PMP, CAPM & Scrum Certification Resources for Project Managers.

In Project management, staying ahead with the right certifications can make a significant difference in your career trajectory. Whether you are starting out or are a seasoned professional, obtaining certifications like the Project Management Professional (PMP), Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM), or Scrum certifications can provide a competitive edge. This blog will guide you through the essential resources to help you prepare and succeed in these certifications.

To be clear, you do not NEED a certification to get into the field of Project Management. If you are interested in learning more, you can check out my article “Do you really need a PMP to get ahead in PM?”

Understanding the Certifications

PMP (Project Management Professional), CAPM (Certified Associate in Project Management) & Other PMI Certs.

The PMP is globally recognized and is ideal for experienced project managers. It validates your ability to manage projects and teams effectively. CAPM is an entry-level certification for project practitioners. It's perfect for those who are just starting their project management career. Both the PMP & CAPM are certifications offered by PMI (The Project Management Institute). Requirements for the PMP are as follows:

• A four-year degree, 36 months leading projects + 35 hours of project management education/training

- OR -

• A high school diploma or an associate’s degree (or global equivalent), 60 months leading projects, 35 hours of project management education/training or CAPM® Certification

PMI offers several options for both experienced and non experienced Project Management.

Scrum Certifications

Scrum certifications, like Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) or Scrum Professional (CSP), focus on Agile project management methodologies, ideal for projects that require flexibility and quick adaptations. The CSM is provided by Scrum Alliance.

Key Resources for Preparation

1. Official Certification Guides

• PMP: PMBOK Guide (Project Management Body of Knowledge)

• CAPM: CAPM Handbook by PMI

• Scrum: Scrum Guide and Agile Practice Guide

Good news! You can pick up your copy of the PMBOK 7th Edition (current) on Amazon here

2. Online Courses and Webinars

• PMI and Scrum Alliance host webinars and virtual workshops.

• If you are going for the PMP, to take the test (PMP) you have to go in with 35 educational units. I’ve personally hired in person trainers for my teams in the past for this exercise but here was my experience

  1. I had to find a way for all of my team members to be off of project work for 4 solid days to complete the training together.

  2. My team members were engaged the week of the training and then if they didn’t take the exam in the next week, the information wasn’t retained and eventually the employees didn’t feel confident taking the exam.

  Now with remote work being more popular post pandemic, it’s even harder to get everybody in the same room. Luckily due to that, there are expert organizations like Brain Sensai that have made SELF PACED training for the PMP and CAPM exams which act as your educational units. Don’t worry, if you think that you’d work better with a live trainer they still have that too! The best part is that there isn’t any commitment because you can sign up with a free trial and decide if its for you before you ever commit. Then if you decide you want to move forward, there are flexible options to pay by the month or by the year. Why does that benefit you? ? If you focus and prioritize your time on completing the training within one or two months, you can literally save yourself thousands of dollars on training. Explore plans & options!

3. Practice Exams

• Utilize practice exams to familiarize yourself with the format and type of questions.

4. Study Groups and Forums

• Join online communities and study groups on platforms like Reddit, LinkedIn, or PMI chapters.

5. Books and Publications

• Books like 'A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge' for PMP, and 'Scrum: The Art of Doing Twice the Work in Half the Time' are invaluable.

Tips for Success

1. Create a Study Plan: Allocate regular study times and set realistic goals.

2. Understand Concepts, Don’t Just Memorize: Focus on understanding the principles and methodologies.

3. Stay Updated: Project management practices evolve, so stay informed about the latest trends and changes in the certification exams.

4. Network with Other Project Managers: Learn from their experiences and insights.

5. Practical Application: Try to apply the concepts in your current work environment to better understand them.

Balancing Work, Study, and Personal Life

As a business professional and a parent, finding the right balance is crucial. Here are some tips:

• Schedule Study Time Around Work and Family: Utilize early mornings or post-bedtime hours for uninterrupted study.

• Involve Family in Your Journey: Share your progress with them and involve them in a way that’s fun and engaging.

• Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to ask for support from your family or colleagues.

Conclusion

Earning a PMP, CAPM, or Scrum certification is a journey of professional growth that can open new opportunities. With the right resources, a dedicated study plan, and a balanced approach, you can achieve these milestones. Remember, the key is consistent effort and a deep understanding of project management principles.