Introduction
The examinations for the PRINCE2 (PRojects IN a Controlled Environment – Version 2) project management method have proved popular. That popularity has reached the point that having a PRINCE2 qualification is sometimes a pre-requisite to getting a contract, new job or promotion. Even where it isn’t a pre-requisite, it usually helps.
If you’re reading this having already started your studies, then you’ll already know that PRINCE2 is a project methodology. That simply means that it contains useful information and a clear structure to help you as you progress through a project. When I am teaching PRINCE2 on training courses, people often tell me at the start, ‘I know about project management, but I’m looking for some structure to help me run my projects.’ Well, with PRINCE2 you’ve got it.
The exams are to show that you understand what’s in the method and that you understand how to apply the method to a project. And, yes, it’s ‘exams’. To make your joy complete, you have two chances to show how good you are. The Foundation exam covers the bit about understanding the method. The Practitioner exam is focused on checking that you know how to apply PRINCE2 to a project. You need to pass the Foundation before you can take the Practitioner exam, but that doesn’t stop you taking the two exams close together, because the Foundation is very fast to mark – just a minute or so.
