PRINCE2® 7: The Latest Evolution in Project Management

Thomas Black

Project managers have been anticipating it for some time: PRINCE2® 6th Edition is making way for the newly revised PRINCE2® 7. The iTSM Group is prepared to meet the demands of this update, offering both in-house and online training options, complete with certification opportunities.

PRINCE2® 7, the latest iteration of the world’s leading project management framework, introduces a host of significant updates and improvements. While it builds upon the foundation laid by its predecessor, this new version brings substantial changes that are set to redefine project management standards.

Key Differences from PRINCE2® 6th Edition

One of the most notable changes in PRINCE2® 7 is the enhanced emphasis on the human element in project management. People now play a more central role as a resource. Additionally, the core philosophy of the framework has evolved. Previously, there was a clear distinction between agile management methodologies and the traditional "waterfall" approach. However, PRINCE2® 7 seamlessly integrates these approaches, providing a unified strategy for moving projects forward. The language of the framework has also been overhauled to align with current market demands, offering a simplified and more inclusive vocabulary that supports all project types—whether agile, hybrid, or traditional.

Another significant addition is the incorporation of sustainability into project execution. PRINCE2® 7 also embraces a digital-first approach, with new elements focused on data management and digital tools.

Impact on Project Managers

The updates introduced in PRINCE2® 7 will have a direct impact on the day-to-day responsibilities of project managers. To effectively utilize the new framework, project managers will need to adapt to new tasks, elements, and processes. Key areas of focus will include:

  • Stakeholder relationship management
  • Team management
  • Sustainability management
  • Digital technology and data management

Certification Changes

With the release of PRINCE2® 7, AXELOS and PeopleCert®—the organizations responsible for the PRINCE2® methodology—will discontinue certifications for the 6th Edition as of June 30, 2024. Starting in mid-March 2024, the new PRINCE2® 7 certifications will be available in German. If you have already purchased a voucher for the PRINCE2® 6th Edition certification, you must complete your exam by December 31, 2024, regardless of the voucher’s stated validity. From 2025 onward, exams for the 6th Edition will no longer be offered.

Certifications from spring 2024 onward will be based exclusively on PRINCE2® 7.

Staying Current with the iTSM Group

The iTSM Group is dedicated to guiding companies through digital transformation. Their goal is to provide tailored advice and training to help businesses achieve optimal levels of digitalization. As part of this mission, the iTSM Group offers specialized training for project managers on the new PRINCE2® 7 framework, ensuring that modern management practices are effectively integrated into organizations.

Customers can choose from in-house or online training options, both of which include the opportunity for certification. Following AXELOS's acquisition by PeopleCert®, the latter now holds all rights to PRINCE2® globally, making it the leading project management methodology.

As a key partner of PeopleCert® in the training and certification domain, the iTSM Group is authorized to conduct PeopleCert® certifications and issue the corresponding certificates upon successful completion of exams.

For more insights into the new features of PRINCE2® 7, don’t miss our exclusive interview with PeopleCert®.