This document results from work overseen by the Project Management Institute (PMI), which offers the CAPM and PMP certifications.

Much of the PMBOK Guide is unique to project management such as critical path method and work breakdown structure (WBS).

The PMBOK Guide is intended to be a "subset of the project management body of knowledge" that is generally recognized as a good practice.

'Generally recognized' means the knowledge and practices described are applicable to most projects most of the time and there is a consensus about their value and usefulness.

'Good practice' means there is a general agreement that the application of the knowledge, skills, tools, and techniques can enhance the chance of success over many projects.