Course Overview
This programme is for you if you are interested in learning the principles of Project Management, as set by the Association for Project Management's (APM) Body of Knowledge, and you may or may not have any experience in this field.
This programme is an entry level qualification suitable for anyone with an interest in Project Management. You may be starting out in a career in Project Management or simply wishing to benchmark your knowledge in a recognisable form. The programme uses APM's Introductory Certificate Study Guide and interactively develops each topic area with you. You will also receive a copy of APM's Introductory Certificate Study Guide.
This course has been classified as Business Skills.
Audience
The course is designed for anyone who wishes to acquire the APM Introductory Certificate - first level of award within the APM's Qualification Scheme. It is ideal for those wanting to understand the basic principles of project management or looking to find out more about the profession. No specific experience is required as the course starts from basic principles.
Skills Gained
By the end of the course, delegates will:
- Have practised the management techniques used in the concept, definition, implementation and handover phases of projects
- Be able to explain the use of people management techniques that are necessary to lead the project team
- Have acquired the level of understanding needed to pass the APM Introductory Certificate in Project Management examination
Examinations
A 1 hour, 60 question multiple-choice, closed-book examination that will test delegates' basic understanding of the project management principles covered. Successful achievement will provide delegates will an internationally recognised APM qualification.
Course Outline
This highly interactive and participative course covers the following areas:
Introductions
An opportunity to familiarise delegates with the course content, desired outcomes and individual requirements
Exam Overview
Delegates are given details on the structure and content of the ICPM examination
Anatomy of a Project
This session differentiates between project and operational work, looks at the project life cycle and the benefits of adopting a structured approach to project management. It also defines project management and the project management process, the roles and responsibilities within projects and discusses the importance of the project sponsor
Projects in their Environment
This session distinguishes between programmes and portfolios, their management and the benefits of each
Concept Phase
Delegates discuss benefits management, needs statements, stakeholder management, success criteria, critical success factors and key performance indicators for projects. This session also looks at how the project strategy contributes to its success, as well as an overview of the Business Case and its typical contents
Definition Phase
Effective planning and estimating help to define the optimum approach to executing a specific project. In this session delegates look at the importance of the Project Management Plan. They will become familiar with the process of developing the Work Breakdown Structure and other structures which help to break a project into manageable 'chunks'. They will also look at estimating and other techniques that can be used to enable efficient utilisation of resources during the project lifecycle whilst ensuring that time constraints are satisfied
People in Projects
Delegates discuss the 'soft' skills associated with managing people. This includes areas such as communication, effective meetings, teamwork, motivation and leadership
Specific Knowledge Areas
Delegates are provided with the skills to identify, assess and manage project risks. They will gain an understanding of the activities required to ensure that the project meets the necessary quality requirements. This session also covers the procurement process
Implementation
Delegates look at information management, project reporting, and project monitoring and control. This session also looks at issue management and the importance of implementing change in an informed and controlled manner
Handover and Closeout (including Post-Project Evaluation)
The final session looks at the importance of ensuring that there is a controlled handover of project deliverables to the 'client'
Examination
Follow On Courses
- APMP - Association for Project Management Practitioner
- Microsoft Project Levels 1 and 2
