The “how” of any work endeavor, regardless of industry, is often the linchpin of its success. If the project isn’t managed properly, all the outstanding possibilities might never be realized.

From healthcare to retail to tech — project management skills can be the special sauce that keep things moving and ensure that deliverables meet stakeholders’ expectations. However, those skills aren’t innate. They include nuanced understandings of team members, a knowledge of the processes themselves and a dedication to the value that the project should deliver.

All of those elements are captured in the three domains of Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification: process, people and business. The certification, offered by the Project Management Institute, is often considered the gold standard for proven project management skills. It is awarded to those who pass the PMP exam.

Aileen Ellis, who has been teaching PMP prep courses since the 1990s, said the certification is for anyone who wants proven expertise in managing projects, regardless of whether their title is “project manager” or not.

“The PMP gives them more credibility because it’s a globally recognized credential,” she said.

What’s more, the PMP has a recertification requirement. Those who hold the certification are incentivized to stay up on best practices in order to retain the designation.

While the certification could lead to job and promotion opportunities for individuals, it can also pay off for their organizations.

“I think you’re likely to see better project performance because you’ve been exposed to best practices,” she said. “You reduce risks and focus on value, not just deliverables.”

Ellis is currently offering an online, self-paced PMP prep course to Utah residents in partnership with Weber State University. The course consists of recorded video lectures and quizzes. A grant has enabled the course to be offered for $100 per person, which includes a textbook and the cost of the PMP exam registration. Registration is open through June 1, and coursework must be complete by Aug. 30.

To register, visit WSU’s professional development website.