What Is Project Management?

What IT certifications should I pursue for a position in Project Management?

• Surely, Project Management positions require certain IT knowledge. What IT applications and/or techniques should I be familiar with? I am entering the job market in a year, with small-scale successful Project Management experience. Even if I can only get an entry-level job, what certifications can I get that will help me achieve my long-term goal of becoming a Project Manager? I know PMI offers certifications, but I am more curious about practical IT software that I should be familiar with. Agile? Sharepoint? SQL? Project? Access? Any advice for me?

• Answer:

  It would be helpful to know what sector you intend to enter into since project management is a broad category and can cover many. Software such as Project, Excel for schedule building, Access, Word, Sharepoint, Vectorworks, BIM as well as becoming familiar with tools like the iPad and Skype for file sharing, remote meetings, etc. Many companies in the construction sector, which are typically behind the business sector in using social media, etc., are moving towards supplying project managers with iPads. It wouldn't hurt to know something about AutoCad either, you may find yourself involved in making changes and sending them off for approval rather then waiting around for the architect and their design team to come up with them for you.