PMI-LA Presents:
The Project Management Case Challenge
A Full-Cycle Project Management Simulation
Event Information
Duration: September 8 - October 6, 2025
Format: Fully virtual - participate from anywhere
Developed by: PMI-LA in collaboration with UCLA's Master's in Applied Statistics & Data Science Program
Why Join?
Create real project deliverables like charters, work breakdown structures, risk visualizations, and more
Learn to apply project management tools and methodologies
Connect with peers and industry professionals in the PM community
How It Works
Find peers or go solo
Secure your spot
Complete 11 guided modules
Share your journey and outcomes
🏆 Prize
The team with the best final presentation will receive complimentary tickets to PMI-LA's Professional Development Day on October 25, 2025
Challenge Overview
The Project Management Case Challenge is a simulated learning experience designed to provide participants with hands-on experience working through a complete project lifecycle, from initiation to closure, guided by PMI best practices and methodologies.
While each scenario includes guidance in the form of templates and resources, the challenge is designed to encourage independent problem-solving. You will be expected to conduct your own research, apply critical thinking, and leverage learning tools such as PMI Infinity to develop and deliver your project outputs - mirroring the realities of professional project work.
At the end of this challenge, you will deliver a final presentation showcasing your project management journey and the skills you learned, serving as a valuable artifact for your professional portfolio.
Content was developed using PMI's PM Body of Knowledge (PMBOK®), and in collaboration with UCLA's Master's in Applied Statistics & Data Science Program.
Challenge Structure
The case challenge is organized into five main phases, each corresponding to a project management process group:
| Project Initiation | Develop project charters and stakeholder registers that align with organizational objectives |
| Project Planning | Create comprehensive project plans including work breakdown structures, schedules, cost baselines, and risk management strategies. |
| Project Execution | Adapt to changing circumstances. Manage project execution while handling changes and stakeholder expectations. |
| Project Control | Monitor project performance and implement corrective actions as needed. Develop data visualizations to communicate project performance. |
| Project Closure | Conduct project closure activities and document lessons learned. Develop a final presentation summarizing your project journey. |
FAQ
Who can participate?
Open to everyone, but this challenge was designed for students and early-career professionals with minimal project management experience.
Is it free?
Yes - participation is completely free.
What’s the time commitment?
Expect about 2–5 hours per week, depending on your team’s pace.
Do I need prior experience?
No. We’ll provide templates and guidance to help you get started. All you need is the willingness to research, think critically, and engage with the challenge.
Does this qualify for Professional Development Units (PDUs)?
Participation in the Project Management Case Challenge does not qualify for Professional Development Units (PDUs). While the challenge is a great opportunity to build skills, gain practical experience, and expand your professional network, it is not an official PDU-eligible activity.
To learn more about PDUs and PMI’s Continuing Certification Requirements (CCR), see the PMI CCR Handbook.
What is Professional Development Day (PDD)?
PDD is PMI-LA's premier annual event focused on professional growth and leadership development. The 2025 theme is "Human-Centric Leadership Amid Emerging Technologies," exploring how project professionals can lead effectively while navigating AI, remote work, and digital transformation.
Highlights include:
- PDU-eligible sessions and engaging keynotes
- Leadership and innovation focused breakouts
- Professional headshots and networking
- Early bird pricing available
For more info, check out the event page here
For questions, contact: vpprograms@pmi-la.org
Follow PDD updates on social media:
Questions?
Contact us at: outreach@pmi-la.org