What is the difference between IPMA and PRINCE2?

• What is IPMA?

  IPMA stands for 'International Project Management Association'. It is a worldwide organization of national associations for project management. An important task of these associations is to certify, standardize and accredit project managers and project management.

  An IPMA certification helps you to demonstrably improve in project, program and portfolio management. It ensures that your projects become more manageable and your competencies visibly improve. Organizations can also demonstrate their quality and transparency in project management. An IPMA certification is a global leader.

• What different levels does IPMA have?

  IPMA has 4 levels in which you can become certified. This way there is always a training that matches your level as a project professional. If you are a project employee or a starting project manager, then you choose IPMA dIf you are already further along your career path and have at least 3 years of experience, then IPMA C something for you.

  In addition, you have the IPMA B level for the project manager with at least 5 years of demonstrable experience in more complex projects. The highest level is IPMA A. This is intended for the most experienced project managers. Different exam components, admission requirements and rates apply per certification level.

• What are competencies within IPMA?

  The unique thing about IPMA is that it does not stick to a certain pattern. Within IPMA it is more important to move with what a project needs now. The focus point within IPMA is therefore on the competences of the project manager and therefore not so much on knowledge and skills.

  This also shifts the role of the project manager. Instead of arranging everything, the project manager is increasingly the connecting link between management, users, suppliers and stakeholders.

  In order to properly fulfil this renewed role, IPMA published the Individual Competence Baseline ICB 2015 in 4.0. This guideline consists of 28 competencies, divided into 3 categories:

  • Perspective: In the first category you will find the contextual competencies. In order to properly map the characteristics, goals and requirements of the existing organization and environment, you need to know how to navigate in these different areas.
  • People: in the second category you will find the soft skills. These soft skills are for example about effective collaboration, good negotiation and dealing with resistance in the team.
  • practice: In the third category you will find the technical skills. These are really about managing projects. Think of drawing up substantiated plans, making reports and estimating and controlling risks around a project.

• How much time will I spend on an IPMA self-study?

  The amount of time you spend on self-study depends on your level certificationAt IPMA D you spend approximately 100-160 hours on self-study.

• What does the IPMA exam look like?

  The format of the exam depends on the level you are at. exam does. In the e-learning you will find an extensive exam trainer. Here you will discover what an exam at your level looks like and what you can expect. This way you will always be well prepared for your exam!

• My organization does not use the IPMA methodology. Does certification make sense?

  Secure. IPMA is an international standard for project management competencies. Many companies recognize and value this certification, even if they use a different methodology themselves. You demonstrate that you have the right knowledge and skills to approach projects in a structured and professional manner.

• How quickly can I get my IPMA certification?

  Every 2 weeks you have a IPMA training day. There are 5 training days in total. We recommend that you take your exam within 4 weeks of the last training day, so that all knowledge is still fresh in your memory. You can obtain your certification within 3 months.

• What happens if I fail the exam?

  Oops, failed your exam… Don’t worry, that can happen. You can simply register for an exam again. And if you have any questions, you can always ask your change guide.

• Can an IPMA certification expire?

  Yes, that is possible. A IPMA certification expires after 5 years. After those 5 years you can choose to have your certification renewed by following another training.

• What are the admission requirements for the IPMA training?

  At IPMA-D everyone can participate. We recommend a higher professional education level of work and thinking. If you are already a more experienced project manager, another entry level may be more suitable. Mail, app or call us and we will be happy to think along with you!  ln.tnagal@ofni | +31 (0)41 3224 106

• What if I can't put my project experience on paper properly?

  This is one of the biggest frustrations among candidates. It helps to keep regular notes about your projects: goals, challenges, results and your own role. With a structured logbook or portfolio you can summarize this more easily and you have a handle on it for your IPMA-documentation.