Project management skills are in demand in many industries as organizations look for professionals who can deliver results efficiently and effectively. One of the most popular project management methodologies is PRINCE2, which is a comprehensive framework for project management that has been adopted by individuals and organizations worldwide.
A career in any field often requires measurable competencies that can be used to determine the professional’s ability to perform a role. The Knowledge Train’s PRINCE2 online course offers a certification that shows you are able to implement project management approaches that organizations rely on.
The Principles of PRINCE2 Methodology
PRINCE2 is a process-based project management methodology that was initially developed by the UK government but later adopted globally. It’s a popular framework that offers seven principles, seven themes, and seven processes that are designed to guide project managers through every aspect of project delivery.
Unlike some other methodologies, PRINCE2 is built around business justification throughout the project lifecycle. There is a business case for every project which must be valid at the initiation stage as well as throughout the process. It is because of this that the methodology is most often appreciated by upper management and other key stakeholders.
The methodology also outlines defined roles and responsibilities, which is crucial as it helps to avoid confusion and conflicts that are most common in organizations with no known project management framework.
PRINCE2 vs Other Project Management Frameworks
PRINCE2 is sometimes compared to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK) in some of its approaches. However, while the PMBOK knowledge is more focused on “what” a project manager should know, the PRINCE2 methodology is designed to explain “how” a project should be managed.
The Project Management Body of Knowledge is a guide that has ten knowledge areas and five process groups. It’s a compendium that many professionals consider an encyclopedic reference for a successful project but can be quite tedious when it comes to tailoring an organization’s environment. PRINCE2 is also detailed but provides a comprehensive set of processes that can be tailored to any project environment and size.
Organizations with a proclivity for PRINCE2 as their project management framework can do so with ease. This is because the methodology does not need a lot of customization. It also comes with standardized templates, checklists, and procedures that are ready for implementation. This makes PRINCE2 a popular choice for many organizations since it is ready for deployment.
How PRINCE2 Certification Boosts Careers
PRINCE2 has several benefits for those looking to get certified and implement the knowledge in their careers. For one, the certification has gained wide recognition in different industries, especially in Europe and Australia and other parts of the world such as North America and Asia. This means that certified individuals can consider opportunities in any of these regions if need be.
PRINCE2 certification also demonstrates a number of competencies employers are looking for. These include:
- The ability to run projects using certified and structured methodologies
- Understanding of business justification and benefits realization
- Knowledge of risk management and quality assurance processes
- Communication with key stakeholders and team management
- Project planning and progress monitoring
All the above skills and competencies are quite important in the job market and could give certified professionals a head start. The career opportunities for PRINCE2 certified individuals are vast and widespread in different organizations and industries. Many also offer specific project management roles, program management roles, or even senior leadership roles for certified professionals.
Industry Recognition of PRINCE2 Methodology
The most interesting fact about PRINCE2 is that its benefits have not been limited to career advancement but to the entire market. Government agencies and even some consulting firms have made it a requirement for project managers to be PRINCE2 certified. This gives certified professionals an edge in the job market.
Industries such as financial services, information technology, construction, and healthcare have shown high demand for PRINCE2 certified professionals. The reason behind this is the high value the industries put on a controlled project environment as well as clarity of reporting structures.
Market research has also shown a premium to be placed on the salaries of PRINCE2 certified professionals. This is compared to those who have no certificates and/or relevant skills. Certified professionals have salaries ranging between 8%-23% higher. This is because certification shows commitment to professional development and an understanding of best practices.
Managing Successful Projects with PRINCE2
Managing Successful Projects with PRINCE2 is the user guide manual for the methodology. It’s the go-to resource that project managers get from and a comprehensive guide on using the PRINCE2 processes to complete successful projects.
The manual also underscores the need for business justification at every stage of the project’s lifecycle. It’s one of the key differentiators of PRINCE2 compared to the more technically inclined methodologies.
Successful implementation of the methodology will require an understanding of flexibility. It’s because the processes can be customized to project size, level of complexity, and the nature of the organization in general. This flexibility makes it quite useful in diverse industries and in different types of projects as well.
Skills Acquired and Professional Growth
PRINCE2 certification also gives a project manager some quite essential skills. The technical skills that are often acquired include project planning, risk assessment, quality management, and progress monitoring. These are the most sought-after skills in a technical project environment.
On the other hand, the soft skills acquired from PRINCE2 usually include communication with stakeholders, leading and managing teams, as well as conflict resolution. The methodology strongly highlights the need for clear communication channels, and this will go a long way in helping project managers acquire these interpersonal skills.
The certification process also hones the analytical and problem-solving skills of certified professionals. This is because they are required to provide knowledge and application of the appropriate methodology for given project scenarios. This type of problem-solving capability is also important throughout one’s professional career.
PRINCE2 Implementation for Career Success
There are a couple of aspects one has to take into account for a successful PRINCE2 implementation for career success. A professional should take time to figure out how the certification can be relevant in their intended career path and industry of choice.
Each industry may have a high regard for a different aspect of the methodology. Networking opportunities are also available after a PRINCE2 certification. This is because there are plenty of professional associations, user groups, and training organizations in which one can find other certified professionals.
On top of that, it’s always important to note that PRINCE2 is not a one-time certification but a lifetime one. The methodology has been subject to evolution over the years and getting certified and staying with that only is an indication of an inability to grow professionally. As such, PRINCE2 is no exception and staying up to date with the current practices goes a long way. As a matter of fact, many professionals pursue advanced certifications or even additional qualifications after the initial one.
Conclusion
PRINCE2 is an important certification that can help professionals in their careers and for the most part, it is recognized across various industries and around the world. The structured methodology gives a professional with clear evidence of the skills to manage projects in an efficient manner, which many organizations want. When combined with actual field experience, the PRINCE2 certificate is also a very powerful tool for continuous growth and advancement in one’s career.
