Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is recognized as the gold standard for project managers globally. Those interested in pursuing PMP certification have traditionally enrolled in PMP Boot Camps. However, there is a better option – self-study. In this article, we explore the downsides of PMP Boot Camps and why self-study might be a better option.
The Downside of PMP Boot Camp Training
PMP Boot Camps are intensive, condensed, and accelerated training programs that provide a comprehensive understanding of the PMBOK, the key framework for project management. However, they often overlook the core concepts of project management and emphasize memorization of the PMBOK. This can lead to a lack of in-depth understanding and poor application of project management principles.
Exploring the Cons of PMP Boot Camps
One of the significant downsides of PMP Boot Camp training is that it provides only a surface-level understanding of the PMBOK. Boot camps focus primarily on memorization of the PMBOK concepts while ignoring the underlying principles of project management. As a result, PMP candidates who complete boot camp training are often unable to apply project management principles in real-world scenarios effectively.
Another disadvantage of PMP Boot Camp training is that it can be overwhelming for some candidates. The condensed nature of the program means that there is a lot of information to absorb in a short amount of time. This can lead to information overload and make it difficult for candidates to retain the information they have learned.
Additionally, PMP Boot Camps can be expensive, and not all candidates may have the financial resources to attend. This can limit access to the training and prevent some individuals from pursuing a PMP certification. Furthermore, the cost of the training may not be worth it for candidates who do not plan to use the certification in their current or future roles.
The Inconvenience of PMP Boot Camps
PMP Boot Camps are often held at fixed locations and require students to dedicate an extended period of time to complete the training. This can be problematic, especially for individuals who can’t commit the time and resources to attend boot camps in person.
Alternatives to Traditional PMP Boot Camps
Self-study is an ideal alternative to traditional PMP Boot Camps. By studying at your pace and schedule, you can organize your study time as per your convenience. That way, you can dedicate more time to concept-based learning and understanding the principles of project management rather than merely memorizing the PMBOK. Moreover, through self-study, you save the expenses associated with physical training such as travel, lodging, and meals.
Another alternative to traditional PMP Boot Camps is online training. Many reputable organizations offer online PMP training courses that are self-paced and can be completed from anywhere with an internet connection. Online training provides the flexibility to study at your own pace and schedule, and you can access the course materials from any device, including your laptop, tablet, or smartphone.
Additionally, some organizations offer hybrid training options that combine online self-study with in-person training sessions. This option provides the best of both worlds, allowing you to study at your own pace and schedule while also providing the opportunity to attend in-person training sessions for hands-on learning and interaction with other students and instructors.
The Problem with Memorization-Based Project Management Training
Memorization-based PMP training can be problematic because PMP exams focus more heavily on concept application rather than rote memorization. Memorization-based training can be useful for some concepts but often fails to provide a deeper understanding of the underlying principles of project management.
Why Understanding Concepts is Key to Effective Project Management
To be an effective project manager, it’s crucial to understand project management concepts and principles. PMP certification is not merely about memorizing facts but applying these concepts to real-world project management scenarios consistently. Self-study provides candidates with the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of project management concepts and principles. That understanding leads to more effective project management strategies.
Furthermore, understanding project management concepts allows project managers to adapt to changing circumstances and make informed decisions. When project managers have a deep understanding of the principles behind project management, they can apply those principles to new situations and develop creative solutions to problems. This flexibility is essential in today’s fast-paced business environment, where projects are often complex and unpredictable.
The Limited Availability of PMP Boot Camps
Another downside of PMP Boot Camp training is that they may not be available in all locations, and candidates have to travel to attend boot camps. The limited geographic availability of classroom training limits accessibility to candidates from regions without in-person training programs.
Finding Flexibility in PMP Training Options
Self-study enables candidates to study regardless of their location since all the study materials are readily available online. Thus, one can study for the PMP exams through self-study comfortably from anywhere, provided they have an internet connection.
Moreover, self-study options offer more flexibility in terms of scheduling. Candidates can study at their own pace and choose the time that suits them best. This is particularly beneficial for those who have busy work schedules or other commitments that make it difficult to attend a boot camp. With self-study, candidates can create a study plan that fits their lifestyle and work towards their PMP certification at their own pace.
The Importance of Conceptual Learning in Project Management
A side effect of memorization-based training is a lack of emphasis on concepts. PMP candidates are often taught to memorize the PMBOK, with limited opportunity to comprehend the underlying principles of project management.
How to Choose a PMP Training Program That Prioritizes Understanding Over Memorization
If you decide on PMP Boot Camp training over self-study, consider choosing a program that emphasizes concepts and principles rather than memorization. A solid PMP training program should provide candidates with a detailed understanding of project management principles and strategies that go beyond PMBOK memorization.
Conceptual learning is crucial in project management because it allows project managers to understand the reasoning behind the processes and techniques they use. This understanding enables them to make informed decisions and adapt to changing circumstances. Additionally, conceptual learning promotes critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which are essential for effective project management. Therefore, it is essential to prioritize conceptual learning in PMP training programs to produce competent and successful project managers.
The Drawbacks of Exam-Focused Project Management Training
An exam-focused PMP training program can be inadequate because it fills candidates with exam-oriented knowledge without providing the know-how required to manage projects efficiently. Many PMP candidates going through exam-focused programs have little experience managing projects outside the classroom.
Balancing Exam Preparation with Conceptual Learning in PMP Training
Self-study helps improve this because it provides a more competitive and flexible PMP training program where candidates can focus on creating balance. Candidates can focus on preparing for the exam while also emphasizing concept-based learning, which is fundamental to successfully managing projects in real-life scenarios. Thus, self-study can help PMP candidates balance exam preparation with conceptual learning, leading to more effective project management strategies.
Another drawback of exam-focused project management training is that it can lead to a lack of creativity and innovation in project management. When candidates are solely focused on passing the exam, they may not be encouraged to think outside the box and come up with unique solutions to project management challenges. This can result in a lack of innovation and creativity in project management, which can be detrimental to the success of a project.
Furthermore, exam-focused training may not adequately prepare candidates for the real-world challenges of project management. In real-life scenarios, project managers must deal with unexpected challenges, changes in scope, and shifting priorities. Exam-focused training may not provide candidates with the skills and knowledge necessary to handle these challenges effectively, leading to project delays, cost overruns, and other issues.
Conclusion
PMP Boot Camp training has been one of the traditional ways for candidates to prepare for PMP certification exams. However, self-study provides PMP candidates with flexibility, accessibility, and customization that traditional PMP Boot Camp training may not provide. Through self-study, candidates can focus on concept-based learning, which is key to building the strategies required to succeed in project management.
Moreover, self-study allows PMP candidates to learn at their own pace and schedule, which is particularly beneficial for those who have busy work schedules or personal commitments. Additionally, self-study materials such as online courses, practice exams, and study guides are often more affordable than traditional PMP Boot Camp training. This makes self-study a cost-effective option for PMP candidates who want to prepare for the certification exam without breaking the bank.
