The Project Management Institute (PMI) has long been a source for project managers seeking to enhance their credentials and stay ahead of industry trends. When PMI expanded its portfolio to include agile certifications, most professionals agreed that was a good move. PMI, a respected organization, was bridging the gap between traditional project management and agile methodologies. But recent developments surrounding the Disciplined Agile® Scrum Master (DASM) and Disciplined Agile® Senior Scrum Master (DASSM) certifications raise eyebrows and questions: Is PMI clear about its direction in the agile space, or is it fumbling to find its footing?
DASM and DASSM: A Promising Start
The DASM and DASSM certifications were introduced to provide a structured approach to agile—a roadmap for newcomers and seasoned practitioners alike. DASM offered foundational knowledge in agile and lean fundamentals, while DASSM took it up a notch, equipping professionals to lead multiple agile teams or manage complex initiatives. PMI positioned these credentials as integral to its agile ecosystem, appealing to those who wanted a disciplined, methodical approach to agile practices.
The PMI-ACP Merger: A Step Forward or a Step Back?
Fast forward to November 2024: PMI announced that elements of the DASSM certification would be incorporated into the updated PMI Agile Certified Practitioner (PMI-ACP) exam. On paper, this move might seem like a logical consolidation to streamline offerings and reduce redundancies. However, for those who invested time, money, and effort into achieving DASM and DASSM credentials, the announcement likely felt more like a slap in the face than a strategic evolution.
A Confused Message to Agile Professionals
By merging aspects of DASSM into PMI-ACP, PMI seems to be sending mixed signals. Are DASM and DASSM still relevant? If so, why dilute their distinct value by folding them into another certification? If not, why continue offering them at all? The lack of clarity leaves professionals questioning PMI’s long-term vision for agile certifications.
Moreover, the agile space thrives on adaptability and innovation, yet PMI’s approach here feels more reactive than strategic. It’s as if PMI is trying to hedge its bets, unsure whether to fully commit to Disciplined Agile or to lean more heavily into the broader PMI-ACP framework.
DASM and DASSM Holders: The Forgotten Stakeholders
For those who achieved the DASM and DASSM certifications, this evolution is far from welcome news. These professionals invested significant resources believing they were gaining credentials that would maintain distinct value and relevance. Now, they face the uncomfortable reality that their certifications might be perceived as redundant or even obsolete.
While PMI has assured that DASM and DASSM remain recognized, the practical implications of this recognition are murky at best. How will employers view these credentials considering the PMI-ACP’s expanded scope? And what message does this send to those considering PMI’s agile certifications in the future?
Final Thoughts: A Call for Clarity
PMI’s entry into agile was a bold move, but the current state of its certification ecosystem suggests an organization struggling to define its agile identity. Agile practitioners deserve clear, consistent messaging about the value and longevity of their certifications. PMI must address this confusion head-on—not only for the sake of its existing credential holders but also to maintain its credibility in the agile community.
If PMI wants to lead in the agile space, it needs to act with the same agility it preaches. And that starts with listening to its stakeholders and committing to a coherent strategy.
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