Organizations of all kinds and sizes across the world are increasingly shifting to the project mode of functioning, whether to build a road/dam or develop a specific IT programme for an offshore client or conducting activities in the health arm of an NGO, etc. This trend has intensified with globalization and growing possibilities of collaborative working. The IT industry has been the biggest deployer of projects world over. Now, more industries like construction, tech, finance, manufacturing, etc. and different kinds of organizations like government agencies, NGOs, civil society organizations, etc. too are following suit and leveraging projects to improve efficiency, value and productivity.

Projects that are efficiently managed and effectively delivered promote organizational growth and success as well. Project management is the difference between the projects completed and completed successfully. It is the application of tools, methods, techniques, skills and knowledge to deliver on standards set for the project and to meet the specific needs of the project while keeping sticking to the predefined budget and envisioned time frame.

Introduction to PMP Certification

For years on end, it was believed that project management skills and knowledge need not be formally learned through a course, that these skills could be picked up on the job. But it is not so. While experience does give professionals with valuable practical knowledge and skills, it is being realized by organizations and professionals themselves that formal training gives them integrated knowledge, skills, legal awareness, technical know-how, tools, best practices and software required to meet the varied challenges on the job. So, organizations value professionals with project management education and most importantly, certification.

Of the various certifications available, the Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI), USA is considered invaluable. It validates the expertise, skills and competence of the experienced project professionals. It is globally-recognized and valued across industry verticals. Only experienced project managers with at least a secondary or 4-year degree, work experience of 3-5 years and 35 hours of project management education with a certificate of completion of the same are eligible to take the PMP Certification exam and thereon, obtain the certification. Project professionals with PMP certification earn more than non-certified and non-qualified professionals because it tells employers that you are well-equipped to handle the high-pressure and nuanced needs of project management skillfully.

Also Read: Benefits of Building a Career in Project Management

PMP Certification: India Case Study

India has been one of the major beneficiaries of the IT growth globally with several off-shore wings of IT and tech global giants being set up in India alongside indigenous IT, BPO and KPO companies being set up to take up projects from clients and partners from across the globe. India has IT and business hubs concentrated in the cities of Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai, Mumbai, Pune and NCR. All this led to the rising demand for skilled and certified project management professionals. This, accordingly, led to the rising demand for PMP Certification in India. The demand has further increased with more industries like construction, publishing, finance and insurance, utilities, infrastructure, oil and gas, etc. deploying projects and demanding certified project management professionals to help deliver the projects effectively and efficiently.

Why have Indian organizations opened their arms to PMP certification?

Organizations are seeing visible improvements in goal fulfilment, project delivery, budget management, etc. when they hire certified PMPs since they understand the global language of project management, are abreast of the latest trends and contemporary tools, techniques and practices across the globe. Certified PMPs are well-connected with other PMPs from across the globe which gives them a competitive career edge. The strict eligibility requirements and an ongoing audit process gives more credibility and authenticity to the professionals and shows their level of dedication and commitment to their work.

Scale of remuneration:

Considering how important certified PMPs are to overall business success, they are offered lavish remunerative packages. Those professionals with PMP Certification in India, as discussed earlier, most find themselves hired in the IT sector. In the IT sector, the salary for those with PMP Certification and 3-5 years’ experience is Rs. 4,00,000-Rs. 12,00,000 p.a. while those with 5-9 years’ experience earn Rs. 5,00,000 – Rs. 17,00,000 p.a. Senior certified PMPs with over 20 years’ experience earn over Rs. 20,00,000 per annum.

Future Prospects:

As mentioned earlier, more industries and organizations are embracing project-style of functioning and demanding PMPs. To add to this, there will more government projects too. Within the next 10 years, it is predicted that India will require over 70 lakh certified project management professionals. By 2020, there will be a demand for over 4,00,000 project management professionals in the country. At present, we have only about 50,000 certified project management professionals in India. So, getting a PMP certification in India will give you a forward thrust on a lucrative career path.

More Information:

7 Skills to Become a Successful Project Manager

The Pathway to a Thriving Career in Project Management

Key Skills Required for Becoming a Successful Project Manager

What Skills Must You Acquire To Land Top Project Management Jobs?