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One of the biggest discussions that take place in the sphere of project management is between PMP vs Scrum. Each of them is designed and provides different pathways to approach projects, and the core difference can be noted in the frameworks, certification, and handling of the scope of the project. Since I’ve worked for both approaches, I will give you my opinions, and real-life situations and examples that could help in your decision-making process as to which one might suit your needs the most.

What is PMP?

PMP is one of the professional certificates offered by the Project Management Institute mostly known as PMI. It is well-established and has significant popularity in the business world. PMP addresses a predictive approach mostly called ‘waterfall’, in which the project runs through particular phases. It is a planned approach that includes documentation and a step-by-step process that must be followed.

Indeed, the use of PMP knowledge was helpful to me when I was coordinating a large-scale construction project. The above framework guaranteed the formalization of each stage from planning to implementation and compliance with the applied plan. Due to the accomplishment of the project, we followed a well-defined project charter, statement of scope, and work breakdown structure, which gave proper direction and responsibility.

Also Read: CISSP vs PMP

What is Scrum?

Scrum is one of the Agile frameworks initially being applied to software development personnel but can be used in other fields as well. The major principle of Scrum is based on the working principle of iterative and incremental manner, teamwork, and built-in flexibility. It follows a short cycle of work called sprints which ranges from 2 to 4 weeks and continuously adapts to changes.

I have worked on a software development team to employ Scrum. I think the iterative system of development brings out the points of improvement and corrects them, therefore developing a user-friendly product. This means that the approach follows the key scrum processes of sprint planning, sprint backlog execution, sprint review, and sprint retrospective that contribute to the improvement of organizational culture.

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PMP Framework Vs Scrum Framework

Let’s discuss the traditional framework PMP vs Scrum’s newer framework.

When the frameworks of Scrum vs PMP are compared, the difference is keenly observed at the level of the approach. PMP follows a linear path with certain phases. These are initiation, planning, executing, monitoring, controlling, and closing. Communicated deliverables and timeframes can be considered as the outcome of every phase.

Scrum, on the other hand, is cyclic and iterative. Sprints are used to fragment the accomplishment of the work, and they are made of planning, development, review, and retrospective. This cycle recurs until the end of the project, which allows continuous improvement and flexibility.

Thus, in my software project, Scrum allowed us to identify the users’ requirements quickly. However, in my construction project, the suggestive PMP framework gave guidelines to utilize the resources and complete the project within the stipulated time.

Also Read: CBAP vs PMP

PMP Vs Scrum: Certification Process

The relative processes of attaining a PMP vs Scrum certification is another aspect that defines the difference between these methodologies. To get a PMP certification, one must fulfill certain education and experience standards, and pass an extensive test regarding project management.

Scrum certification is easier to get. It entails enrolling for training and then sitting for a relatively less extensive exam. These objectives are more about the specific nature of Scrum rather than many other elements of project management.

For instance, when preparing for my PMP exam, I ended up learning such minute program details as risk management, cost, and quality management. The CSM exam was more compact with only questions about roles, events, and artifacts of Scrum, and therefore took less time to complete. However, it was enlightening as well.

Also Read: ITIL vs PMP

PMP Vs Scrum: How To Handle Project Scope

Managing the project scope in PMP vs Scrum is completely different. PMP needs detailed scope statements at the initial stages and acts as a reference throughout the project. Any changes in the scope are done through the change control process.

Scrum, however, embraces change. The scope is described and refined at the start of the project but is predicted to change later on. Every sprint enables the team to review and redefine the objectives and limitations depending on the outcomes.

When I was working on a construction project, I found that it was critical to stick to the scope that was laid down because going over the set budget and time was not an option. However, it was beneficial in the software project that the scope of what could be done in a sprint was flexible so that the end-users feedback could be incorporated to make the interface more user-friendly.

Also Read: Lean Six Sigma vs PMP

PMP Vs Scrum: Phases And Cycles

Phases and cycles in PMP vs Scrum are the same as the fundamental difference between the two. The phases of PMP are clearly defined and are in order. It is applicable in environments where there is little or no fluctuation in the magnitude and scope of the project.

Scrum's cycles are iterative. Sprints are technically ‘iterations’ that are smaller projects in themselves that contain planning, work, and retrospectives. It is advisable to use this methodology when requirements are expected to change and evolve.

For example, in my construction project, the more predictable and progressive PMP structure was logical because the project depended on the other, which means if one phase was not completed the next could not commence. On the other hand, the flow of iterations in the Scrum environment enabled the establishment of successful software increments’ releases more often, which is important for receiving feedback from users and making necessary corrections if any.

Also Read: CompTIA Project+ vs PMP

Advantages And Disadvantages Of PMP

Here I will highlight the benefits as well as the drawbacks of attaining the PMP certification.

Advantages of PMP:

Structured Approach: A clarity of direction is offered alongside a comprehensive guide.
Predictability: Contributes to the right prediction of timeframes and expenses.
Widely Recognized: The importance of talent management cannot be overemphasized as it provides much value to different businesses.

Disadvantages of PMP:

Inflexibility: Less adaptive to changes.
Heavy Documentation: It can also be time-consuming, because to obtain valuable information necessary for carrying out analysis, it is often required to study large arrays of data during a longer period.
Complex Process: Call for lots of effort in terms of controlling and managing.

When working on my construction project, I realized that adhering to the PMP structure meant that everything was in order. However, the documentation process was a bit bureaucratic. While this procedure did not go as smoothly as intended due to the numerous issues, the detailed documentation of the project helped achieve and preserve federal compliance, as well as to find out and address the concerns of the stakeholders involved.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Scrum

Scrum, being such an enhanced method of project management, also has its fair share of pros and cons that should be looked at:

Advantages of Scrum:

Flexibility: The organization can easily accept change when it is required in the interest of the business.
Collaboration: Facilitates the participation of the team and the exchange of information.
Continuous Improvement: When feedback is carried out frequently, it shows improved performance.

Disadvantages of Scrum:

Less Predictability: The timelines and costs may also be a little difficult to predict.
Requires Commitment: All the members of a team should be active.
Learning Curve: It takes time for the scrum teams to stabilize in the process.

I observed in my software development project, Scrum is very suitable for an environment that entails changes as it makes it easier to change direction after getting user feedback. However, the investment has a lot of unpredictability which makes it difficult to plan. Due to the scrum framework, the collaborative environment led to higher team morale and creativity.

Which is Best for You?

PMP vs Scrum is a decision that depends on the project’s requirements and the setting in which it operates. Thus, PMP is beneficial in situations when the project requirements are well-defined and do not change frequently, and a strict procedure is a must. Compared to the traditional methods, Scrum is more effective where the requirements and features are likely to change where flexibility is crucial, and where a team is crucial in implementation.

From my experience, PMP was suitable for the construction project as it consists of predicting and comprehensive planning. Thus, Scrum was highly useful for the software project as it helped to keep on adjusting and enhancing the project.

Also Read: Agile vs PMP

Conclusion

To provide a better understanding of the presented topic, the question of PMP vs Scrum has no definite answer. There are relative advantages and disadvantages in each case, and the requirements of your project are going to define which one you use. As you choose between the PMP which is rigid and sequential, and the Scrum which is the flexible, iterative system of development, knowing about these methodologies will help you in managing your projects. Nevertheless, you should understand that the aim is to match the chosen methodology to the goals and environment of your project.

Prospective learners who wish to get more acquainted with Scrum, can proceed and take their Certified Scrum Master Certification or CSM Certification as this gives you a proper introduction and improvement of your understanding of this successful agile framework.

FAQs

1. How do the PMP and Scrum exam formats differ?

The PMP exam is comprehensive as it encompasses many topics in project management. So, one cannot possibly pass it without dedicated preparation. The Scrum exam, on the other hand, is on getting certifications such as the CSM and is relatively simpler as it is geared towards the principles and operations of Scrum in most cases.

2. Can PMP and Scrum certifications complement each other?

Absolutely. People holding both PMP and Scrum certifications could be quite advantageous since, when it is required, one can adhere to the plan, and structure and at the same time be a great performer in the Agile and dynamic environments. These traits can help you become a more complex and efficient project manager since they complement each other.

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