Project Management Body of Knowledge(PMBOK)
The PMI-published guide that defines best practices and processes for project management, widely referenced in government contract management.
Overview
The Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK) is the flagship standard published by the Project Management Institute (PMI) that codifies project management best practices. It defines processes, knowledge areas, and terminology used across industries. Many government contracts reference PMBOK-aligned approaches for project management and earned value management.
Why It Matters in GovCon
Agencies often require contractors to use PMBOK-aligned methodologies, particularly for complex IT and professional services contracts. Proposals that reference PMBOK processes and terminology demonstrate professional rigor. PMBOK's work breakdown structure and earned value concepts align with federal EVM requirements.
Key Details
- Knowledge Areas: Integration, scope, schedule, cost, quality, resource, communications, risk, procurement, and stakeholder management.
- Process Groups: Initiating, planning, executing, monitoring and controlling, closing.
- Updates: PMBOK Guide is periodically updated; current editions emphasize agile and hybrid approaches.
- EVM Alignment: PMBOK's cost and schedule management aligns with ANSI/EIA-748 earned value guidelines.
- Certification: PMP certification is based on PMBOK knowledge.
Related Terms
- Project Management Professional (PMP)
- Work Breakdown Structure (WBS)
- Earned Value Management (EVM)
- Program Manager (PM)
More Management Terms
A project management methodology that integrates scope, schedule, and cost data to measure project performance and progress objectively.
The government's plan for monitoring and evaluating contractor performance against the standards defined in the contract.
Integrated software systems that manage business processes such as finance, procurement, HR, and project management.
The 12-month period used by the government for budgeting and appropriations; the federal fiscal year runs October 1–September 30.
A measurable value used to evaluate how effectively a contractor or program is achieving strategic objectives and contract requirements.
A contractor-developed plan describing how quality will be assured during contract performance, often required in solicitations.
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