Is PMP Overrated? How Much of It Actually Works in the Real World?
Guys honestly, I personally feel the whole PMP thing is somewhat overrated.
Not saying the framework is useless — but how many workplaces can actually execute all these PMP principles properly in the real world? Can anyone confidently guarantee that?
Managing a project in Europe, America and Asia can be completely different.
In many Asian workplaces, hierarchy is a huge factor. Sometimes what the boss says effectively overrides whatever beautiful stakeholder-management framework you learnt. Then try managing a multinational project team — different attitudes towards hierarchy, deadlines, working hours, gender, communication, holidays and decision-making.
I've worked with teams where certain people disappear for tea breaks at 3pm, environments where a female PM may have a much harder time getting some workers to take instructions from her, and projects where you have to plan around a large number of different religious/public holidays.
These are REAL project-management problems.
PMP can teach you stakeholder engagement, risk management, communication plans, conflict resolution, etc.
But a textbook saying "manage stakeholder engagement" and actually getting 15 people from completely different working cultures to cooperate are two very different things 😂
So I sometimes wonder: is PMP really proof that someone is a good Project Manager, or mainly proof that they understand PMI's framework and passed the exam?
Curious to hear from PMs who have actually managed multinational teams across different countries.
perhaps can introduce simply, eg:
Current Role / YOE / Country or Region / Industry / PMP Status:
Example: Senior Project Manager / 15 YOE / India / IT / PMP Certified
Thanks Much!