The IPMA certificate is one of the most recognizable in the field of project management, next to PMI and PRINCE2. The International Project Management Association (IPMA), based in Switzerland, is a non-profit organization that has been promoting project management around the world since 1965. At that time, IPMA served as a forum for exchanging experiences between international project managers.
Why Is IPMA Certification Worth Your Consideration?
IPMA certification offers a number of benefits for both people involved in project management and organizations. First of all, it allows:
- Expand your knowledge: IPMA certification programs enable you to deepen your knowledge in project management, which translates into better efficiency at work. Moreover, the acquired knowledge facilitates adaptation to changing market conditions, which ultimately increases the quality of project management and the effectiveness of achieving project goals.
- Adapt to change: Continuing education in project management allows you to better cope with dynamic environments. Therefore, it increases efficiency in project management and also improves the quality of achieving project goals.
IPMA Certification Benefits
IPMA certification benefits both individuals and organizations. Here's what you can gain:
- For people involved in project management:
- Confirmation of qualifications: The IPMA certificate confirms professional qualifications and competences in accordance with international project management standards. Therefore, it allows you to document your skills, which may open up new professional opportunities.
- Increased recognition: An entry in the IPMA Yearbook and publication of the name on the SPMP and IPMA websites increases recognition in the industry. Additionally, holders of B or A certificates have the opportunity to become assessors, which further increases their professional status.
- For project management service providers:
- Company prestige: Certification increases the company's prestige thanks to the presence of competent project managers in project teams. Therefore, it can lead to an increase in the efficiency and productivity of the organization.
- Guarantee of professionalism: Certification ensures that projects are implemented by professional managers with up-to-date scientific and technical knowledge. Additionally, transparency in the application of project management standards facilitates cooperation with clients and the implementation of funding applications.
- For customers:
- Assurance of a high level of service: Certification enables you to be sure of the high level of project management services, consistent with the latest trends and standards. Therefore, clients can be sure that their projects will be carried out in accordance with best practices.
IPMA Certification System
IPMA has developed a four-level certification system that assesses various qualifications and competencies in project management. This system includes:
IPMA Level A
A Certified Project Director should be able to manage all projects in a company or division. To obtain this certification, a candidate must have at least 60 months of project management experience. The certification process includes:
- Self-assessment and application: Completion of self-assessment and application.
- Written exam: Written exam.
- Case description: Preparation of a case description and analysis of four projects.
- Analysis and interview: Analysis of selected aspects and interviews.
IPMA Level B
A Certified Project Manager should independently manage complex projects. The candidate must have at least 60 months of experience, of which 36 months in complex projects. The certification process includes:
- Self-assessment and application: Completion of self-assessment and application.
- Written exam: Written exam.
- Report with project description: Preparation of a report with a description of the project and an assessment of management activities.
- Interview: Interview.
IPMA Level C
A Certified Project Management Professional should be able to manage simple projects and support managers of complex projects. 36 months of experience as a project manager is required. The certification process includes:
- Self-assessment and application: Completion of self-assessment and application.
- Written exam: Written exam.
- Session planning: Participating in planning sessions with candidates from other companies.
- Interview: Interview.
IPMA Level D
A Certified Project Management Practitioner should have basic knowledge of project management. It is recommended that the candidate has at least 12 months of experience working on less complex projects. The certification process includes:
- Self-assessment and application: Completion of self-assessment and application.
- Written exam: Written exam.
Benefits of Membership in IPMA
Personal benefits:
- Career development: Membership in IPMA allows you to improve your knowledge and obtain globally recognized certificates. Therefore, it also offers access to a database of companies looking for project managers.
- Contacts and exchange of experiences: Opportunity to build a network of contacts with industry professionals from different countries and participate in regional and project groups.
- Financial benefits: Discounts on conferences, seminars, courses and workshops can significantly reduce the costs of participating in industry events. Additionally, expanding theoretical and practical knowledge, as well as access to research results, can be invaluable.
- Current information: Regular updates on the latest trends in project management through IPMA newsletters and access to a network of advisors and experts.
Advantages for companies and institutions:
- Full Membership: Possibility to benefit from discounts on all IPMA events and plan a development path in accordance with the certification system.
- Support and competences: Support in project management best practices and access to knowledge about PM best practices.
- Recognition and image: Improving the company's image as an organization developing its competences in project management. Regular information about news and events in the industry helps keep the company up to date with trends.
The IPMA certificate is a key tool in developing a career in project management and improving skills in managing tasks and work in various projects.
