Part of preparing for the PMP certification is completing the 35 hours of project management. In these 35 hours, candidates are exposed to 750+ practice questions, 300 lectures, documents and various other PMP study material. Some of the various topics covered during the PMP exam preparation are managing risk, cost, quality, social and professional activities and communication. Having a background in practical experience helps candidates to understand theory much easily. They are able to apply themselves and answer their PMP exam questions with experience. Candidates with prior experience, along with PMP preparation material always have an edge over non-PMP candidates.
Below are selected 5 important topics for the PMP Exam:
- COMMUNICATION: As a project manager, the first step of project management is communication. This implies, communicating with everyone on the team in a timely manner. When a new project is assigned to the project manager, they must immediately plan a course for communication. When delegating and assigning tasks to team members, the project manager must be clear and understandable to others. Every step that has been planned out for the project must be explained in detail to every team member. The project manager has to also communicate with the stakeholders to give a timely performance report about the state of the project.
- EXECUTION: Once the project details have been laid out and each team member has been assigned a task, the project manager moves on the next step. The project manager must ensure all tasks are completed on time with the desired results. If the project is failing due to certain obstacles, the project manager might have to change the original plans. When new guidelines are in place, it is essential that all team members have been updated. Part of the project execution is tracking all team members and getting regular updates about the project. The project manager must be updated about the project at all times.
- QUALITY MANAGEMENT: Project managers not only have to make sure that the project runs smoothly, but also the end product is as desired. The cost of the project is directly proportional to the quality of the product. No matter what the budget of the project may be, it is the project manager and his team's duty to deliver exceptional results. Working with a low budget and producing high-quality products shows efficiency and commitment. The quality of the end product or result of a project determines the team's performance and the project manager's leadership skills. Every aspect of the project determines the quality of the results.
- RISK & TIME MANAGEMENT: When a project is assigned to a project manager, they must adhere to the deadline of the project. During this time frame, time has to be allocated for risks in the project. There are known risks, predicted risks and unknown risks that will need immediate attention upon their arrival. These risks need response, control and monitoring which can take up a lot of time that was allocated to the project. Project managers are trained to combat these risks in short amounts of time without causing much damage. Team members must be brought up to speed and motivated to work through obstacles.
- RESPONSIBILITY: The project manager is handed not only the responsibility of a project, but also the complete responsibility of the team members. It is essential to be social with team members to make them feel comfortable in the work zone. The project manager has certain social and professional responsibilities to fulfil while managing a task. Constant communication and collaboration with stakeholders require project managers to conduct themselves in a decent manner. The project manager is responsible for the outcome of the project and this performance is evaluated by higher managing authorities. The entire team's performance is also a responsibility as it is evaluated on the leadership skills of the project manager.
Conclusion
The topics mentioned above are some of the many topics that are important for the PMP exam preparation. Most candidates who have successfully achieved a five-year work experience along with 35 hours of project management education, can perform these tasks with ease. Presence of mind and common sense are also crucial skills that are also expected from a project manager to lead a successful team.
