What is APM Introductory Certificate PFQ?

The APM Project Fundamentals Qualification (PFQ) is an entry-level certification designed to introduce delegates to the essential principles and practices of project management. Covering key concepts such as project lifecycles, planning, communication, and teamwork, this qualification is ideal for anyone looking to gain a strong foundation in project management, whether for career advancement or as a steppingstone to more advanced certifications. 

Proficiency in project management fundamentals is vital for professionals involved in planning, executing, or supporting projects. The APM PFQ is especially beneficial for aspiring project managers, project team members, and professionals transitioning into project-focused roles. It equips individuals with the knowledge to contribute effectively to projects across industries and lays the groundwork for future professional growth. 

This 2-day APM Introductory Certificate PFQ training offered by Oakwood International, provides practical insights and interactive learning to ensure delegates grasp key project management concepts. Through expert guidance, real-world examples, and preparation for the APM PFQ exam, delegates will gain the confidence and skills to apply project management principles effectively in their roles.

 

Course Objectives 

 

  • To understand the fundamentals of project management 

  • To learn the key stages of the project lifecycle 

  • To identify roles and responsibilities within project teams 

  • To apply essential planning and scheduling techniques 

  • To recognise common risks and strategies for managing them 

  • To improve communication and collaboration within projects 

  • To explore resource allocation and its impact on projects 

Upon completion, delegates will earn the APM Project Fundamentals Qualification (PFQ) certification from Oakwood International. This globally recognised certification demonstrates foundational project management knowledge, boosting career prospects and paving the way for further development in project management. 

Course Outline

APM Introductory Certificate PFQ

Module 1: Understand Project Management and the Operating Environment 

  • Define the Term Project 

  • Projects Vs Business as Usual 

  • Define the Term Project Management 

  • Purpose of Project Management 

  • Define the Term Programme Management 

  • Define the Term Portfolio Management 

  • PESTLE Analysis 
     

Module 2: Understand Project Life Cycles 

  • Project Life Cycle 

  • Linear Project Life Cycle 

  • Iterative Project Life Cycle 

  • Hybrid Life Cycle 

  • Extended Project Life Cycle 
     

Module 3: Understand the Roles and Responsibilities within Projects 

  • What is Project Sponsorship? 

  • Role of the Project Sponsor 

  • What is an Organisation? 

  • Project Team Structure Example 

  • Project Sponsor and Project Manager 

  • Project Governance 

  • Project Team Members 

  • End Users 

  • Product Owner 

  • Project Management Office 
     

Module 4: Understand Project Management Planning 

  • Define the Term Deployment Baseline 

  • Linear Vs Iterative Life Cycles 

  • Stakeholders of a Project Management Plan 

  • Purpose of a Business Case 

  • Typical Contents 

  • Role of a Project Sponsor and Project Manager in a Business Case 

  • What is Stakeholder Management? 

  • Stakeholder Analysis Process 

  • How a Stakeholder Analysis Supports Effective Stakeholder Engagement 

  • Define the Term Benefits Management 

  • What is Estimating? 

  • Typical Estimating Methods 

  • Purpose of the Estimating Funnel 

  • What is Project Success? 

  • What is Success? 

  • When to Define Success? 

  • Success Criteria 

  • Reporting 

  • Purpose of Project Progress Reporting 

  • Benefits of Project Progress Reporting 
     

Module 5: Understand Project Scope Management 

  • Scope Management 

  • Scope Management within Linear and Iterative lifecycles 

  • Breakdown Structures 

  • Product Breakdown Structure 

  • Work Breakdown Structure 

  • Cost Breakdown Structure 

  • Organisational Breakdown Structures 

  • Responsibility Assignment Matrix 

  • Configuration Management 

  • Change Control 

  • Why Change Control 

  • Change Control Process 

  • Configuration Management Process 
     

Module 6: Understand Resource, Scheduling and Optimisation in a Project 

  • What is Scheduling? 

  • Purpose of Scheduling 

  • Purpose of Critical Path Analysis 

  • Purpose of Milestones 

  • Time Boxing 

  • What is Resource Optimisation? 

  • Resource Levelling 

  • Resource Smoothing 

  • Procurement Strategy 
     

Module 7: Understand Project Risk and Issue Management in the Context of a Project 

  • What is Risk? 

  • What is Project Risk Management? 

  • Purpose of Risk Management 

  • Risk Management Process 

  • Use of Risk Registers 

  • What is an ‘Issue’? 

  • Terminology 

  • Purpose of ‘Issue Management 

  • Differentiate Between an Issue and a Risk 

  • Issue Resolution Process 
     

Module 8: Understand Quality in the Context of a Project 

  • Definition of Quality 

  • Quality Management 

  • Quality Components 

  • Quality Planning 

  • Quality Control 

  • Quality Assurance 

  • Decision Gates 

  • Post Project Reviews 

  • Benefit Reviews 

  • Project Audits 
     

Module 9: Understand Communication in the Context of a Project 

  • What is Communication? 

  • Communications in Projects 

  • Face-to-Face Communication 

  • Physical Communication 

  • Virtual Communication 

  • Contents of a Communication Plan 

  • Benefits to a PM of a Communication Plan 
     

Module 10: Understand Leadership and Teamwork within a Project 

  • Leadership 

  • Impact on Team Performance 

  • Challenges to a Project Manager 

  • Tuckman Team Development Model 

  • Belbin Roles

Included

Included

  • No course includes are available.

Offered In This Course:

  • vedio Video Content
  • elearning eLearning Materials
  • exam Study Resources
  • certificate Completion Certificate
  • study Tutor Support
  • workbook Interactive Quizzes
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Learning Options

Discover a range of flexible learning options designed to meet your needs. Select the format that best supports your personal growth and goals.

Online Instructor-Led Training

  • Live virtual classes led by experienced trainers, offering real-time interaction and guidance for optimal learning outcomes.

Online Self-Paced Training

  • Flexible learning at your own pace, with access to comprehensive course materials and resources available anytime, anywhere.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What is the APM Introductory Certificate (PFQ)?

The APM Project Fundamentals Qualification (PFQ) is an entry-level certification in project management that introduces basic principles, methodologies, and terminology. 

Q. Who should take the APM PFQ?

The APM PFQ is ideal for individuals new to project management, including aspiring project managers, team members, and those looking to formalise their knowledge. 

Q. What skills will I acquire from this course?

Delegates will gain foundational knowledge of project lifecycles, planning, risk management, teamwork, and communication essential for managing projects effectively. 

Q. Is the APM PFQ suitable for beginners?

Yes, the APM PFQ is specifically designed for those with little or no prior project management experience. 

Q. How will the APM PFQ benefit my career?

The certification provides foundational project management skills and enhances employability, especially for roles requiring project knowledge.

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