Which Comes First – PMP or Agile? We Finally Settle the Debate

In the field of project management, one of the biggest issues that professionals confront concerns: Which comes first which one is better – PMP or Agile? Whether you’re just beginning your career or are looking to expand your business, deciding among the PMP vs Agile certification routes can be complicated.

This blog examines the differentiators of each certification, its benefits, and the career results of each certificate to assist you in making the right choice to secure your career. Let’s end the debate.

Understanding the Basics

What is PMP Certification?

It is the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI) and is considered as the highest standard for project managers around the world. It’s an integral part of traditional frameworks for project management and includes the Waterfall method, which focuses on planning-driven and predictive methods.

To qualify for a PM, you must satisfy the following conditions:

• Four-year degree with 36 months of experience in project management or a second degree that has 60 months of experience
• 35 hours of education in project management
• Take a test of 180 questions that covers People, Process, as well as Business Environment

PMP certification fees:

Here is an approximate idea of PMP certification fees:

• PMI members: $405
• Non-members: $555

PMP is a great option if you’re managing large structured projects or if you’re trying to transition into more senior Project Management roles.

What is Agile Certification?

Certifications in Agile are based on a contemporary, flexible method of managing projects. They are based on collaboration, flexibility and feedback from customers. The most popular frameworks are agile Scrum, Kanban, along SAFe (Scaled Agile Framework).

The most popular Agile certifications are:

• PMI-ACP (Agile Certified Practitioner)
• Certified Scrum Master (CSM)
• SAFe Agile certification

They are well-known and can be useful in IT or software development or in dynamic project environments.

Contrary to PMP, Agile certifications usually have fewer requirements and are easier to attain, making them a fantastic starting point for people who are new to managing projects.

Career Goals: What Are You Aiming For?

If you are looking to manage large-scale, long-term projects in areas like finance, construction or manufacturing and finance, then PMP is the first place you go.

If, however, you’re seeking to join fast-paced organizations like tech companies or teams working on software development certifications, such as Agile Scrum or SAFe Agile certification might be a better fit with your ambitions.

PMP Vs Agile certification isn’t about which one is better, but the one that fits your career more efficiently.

Skillset and Experience Level

• Beginners: People with less knowledge of project management may discover the Agile Scrum or even entry-level Agile certifications more affordable.
• Professionals with experience: If you already have several years of experience in project management that you have structured it could be the right time to consider investing in PMP to help you grow your career over the long term.

Certification Prerequisites & Exam Formats

PMP certification costs are more expensive than the majority of Agile alternatives, but they also have a higher return on investment over the long term.

The Market Value: Salary & Job Trends

Here’s the impact of each certification on your earnings potential:

• Project Manager Salary (PMP): Rs18-30 LPA in India; $120,000+ in the U.S.
• Agile Coach / Scrum Master Salary: Rs12-25 LPA in India; $110,000+ in the U.S.

The most recent LinkedIn and Glassdoor data show that job advertisements for Agile roles have increased by 35% over the past two years, with the greatest growth for those who have SAFe Agile certification.

But, PMP holders still enjoy the top of the line in leadership roles and larger portfolios of projects.

Which One Should You Take First?

Do PMP First If:

• You’re looking for an internationally acclaimed, leader-focused certification
• You work in an industry that is a fan of traditional methods of project management.
• You have the required experience

Do Agile First If:

• You’re a part of a team within IT (or software development
• You’d like to get started fast and quickly, with no prerequisites
• You like fast-paced, iterative workflows

Can You Do Both?

Absolutely! Many professionals start with Agile and move on to PMP to enhance their credentials or in versa. Both certifications complement one another.

A good path is:

1. Begin by obtaining certified Scrum Master (CSM) or SAFe Agile certification.
2. Experience gained in Agile environments
3. You can pursue the PMP for a long-term career boost that is centered around leadership

Final Verdict: Our Take

In the PMP vs. Agile Certification debate, there’s no universal answer. Select PMP if you’re looking towards a traditional role in the PM field or a management track. Consider Agile if you’re looking to dive into the realm of technology, product development or the latest delivery environments.

If you are able, combine both because it is the new way to manage projects will be hybrid.

Conclusion

If you decide to go with the PMP instead of the Agile method initially, the choice should be in line with your work knowledge, experience, and career objectives. There’s no right path, just the one that suits your goals most effectively.

Are you ready to advance your career in project management? Check out Knowlettwoods’s range of PMP and Agile certification courses to get started now!

FAQs

1. Is PMP obsolete because of Agile?

Not at all. PMP is now incorporating Agile and hybrid methods in the test structure. It makes the exam more pertinent.

2. Do I have the ability to use the Agile method without PMP?

Sure, agile certifications such as CSM or PMI ACP have lower entry requirements.

3. What is the most Agile certification to begin with?

For those who are just beginning, Agile Scrum (CSM) or PMI-ACP is a good place to start. For roles that require enterprise-level expertise, SAFe Agile certification is the best choice.

4. Is PMP more difficult than Agile?

Generally, yes. PMP is a more thorough exam with higher standards for prerequisites.