A guide to the project management body of knowledge (PMBOK guide) (5th edition)
The fifth edition of the PMBOK guide for project managers is more readable and extensive than previous editions.
In particular the guide is now aligned with the ISO 21500 project management standard as well as other PMI standards, such as Standard for program management (3rd edition) and Standard for portfolio management (3rd edition).
A new chapter / knowledge area has been created on project stakeholder management, achieved by splitting the project communication management chapter of the previous edition and adding emphasis on stakeholder engagement. Two chapters are also now dedicated to quality and risk management.
Four new planning processes have been added: plan scope management, plan schedule management, plan cost management and plan stakeholder management. These were created to reinforce the concept that each of the subsidiary plans is integrated through the overall project management plan.
Project data information and information flow have also been redefined to bring greater consistency and be more aligned with the ‘data, information, knowledge and wisdom’ model used in knowledge management.
For anyone planning to manage projects, this is probably the most essential of all books. It is well organised, comprehensive and easy to follow even if a little dry in style. Overall, a great book.
