The P3O® (Portfolio, Programme and Project Offices) Foundation certification is an entry-level qualification designed to provide individuals with a comprehensive understanding of the concepts, principles, and practices of establishing and managing a successful portfolio, programme, and project office. This certification introduces the framework, including the roles, responsibilities, and governance required to support effective decision-making and ensure successful delivery of organizational objectives. It is suitable for professionals who wish to enhance their knowledge of portfolio management and contribute to improving project and programme delivery within their organizations. Why is P3O® Foundation important?
Provides a foundational understanding of portfolio, programme, and project management principles.
Enhances skills in establishing and managing project offices to support organizational goals.
Validates knowledge of governance frameworks and best practices for project delivery.
Supports career development in project management and related fields.
Helps organizations improve project efficiency and effectiveness through better governance.
Fosters a culture of continuous improvement within project management practices.
Who should take the P3O® Foundation Exam?
Project Manager
Programme Manager
Portfolio Manager
PMO (Project Management Office) Coordinator
Business Analyst
Change Manager
Operations Manager
Senior Project Support Officer
Project Control Officer
Governance Officer
Skills Evaluated
Candidates taking the certification exam on the P3O® Foundation is evaluated for the following skills:
Understanding of the P3O framework and its components.
Knowledge of roles and responsibilities within a project office.
Ability to apply governance principles to support decision-making.
Familiarity with tools and techniques for managing portfolios and projects.
Skills in aligning projects and programmes with strategic objectives.
Understanding of stakeholder engagement and communication in a project environment.
P3O® Foundation Certification Course Outline
The P3O® Foundation Certification covers the following topics -
Module 1. Overview
Know facts, terms and concepts relating to the Introduction, the principles of a P3O model and its elements
Understand key concepts relating to the Overview, Principles of a P3O model and its elements including the Introduction to P3O.
Module 2. Why Have a P3O?
Know facts, terms and concepts relating to the business justification for implementing a P3O.
Understand key concepts relating to the justification for implementing a P3O.
Module 3. Models and Tailoring
Know facts, terms and concepts relating to selecting the right P3O model and its functions and services.
Understand key concepts relating to selecting the right P3O model and its functions and services.
Module 4. Implement and Re-energize
Know facts, terms and concepts relating to the processes to implement and re-energize a P3O
Understand key concepts relating to implementing and re-energising a P3O
Module 5. How to Operate a P3O (including Tools and Techniques)
Know facts, terms and concepts relating to operating a P3O, including the use of tools and techniques.
Understand key concepts relating to operating a P3O, including the use of tools and techniques.
How to operate a P3O (including tools and techniques)
Module 6. Roles
Know facts, terms and concepts relating to the roles in a P3O model.
Understand key concepts relating to the roles and responsibilities in a P3O model.