What is PRINCE2 certification and how good is it?
PRINCE2 is a flexible project management methodology that can be applied to all types of projects in the workplace. It helps teams plan the project steps required to achieve a specific goal. PRINCE2 is also a project management qualification. Many project managers hold PRINCE2 qualifications as proof they have the skills and knowledge necessary to successfully manage complex projects.
PRINCE2 is an industry standard and many see it as the most basic requirement necessary to enter the field of project management. A PRINCE2 course is a great way to familiarize yourself with project management fundamentals and learn how to apply project management theory to your work.
While there are several different kinds of project management qualifications, none are as accessible and flexible as PRINCE2. That’s because PRINCE2 focuses on applying soft skills and a little bit of logic to every-day problems faced by project managers.
There are several levels of PRINCE2 qualification suitable for both veteran project managers and prospective project managers. Entry-level qualifications have no prerequisites. Intermediate qualifications only require that you first complete a beginners’ course.
If you’re having trouble figuring out which qualification is best for you, keep in mind that the PRINCE2 method and PRINCE2 principles can be used alongside other project management standards and frameworks. There’s no harm in supplementing your existing skills with the knowledge provided by a PRINCE2 training course.
What does a project manager do?
A project manager uses people, skills and resources to plan and complete projects. It can sometimes be a difficult task considering many projects involve large teams and specialized equipment or software.
Project managers need to be experts in communication and have in-depth knowledge of their chosen industry. Some project management roles can be very technical and might require the use of advanced software.
Project management is traditionally viewed as an extension of a pre-existing role. Being a project manager requires a broad understanding of the many roles, skills and resources used in an industry. That kind of knowledge only comes from having worked in an industry for several years. Even if you don’t consider yourself a project manager, you’ll find almost every job has a little bit to do with project management – even if it’s just sending out an office memo or talking with clients.
While it’s not always possible for employers to know if a candidate is an industry expert, many recognize PRINCE2 qualifications as a sign of competency in project management.
What are the levels of PRINCE2?
PRINCE2 is designed to teach you every step of basic project management.
The entry- level of PRINCE2 certification (PRINCE2 Foundation) is made for those with no experience whatsoever. It’s a great place to learn the fundamentals of project management and become familiar with some technical terms used by project managers.
The intermediate PRINCE2 certification (PRINCE2 Practitioner) is for those who already have some project management experience and for those looking to begin their first management role. This is a great place to start if you already manage low risk and/or low visibility projects or if you think you’d benefit from having a more in-depth appreciation of project management.
The highest PRINCE2 certification (PRINCE2 Professional) is for project managers with several years of experience. This course focuses on the theory of project management and is for those who want to progress the field of project management.
