If you’re working in PMO and looking to boost your knowledge, chances are you’ve come across two popular courses: P3O® Practitioner and Essentials for PMO Managers. But which one is right for you?
These two courses take very different approaches – one is framework-focused (P3O Practitioner), while the other is practical and hands-on (Essentials for PMO Managers). So, let’s break it down and help you decide which one fits your role and career goals.
P3O® Practitioner: For the Framework-Focused PMO Professional
The P3O® (Portfolio, Programme and Project Offices) Practitioner certification is ideal for those working at the strategic level of PMO. If you’re involved in designing, implementing, or improving PMO structures, this one’s for you.
Who’s It For?
- PMO Managers, Heads of PMO, or Consultants who need to implement or improve a P3O model.
- Senior PMO professionals looking for a recognised qualification in PMO governance and structure.
- Anyone involved in portfolio, programme, or project governance who needs to ensure alignment with business strategy.
What Does It Cover?
- The P3O model – what it is and how it works.
- Governance, roles, and functions within a structured PMO.
- Balancing BAU (Business-as-Usual) with project and programme change.
- Aligning P3O with other best practices like PRINCE2, MSP (Managing Successful Programmes), and MoP (Management of Portfolios).
- How to set up and maintain a PMO Centre of Excellence to standardise processes.
Exam & Prerequisites
- You must have the P3O® Foundation certification before taking the Practitioner exam.
- The exam is scenario-based multiple choice, testing how well you can apply the P3O model in real-world situations.
Best For You If…
✔ You work at a strategic level, designing or managing PMO structures.
✔ You need to align PMO services with portfolio and programme governance.
✔ You want to enhance your PMO consultancy skills and implement best practices.
Essentials for PMO Managers: For the Practical, Hands-On PMO Leader
If you’re running a PMO and need practical guidance on how to do it well, the Essentials for PMO Managers course from House of PMO is spot on. It focuses on what a PMO Manager actually does, day in, day out.
Who’s It For?
- New or experienced PMO Managers who want to improve their leadership and operational skills.
- PMO Leads and aspiring PMO Managers looking for a structured approach to managing a PMO.
- Those moving up from PMO Analyst or Coordinator roles into management positions.
What Does It Cover?
- What a PMO Manager actually does – key responsibilities and how to do them well.
- How to set up, run, and evolve a PMO to meet organisational needs.
- Managing stakeholders and influencing senior leaders.
- Delivering PMO services – reporting, assurance, governance, and capability development.
- Developing your PMO leadership skills to drive change and add value.
Exam & Prerequisites
- You will need a practitioner level knowledge of projects, programmes or portfolios – any formally recognised Project Management certification or the appropriate level of practical experience will be accepted. You don’t need to have completed the other Essentials courses in order to take this one.
- Formal exam – complex multiple-choice over 75 minutes.
Best For You If…
✔ You’re a PMO Manager who wants practical advice on how to run a PMO effectively.
✔ You’re new to a PMO leadership role and need structured guidance.
✔ You want real-world insights rather than a framework-heavy approach.
Key Differences at a Glance
Which One Should You Choose?
- Go for P3O® Practitioner if you’re focused on strategic PMO implementation and governance.
- Go for Essentials for PMO Managers if you want practical, real-world skills to manage a PMO effectively.
Both courses are beneficial for anyone working at leadership level in PMO, but it depends on your role and career aspirations. If you’re leading a PMO and need day-to-day guidance, go for Essentials. If you’re designing and structuring PMOs for an organisation, P3O Practitioner is the way to go.
Final Thoughts
Your PMO career could take different paths – whether you’re focusing on operations and leadership or governance and frameworks. Choosing the right course will help you build the skills you need to thrive.
Still not sure? Think about where you want to be in 3-5 years and pick the course that aligns with your future. And, if you’ve taken one of these courses, I’d love to hear what you thought – drop a comment and share your experience!
Enjoying Our Blog?
Sign up and receive all our articles (we’ll send you an update once a week!) plus special offers and events:
The P3O® courses on this page are offered by PMO Learning. P3O® is a registered trademark of the PeopleCert group. Used under licence from PeopleCert. All rights reserved.
