Hi,

Reading good books on PMP is the best way to prepare for the exam. You should read at least a couple of good books along with the PMBOK twice in order to consider yourself prepared for the exam. However this methodology has time and environmental constraints. Most of the project managers who decided to pursue the PMP certification, starts with this process, and within a week or two realize that this way is not feasible for them to continue with their regular jobs and domestic activities. Also the PMP preparation must be continuous and not with discrete intervals. These are some reasons that most of the candidates either drop the idea of getting certified or fail on their first attempt. I have an alternative approach to suggest; our own product that is specifically designed to meet these challenges, but first let me address your question completely.

In order to satisfy the 35-contact hour training requirements, the best way is to get yourself enrolled in some project management class that is at least 35 hours in duration. PMI does not force the candidates to obtain this training from PMI certified representatives, however if you receive this training from a PMI certified REP, you have an advantage during the PMI audit. Alternatively, you can also enroll in an online project management training which is again at least 35 hours in duration and hence fulfill the training requirements. But this time I would STRONGLY recommend you to do this training from a certified REP as otherwise it would be very difficult to you to defend your online training with a non-certified organization if your application is selected for an audit.

Let me give you an alternative that I promised. Why don’t you try Prepcast? Prepcast is one of our own products that we offer online. The training is delivered by Mr. Cornelius Fitchner, PMP, who is a respected and reputed PMP trainer for a very long time. Also I must mention that we are certified PMI REP, and authorized by PMI to deliver such trainings. Not only the Prepcast would train you for your PMP exam, it will also give you a 35-hour PMI-recognized certificate that will fulfill your training requirements. Prepcast is specifically designed for professionals who usually find it hard to take the traditional study approach. Prepcast contains audio and video lectures and podcasts that can be easily be accessed and used on the go. Terminology, examples and content are designed in a way that they do not strain a brain so that the candidate can do these on the move and during the breaks from the job. Oh yes, you can check out the Prepcast by clicking the link in my signature.

I hope this answers your question.

Exam Support Team

The PM PrepCast - http://www.premiumcast.com/vp/50398/16780/10399/

 Afternoon pmzillers,

Books are the traditional medium, the online stuff can at times seem mediocre, so you might find yourself needing to take the rough with the smooth. I personally prefer the 'going school' style. Isn't that the reality anyway, after all this reading, you have to get certified in a classroom based training. I'm actually looking into project managememnt qualifications myself. Firebrand Training, for instance, are doing 5 day PMP training -sorry about the link, just for clarity. I've checked it and found it reassuring as the certification is guaranteed...has anyone done it this way, I'd welcome any thoughts -Cheers!!