In the era of corporate efficiency there is one professional qualification gaining ground around the world, which may soon be introduced to Bermuda if Jeffrey Jabon from Paragon Ltd. is successful in establishing a local chapter of the Project Management Institute (PMI).

Mr. Jabon, who was appointed insurance project manager with the financial services technology group at Paragon in October, achieved a professional certificate in project management from Boston University and has been a member of the PMI since he joined the Boston Chapter in August, 2000.

PMI establishes project management standards, provides seminars, educational programmes and professional certification which Mr. Jabon says many organisations desire for their project leaders.

Mr. Jabon urged project managers from all industry sectors in Bermuda to become involved and said: "Project management exists in all industries across functional roles. Anyone who works on a unique temporary assignment, where there is a definite start and end is involved in project management. People who consider allocation of resources, scheduling and quality are involved in project management and the challenge to enterprises considering acceptance of project management is that projects have inherent risk and are interdisciplinary. Many individuals can benefit from becoming a member of the PMI."

Mr. Jabon said he was keen to institute a PMI chapter in Bermuda and said: "This could continue to keep Bermuda on the map for innovation and forward thinking."

He said the PMI website had Bermuda listed as "a chapter pending", and said: "It is about time it was realised."

Mr. Jabon said he was keenly interested in trying to introduce young professional in other careers to the PMI and that the role of project managers is gaining traction with commercial enterprises.

The PMI offers a qualification held by only a handful of Bermuda residents, the Project Management Professional (PMP).

Since its founding in 1969, the PMI has grown to over 90,000 members in over 125 countries worldwide and is the leading non-profit professional association in the area of project management.

Mr. Jabon says he needs at least 25 people to join the organisation and has already received some interest.

Although there has been much interest from project managers working within the technology field, he urges project managers from other industries to take advantage.

"There are huge numbers of people involved in project management on the Island. Excellence in the field of project management is essential for a wide variety of industries such as pharmaceuticals, financial services, technology and construction. To deliver high quality solutions on time and within budget is a necessity in all industries in today's competitive environment. Even in marketing, product development, and advertising you'll find projects and consequently the need for project management.

"Becoming a member of the PMI is a great way to receive a professional certification and to be part of an organisation that recognises the unique skills of a project manager."

For more information on joining the Bermuda Chapter of Project Management Institute please contact Mr. Jabon on jjabonparagon.bm or 296-1830.