How to Get PSP Certification

 

What is planning and scheduling?

Time is money, we all know that. Project Management Triangle is known as Triple Constraint, or the Iron Triangle. Time is one of its constraints. The criterion for success in a project is its timely completion. Scheduling and planning are key areas of Project Management in Engineering, Construction and Project Management. Planning and Scheduling techniques and tools can increase the likelihood of project delivery on time. Scheduling and Planning professionals are more paid than their peers with similar experience because they play a critical role in ECPM projects.

Planning and Scheduling are sub-functions of Project Controls in the ECPM industry. Project Controls includes planning and controlling both time and costs. The Planning and Scheduling function in an ECPM project is essentially project planning in terms of construction methods & times, preparation of a baseline schedule & approval, application of baseline updates, project performance measurement, delay analysis, and project performance measurement. Proficient Planning and Scheduling professionals should have knowledge and skills in Project Management basics, Critical Path Methods and Earned Value Management (EVM), and other related areas.

The video provides a detailed explanation of PSP certification, with sample questions.

About Planning and Scheduling Professional (PSP Certification)

The AACE International Planning & Scheduling Professional certification program (PSP), is designed to provide credentials for Planning and Scheduling Professionals. AACE International is a globally recognized professional body in the fields of Cost Engineering and Project Controls.

The PSP certification program allows professionals to prove their knowledge and skills to international standards in project planning and scheduling. This certification will make you stand out as a Planning & Scheduling professional who can demonstrate that they have the skills and knowledge required to meet project deadlines. Employers can identify the PSP certified employees by taking an exam and confirming their experience.

PSP Eligibility

To be eligible for PSP certification, you need to have at least 8 years of experience in your field. A college/university degree may substitute up to 4 years. You will need to have an additional 4 year experience if your college/university degree is 4 years.

Engineering, building construction, technology, business and economics are all related degrees. As evidence, you will need to submit a copy of your education and experience certificate when filling out the PSP application.

PSP Exam Format and Fee

Computer-based testing (CBT) is used to administer the exam. The exam is both multiple-choice (complex) and scenario questions. There are 120 questions in the exam.

There are 119 multiple-choice objective single and compound questions. Each question only has one correct answer. One memo question is available. Questions 1-60 are single-choice objective multiple choice questions. Question 61 is a Memo question. Questions 61-120 are scenario-based compound questions.

The exam takes 5 hours. You must obtain 70% to become certified.

This exam is a closed book. You are not permitted to bring any books or papers. However, an on-screen formula sheet can be accessed during the exam. Any type of calculator is allowed, even programmable.

AACE International members pay $500, non-members $625. Resit fees are $200. AACE CBT Vendor Kryterion conducts the Exam. Kryterion has many test centers around the world. You may search the test center at your nearest test center at this link here http://www.kryteriononline.com/Locate-Test-Center

More information about PSP exam is available on AACE International website on this link http://www.aacei.org/cert/whatCertOffers.shtml

How to prepare for PSP certification

These areas are required for certification:

1. Terms and processes for project planning:
2. Project Scope Definition

b.Work Break Structure

c.Resource Planning/Identification

1. Budgeting
2. Scheduling tools and techniques:
3. Methods and schedule model
4. Process and procedures for scheduling.
5. Scheduled Update
6. Delay Analysis Methods (introductory)
7. Performance Management and Reporting
8. Earned Value Management, (EVM).
9. Reporting on Projects

PSP Preparation Resources

Here is a list of recommended study materials for PSP certification.

• AACE's Planning and Scheduling Certification Study Guide
• AACE's Skills & Knowledge of Cost Engineering 5th Edition
• CPM in Construction Management 5th Edition
• Construction Planning and Scheduling Manual 2nd Edition
• Project Management: A System Approach to Planning, Scheduling and Controlling

Last words

AACE International certifications have high recognition in the ECPM sector. PSP certification signifies that you are able to plan and schedule complex projects. This certification is valuable if you are interested in a career in project planning and scheduling.