The Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK®) has long been the cornerstone of professional project management. With the release of the PMBOK® 7th Edition, PMI has made a significant shift from a process-driven framework to a principles-based approach that reflects the evolving landscape of modern project environments.
If you're preparing for the PMP® exam—or considering certification soon—it’s essential to understand what’s changed and how to prepare effectively.
🔄 PMBOK® 6 vs. PMBOK® 7: What’s the Difference?
While PMBOK® 6 focused heavily on process groups, knowledge areas, and 49 specific processes, the PMBOK® 7th Edition introduces a broader and more adaptable framework centered on performance domains and principles.
Here’s a side-by-side comparison:
| PMBOK® 6 | PMBOK® 7 |
|---|---|
| 5 Process Groups | 12 Project Management Principles |
| 10 Knowledge Areas | 8 Performance Domains |
| 49 Prescriptive Processes | Tailored, Value-Driven Approaches |
| Tools & Techniques Emphasis | Focus on Outcomes & Delivery |
| Best for Waterfall/Traditional PM | Supports Agile, Hybrid, and Predictive |
🧭 PMBOK® 7 Key Concepts
✅ 12 Guiding Principles
These are the fundamental norms and values that guide decision-making and behaviors for project professionals, such as:
- Stewardship
- Team engagement
- Value delivery
- Adaptability and resilience
✅ 8 Performance Domains
Unlike fixed knowledge areas, performance domains reflect real-world delivery elements:
- Stakeholders
- Team
- Development Approach & Lifecycle
- Planning
- Project Work
- Delivery
- Measurement
- Uncertainty (Risk)
✅ Tailoring
PMBOK® 7 encourages tailoring methodologies and tools based on the context of the project—whether agile, hybrid, or traditional.
✅ System Thinking & Value Delivery
There is a stronger focus on how projects fit within organizational systems and how value is defined and delivered to stakeholders continuously.
🧠 What Does This Mean for PMP® Candidates?
PMI updated the PMP® exam in January 2021, and while it is not based solely on PMBOK® 7, it is influenced by its themes and structure. The exam now covers:
- 50% Predictive (Waterfall)
- 50% Agile or Hybrid Approaches
Therefore, PMBOK® 6 and PMBOK® 7 are complementary, not replacements.
⚠️ Many still study PMBOK® 6 for foundational concepts (especially the Knowledge Areas), but it’s important to integrate PMBOK® 7’s modern and adaptive framework into your preparation.
🎓 Upcoming PMP® Exam Prep – Enroll Now!
Our next PMP Certification Prep Course is designed to help you succeed in this new exam landscape. Whether you're new to project management or a seasoned professional seeking certification, we’ve got you covered.
✅ What You’ll Get:
- 📚 36 Hours of Instructor-Led Training aligned with PMBOK® 6 & 7
- 🎓 Certified PMP® Instructors with real-world insights
- 🧠 Quizzes, Practice Exams & Mock Tests
- 💡 Tailored Study Plan & LMS Access for 6 months
- 🏆 Certificate of Completion & PDU Credits
- 💬 Supportive Study Groups and Coaching
📅 Cohort Starts: Saturday, Aug 9, 2025
📍 Live Online Classes | Weekend Schedule
💵 Early Registration Discount Available – Save 20% if you enroll before July 20
💼 Funding Options Available for eligible participants
🚀 Ready to Become PMP Certified?
🎯 Register today and take the first step toward global certification and professional growth.
🔗 https://www.supplychainschool.ca/event/pmp-certification-prep-july-2025-128/register
📧 For inquiries, email: [email protected]
🌐 Visit: www.supplychainschool.ca/events
