What is the best/most recognised project management certification you can get (for running large IT/consulting projects)?
(Question posed by Gerardo Broussi on LinkedIn)
Jennifer Jones’ answer:
Gerardo, the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification offered by PMI is internationally recognized as the only project management certification that not only validates practical knowledge through comprehensive examination, but also requires candidates to prove relevant education and experience before they are qualified to sit for the exam, similar to other professional certifications such as the CPA or legal bar exam. The subject matter covered by the Project Management Book of Knowledge (PMBoK) is non-industry specific, and PMI also offers “add-on” certifications for certain areas of specialization such as Risk or Schedule Management. They are introducing an Agile certification as well. Note that the PMP certification is not only recognized, but often required by employers in the US, particularly for federal programs and government contractors. I have seen it required internationally as well. The only other certification I have seen required is occasionally PRINCE in Europe.
In addition to the value of the credentials offered by PMI, the opportunity for networking with fellow project managers is unsurpassed. As a 10 year veteran, I can attest to the rich experience of learning from my fellow PMPs at chapter meetings, global congresses, side by side as volunteers, online via communities of practice and here on LinkedIn. I strongly encourage you to consider becoming a member, regardless of your certification decision. The Latin American membership has grown dramatically over the past few years, and I’d be happy to help you find a local chapter if you’re not able to. The online knowledge sharing through PMI Communities of Practice, such as the one for Information Systems, is worth the cost of annual membership by itself.
You reference the IPMC website, and they offer several certifications. However, there are multiple ways for these certifications to be issued by waiver upon payment of a fee, submission of documentation and review by the board. That means that an independent examination of knowledge is not always completed before the certification is issued. It is my experience that, while this may make the credential easier to obtain, that very ease devalues the credential in the eyes of prospective employers/clients.
Note re: ITIL – While ITIL is certainly a highly valued credential, it is not a project management certification.
