Process Groups
Process Groups are a logical grouping of project management processes categorized into five groups: Initiating, Planning, Executing, Monitoring and Controlling, and Closing.
Explanation
The five Process Groups provide a structured way to organize the 49 project management processes defined in the PMBOK Guide Sixth Edition. These groups are not phases of the project life cycle; rather, they are collections of processes that may be performed in any phase. In a multi-phase project, all five Process Groups may be repeated within each phase.
The Process Groups interact with each other throughout the project. The output of one process often becomes the input to another. For example, the project charter (an output of the Initiating Process Group) becomes an input to many Planning processes. The Monitoring and Controlling Process Group overlaps with all other groups because performance must be observed and measured throughout the project.
Understanding Process Groups is essential for both the PMP and CAPM exams. The CAPM exam in particular tests knowledge of which processes belong to which Process Groups and Knowledge Areas. The PMP exam focuses more on applying these processes in realistic scenarios, understanding their interactions, and knowing when to use which process.
Key Points
- •Five groups: Initiating, Planning, Executing, Monitoring and Controlling, Closing
- •Not project phases — they can occur in any phase of the project
- •Processes interact through inputs, tools and techniques, and outputs
- •Monitoring and Controlling spans the entire project
Exam Tip
Do not confuse Process Groups with project phases. A single phase can include activities from all five Process Groups. The exam frequently tests this distinction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Topics
Initiating Process Group
The Initiating Process Group consists of processes performed to define a new project or a new phase of an existing project by obtaining authorization to start.
Planning Process Group
The Planning Process Group consists of processes performed to establish the total scope of the effort, define objectives, and develop the course of action required to attain those objectives.
Executing Process Group
The Executing Process Group consists of processes performed to complete the work defined in the project management plan to satisfy project requirements.
Monitoring and Controlling Process Group
The Monitoring and Controlling Process Group consists of processes required to track, review, and regulate the progress and performance of the project, identify areas where changes to the plan are needed, and initiate corresponding changes.
Closing Process Group
The Closing Process Group consists of processes performed to formally complete or close the project, phase, or contract.
Knowledge Areas
Knowledge Areas are the ten identified areas of project management expertise defined in the PMBOK Guide, each encompassing a set of related processes.
Test your knowledge
Practice scenario-based questions on this topic with detailed explanations.