Project Management guide · Project management fundamentals
What Is PMI? The Project Management Institute Explained
The Project Management Institute (PMI) is a global, not-for-profit professional association for project management. Founded in the United States in 1969, it publishes standards, runs certifications and supports a worldwide community of practitioners.
Key takeaways
- PMI is a global not-for-profit project management association founded in 1969.
- It publishes the PMBOK Guide and awards the PMP and other certifications.
- Membership offers discounts, standards and local networking.
What PMI does
- Publishes standards, including the PMBOK Guide.
- Awards certifications such as PMP, CAPM and PMI-ACP.
- Supports local chapters for networking and events.
- Publishes research and practice guides.
- Runs conferences and continuing education.
Main PMI certifications
| Certification | For |
|---|---|
| CAPM (Certified Associate in Project Management) | Entry-level, little or no experience |
| PMP (Project Management Professional) | Experienced project managers |
| PMI-ACP (Agile Certified Practitioner) | Agile practitioners |
| PgMP (Program Management Professional) | Programme managers |
| PfMP (Portfolio Management Professional) | Portfolio managers |
| PMI-RMP (Risk Management Professional) | Risk specialists |
Requirements and fees change; check pmi.org for current details.
Membership benefits
- Discounts on certification exams.
- Access to standards and practice guides.
- Local chapter events and networking.
- Ways to earn PDUs for certification renewal.
PMI and other bodies
PMI is one of several project management bodies. Others include PeopleCert, owner of PRINCE2; the Association for Project Management (APM) in the UK; and the International Project Management Association (IPMA). Agile bodies include Scrum.org and Scrum Alliance.
Frequently asked questions
Is PMI membership required for the PMP?
No, but members usually pay a lower exam fee.
What is a PMI chapter?
A local branch of PMI that runs events, networking and professional development in a city or region.
What does PMI stand for?
Project Management Institute, a global professional body for project management.
What does PMI do?
Publishes standards such as the PMBOK Guide, awards certifications including PMP and CAPM, supports local chapters and runs conferences and continuing education.
When was PMI founded?
PMI was founded in 1969 in the United States.
What certifications does PMI offer?
CAPM, PMP, PMI-ACP, PgMP, PfMP and PMI-RMP, among others. See PMP certification and CAPM certification.
How do I become a PMI member?
Join online at pmi.org and pay the annual fee. Members get exam discounts, access to standards and chapter events.
What are PMI PDUs?
Professional development units, earned through learning and giving back. PMP holders need 60 PDUs every three years to renew. See PDUs.
What are the PMI requirements for the PMP?
35 contact hours of project management education (or CAPM) plus 36 months' experience with a four-year degree, or 60 months without one.
Is PMI the same as APM?
No. The Association for Project Management (APM) is a UK chartered body; PMI is a global organisation based in the US.
Is PMI certification recognised worldwide?
Yes. The PMP in particular is widely recognised across industries and countries.