Project Management Institute

The Project Management Institute (PMI) is a U.S.-based nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the practice and science of project management. Founded in 1969 as a nonprofit organization, it serves as a global advocate for the field, supporting millions of project management professionals worldwide.

History

PMI was founded by a group of project management pioneers, including Ned Engman, James Snyder, Susan Gallagher, Eric Jenett, and J Gordon Davis, at the Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta, Georgia. Initially incorporated in Pennsylvania, PMI's early objectives included fostering recognition of project management as a profession, providing a platform for sharing knowledge, and developing common terminology and techniques to enhance communication among practitioners.

Purpose and Activities

PMI's primary purpose is to promote the value of project management as a strategic business tool. The organization achieves this through several key activities:

• Professional Development: PMI offers various certifications and educational resources to enhance the skills of project management professionals at all career stages.
• Standards Development: PMI has developed widely recognized standards in project management, notably "A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge" (PMBOK Guide), which provides a comprehensive framework for project management processes.
• Networking Opportunities: With chapters in over 80 countries, PMI facilitates networking among members, allowing them to share experiences and best practices.
• Research and Publications: PMI conducts research and publishes several materials, including journals and magazines, to keep members informed about industry developments.

Certifications

PMI offers several certifications that are internationally recognized as benchmarks of excellence in project management. The most notable certifications include:

• Project Management Professional (PMP): Considered the gold standard for project managers, this certification is awarded to individuals who demonstrate strong project management skills and knowledge.
• Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM): Designed for those new to project management, this certification helps establish foundational knowledge.
• Agile Certifications: Various agile-related certifications cater to professionals working in agile environments.
• Micro-Credentials: These focus on specific skill sets, such as agile, business analysis, and data analytics.

Ethical Standards

PMI emphasizes the importance of ethical decision-making in project management, advocating for honesty, responsibility, respect, and fairness. The organization has established a Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct that all members, certification holders, and applicants must adhere to.

Membership and Reach

As of recent data, PMI has over 680,000 members globally, with its influence extending across more than 180 countries. This broad reach is supported by a network of volunteers who help organize local chapters and events.

Volunteer Support

PMI relies heavily on its volunteer base to accomplish its mission. Volunteers contribute to developing industry standards, organizing local events, and supporting education and research initiatives.

In summary, the Project Management Institute plays a pivotal role in advancing project management as a profession, providing resources for practitioners worldwide and fostering excellence in project delivery.