Overview
This lecture covers the essential PMP Process Groups and Knowledge Areas, explaining the 49 processes table, its structure, mnemonics, and practical tips for memorization and exam preparation.
PMP Process Groups
- Five process groups: Initiating, Planning, Executing, Monitoring & Controlling, and Closing.
- Mnemonic: "I prefer extra money in cash" to remember the order.
- Process groups overlap; they are not strictly linear and often iterate with feedback loops.
PMP Knowledge Areas
- Ten knowledge areas: Integration, Scope, Schedule, Cost, Quality, Resource, Communications, Risk, Procurement, Stakeholder.
- Mnemonic: "I saw six Chipmunks quietly roasting coffee reading poetry stories."
- Each knowledge area contains specific processes related to its focus.
The 49 Processes Table
- Table structure: 5 process groups (columns) and 10 knowledge areas (rows) with 49 process boxes.
- Each box in the table represents a unique process (verb-noun format).
- Top of columns = process groups; side of rows = knowledge areas.
Key Processes and Patterns
- Initiating: Develop Project Charter, Identify Stakeholders.
- Planning: Pattern "Plan X Management" for most areas, e.g., Plan Scope Management, except "Plan Stakeholder Engagement."
- Planning steps often flow logically (e.g., plan, then collect requirements, define, etc.).
- Executing: "Manage X" (e.g., Manage Quality, Manage Communications); "Implement" and "Conduct" for some.
- Monitoring & Controlling: "Control X" for things (e.g., Control Scope, Control Cost), "Monitor X" for people or uncertainties.
- Closing: Close Project or Phase.
Study and Memorization Tips
- Use mnemonics and patterns to memorize process names and order.
- Physically write out and practice the table to improve retention.
- Anchor PMBOK concepts to real-world examples for better understanding.
Agile Perspective
- The table can be translated into agile concepts (ex: project charter = agile product vision).
- Recommended reading: Agile Practice Guide, pages 90–95, for how knowledge areas are mapped in agile.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Process Groups — Major stages of project management work (Initiating, Planning, Executing, Monitoring & Controlling, Closing).
- Knowledge Areas — Categories of project management expertise (Integration, Scope, etc.).
- Process — A specific activity or task within a knowledge area and process group.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Practice drawing and populating the 49-process table by hand.
- Review Agile Practice Guide, pages 90–95, to understand agile integration.
- Rewatch and repeat the walkthrough until you can recall processes from memory.