Introduction
PMP certification verses agile management certifications? What should you choose and why? Is one certification better than the other? For project managers, it can be hard to figure out what they need to learn and how they should go about managing projects. Understanding the similarities and differences between PMPs and Agile management certifications make it possible for leaders to have a general foundation of skills which can help make their organizations run very smoothly. In recent years, there has been a proliferation of Agile Certifications. PMP certification has been around for 20 years and is widely accepted. PMP and agile certifications focus on different aspects of project management. Both certifications are good, each in its own way. In this blog we will take an in depth look at both certifications, their differences and similarities to help you make the decision that’s best for you.
What is PMP certification?
(PMP) is a credential offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). The PMP is the gold standard of project management certification. It says that you speak and understand the global language of project management and connects you to a community of professionals, organizations and experts worldwide. Through an extensive audit process that includes an application review, proof of project management experience, and an examination, PMI determines whether or not you possess the knowledge, education and experience required to earn your PMP.
Eligibility
A four-year degree (bachelor’s or the global equivalent), with at least three years of project management experience, 4,500 hours spent leading and directing projects, and 35 hours of project management education. Or a secondary diploma (high school or the global equivalent) with at least five years of project management experience, 7,500 hours spent leading and directing projects, and 35 hours of project management education.
Advantages of PMP certification
- The best thing about the PMP certification in Atlanta is that it allows you to apply what you’ve learned in real world scenarios.
- PMI offers a wide range of resources that make it easy for you to transfer your skills into your daily work.
- You are required to earn 60 professional development units within 3 years to keep your credential current. This means you will always be up to date with the latest practices, and the most current knowledge base.
- There are a lot of moving parts in project management, and it can be difficult to stay organized and plan out every task that needs to be done. It helps if you have experience working with other team members, as well as experience in project management.
- It is widely recognized by employers, and will make you stand out in a sea of applicants
- It has been around for 40 years and has been tested over time, so you know it’s the best.
- There is a huge community of PMP holders that you can access for support
- Good for people who have more traditional work experience (5-10 years).
Disadvantages of PMP certifications
PMP certifications are one of the most popular management certifications out there. They are held in high regard and can be a great step towards becoming a project manager. But they aren’t without their drawbacks. Some disadvantages of PMP certifications are given below.
- It is incredibly difficult to get this certification, so not many people have it, which can make it less valuable than it was before (so many people applying with this certification that they become commonplace)
- The coursework is very theoretical, which means the skills you learn may not be immediately applicable to your current job or current industry
What are Agile certifications
Agile management is an approach to project management that has become widely used in recent years. It is based on iterative and incremental development, where requirements and solutions evolve through collaboration between teams. Agile management includes a great number of certificates, but the most important one is Scrum master certificate. Agile management certification has its own pros and cons but these certificates always fall behind PMP certifications. Some popular agile certifications are listed below
- Scrum master certification
- Certified ScrumMaster and Certified Product Owner
- Certified Scrum Trainer (CST)
- PRINCE2
- The Agile Certified Practitioner (PMI-ACP) and the PSM I
Pros and cons of Agile Management certifications
Agile Certification has its pros and cons. Here are some of the most common ones that you should be aware of before deciding to pursue it.
Pros
- Empowers you to make changes where they’re needed
- Requires a deep knowledge of the principles and practices of Agile software development
Cons
- Can be a time commitment; requires you to take training courses or otherwise acquire an extensive knowledge of Agile practices on your own.
- Can cost money if you register through an official training institution; alternatively, requires time and energy if you learn on your own
- Puts you at the forefront of industry software development trends
Conclusion
PMP certification is preferred as it offers prerequisite knowledge about software development project management for future projects and provides a good foundation in software development. It also helps an individual to grow in the career of project management and enhance their marketability value. Being certified means having proven knowledge and skills to succeed PMP exams helps in getting an IT job or higher job position after completing these certifications.
Agile certification is a testament to the One Team approach to software delivery. You can earn your Agile Certified Associate certification within two weeks at ONT, which is ideal for students who need flexibility in their training and schedule. PMP certification requires at least four to six months, and is a much more intensive program with more in-depth and rigorous testing. Now it’s up to you, whether you choose PMP or Agile certifications. It depends upon your need.
