PRINCE2 Practitioner Version 7: In-depth Training and Rigorous Certification

The PRINCE2 Practitioner certification is designed for those seeking to deepen their understanding and expertise in the PRINCE2 methodology. It takes the foundational knowledge acquired at the Foundation level to the next stage, focusing on the practical application of PRINCE2 in real-world project management scenarios. With the release of PRINCE2 version 7, the Practitioner training and certification have been updated to align with the new elements of the methodology. This article explores what to expect from the PRINCE2 Practitioner version 7 training and exam.

Key updates in PRINCE2 Practitioner version 7

Version 7 of the PRINCE2 Practitioner course incorporates several significant updates to enhance its relevance to modern project management challenges:

• Complex project environments: The training now includes more content on managing complex projects, including those that span various disciplines and geographies. It stresses the importance of flexibility and adaptability using PRINCE2’s principles and processes.

• Advanced tailoring techniques: There is an increased emphasis on tailoring PRINCE2 to fit various project types, including agile and hybrid projects. Practitioners learn sophisticated tailoring techniques to effectively adapt the methodology to diverse project demands without compromising the integrity of the PRINCE2 framework.

• Integration with other methods: Recognizing that PRINCE2 often needs to be integrated with other project management frameworks, version 7 includes guidance on how this integration can be managed smoothly, particularly with agile methodologies like Scrum and Kanban.

Practitioner Training Content

The PRINCE2 Practitioner training is intensive, designed to challenge and expand participants' understanding of PRINCE2. The training covers:

• In-depth application of PRINCE2 principles: The training dives deeper into the seven PRINCE2 principles, exploring their application in complex scenarios and how they guide decision-making processes in projects.

• Practices and processes in detail: Each of the seven themes and processes of PRINCE2 is explored in greater detail, with practical examples and case studies. Participants learn how to apply these themes and processes dynamically, based on project requirements and external influences.

• Practical workshops and Case studies: To aid in the practical application of knowledge, the Practitioner course includes workshops and case studies that simulate real-life project management challenges. These exercises are designed to reinforce the theoretical knowledge by applying it practically.

The PRINCE2 Practitioner Exam

The PRINCE2 Practitioner exam is more rigorous than the Foundation exam, testing the ability to apply the methodology to real project scenarios:

• Format: The exam consists of 70 scenario-based multiple-choice questions. Candidates have 150 minutes to complete the exam, and must achieve a pass mark of 60% (42 out of 70).

• Open book: Unlike the Foundation exam, the Practitioner exam is open book, allowing candidates to refer to the official PRINCE2 manual during the exam. This reflects the real-world application of the methodology, where practitioners will have access to resources.

• Scenario-Based questions: The questions are designed around a given scenario, requiring candidates to demonstrate how they would apply PRINCE2 to manage various aspects of a project effectively.

• Renewal requirements: To maintain the PRINCE2 Practitioner certification, holders must pass a re-registration examination every three years or maintain their certification through the PRINCE2 Membership program by collecting CPD points.

Conclusion

The PRINCE2 Practitioner version 7 training and certification provide project managers with the advanced skills needed to apply PRINCE2 principles flexibly and effectively in various project environments. This certification is ideal for those who wish to excel in project management and apply a robust, flexible methodology that can integrate with other frameworks and adapt to changing project requirements.