Certified - CompTIA Project+

In this glossary episode, we will review acronyms related to project management practices, metrics, and compliance. These terms are critical for both understanding the exam and applying concepts in real-world project environments. Knowing these acronyms will help you recognize references quickly, interpret project documentation accurately, and communicate effectively with stakeholders.
When studying for the certification, it is important to learn both the definition of each acronym and how it is applied in a project context. These glossary episodes are designed to provide clear, concise explanations while also showing the relevance of each term to project work. You should review these terms multiple times to ensure you can recall them easily during the exam and when working on active projects.
J A R means Joint Application Review. J A R is a structured review process in which stakeholders, developers, and other team members examine application requirements or design. In project environments, J A R sessions are used to validate accuracy, identify gaps, and gain agreement before moving forward. Using J A R helps reduce rework, improve alignment, and maintain project timelines.
K P I means Key Performance Indicator. K P I is a measurable value used to track progress toward specific goals or objectives. In project management, K P I metrics might include schedule variance, cost performance, or defect rates. Tracking K P I values enables project managers to assess performance and make informed adjustments.
M O U means Memorandum of Understanding. An M O U is a formal but non-binding agreement between parties that outlines intentions, responsibilities, and areas of cooperation. In projects, an M O U may be used to establish partnership terms before a formal contract is created. Having an M O U helps ensure clarity and alignment between stakeholders.
N D A means Non-Disclosure Agreement. An N D A is a legal contract that prevents parties from sharing confidential information. In projects, an N D A protects sensitive data such as designs, trade secrets, or strategic plans. Requiring an N D A helps maintain trust, safeguard intellectual property, and reduce the risk of information leaks.
P a a S means Platform as a Service. P a a S provides a managed environment for developing, running, and managing applications without handling infrastructure. In project contexts, P a a S can speed up software development and integration by offering ready-to-use tools and resources. Using P a a S supports scalability, cost efficiency, and faster delivery.
P C I means Payment Card Industry. P C I refers to the global set of security standards developed to protect payment card data. In projects involving e-commerce or payment processing, P C I compliance is mandatory to protect customer information and avoid penalties. Project managers must ensure P C I standards are built into system design and testing.
P E R T means Program Evaluation Review Technique. P E R T is a project management tool used to estimate the time required to complete tasks based on optimistic, pessimistic, and most likely durations. In projects, P E R T helps create more realistic schedules and manage uncertainties. Using P E R T supports better forecasting and resource planning.
P H I means Personal Health Information. P H I refers to any health-related data that can be linked to an individual, such as medical records, treatment history, or insurance details. In projects involving healthcare or wellness services, P H I must be protected according to privacy regulations such as H I P A A. Proper handling of P H I includes encryption, strict access controls, and secure storage methods.
P I I means Personally Identifiable Information. P I I is any data that can identify a specific individual, including names, addresses, phone numbers, or identification numbers. Projects that store or process P I I must comply with applicable privacy laws like G D P R or C C P A. Securing P I I involves limiting access, encrypting transmissions, and following proper disposal procedures.
P M means Project Manager. The P M is responsible for planning, executing, and closing projects while ensuring that objectives are met on time and within budget. In project environments, the P M coordinates resources, manages risks, and maintains communication between stakeholders. A skilled P M ensures that both technical and business needs are balanced effectively.
P M O means Project Management Office. The P M O is a centralized group within an organization that defines project management standards, processes, and governance. A P M O may provide training, tools, and oversight for project teams. Working with a P M O helps ensure consistency and alignment across multiple projects and programs.
P R I N C E 2 means Projects in Controlled Environments version 2. P R I N C E 2 is a structured project management methodology that emphasizes defined roles, processes, and stages. Using P R I N C E 2 helps standardize project delivery, manage risks, and ensure clear decision points. Many organizations adopt P R I N C E 2 for its repeatable and scalable approach.
Q A means Quality Assurance. Q A is the process of ensuring that a product or service meets defined quality standards before it is delivered. In projects, Q A activities include inspections, testing, and process reviews. Effective Q A reduces defects, improves customer satisfaction, and prevents costly rework.
R A C I means Responsible, Accountable, Consulted, and Informed. The R A C I matrix is a tool used to define and clarify team roles for tasks or deliverables. In a R A C I chart, each role is assigned based on its involvement and authority level. Using R A C I improves accountability, reduces confusion, and enhances communication.
R A M means Responsibility Assignment Matrix. R A M is a broader version of the R A C I concept that maps all project activities to responsible parties. A R A M helps ensure that no task is overlooked and that responsibilities are evenly distributed. Maintaining a R A M supports workload balance and role clarity.
R B S means Resource Breakdown Structure. R B S is a hierarchical representation of project resources, such as personnel, equipment, and materials. An R B S helps in planning, budgeting, and tracking resource usage. Using an R B S ensures that all necessary resources are identified and properly allocated.