I am a employee whose role has evolved over the past few years to primarily focus on those projects that need to be done that no one has time to complete. I am tasked with completing projects to better the company and would like some advice and/or guidance about PMP certification for my team (is it worth the effort, expense and time to complete the certification) versus classes designed for the unofficial project team to better their efficiency. Saving Changes...
Hi Jennifer,
You will probably receive many differing opinions on your questions - here is mine:
In the end, it doesn't matter if someone has PMP, if they get the job done. Equal to that is if you have management support. I believe the PMP is essential but many succeed without it. How many people are on the team? And will the company pay for PMP prep classes and the test? If the company will pay for the PMP and/or training, go for it. The subject of training is a big one. Identifying the current abilities of team members and coming up with a plan to fill any gaps will take some effort. There needs to be some immediate focus: hard skills or soft skills? Tools, techniques, software, communications, etc??
You can also ask each team member what they think they need to get the job done. Make a consolidated list and then put it in order to determine what to do. I wish you well!
Jeff Saving Changes...
Senior Projects Manager | Field & Marten AssociatesNew Westminster, British Columbia, Canada
PMP is definitely a certification worth having:
1- Globally Acknowledged.
2- Most employers consider it an asset.
3- Increase your marketability and chances of getting hired.
On the other hand, I agree with Jeff, PMP won't make you successful if you do not have the right and solid expertise. Project Management is more than just knowing what is in a book. This is just a practice guidline so what's important is how to tailor those processes and apply them to individual projects.
In summary and from my own experience, I truly believe PMP is an asset.
Jennifer:
I agree with Jeff, above. It really does not matter about the PMP if you understand the principles and techniques of Project Management. The work does not know what credentials you hold...:} However, the PMP may provide valuable substance to your voice when you ask your management why no one has time to complete projects that need to be done. Sounds like some management mumbo jumbo there. A certification may give you a more solid leg to stand on when you challenge that line of management thinking. Good Luck! Saving Changes...
Dinah YoungProject Manager / Software Asset Manager| Prince William CountySpringfield, Va, United States
PMP is an asset. But I am wondering from your question are you looking at the PMP for yourself or your entire team? Is your team a team of project managers? Saving Changes...
Meade RubensteinPM III| IT Project GuideSparta, Nj, United States
I would recommend hiring a consultant to review your specific team and provide recommendations on what the issue is and best steps to resolve. Having an objective/fresh perspective would probably be the first/best step to take Saving Changes...
Elizabeth HarrinDirector| RebelsGuideToPM.comLondon, England, United Kingdom
I think doing a training needs analysis would be a good start. What would it actually benefit your team to know more about? What skills do they need to improve delivery results and get better outcomes for the business? If that tallies with what they will learn during a PMP course, then go for it. If not, think about what other training would best meet their needs. Saving Changes...
You never know the future, so a PMP is going to serve you well for either promotion or another job. Saving Changes...
Drew CraigSr. Agile & Product Coach| VanguardPhiladelphia, Pa, United States
What is the goal? If it is to have more educated project managers within a specified timeframe, I'd suggest a formal on-site training workshop. The difficulty is having all your project manager's in class simultaneously for a week's time.
By going the PMP route, you introduce many external variables. Preparing for the PMP is extremely time consuming, first with the application process, then with the study process, and then the test itself. No guarantee all will pass, nor even be ready simultaneously. Disparate and significant investment; time and dollars. Also, it's not a really a contained / sanctioned organizational activity
There are boot camps that you can send all PM's to, but again, no guaranteed pass for all and still leaves open the application process. Plus, the boot camp does not teach project management, they teach how to pass the exam.
But, it goes back to the intent of the effort. I have attended company organized project management workshops. It was a great time, very inclusive, and focused on the aspects the individual can take back with them into the field.
Good luck. Hope that helps. Saving Changes...
Amir AliProject Manager| Northbay Solutions Pvt LtdLahore, Punjab, Pakistan
Apr 30, 2018 2:12 PM
Replying to Rami Kaibni
...
PMP is definitely a certification worth having:
1- Globally Acknowledged.
2- Most employers consider it an asset.
3- Increase your marketability and chances of getting hired.
On the other hand, I agree with Jeff, PMP won't make you successful if you do not have the right and solid expertise. Project Management is more than just knowing what is in a book. This is just a practice guidline so what's important is how to tailor those processes and apply them to individual projects.
In summary and from my own experience, I truly believe PMP is an asset.
PMP certification coaching (4-5 days) will give the team a common understanding of project management, passing the exam could be optional!
They may not all have the required prior experience for the PMP exam.
Knowledge of the PMBOK will give the team a common language,
PMP certification confirms a knowledge, give your team a marketable value.
A general project management course could be shorter, adapted to your organization.
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