frameworks and deliver documentable results, PRINCE2 is a strong choice – especially in public or regulated sectors.
You can read more about Mannaz courses in PRINCE2 here or contact Thomas Peter Rønholt at tpr@mannaz.com for more information.
If you have less need to learn about specific process models or project management requirements, then IPMA, which focuses on experiential competencies and leadership, is not just a process but a mindset.
IPMA (International Project Management Association) is a European umbrella organisation that stands out by focusing on the project manager’s personal and professional competencies as a leader, rather than on process-driven project progress. The certification assesses both technical process skills within project management and your leadership style and mindset. IPMA is therefore a good choice if you want to develop as a leader, where behaviour and leadership play a greater role in the certification process. IPMA is particularly relevant for organisations that prioritise leadership and behavioural competencies in project management highly.
See more about the Mannaz Project Management Programme here or contact Gitte Nikolajsen at gni@mannaz.com for more information.
When choosing a project management method, you should ask yourself the following questions:
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