The project management qualification labyrinth

Related article

Which project management qualification?

Transcript

Welcome aboard the Knowledge Train. In this podcast we explore insights and tips to help you manage your way to success in your career and business. I’m Simon Buehring, your conductor on this journey to knowledge and I’m thrilled to have you with us today.

In this episode, we’re zooming in on a pivotal choice that can significantly impact your project management career — selecting the right project management qualification. Whether you’re just stepping onto the project management platform or you’re looking to take your skills to the next level, today’s discussion will serve as your guide through the maze of certifications.

Now, let’s start unpacking the various qualifications and certifications available in the project management universe.

In the wide world of project management, you’ll find that qualifications fall into two main categories: knowledge-based and competency-based. Knowledge-based qualifications are all about demonstrating your understanding of project management through examinations. They are particularly suitable for those who are new to project management as they don’t typically require previous experience in the field.

Competency-based qualifications, on the other hand, ask for a demonstration of skills across various competencies. This could involve observed solo work, group work, or even interviews. These are well-suited for project managers who have some experience under their belts and are looking to benchmark their skills against their peers.

If you’re leaning towards a knowledge-based qualification, you’re choosing a path primarily centered on education and examinations. These credentials are ideal for those beginning their journey in project management, offering a foundation from which to build practical skills down the line.

Competency-based qualifications take a different approach. With these, you’re expected to showcase a range of abilities in real-world scenarios. They are designed for those with experience in project management who want to validate their expertise.

For the purposes of our podcast today, we’ll narrow our focus to explore knowledge-based project management certifications exclusively.

Within knowledge-based qualifications, there’s a distinction between entry-level and higher-level certifications. The former introduces project management concepts and terminology, while the latter delves into the application of those concepts and methods.

There are several accreditation bodies responsible for project management certifications. Some of the key players include:

• PeopleCert, offering PRINCE2 Foundation and Practitioner qualifications, among others.
• The Association for Project Management (APM), which provides the PFQ and PMQ qualifications.
• APMG International and the Agile Business Consortium, known for their AgilePM certifications.
• The Project Management Institute (PMI), home to the CAPM and PMP certifications.

Each body has its own levels and specializations, so let’s explore them in a bit more detail.

Focusing on the UK scene, the mainstays are PeopleCert, APM, and APMG International, with their respective qualifications like PRINCE2, PFQ, and AgilePM, which hold significant sway across not only the UK but also Europe and Australia, especially in sectors like the UK public sector.

PeopleCert’s flagship qualifications, PRINCE2 Foundation and Practitioner, have seen over two million exams taken since 1996. Not to mention PRINCE2 Agile variants, which blend project management and Agile practices. All of these can be pursued without prior project management experience, making them accessible entry points into the field.

Let’s look at PRINCE2 Foundation. It’s a basic introduction to project management best practices, requiring no prerequisites, and can be completed through a concise study period, culminating in a one-hour multiple-choice exam.

For those seeking a deeper understanding, the PRINCE2 Practitioner qualification steps up the challenge. It does require a prerequisite qualification, such as the PRINCE2 Foundation, and brings you into the world of applying PRINCE2 methodology to real-world situations.

As for PRINCE2 Agile, it adapts the PRINCE2 framework for the flexible and responsive world of Agile projects. Both the Foundation and Practitioner levels are designed to suit individuals looking to blend structured project management with Agile’s adaptability.

The APM, a respected authority in the field, offers a suite of qualifications from introductory to advanced levels. Their PFQ and PMQ, in particular, are recognized for providing a solid grounding in project management principles and practice.

APMG International’s AgilePM qualifications have taken the project management field by storm, especially within IT and software industries. It’s built on the Agile Project Framework, and with both Foundation and Practitioner levels, it caters to those wanting to learn and manage Agile projects.

Globally, the PMI and IPMA are the leading bodies for project management qualifications. PMI certifications are renowned in the USA, Canada, Asia, and Africa, while the IPMA operates through Member Associations in various countries, offering four levels of certification.

Since Knowledge Train has been offering project management training since 2005, we have a solid grasp of the popularity of the various qualifications. Although exact numbers are challenging to come by, educated estimations have been made, revealing that millions of exams have been taken worldwide across the different accreditation bodies.

Deciding on the right qualification involves a balance between your current experience level and your career goals. If you’re aiming for entry-level participation in projects, an introductory qualification may suffice. If you aspire to manage projects, a higher-level certificate will be more beneficial.

Moreover, the region you’re based in or where you aim to work plays a part as well. Different qualifications hold sway in different markets. For example, PRINCE2 is highly valued in the UK, Australia, and Europe, while PMI certifications are preferred in the USA and its business affiliates globally. Agile certifications, particularly AgilePM, are favored if you’re working on, or interested in, Agile projects.

Let’s recap our journey today. Project management qualifications are diverse and abundant, each with its own set of benefits and specific focus areas. By considering your career ambitions, experience level, and geographic location, you can strategically choose a qualification that aligns with your professional development and enhances your employability in the global project management landscape.

Thank you for joining us on the Knowledge Train as we explored choosing the right project management qualification. Don’t forget to subscribe for more insight-packed episodes, and swing by the Knowledge Train website for resources galore. Until the next episode, keep learning, keep managing, and I’ll see you further down the track. Goodbye!