PMI SP Handbook
PMI SP Handbook
PMI SP Handbook
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The PMI-SP is a credential for those who develop and maintain the project schedule.
Table of Contents
Topic
Copyright & Revisions Information About PMI Credentials Why You Need the Credential Handbook How to Apply Online PMI Contact Information About the PMI-SP Credential PMI-SP Eligibility Requirements PMI-SP Examination Information & Blueprint PMI-SP Credential Fees & Refund Policy PMI-SP Credential Maintenance PMI-SP Credential Application Checklist Application Processing Credential Payment Process Examination Scheduling Instructions Examination Administration Special Accommodations for the Examination How to Schedule Your Examination Appointment Examination Cancellations, Rescheduling, No Shows PMI Examination Security & Confidentiality Policy Examination Site Requirements & Instructions Examination Results Notification & Score Report Reexamination PMI Appeals Procedure PMI Audit Process Continuing Certification Requirements (CCR) Program PMI Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct PMI Certification Application/Renewal Agreement Use of Your PMI Credential
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2 3 3 4 4 5 6 8 9 10 11 12 12 13 14 14 15 17 17 18 20 21 21 22 23 32 37 38
PMI-SP Credential Handbook last updated September 2008. 2008 Project Management Institute, Inc. All rights reserved. PMI, the PMI logo, Making project management indispensable for business results, PMBOK, CAPM, PMP, the PMP logo, PgMP and Program Management Professional (PgMP) are registered marks of Project Management Institute, Inc. PMI Risk Management Professional (PMI-RMP) and PMI Scheduling Professional (PMI-SP) are service marks of Project Management Institute, Inc. For a comprehensive list of PMI marks, contact the PMI Legal Department.
PMI credentials establish your dedication to and proficiency in project management. To attain a credential, you must satisfy the educational and professional experience requirements established by PMI and demonstrate your ability to apply your project management knowledge to situational and scenario-based questions in the examination. In the case of PgMP, you also must successfully complete two additional evaluations. When you earn one or several of these prestigious credentials, you gain distinction and recognition in a growing community of project management practitioners. A PMI credential also increases your visibility within your organization and on a global level. In order to maintain the credential, you must show ongoing professional commitment to the field of project management by satisfying PMI Continuing Certification Requirements (CCR) program or by renewing the credential. If you are ready to establish your credibility in the application of project management practices and become a more valuable member of your organization, you have taken a step in the right direction. Jo
PMI Certification Department Mission Initiate, establish, evaluate, maintain and administer a professional credential program to promote and support project management practitioners, and the profession.
If you need clarification or have any questions about any part of this handbook or the policies contained herein, please contact PMIs Customer Care team by e-mail or telephone (+1 610 356 4600) before you proceed with your application.
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NOTE: Incomplete applications and faxed applications will not be processed or returned.
You can also use the online certification system to: Apply and submit payment to take or retake any PMI examination and/or evaluation View your submitted credential application View your examination eligibility status Download PMI audit forms and/or examination score reports Access your certification record and update your contact information View your listing on the Credential Registry Submit payment for credential renewal Download receipts
PMI Global Operations Center 14 Campus Blvd. Newtown Square, PA 19073-3299 USA Phone: +1 610 356 4600 Fax: +1 610 356 4647 E-mail: [email protected] Online: www.PMI.org
Asia Pacific Service Centre 73 Bukit Timah Road #04-01 Rex House Singapore 229832 Phone: +65 6496 5501 Fax: +65 6336 6449 E-mail: [email protected]
Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) Service Centre Avenue de Tervueren 300 B-1150 Brussels, Belgium Phone: +32 2 743 15 73 Fax: +32 2 743 15 50 E-mail: [email protected]
Application Submission
Window open 90 days
Audit Process
(if application is selected)
5 business days
To be eligible for the PMI-SP credential, you must meet certain educational and professional experience requirements. All project management experience must have been accrued within the last five consecutive years prior to your application submission. Educational Background High school diploma, associates degree or global equivalent Project Scheduling Experience At least 5,000 hours spent in the specialized area of professional project scheduling within the last five consecutive years Project Scheduling Education 40 contact hours of formal education in the specialized area of project scheduling*
OR
Bachelors degree or global equivalent At least 3,500 hours spent in the specialized area of professional project scheduling within the last five consecutive years 30 contact hours of formal education in the specialized area of project scheduling*
*PMI accepts hours spent in training for Microsoft Project and for other scheduling tools.
How to Calculate Your Professional Experience on the Application Use the experience verification section of the online application to document and report your experience. Document projects individually regardless of the number of projects you document. Number of Hours that You Specialized in Project Scheduling Consider all of the projects that you have worked on and identify how many hours you spent on project scheduling. For this section of the application and the requirement, if you worked on multiple projects at one time, all the hours spent on project scheduling count toward the total. Contact Hours of Project Scheduling Education If you hold a bachelors degree or global equivalent, document a minimum of 30 contact hours of education within the specialty area of project scheduling. If you hold a high school diploma, associates degree or global equivalent, document a minimum of 40 contact hours of education within the specialty area of project scheduling. NOTE: One contact hour is equivalent to one actual hour (60 minutes) of training or instruction received. There is no timeframe associated with this requirement; therefore, candidates can document all education within the specialty area of project scheduling regardless of when it was accrued. However, the course work must be completed at the time the application is submitted.
You can satisfy the project scheduling educational requirements by demonstrating the successful completion of courses, workshops and training sessions offered by one or more of the following types of education providers: A. B. C. D. E. F. PMI Registered Education Providers (R.E.P.s)* PMI Component organizations* Employer/company-sponsored programs Training companies or consultants Distance-learning companies, including an end-of-course assessment University/college academic and continuing education programs *Courses offered by PMI R.E.P.s, PMI Components (chapters, specific interest groups,
colleges), or PMI, are pre-approved for contact hours in fulfillment of the educational eligibility requirement.
NOTE: One hour (60 minutes) of classroom instruction equals one contact hour. If you have completed a university or college course on project scheduling that met for three hours per week for 15 weeks, you would document 45 contact hours. If only a portion of a course dealt with project scheduling, only the hours spent on project scheduling can be applied toward the total.
The following education does not satisfy the education requirements: PMI chapter meetings* Self-study (e.g., reading books)
*If at least one hour of a chapter meeting is spent conducting a learning activity, the hour(s) spent in that activity can be counted towards the educational eligibility requirement.
NOTE: While you may be able to document applicable classes that counted toward a bachelors degree or MBA, you cannot document the degree program in its entirety because some classes within the program will not apply
Refer to the PMI Credential Examination Policies & Procedures section in this handbook for details on next steps after you submit your application.
Computer-based testing (CBT) is the standard method of administration for PMI examinations. Paperbased testing (PBT) is available under limited circumstances (refer to the Examination Administration section in this handbook for more details). The allotted time to complete the computer-based examination is three and a half hours. The examination is preceded by a tutorial and followed by a survey, both of which are optional and both of which can take up to 15 minutes to complete. The time used to complete the tutorial and survey is not included in the examination time of three and a half hours.
Allotted Examination Time 3.5 hours It may take some credential candidates less than the allotted three and a half hours to complete the examination. Item Development PMI-SP examination questions: Are developed and independently validated by global work groups of project scheduling practitioners Are referenced to at least one current project scheduling source Are monitored through psychometric analysis Satisfy the test specifications of the PMIScheduling Professional Examination Specification
Examination Blueprint The PMI-SP examination is developed based on the examination blueprint contained in the PMI Scheduling Professional Examination Specification. The examination blueprint details the percentage of questions contained in each project scheduling domain. The following represents the percentage of questions in each domain that are included in the examination. Percentage of Questions 9% 23% 23% 22% 23 % 100%
Domain Schedule Mission Management Schedule Creation Schedule Maintenance Schedule Analysis Schedule Communication/Reporting Total
Refer to the PMI Credential Examination Policies & Procedures section in this handbook for more details.
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The PMI membership rate will only apply if you are a member of PMI in good standing at the time you submit payment for the credential. If you apply for membership right before you apply for the credential, make sure you receive confirmation of your membership before you pay for the credential. If your membership has not been completely processed, you will be charged the non-member rate. If PMI membership is obtained after you submit payment for the credential, PMI will not refund the difference. If you are interested in becoming a member of PMI at the time you apply for the credential, you can submit your membership application and credential application at the same time and receive the membership rate. PMI membership applications are available on PMI.org.
Overview of Process to Maintain an Active Certification Status: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. Determine certification/CCR cycle Attain no less than 30 PDUs during each certification/CCR cycle Report PDUs on the online Activity Reporting form Complete the online Application for Renewal Reaffirm PMI Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct Reaffirm PMI Certification Application/Renewal Agreement Submit the credential renewal fee US$60 for PMI members; US$150 for nonmembers Receive new certificate with updated certification/CCR cycle dates
Refer to the Continuing Certification Requirements (CCR) program section in this handbook for more details on the following: CCR process Credential status PDU-qualifying activities
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You cannot schedule your examination until your credential payment is received.
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Application Processing
PMI strives to process credential applications in a timely manner. The application processing timeline depends on how applications are submitted either online using the certification system or on paper sent by postal mail to the Global Operations Center. The following table details the application processing timeline. Application Processing Timeline Application submitted: Online Paper Process time: Five business days 10 business days 20 business days
by individuals by corporations
NOTE: This processing timeline does not apply if your application has been selected for PMIs audit process (refer to the PMI Audit Process section in this handbook for more details).
Applicant Contact Information Please ensure that the application includes your valid e-mail address as this will be the primary mode of communication from PMI throughout the credential process. Although PMI will e-mail you reminders during the process, you have the responsibility to schedule and sit for your examination within the oneyear eligibility period.
When credential payment is received, PMI will send electronic notification indicating one of the following next steps: Examination scheduling instructions to help you schedule your examination Application has randomly been selected for PMIs audit process
If you are eligible to take the examination and you receive examination scheduling instructions, you can schedule the examination appointment. If you have been selected for audit, you will be notified with instructions for how to comply with the terms of the audit.
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NOTE: If you send a paper application by postal mail, payment of the credential fee is expected to be received with the application.
Regardless of how you submit the credential application (online or by postal mail), you may submit payment for the credential fee online or by postal mail. Use the online certification system to submit credit card payment. This will enable the payment process to be expedited more quickly. OR Mail a check, money order, or wire payment to the Global Operations Center. For all mail-in payments, please use the Credential Payment Form located in the application forms at the end of this handbook. Include your PMI identification number and user name.
Please print and save all examination scheduling verifications and correspondence received from Prometric, for your records.
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Examination Administration
Computer-based testing (CBT) is the standard method of administration for all PMI examinations. However, paper-based testing (PBT) is available in the following situations only: 1. Candidates who live at least 186.5 miles/300 km from a Prometric CBT site. 2. Employers (Corporate Sponsors) who wish to administer a PMI examination to their employees. In this case, there is no restriction on distance; however only employees of the corporation may test at these events. PMI reserves the right to cancel a PBT event that does not have a minimum of 10 candidates. Additional restrictions apply. Sponsors can obtain a copy of the PBT Handbook by contacting [email protected]. CBT test centers are listed on the Prometric website. If you are unable to locate a Prometric CBT center within a 186.5 miles/300 km-radius of your home, review the PBT listing on the Prometric website to see if there is a PBT event available in your area.
NOTE: As part of the credential payment process, you need to indicate whether you will be taking a computer-based or paper-based examination. If you need to take a PBT examination, include the site location, date, and group testing number on your application.
Prometric, a leading global provider of comprehensive testing and assessment services, is PMIs examination administration partner.
NOTE: The PMI-SP examination is administered in English only. Language aids are not currently available.
You must submit to PMI, by fax or mail, supporting medical or other appropriate documentation to complete your request. Please keep a copy of all submitted forms for your records. Refer to the How to Schedule an Examination section in this handbook for more details.
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Schedule your Examination by Telephone If you live inside North America, you can use the Prometric Telephone System, an Interactive Voice Response System that enables you to use a touch-tone phone to schedule, reschedule, cancel, or confirm existing examination appointments. Test center information (phone number, address, and directions) can also be obtained over the telephone or online. This telephone service is available Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. (US Eastern Time). Please call 1-800-268-2802 and follow the prompts. Hearing impaired may schedule by calling 1-800-529-3590. Please be advised that when scheduling by the Prometric Telephone System, you must go to the Prometric website and follow the instructions provided to print your confirmation information. If you live outside North America and wish to schedule your examination appointment by telephone, refer to the Prometric Regional Contact Center chart for the applicable telephone number. Please be advised that when scheduling by telephone, you must go to the Prometric website and follow the instructions provided to print your confirmation information.
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31 320 239 593 81 3 5541 4800 91 124 414 7700 603 7628 3333
Monday to Friday 9:00am to 6:00pm Monday to Friday 9:00am to 6:00pm Monday to Friday 9:00am to 5:30pm Monday to Friday 7:00am to 8:00pm
When calling Prometrics Customer Care Center, the Customer Service Representative (CSR) will ask for: 1. Testing program: Project Management Institute 2. Name of examination: (CAPM, PgMP, PMI-RMP, PMI-SP, PMP) 3. PMI identification code (e.g., 1234567E1)
NOTE: Please maintain a copy of the CBT examination confirmation in your files in the unlikely event that there are any discrepancies. PMI will not be able to advocate for you if this confirmation notice is not provided.
How to Schedule an Examination with Special Accommodations If you have applied for and been granted special accommodations for the examination administration from PMI, please follow these steps: Candidates who live inside North America must call Prometric Special Conditions Department at 1 800 967 1139 Candidates who live outside North America must e-mail [email protected]
When scheduling your examination with special accommodations, be prepared to provide the following: 1. Testing program: Project Management Institute 2. Name of examination: (CAPM, PgMP, PMI-RMP, PMI-SP, PMP) 3. PMI identification code (e.g., 1234567E1)
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PMI understands that there are times when extenuating circumstance (e.g., medical emergency, military deployment, death in immediate family, illness in immediate family) may prevent you from meeting a scheduled examination appointment, resulting in a no-show status. Should a situation like this occur, you will be asked to provide an explanation along with supporting documentation (e.g., accident report, medical documentation, death certificate). Contact PMI Customer Care within 72 hours of the scheduled examination date. If you do not contact PMI within 72 hours of a missed appointment, fees will apply in order to schedule a new appointment. PMI will review all claims on a case-by-case basis. If PMI determines that your claim is not extenuating, you will be required to request a reexamination and pay the full reexamination fee to sit for the examination. You are allowed a maximum of one year from the date your application is approved, to apply for reexamination.
could affect the status of your credential, up to and including revocation of your credential or permanent suspension from any PMI credential examinations.
The following are acceptable forms of secondary identification: Valid employee ID Valid credit card with signature Valid bank (ATM) card
The following are not acceptable forms of identification: Social Security cards Library cards
Check-in procedure On the day of your examination, please arrive one half hour prior to your scheduled appointment. You must sign in, present the required identification, and provide your unique PMI identification code. You may also be asked to provide the confirmation number received when scheduling the appointment. Testing Aids You are prohibited from bringing anything into the testing area. A Prometric examination proctor will provide you with calculators and scrap paper. Dictionaries of any kind are not allowed. You will be given scratch paper and a pencil to use during the examination; however, these materials cannot be removed from the test site and must be returned to the examination proctor at the conclusion of the examination.
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Test Site Conduct No visitors are permitted into the testing rooms (including children). No additional jackets, sweaters or personal belongings are allowed in the testing area, including but not limited to books, notes, calculators, cell phones, pagers, food, and drink. Smoking is prohibited in the testing center. Termination of Examination Administration/Grounds for Dismissal You are expected to conduct yourself in a professional manner at all times at the testing center. Any person who violates the PMI Test Security & Confidentiality Policy will be subject to disciplinary action(s) by the PMI Certification Department. The test center administrator/supervisor or proctor is authorized to dismiss you from an examination administration and the PMI Certification Department may cancel your scores, or take other appropriate action, when there is a reasonable basis for concluding that you have engaged in any of the following conduct: 1. 2. 3. 4. Using or attempting to use someone else to take the test Failing to provide acceptable personal identification Having access to or using notes or any prohibited aid related to the test Creating a disturbance (disruptive behavior in any form will not be tolerated; the test administrator/supervisor has sole discretion in determining whether specific conduct constitutes disruptive behavior) 5. Communicating, in any manner, with another person other than the test administrator/supervisor or proctor about the test during the administration, including attempting to give or receive assistance 6. Attempting to remove scrap paper from the testing room 7. Exceeding time permitted for a scheduled break. There are no scheduled breaks during exam. Prometric does allow unauthorized breaks 8. Eating or drinking in the testing room 9. Leaving the testing room or test center vicinity without permission 10. Removing or attempting to remove, examination-related material, or portions of a test in any format from the testing room 11. Attempting to tamper with a computer 12. Engaging in any dishonest or unethical conduct, such as cheating 13. Failing to follow any other examination administration regulations set forth in PMI Certification Program policies given by the test administrator/supervisor, or specified in any examination materials The PMI Certification Department reserves the right to take all action including, but not limited to, barring you from future testing and/or canceling your scores for failure to comply with the test administrator/supervisors directions. If your scores are cancelled, you will be notified of such action and its basis, and your examination fees will not be refunded. Although tests are administered under strict supervision and security measures, examination irregularities may sometimes occur. You are required to contact PMI as soon as possible to report any observed behavior that may lead to an invalid score for example, someone copying from another test taker, taking a test for someone else, having access to test questions before the examination, or using notes or unauthorized aids. All information will be held in confidence.
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Hand scoring for the paper-based test is available up to six months after the administration. The fee for hand scoring is US$45. For more information or to request hand scoring please contact PMI by e-mail or phone. PMI does not offer hand scoring for computer-based tests.
NOTE: If you do not pass the credential examination on your first attempt, you have two more opportunities to retest within your one-year eligibility period. Refer to the Reexamination section in this handbook for more details.
Establishing the Passing Score The passing score for all PMI credential examinations is determined by sound psychometric analysis. PMI uses subject matter experts from across the globe to help establish a point at which each candidate should pass the examination(s) and the examination point of difficulty. Data that shows how candidates actually performed is cross referenced with the subject matter experts to ensure that the point of difficulty on each examination is healthy.
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Reexamination
You are granted a one-year eligibility period in which to pass the examination. During the eligibility period, you may take the examination up to three times because candidates do not always pass the examination on their first attempt. Gauge your time carefully to leave enough time during the eligibility period to retake the examination if needed. If you fail the examination three times within the one-year eligibility period, you must wait one year from the date of your last examination to reapply for the credential. However, after failing a credential examination three times, candidates may opt to apply for any other PMI credential (e.g., a candidate who failed the PMP examination three times in their one-year eligibility period must wait one year to reapply for the PMP, but can apply at any time for the CAPM). Reexamination fees apply to the second and third attempts to pass the examination during each eligibility period. If your eligibility period expires without you having passed the examination, you must reapply for the credential.
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If you are able to provide the necessary documentation to meet the terms and requirements of the audit process, the audit should take about five business days to complete. You may not continue with the credential process until you have complied with the audit requirements. Once you successfully complete the audit, you are permitted to take the examination and your one-year examination eligibility period starts. If you fail to meet the audit requirements, you will receive a refund (refer to the Refund Policy section in this handbook for the credential you are pursuing for more details).
Note: Please be advised that while the selection process for an audit is primarily random, PMI reserves the right to select any candidate to be audited at any time, including after the credential has been bestowed. If you fail to meet the audit requirements after attaining the credential, you are not entitled to a refund.
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In order to satisfy the CCR program and maintain an active certification status, you must: 1. Earn and report the appropriate amount of professional development units (PDUs) during each three-year certification/CCR cycle 2. Complete an Application for Certification Renewal 3. Reaffirm PMI Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct and PMI Certification Application/Renewal Agreement 4. Submit payment of the renewal fee
PMI-SP Certification/CCR cycle begins Certification/CCR expires The day you pass the exam On the anniversary date of the day you passed the exam three years later
Calculations: If you pass the exam on Your certification/CCR cycle starts Your credential expires Therefore, you need to renew your credential by Your next cycle starts
15 September 2008 15 September 2008 15 September 2011 14 September 2011 15 September 2011
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Certification Status
Active Status Once you report your PDUs and renew your credential prior to the certification/CCR expiration date, you are a credential holder in good standing and considered to be in active status. When you are in active status, you will be listed in the Online Registry, which allows verification of your credentialed status. Suspended Status If you do not satisfy the CCR program within your active certification dates, you will be placed on suspended status. If you are in suspended status, you may not refer to yourself as a credential holder or use the credential designation(s) until the overdue requirements are earned, within a maximum of one year beyond the certification/CCR expiration date. The date of your next CCR cycle will not change after reinstatement to active status from suspended status. (The suspension period overlaps the time frame of their next cyclesee chart below). If you do not meet the overdue requirements within the suspension period, you will lose your credential(s). If you fail to comply with the CCR program and lose your credential, you will be required to reapply for the credential, retake the examination for PMI-RMP, PMI-SP and PMP (or the three assessments for PgMP), and submit the fees associated with the initial credential application.
Retired Status If you are a credential holder in good standing, who wishes to voluntarily relinquish your active status due to retirement, you are eligible to apply for retired status. To qualify, you must no longer earn primary remuneration for practicing project and/or program management and must have been a credential holder in good standing for at least 10 consecutive years. If you are interested in applying for retired status, you should submit a written request by postal mail to the attention of the Certification Department at PMI.
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Each credential requires a certain number of PDUs per three-year credential cycle. Credential PMP PgMP PMI-SP PMI-RMP CAPM Number of PDUs 60 60 30 PDUs in specialized area of project scheduling 30 PDUs in specialized area of project risk management No PDUs. Re-exam at end of cycle
The CCR Program organizes PDUs into five categories. Category 1: Formal Academic Education PDUs may be earned by completing an academic course after attaining a PMI credential. Courses must be offered for degree credit and be related to project and/or program management. One hour of degree credit in a typical 15-week semester earns 15 PDUs. One quarter semester hour (10 weeks) earns 10 PDUs. When only a portion of a course relates to project and/or program management, PDUs are calculated on a percentage of the overall curriculum focused on project and/or program management. Each course must be submitted on a separate CCR Activity Reporting Form. PMI does not recognize entire degree programs for PDU credits, only individual courses. Documentation required upon PMI audit/request: transcript or grade report indicating a passing mark.
Category 2: Professional Activities and Self-directed Learning A predetermined number of PDUs may be earned by participating in specified professional activities. Use the Guide to Category 2 Activities to determine PDUs in this category. Documentation required upon PMI audit/request: copies of publications, sample educational materials or course agendas.
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Description
Author or coauthor of an article pertaining to project and/or program management published in a refereed journal (e.g., Project Management Journal). Author or coauthor of an article pertaining to project and/or program management published in a non-refereed journal (e.g., PM Network). Speaker/teacher on project and/or program management topic at a conference, symposium, workshop or formal course. Speaker on a project and/or program management topic at PMI Component meeting (e.g., chapter meeting). Member or moderator of a project and/or program management panel discussion at a conference, symposium, workshop or formal course. Author or coauthor of textbook that pertains to project and/or program management. Developer of content for a structured project and/or program management learning courseware. Practitioner of project and/or program management services for more than 1,500 project work experience.
2B
2C
2D 2E
2.5 PDUs per activity 2.5 PDUs per activity 20 PDUs (author) 10 PDUs (co-author) 5 PDUs per new course 2.5 PDUs per 1-year (12-month) period
2F 2G 2H
*Qualifying self-directed learning activities must be relevant to project scheduling, meet a specified purpose, and use knowledgeable resources. Use the Self-Directed Learning Activities Worksheet to determine PDUs for Category 2 SelfDirected Learning.
Documentation required upon PMI audit/request: evidence supporting your reported learning project, including notes from and dates of discussion or reading. Category 3: Courses offered by PMI Registered Education Providers/PMI Components PDUs may be earned by attending educational courses offered by organizations registered with PMI and designated as PMI Registered Education Providers (R.E.P.s) or PMI Components. These providers adhere to quality criteria established by PMI and are solely authorized to issue PDU certificates to attendees. R.E.P.s can be identified by their logo:
Examples include schools, consultants, corporate training departments, professional associations, government agencies and PMI chapters, specific interest groups (SIGs) and colleges. View the searchable database of R.E.P.s and the courses they offer online. Documentation required upon PMI audit/request: registration form, certificate or letter of attendance.
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Category 4: Courses offered by Other Education Providers Contact hours of project and/or program management education may be earned by attending relevant educational courses offered by organizations not registered with PMI. To calculate the number of PDUs earned, use the following formula: one contact hour of learning relevant to project and/or program management within a structured activity or course equals one PDU. Documentation required upon PMI audit/request: registration form, certificate or letter of attendance, and a brochure or course materials outlining the subject matter covered and the qualifications of the instructor/lecturer. Category 5: Volunteer Service to Professional or Community Organizations A maximum of 10 PDUs may be earned per CCR cycle through professional service to a project management organization or by providing non-compensated project management services to nonemployer or non-client customer groups. The volunteer services must meet the definition of a project as outlined in A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK Guide)Third Edition. Examples of qualifying activities and their associated PDU values include the following: Serve as an elected officer for a project management organization (including PMI components). Minimum three months of participation: 2 PDUs per year (No PDUs are awarded for service less than three months) Minimum six months of participation: 5 PDUs per year Twelve months of participation: 10 PDUs per year Serve as a volunteer/appointed committee member for a project management organization (including PMI components). Minimum three months of participation: 1 PDU per year (No PDUs are awarded for service less than three months) Minimum six months of participation: 3 PDUs per year Twelve months of participation: 5 PDUs per year Provide project and/or program management-related services to a community or charitable group or to a group of college students for educational purposes (5 PDUs per year). The sponsoring organization must be a legally recognized not-for-profit organization.
View volunteer opportunities online to see how you can earn PDUs in this category. Documentation required upon PMI audit/request: letter or certificate from the organization served acknowledging you for leading project tasks or participating as part of a project team.
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PDU activities completed prior to obtaining a PMI credential are not accepted toward the renewal requirements. Further, you cannot claim participation in the same course or activity more than once. Fractions of PDUs also may be reported in quarterly increments following one full hour. This means that after you report one full hour in a certain activity, you also may report an additional 0.25 PDUs within the same activity if applicable. How to Transfer PDUs to the Next CCR Cycle If you earn more than the required PDUs in your CCR cycle, you may apply the following amounts of PDUs to your next certification/CCR cycle. Credential PMI-RMP PMI-SP PgMP PMP No. of PDUs allowed to be transferred to the next cycle 10 PDUs earned in the third year of current cycle 10 PDUs earned in the third year of current cycle 20 PDUs earned in the third year of current cycle 20 PDUs earned in the third year of current cycle
Only PDUs earned in the third year of your certification cycle can be transferred.
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Fax the Activity Reporting Form to PMI/CCR Records Office PDU Submission Deadline
You must report your PDUs and complete the renewal process prior to the end of your CCR cycle in order to avoid suspension of your credential(s) (refer to the Suspended Status section in this handbook for more details). If you do not earn and report the required PDUs within your CCR cycle will be suspended. The one-year suspension period can be used to earn and report the required PDUs. In addition, you can report PDUs up to 12 months after the expiration date of the CCR cycle in which the activities were completed.
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After processing the completed application and the renewal payment, PMI will send you an updated certificate with the new active certification/CCR cycle dates. Please allow six to eight weeks for postal delivery of your certification. You may cancel your credential at any time. To do so, contact the Certification Department in writing. PMI will refund one-third of the renewal fee for each full year of the renewed certification/CCR cycle that you have not used following the date of the written cancellation request. PMI Audit Process As the recipient of a PMI credential, you have agreed to comply with its terms of use including adherence to the terms of the audit process. The terms of the audit process provide that all credential holders are subject to an audit. In the event of an audit, you will be permitted to renew your credential only after you successfully complete the audit and meet all the terms of the audit.
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Comment: The conduct covered under the aspirational standards and conduct covered under the mandatory standards are not mutually exclusive; that is, one specific act or omission could violate both aspirational and mandatory standards. CHAPTER 2. RESPONSIBILITY 2.1 Description of Responsibility Responsibility is our duty to take ownership for the decisions we make or fail to make, the actions we take or fail to take, and the consequences that result. 2.2 Responsibility: Aspirational Standards As practitioners in the global project management community: 2.2.1 We make decisions and take actions based on the best interests of society, public safety, and the environment. 2.2.2 We accept only those assignments that are consistent with our background, experience, skills, and qualifications. Comment: Where developmental or stretch assignments are being considered, we ensure that key stakeholders receive timely and complete information regarding the gaps in our qualifications so that they may make informed decisions regarding our suitability for a particular assignment. In the case of a contracting arrangement, we only bid on work that our organization is qualified to perform and we assign only qualified individuals to perform the work. 2.2.3 We fulfill the commitments that we undertake we do what we say we will do. 2.2.4 When we make errors or omissions, we take ownership and make corrections promptly. When we discover errors or omissions caused by others, we communicate them to the appropriate body as soon they are discovered. We accept accountability for any issues resulting from our errors or omissions and any resulting consequences. 2.2.5 We protect proprietary or confidential information that has been entrusted to us. 2.2.6 We uphold this Code and hold each other accountable to it. 2.3 Responsibility: Mandatory Standards As practitioners in the global project management community, we require the following of ourselves and our fellow practitioners: Regulations and Legal Requirements 2.3.1 We inform ourselves and uphold the policies, rules, regulations and laws that govern our work, professional, and volunteer activities. 2.3.2 We report unethical or illegal conduct to appropriate management and, if necessary, to those affected by the conduct. Comment: These provisions have several implications. Specifically, we do not engage in any illegal behavior, including but not limited to: theft, fraud, corruption, embezzlement, or bribery. Further, we do not take or abuse the property of others, including intellectual property, nor do we engage in slander or libel. In focus groups conducted with practitioners around the globe, these types of illegal behaviors were mentioned as being problematic. As practitioners and representatives of our profession, we do not condone or assist others in engaging in illegal behavior. We report any illegal or unethical conduct. Reporting is not easy and we recognize that it may have negative consequences. Since recent corporate scandals, many organizations have adopted policies to protect employees who reveal the truth about illegal or unethical activities. Some governments have also adopted legislation to protect employees who come forward with the truth. Ethics Complaints 2.3.3 We bring violations of this Code to the attention of the appropriate body for resolution. 2.3.4 We only file ethics complaints when they are substantiated by facts. Comment: These provisions have several implications. We cooperate with PMI concerning ethics violations and the collection of related information whether we are a complainant or a respondent. We also abstain from accusing others of ethical misconduct when we do not have all the facts. Further, we pursue disciplinary action against individuals who knowingly make false allegations against others. 2.3.5 We pursue disciplinary action against an individual who retaliates against a person raising ethics concerns. CHAPTER 3. RESPECT 3.1 Description of Respect Respect is our duty to show a high regard for ourselves, others, and the resources entrusted to us. Resources entrusted to us may include people, money, reputation, the safety of others, and natural or environmental resources.
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An environment of respect engenders trust, confidence, and performance excellence by fostering mutual cooperation an environment where diverse perspectives and views are encouraged and valued. 3.2 Respect: Aspirational Standards As practitioners in the global project management community: 3.2.1 We inform ourselves about the norms and customs of others and avoid engaging in behaviors they might consider disrespectful. 3.2.2 We listen to others points of view, seeking to understand them. 3.2.3 We approach directly those persons with whom we have a conflict or disagreement. 3.2.4 We conduct ourselves in a professional manner, even when it is not reciprocated. Comment: An implication of these provisions is that we avoid engaging in gossip and avoid making negative remarks to undermine another persons reputation. We also have a duty under this Code to confront others who engage in these types of behaviors. 3.3 Respect: Mandatory Standards As practitioners in the global project management community, we require the following of ourselves and our fellow practitioners: 3.3.1 We negotiate in good faith. 3.3.2 We do not exercise the power of our expertise or position to influence the decisions or actions of others in order to benefit personally at their expense. 3.3.3 We do not act in an abusive manner toward others. 3.3.4 We respect the property rights of others. CHAPTER 4. FAIRNESS 4.1 Description of Fairness Fairness is our duty to make decisions and act impartially and objectively. Our conduct must be free from competing self interest, prejudice, and favoritism. 4.2 Fairness: Aspirational Standards As practitioners in the global project management community: 4.2.1 We demonstrate transparency in our decision-making process. 4.2.2 We constantly reexamine our impartiality and objectivity, taking corrective action as appropriate. Comment: Research with practitioners indicated that the subject of conflicts of interest is one of the most challenging faced by our profession. One of the biggest problems practitioners report is not recognizing when we have conflicted loyalties and recognizing when we are inadvertently placing ourselves or others in a conflictof-interest situation. We as practitioners must proactively search for potential conflicts and help each other by highlighting each others potential conflicts of interest and insisting that they be resolved. 4.2.3 We provide equal access to information to those who are authorized to have that information. 4.2.4 We make opportunities equally available to qualified candidates. Comment: An implication of these provisions is, in the case of a contracting arrangement, we provide equal access to information during the bidding process. 4.3 Fairness: Mandatory Standards As practitioners in the global project management community, we require the following of ourselves and our fellow practitioners: Conflict of Interest Situations 4.3.1 We proactively and fully disclose any real or potential conflicts of interest to the appropriate stakeholders. 4.3.2 When we realize that we have a real or potential conflict of interest, we refrain from engaging in the decision-making process or otherwise attempting to influence outcomes, unless or until: we have made full disclosure to the affected stakeholders; we have an approved mitigation plan; and we have obtained the consent of the stakeholders to proceed. Comment: A conflict of interest occurs when we are in a position to influence decisions or other outcomes on behalf of one party when such decisions or outcomes could affect one or more other parties with which we have competing loyalties. For example, when we are acting as an employee, we have a duty of loyalty to our employer. When we are acting as a PMI volunteer, we have a duty of loyalty to the Project Management Institute. We must recognize these divergent interests and refrain from influencing decisions when we have a conflict of interest. Further, even if we believe that we can set aside our divided loyalties and make decisions impartially, we treat the appearance of a conflict of interest as a conflict of interest and follow the provisions described in the Code. Favoritism and Discrimination 4.3.3 We do not hire or fire, reward or punish, or award or deny contracts based on personal considerations, including but not limited to, favoritism, nepotism, or bribery. 4.3.4 We do not discriminate against others based on, but not limited to, gender, race, age, religion, disability, nationality, or sexual orientation.
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4.3.5 We apply the rules of the organization (employer, Project Management Institute, or other group) without favoritism or prejudice. CHAPTER 5. HONESTY 5.1 Description of Honesty Honesty is our duty to understand the truth and act in a truthful manner both in our communications and in our conduct. 5.2 Honesty: Aspirational Standards As practitioners in the global project management community: 5.2.1 We earnestly seek to understand the truth. 5.2.2 We are truthful in our communications and in our conduct. 5.2.3 We provide accurate information in a timely manner. Comment: An implication of these provisions is that we take appropriate steps to ensure that the information we are basing our decisions upon or providing to others is accurate, reliable, and timely. This includes having the courage to share bad news even when it may be poorly received. Also, when outcomes are negative, we avoid burying information or shifting blame to others. When outcomes are positive, we avoid taking credit for the achievements of others. These provisions reinforce our commitment to be both honest and responsible. 5.2.4 We make commitments and promises, implied or explicit, in good faith. 5.2.5 We strive to create an environment in which others feel safe to tell the truth. 5.3 Honesty: Mandatory Standards As practitioners in the global project management community, we require the following of ourselves and our fellow practitioners: 5.3.1 We do not engage in or condone behavior that is designed to deceive others, including but not limited to, making misleading or false statements, stating half-truths, providing information out of context or withholding information that, if known, would render our statements as misleading or incomplete. 5.3.2 We do not engage in dishonest behavior with the intention of personal gain or at the expense of another. Comment: The aspirational standards exhort us to be truthful. Half-truths and non-disclosures intended to mislead stakeholders are as unprofessional as affirmatively making misrepresentations. We develop credibility by providing complete and accurate information. APPENDIX A A.1 History of this Standard PMIs vision of project management as an independent profession drove our early work in ethics. In 1981, the PMI Board of Directors formed an Ethics, Standards and Accreditation Group. One task required the group to deliberate on the need for a code of ethics for the profession. The teams report contained the first documented PMI discussion of ethics for the project management profession. This report was submitted to the PMI Board of Directors in August 1982 and published as a supplement to the August 1983 Project Management Quarterly. In the late 1980s, this standard evolved to become the Ethics Standard for the Project Management Professional
[PMP ]. In 1997, the PMI Board determined the need for a member code of ethics. The PMI Board formed the Ethics Policy Documentation Committee to draft and publish an ethics standard for PMIs membership. The Board approved the new Member Code of Ethics in October 1998. This was followed by Board approval of the Member Case Procedures in January 1999, which provided a process for the submission of an ethics complaint and a determination as to whether a violation had occurred. Since the 1998 Code was adopted, many dramatic changes have occurred within PMI and the business world. PMI membership has grown significantly. A great deal of growth has also occurred in regions outside North America. In the business world, ethics scandals have caused the downfall of global corporations and non-profits, causing public outrage and sparking increased government regulations. Globalization has brought economies closer together but has caused a realization that our practice of ethics may differ from culture to culture. The rapid, continuing pace of technological change has provided new opportunities, but has also introduced new challenges, including new ethical dilemmas. For these reasons, in 2003 the PMI Board of Directors called for the reexamination of our codes of ethics. In 2004, the PMI Board commissioned the Ethics Standards Review Committee [ESRC] to review the codes of ethics and develop a process for revising the codes. The ESRC developed processes that would encourage active participation by the global project management community. In 2005, the PMI Board approved the processes for revising the code, agreeing that global participation by the project management community was paramount. In 2005, the Board also commissioned the Ethics Standards Development Committee to carry out the Board-approved process and deliver the revised code by the end of 2006. This Code of Ethics and Professional Development was approved by the PMI Board of Directors in October 2006.
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A.2 Process Used to Create This Standard The first step by the Ethics Standards Development Committee [ESDC] in the development of this Code was to understand the ethical issues facing the project management community and to understand the values and viewpoints of practitioners from all regions of the globe. This was accomplished by a variety of mechanisms including focus group discussions and two internet surveys involving practitioners, members, volunteers, and people holding a PMI certification. Additionally, the team analyzed the ethics codes of 24 non-profit associations from various regions of the world, researched best practices in the development of ethics standards, and explored the ethics-related tenets of PMIs strategic plan. This extensive research conducted by the ESDC provided the backdrop for developing the exposure draft of the PMI Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct. The exposure draft was circulated to the global project management community for comment. The rigorous, standards development processes established by the American National Standards Institute were followed during the development of the Code because these processes were used for PMI technical standard development projects and were deemed to represent the best practices for obtaining and adjudicating stakeholder feedback to the exposure draft. The result of this effort is a Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct that not only describes the ethical values to which the global project management community aspires, but also addresses the specific conduct that is mandatory for every individual bound by this Code. Violations of the PMI Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct may result in sanctions by PMI under the ethics Case Procedures. The ESDC learned that as practitioners of project management, our community takes its commitment to ethics very seriously and we hold ourselves and our peers in the global project management community accountable to conduct ourselves in accordance with the provisions of this Code. APPENDIX B B.1 Glossary Abusive Manner. Conduct that results in physical harm or creates intense feelings of fear, humiliation, manipulation, or exploitation in another person. Conflict of Interest. A situation that arises when a practitioner of project management is faced with making a decision or doing some act that will benefit the practitioner or another person or organization to which the practitioner owes a duty of loyalty and at the same time will harm another person or organization to which the practitioner owes a similar duty of loyalty. The only way practitioners can resolve conflicting duties is to disclose the conflict to those affected and allow them to make the decision about how the practitioner should proceed. Duty of Loyalty. A persons responsibility, legal or moral, to promote the best interest of an organization or other person with whom they are affiliated. Project Management Institute [PMI]. The totality of the Project Management Institute, including its committees, groups, and chartered components such as chapters, colleges, and specific interest groups. PMI Member. A person who has joined the Project Management Institute as a member. PMI-Sponsored Activities. Activities that include, but are not limited to, participation on a PMI Member Advisory Group, PMI standard development team, or another PMI working group or committee. This also includes activities engaged in under the auspices of a chartered PMI component organizationwhether it is in a leadership role in the component or another type of component educational activity or event. Practitioner. A person engaged in an activity that contributes to the management of a project, portfolio, or program, as part of the project management profession. PMI Volunteer. A person who participates in PMI-sponsored activities, whether a member of the Project Management Institute or not.
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I agree to satisfy and conduct myself in accordance with all PMI certification program policies and requirements, including this Agreement and the PMI Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct (as they may be revised from time to time); and I shall maintain confidentiality of PMI examination questions and content. Furthermore, I agree not to discuss, debrief or disclose, in any manner, the specific content of PMI examination questions and answers, to any individual. I agree that I shall at all times act in a truthful and honest manner and provide truthful and accurate information to PMI. I agree that any intentional or unintentional failure to provide true, timely and complete responses to questions in this application or renewal form may lead to further investigation and/or sanctions by PMI. I also agree to promptly report to PMI any possible violations of the terms of this Agreement or the PMI Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct by PMI members or by persons who have applied for a PMI credential or have been awarded a credential by PMI. I agree to notify the PMI Certification Department in a timely manner of changes concerning the information I have provided, including my current address and telephone number. I have reported, and will continue to report, to the PMI Certification Department, within sixty (60) days of occurrence, any matters, proceedings, lawsuits, settlements and/or other agreements, administrative agency actions, or organizational actions relating to my profession or occupation, including all complaints relating to my professional activities as a project management practitioner, and matters or proceedings involving, but not limited to certification, credentialing, malpractice, disciplinary ethics or similar matters. I also agree to promptly report, within sixty (60) days of occurrence, any felony criminal charges, convictions, or plea agreements or other criminal charges, convictions, or plea agreements relating to acts of dishonesty or unethical conduct. I agree that if my compliance with any of the terms of this agreement requires or includes an explanation and supporting documents, I will provide a complete and accurate explanation and true copies of the materials to the PMI Certification Department with this application. I agree that the PMI Certification Department has the right to communicate with any person, government agency or organization to review or confirm the information in this application or any other information related to my application for PMI credentialing. Further, I agree to and authorize the release of any information requested by the PMI Certification Department for such review and confirmation. I agree that the PMI credential status does not imply licensure, registration or government authorization to practice project management or to engage in related activities. I agree that all materials that I submit to the PMI Certification Department become the property of the PMI Certification Department, and that the PMI Certification Department is not required to return any of these materials to me. I agree that upon achieving the PMI credential, my name may be posted on the PMI website as part of an Online Registry to be created and maintained by PMI. anonymous manner for research purposes only.
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10) I agree that information related to my participation in the PMI certification process may be used in an 11) I agree that all disputes relating in any way to my application for a PMI credential and/or my involvement
generally in a PMI certification program, will be resolved solely and exclusively by means of PMI Certification Department policies, procedures and rules, including the Appeals Process.
12) PMI reserves the right to suspend or revoke the credential of any individual who is determined to have failed
to uphold, or otherwise breached this Agreement, or committed a violation of the PMI Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct. out of, or be related to, my project management and related activities.
13) I release and indemnify PMI and the PMI Certification Department from all liability and claims that may arise 14) I hereby release, discharge and indemnify PMI, its directors, officers, members, examiners, employees,
attorneys, representatives, agents and the PMI Certification Department from any actions, suits, obligations, damages, claims or demands arising out of or in connection with this application, the scores given with respect to the examination or any other action taken by PMI with regard to credentialing, testing and professional development including, but not limited to, all actions related to ethics matters and cases. I understand and agree that any decision concerning my qualification for any credential, as well as any decisions regarding my continuing qualification for any credential and my compliance with the PMI Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct, rest within the sole and exclusive discretion of PMI, and that these decisions are final.
This Agreement may be updated or revised from time to time. It is your responsibility to obtain the most up-to-date copy online. Document last updated March 2007.
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Both of these documents list your: Credential number a unique identification number used by PMI to maintain your individual certification records Your credential cycle dates You will want to file this information in a safe and easily accessible location. You will need to refer to it in order to maintain your credential. Until you receive your certificate package, you may use your score report (available online through the certification system) to validate your credential status. Online Credential Registry The online Credential Registry automatically lists names of all credential holders. This feature allows verification of credential holders for the benefit of employers, service purchasers and others. Users can search for credential holders by first name, last name, or by country. Credential holders can choose to be removed from the registry, so the absence of your name in the registry does not necessarily mean that you are not credentialed. You can opt out of inclusion in the registry or update your demographic information by visiting the PMI Members area of www.PMI.org if you are a PMI member. Non-members should contact Customer Care.
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