PMBOK
Global framework for project management principles and practices
BRC
Global standard for food safety in manufacturing
Quick Verdict
PMBOK provides project management principles for all industries, while BRC enforces food safety certification for manufacturers. Companies adopt PMBOK for governance and delivery success; BRC for retailer access and compliance.
PMBOK
A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK® Guide)
Key Features
- Matrix of 5 Process Groups and 10 Knowledge Areas
- 49 processes with Inputs, Tools, Techniques, Outputs (ITTOs)
- Tailoring for predictive, agile, hybrid project approaches
- 12 principles emphasizing value delivery and stewardship
- 8 performance domains for outcome-focused governance
BRC
BRCGS Global Standard for Food Safety
Key Features
- Senior management commitment and culture plan
- Codex HACCP with prerequisite programs
- Fundamental requirements for certification
- Site standards and risk zoning controls
- Graded annual third-party audits
Detailed Analysis
A comprehensive look at the specific requirements, scope, and impact of each standard.
PMBOK Details
What It Is
PMBOK® Guide (Project Management Body of Knowledge) is a global standard and guide published by PMI. It provides principles, performance domains, and processes for effective project management across industries. Its approach evolved from process-based (6th edition) to principle- and outcome-based (7th/8th editions), emphasizing tailoring for context.
Key Components
- **5 Process GroupsInitiating, Planning, Executing, Monitoring/Controlling, Closing.
- **10 Knowledge AreasIntegration, Scope, Schedule, Cost, Quality, Resources, Communications, Risk, Procurement, Stakeholders.
- 12 Principles and 8 Performance Domains in modern editions.
- ITTOs for ~49 processes; no formal certification but aligns with PMP.
Why Organizations Use It
Drives predictability, risk reduction, value delivery. Offers governance baseline, standardization benefits (3x higher performance per PMI). Enhances compliance via integrated controls, builds stakeholder trust, competitive edge in contracts.
Implementation Overview
Phased rollout: assess gaps, tailor processes, pilot, train, deploy tools/PMO. Suits all sizes/industries; 12-24 months typical. Focuses on maturity models like OPM3 for continuous improvement.
BRC Details
What It Is
BRCGS Global Standard for Food Safety is a third-party certification framework for food manufacturers, processors, and packers. It ensures product safety, legality, authenticity, and quality across supply chains via a structured management system combining senior management commitment, Codex HACCP-based plans, and prerequisite programs like GMP/GHP.
Key Components
Nine core clauses cover governance (1), HACCP (2), FSQMS (3), site standards (4), product control (5), process control (6), personnel (7), risk zones (8), and traded products (9). Fundamental requirements (e.g., traceability, allergens) are non-negotiable. Built on GFSI-benchmarked protocols with graded certification (AA/A/B/C/D).
Why Organizations Use It
Provides market access to retailers mandating GFSI schemes, reduces audits, evidences due diligence, mitigates recalls (allergens, pathogens), and builds resilience. Enhances reputation and aligns with regulations like FSMA.
Implementation Overview
Phased approach: gap analysis, documentation, training, internal audits, certification audit. Applies to food sites globally; requires annual audits, unannounced options, CAPA. Ideal for mid-large manufacturers; 6-12 months typical.
Key Differences
| Aspect | PMBOK | BRC |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Project lifecycle, processes, knowledge areas | Food safety, HACCP, site standards, personnel |
| Industry | All industries worldwide, any size | Food manufacturing, packaging, global retailers |
| Nature | Voluntary standard/guide, no certification | GFSI-benchmarked certification standard |
| Testing | Self-assessment, no formal audits | Annual third-party site audits, announced/unannounced |
| Penalties | No penalties, organizational performance impact | Certification loss, market access denial |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about PMBOK and BRC
PMBOK FAQ
BRC FAQ
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