What to choose, ACP or PMP?

Are you struggling to choose between ACP or PMP? Project Management Institute (PMI) has redefined the approach of handling a project with standard Project Management practices according to the market trends. Even though Agile is not a new methodology, now a days it is evidently common in practice in the industry.

Based on the uncertainty in customer requirements most of the market is inclined towards practicing Agile techniques in their projects. And while implementing project management practically on the ground there is a need for integration, handling stakeholders, risks. This apart many more techniques can be borrowed from PMBOK Guide as well. In fact, ACP and PMP complement each other.

Why do you even need a Certification?

A certification is a credential. It is a proof that you possess certain skills sets. In this case, an ACP certificate would mean that you can fluently implement Agile practices given a team and Project goals identified. On the other hand a PMP certificate on your resume, would mean that you have the ability to manage Projects methodically.

The icing on the top here is that a resume with the logo(s) of professional certification like an ACP or PMP would carry more weightage and has higher chances of getting shortlisted for an interview.

Which certification should you choose?

Let’s compare what they bring on to the table.

ACP

• This certification will give you specialization and deep dive into Agile
• You would learn multiple Agile practices like Kanban, Lean, SCRUM, XP etc.,
• Also gives you technicalities of running an Agile team like Adaptive Planning, Engaging stakeholders etc.,
• If you are into Product Development, you would understand the impact of Value Driven Delivery
• You can pick-up a team and implement Agile across and start delivering increments to market

PMP

• This is for people who are already into Project Management role
• You would need skills on both Traditional (Waterfall) and Agile implementations
• You would not receive Agile specialization here, rather basic practices needed for managing Agile Projects
• You would exposed to various Project Management techniques commonly used in the industry
• You would also learn about tools and artifacts as a part of Project Manager role

Based on the nature of the project(s) you are exposed to, you can decide whether to go with traditional approach or Agile way (if the scope is uncertain). PMP talks about the leadership who is also responsible for the complete project outcome and should have experience in Project Management with minimum 3 years. You should a have complete view of the bigger picture of the project.

ACP is a practitioner and can be gained or used by anyone who is not in leadership roles but they are good at implementing/applying Agile methodologies.

Now everyone has more questions in their mind about what to choose PMP or ACP. Both the exams are conducted by PMI and equally challenging to crack the exams and gain the credentials. Which credential to gain is dependent on the goal we are trying to achieve.

Prerequisites for PMI PMP & PMI ACP

Conclusion

If you want to specialize in Agile practices, and you would like play bigger roles in Agile implementation in your organization, then go for ACP. If you are already playing a project ownership role, then acquiring PMP credential will be an added advantage. As mentioned in the beginning PMI ACP & PMP will complement each other and go hand in hand. Based on your work experience & the future goal should be the deciding criteria for choosing the credentials.