PMBOK
Global standard for project management practices and governance
IFS Food
Global standard for food safety and quality certification.
Quick Verdict
PMBOK provides a flexible project management framework for all industries, while IFS Food mandates GFSI certification for food safety and quality. Companies adopt PMBOK for governance and delivery success; IFS Food for retailer compliance and market access.
PMBOK
Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK® Guide)
Key Features
- Matrix of 5 Process Groups and 10 Knowledge Areas
- 49 Processes defined by ITTO framework
- Tailoring for predictive, adaptive, hybrid approaches
- Planning-heavy with over 50% processes in Planning
- 12 Principles and performance domains for outcomes
IFS Food
IFS Food Version 8
Key Features
- Product and Process Approach with audit trail
- Risk-based HACCP and prerequisite programs
- Annual site-specific certification audits
- Knock-Out requirements for critical controls
- Unannounced audits for Star status
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 documents generally accepted project management principles, practices, and processes applicable across industries. Primary purpose: provide scalable governance for delivering projects via lifecycle logic, integrated disciplines, and tailoring.
Key Components
- **5 Process GroupsInitiating, Planning, Executing, Monitoring/Controlling, Closing.
- **10 Knowledge AreasIntegration, Scope, Schedule, Cost, Quality, Resources, Communications, Risk, Procurement, Stakeholders.
- ~49 Processes with ITTOs; 12 Principles and performance domains in 7th/8th editions.
- No formal certification for standard; aligns with PMP credentialing.
Why Organizations Use It
Drives predictability, reduces overruns (high-performers 3x more likely to standardize). Mitigates risks via baselines, change control. Builds stakeholder trust, enables hybrid delivery. Strategic: common language, auditability, value focus.
Implementation Overview
Phased: assess gaps, tailor processes, pilot, rollout with PMO/training/tools. Applies to all sizes/industries; emphasizes proportionality to risk/complexity. No mandatory audits; self-tailored governance.
IFS Food Details
What It Is
IFS Food Version 8 is a GFSI-benchmarked certification standard for auditing product and process compliance in food manufacturing. It focuses on ensuring safe, legal, authentic products meeting customer specifications via a risk-based Product and Process Approach (PPA).
Key Components
- Organized into governance, HACCP/PRPs, operational controls (e.g., allergens, fraud, defense), and performance monitoring.
- Over 200 checklist requirements with 10 Knock-Out (KO) criteria.
- Built on HACCP principles, prerequisite programs, and annual audits.
- Two certification levels: Higher (≥95%) and Foundation (≥75%).
Why Organizations Use It
- Meets European retailer demands for private-label supply.
- Reduces duplicate audits, enhances market access.
- Manages risks like recalls, fraud, and contamination.
- Builds trust through transparent scoring and database.
Implementation Overview
- Phased: gap analysis, FSMS design, training, validation, certification audit.
- Applies to food processors globally, site-specific.
- Requires ISO 17065-accredited bodies, annual recertification, unannounced audits optional.
Key Differences
| Aspect | PMBOK | IFS Food |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Project lifecycle, processes, knowledge areas | Food manufacturing safety, quality, processes |
| Industry | All industries, global applicability | Food production, primarily European retailers |
| Nature | Voluntary project management standard/guide | GFSI certification standard for manufacturers |
| Testing | Tailored self-assessments, no formal audits | Annual on-site product/process audits |
| Penalties | No penalties, loss of best practices | Certification denial, market access loss |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about PMBOK and IFS Food
PMBOK FAQ
IFS Food FAQ
You Might also be Interested in These Articles...
Beyond the Burden: How Intuitive Compliance Software Transforms Daily Workflows
Explore intuitive compliance software that automates workflows, simplifies onboarding, and reduces stress. Cut non-compliance costs 3x and boost efficiency for
Thailand PDPA Implementation Guide: Subordinate Regulations for 72-Hour Breach Reporting and Cross-Border Transfers (2022-2024 Rules)
Step-by-step Thailand PDPA guide: 72-hour breach notifications, cross-border transfers (2022-2024 rules). Risk checklists, GDPR templates avoid THB 5M fines. Mu
HITRUST CSF MyCSF Platform Mastery: Infograph of Evidence Tagging Workflows and Top 5 Maturity Tier Acceleration Takeaways
Master MyCSF platform with infographics on evidence tagging for 1,400+ HITRUST controls across 19 domains. Cut documentation by 30%, boost Measured/Managed tier
Run Maturity Assessments with GRADUM
Transform your compliance journey with our AI-powered assessment platform
Assess your organization's maturity across multiple standards and regulations including ISO 27001, DORA, NIS2, NIST, GDPR, and hundreds more. Get actionable insights and track your progress with collaborative, AI-powered evaluations.
Check out these other Gradum.io Standards Comparison Pages
PRINCE2 vs WEEE
PRINCE2 vs WEEE: Compare project governance mastery with EU e-waste compliance. Unpack 7 principles, practices & processes for tailored success. Implement now!
ISO 14001 vs ISO 17025
Discover ISO 14001 vs ISO 17025: EMS mastery for eco-performance vs lab competence gold standard. Key diffs, benefits & tips to boost compliance. Compare & certify smarter now!
BREEAM vs ISO 56002
Discover BREEAM vs ISO 56002: BREEAM certifies sustainable buildings via energy, health, ecology credits; ISO 56002 powers innovation systems. Compare for ESG & growth wins. Read now!