As the name suggests, PMP is all about a professional who is aware of how projects work and how they should be handled. Since project management is a complex, comprehensive subject, having a team of dedicated Project Management Professionals will streamline and sort all the challenges that might arise during a project.

With a PMP certification, all aspiring project managers can earn an edge over others in the business and successfully run projects. By pursuing this training, not only do they hold significant knowledge of the PMBOK Guide, but they also have hands-on experience with the protocols, practices, and principles of Project Management that can make them stand out from the crowd. 

As a popular and industry-relevant credential, the PMP course equips individuals with the relevant skills necessary to lead a team or drive a project. The PMP certification is offered by the PMI (Project Management Institute), and one can begin with its preparation by downloading the free guide or the curriculum on several certification websites online.

What is PRINCE2 (Projects in Controlled Environments)?

PRINCE2 is a popular project management methodology that helps manage the risk involved in complex projects by breaking them down into small, manageable tasks. It requires a structured project management approach (framework) to describe the seven processes of PRINCE2, which include:

• Project Commencement
• Project Initiation
• Directing a Project
• Controlling a Stage
• Managing Stage Boundaries
• Managing Product Delivery
• Project Closure

PMP and PRINCE2 Certification Requirements

PMP is the Project Management Certification, provided by the Project Management Institute (PMI). This credential defines and validates the profile of a project manager. Whereas PRINCE2 stands for PRojects IN Controlled Environments, which is the full name for the project management methodology. It is a latest, process-based methodology for smart and effective project management.

Frameworks and Methodologies of PMP vs PRINCE2

When it comes to the framework that each of them follows, it is entirely different, as the PMP credential relies on a descriptive framework (including structured guidelines, processes, and templates), and PRINCE2 uses a prescriptive framework (where a detailed methodology involving the steps and stages of project management is involved.

Also Read: PRINCE2 vs PMP - Which is Best for Professionals?

Here is a list of their respective certification requirements:

PMP and PRINCE2 Key Differences

Tips for Choosing Between PMP vs PRINCE2 Certifications

For an individual who is confused and cannot think of which certification to choose, if they had to, between the two - PRINCE2 vs PMP - for the Career Prospects and Job Opportunities, the following tips will help!

• Define the career goals you have once again, and consider the industries you want to be a part of, or are interested in.
• Identify the popular career options you can access in your location, and the work environment they will introduce you to.
• Compare salary packages, depending on the area you choose to work in, and the growth it will see in the next few years.
• Take a moment to compare and contrast the examination process and the time needed for both certifications individually, so you can decide which one would be the best for you.
• Go through the eligibility requirements for both courses. There is a set of educational and professional qualifications that one has to meet to qualify for the candidature.
• Refer to the top career sites and sites of professional certification course providers to gain a deeper understanding of all the training, the cost, and the time involved. Pursuing a long-term certification course is an investment, so make sure to do it mindfully.

Is It Advisable to Do Both Certifications?

Absolutely! The benefits of getting a PMP Certification and a PRINCE2 Certification are countless. After all, pursuing higher education, necessary training, or professional courses always reaps benefits in the future. Depending on your profession and work responsibilities, you can decide which of the two certifications would be the most relevant to you, or you can also pursue both. As both certifications are said to complement each other, they offer an extensive skillset, professional flexibility, and global acceptance. But one should still be wise enough to decide which one to pursue if they had to choose one. However, both of these are advantageous in their own way.

PMP Certification - Emphasizes broader areas of project management and its techniques. Additionally, requires the project manager to perform a key role in the success of the project.

PRINCE2 Certification - Focuses on a structured process-based methodology that is driven by a clear goal. Here, one operates as per their predefined roles, within a strong governance network.

Conclusion

People who take up professional courses like PMP, PRINCE2, AI/ML, Data Science, Cyber Security, solely focus on the advantages of the particular training. The reason being, any additional skillset or professional training does eventually add up to an individual’s resume and makes it worthwhile and considerable for selection.

Today, when it comes to pursuing a course between PRINCE2 and PMP, one should always think things through before concluding. One cannot define either of the courses as “better” than the other. So, learning either of them or both would offer respective benefits and help you navigate your career roadmap. However, it is up to the individual to decide which one they would like to go for.