PMcrunch

There are lots of courses out there to prepare for the PMP exam, but I believe it is not just about preparing for the exam.  That is just a piece, and one that can be overvalued. 

I believe it is really important to get some formal training on the subject, discipline, and profession of PROJECT MANAGEMENT, not just PMP EXAM PREP.  There is some overlap between the two, but they are very different in many ways.

Real knowledge is gained when you take ownership of what you are learning.  The way to do that is to apply it as much as possible.  For example, it would be valuable to learn as much as possible - preferably a little at a time and on a consistent basis - about risk management, and on a daily basis to apply what you are learning.  I always find that I think about what I am learning in different ways when I try to put it in practice.  It clarifies misunderstandings and gives you a solid grounding.  And ultimately I think that is what makes the best practitioner.

 Many have written about the devaluation of the PMP certification because, to some, it has become like a certification mill, pumping out newly minted PMPs on a continuours basis.  I think some of this concern would disappear if candidates would really take the profession and discipline seriously unto itself.  They woudl develop a greater degree of mastery, and would “internalize” the skills.  They would still earn a PMP as a result of their efforts.
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John Reiling, PMP
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