Project Management guide · Project management fundamentals
What Is the PMBOK Guide? Structure, Editions and Use
The PMBOK Guide (A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge) is the Project Management Institute's foundational standard for project management. It describes good practice that applies to most projects, most of the time.
Key takeaways
- The PMBOK Guide is PMI's standard for project management good practice.
- Older editions used process groups and knowledge areas; the 7th uses principles and performance domains.
- Use it with a methodology, not instead of one.
What it is, and isn't
The PMBOK Guide is a guide to good practice, not a step-by-step methodology. It tells you what areas a well-run project should address, and offers a common vocabulary; it leaves the how to methodologies such as PRINCE2, Scrum or your organisation's own approach.
How it evolved
| Editions | Organised around |
|---|---|
| Up to the 6th edition (2017) | Five process groups and ten knowledge areas, with defined processes, inputs, tools and outputs |
| 7th edition (2021) | Twelve principles and eight performance domains, with more emphasis on value, tailoring and adaptive approaches |
PMI updates the guide periodically; check pmi.org for the current edition.
Performance domains (7th edition)
- Stakeholders.
- Team.
- Development approach and life cycle.
- Planning.
- Project work.
- Delivery.
- Measurement.
- Uncertainty.
How to use it
- As a checklist to make sure your plan covers all key areas.
- As a shared vocabulary across teams and organisations.
- As core preparation for PMI certifications such as the PMP.
- Alongside a methodology that provides the detailed how.
Frequently asked questions
Is PMBOK a methodology?
No. It is a standard and guide to good practice. Methodologies such as PRINCE2 or Scrum describe how to do the work.
Do I need to read the PMBOK Guide for the PMP exam?
It is a key reference, but the PMP exam draws on several sources, including Agile practice. Check PMI's current exam content outline.
What is the PMBOK Guide?
A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge, published by PMI. It describes good practice, principles and a common vocabulary for project management.
What does PMBOK stand for?
Project Management Body of Knowledge.
When was the PMBOK Guide seventh edition published?
In 2021. PMI updates the guide periodically, so check pmi.org for the current edition before you buy or study.
What changed in the PMBOK Guide 7th edition?
It moved from five process groups and ten knowledge areas to twelve principles and eight performance domains, with more emphasis on value, tailoring and adaptive approaches.
What are the eight performance domains in the PMBOK Guide?
Stakeholders, team, development approach and life cycle, planning, project work, delivery, measurement and uncertainty.
Is the PMBOK Guide free?
PMI members can access a digital copy as a membership benefit; non-members usually buy it.
How long is the PMBOK Guide?
It is a substantial book of several hundred pages, including The Standard for Project Management. Use it as a reference rather than reading it cover to cover.
Is the PMBOK Guide used outside the US?
Yes. It is used worldwide, particularly in the Americas, the Middle East and Asia. See PMBOK vs PRINCE2.
Does the PMBOK Guide cover Agile?
Yes. The seventh edition covers predictive, adaptive and hybrid approaches, and PMI also publishes an Agile Practice Guide.