LONDON, June 16 /PRNewswire/ -- The APM Group, which is responsible for the Office of Government Commerce (OGC) Best Practice Qualifications, is celebrating the launch of PRINCE2 2009. To coincide with the launch of the new manual, APMG's accredited training organisations are now ready to deliver courses in the new version of the method. Examinations will be available in seven languages from 6th July 2009.

Nigel Smith, Chief Executive, OGC said: PRINCE2(R) is extensively used in over 150 countries around the world and its take up grows daily. It is widely considered as the leading tool in project management, with over 20,000 organisations already benefiting from its pioneering and trusted approach. Complex projects today often involve several organisations working together in partnership or through contractual arrangements to achieve the objectives, and PRINCE2 provides a common language between organisations and with external suppliers.

This updated guidance will help those running projects of any size and in any environment to effectively deliver what is required by appropriately managing the costs, timescales, quality, scope, risks and benefits. Its development by the Office of Government Commerce has followed widespread consultation and draws upon real-life experiences in both public and private sector organisations. The number of people taking PRINCE2 qualifications increases by around 20% year on year and it remains a key contributor to the successful delivery of projects. It is a vital tool for any organisation wishing to secure efficient and effective operational outcomes, Smith said.

Richard Pharro, CEO, The APM Group, said: This is a very exciting time for the PRINCE2 Accredited Community. The new version of PRINCE2 makes it more accessible for all users and particularly for senior managers. Many of the criticisms that were made of the method have been addressed. It is more appealing than ever to adopt it as a Best Practice Standard. Organisations operating globally will find the method is compatible with other Project Management standards and so we expect increased demand for PRINCE2 Practitioner certificates.

The APM Group confirmed that certificates for PRINCE2 Practitioners who qualified prior to the introduction of the updated version are still valid. Candidates will need to re-register against the new version when their certificate expires - up to five years after it is issued.

PRINCE2 was first launched in 1996. There are now 170 organisations who are accredited to deliver training in the method and examinations have been taken in 150 countries around the world. The method forms part of the OGC Best Practice Portfolio. More details are available at http://www.best-management-practice.tv

For further details on examinations and accredited training organisations visit http://www.prince-officialsite.com/home/home.asp or email servicedesk@apmgroup.co.uk

For more details on PRINCE2 examinations: Kate Winter, PR Manager, APMG, Kate.winter@apmgroup.co.uk. For more details on the manual, plus information about review copies: Susan Jermany, OGC Strategic Marketing Manager, Tel: +44-(0)1603-696716, susan.jermany@tso.co.uk