Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming the way organizations manage portfolios, programs, and projects. With the publication of The Standard for Artificial Intelligence in Portfolio, Program, and Project Management, PMI has introduced its first comprehensive framework for the application of AI in project management.
Importantly, the standard goes far beyond the use of individual AI tools. It positions AI as a strategic organizational capability and addresses topics including:
- Governance and compliance
- Risk and quality management
- Data quality and security
- Stakeholder management
- Ethics and professional responsibility
- Human–AI collaboration
- Organizational transformation
With this new standard, PMI makes it clear that AI is no longer simply a technological trend—it is becoming a core component of modern portfolio, program, and project management.
The standard covers both:
- the use of AI to support portfolio, program, and project management, and
- projects and programs whose deliverables are AI-based systems.
A particular strength of the standard is its emphasis on Responsible AI and the Human-in-the-Loop principle. While AI can increasingly provide analyses, forecasts, and recommendations, accountability for decisions remains with people.
The publication also illustrates how the project management profession is evolving. Alongside traditional project management competencies, organizations and professionals will increasingly need expertise in:
- AI literacy
- Data literacy
- Governance
- Change management
- Strategic organizational development
Our perspective
The new PMI standard provides a strategic governance and management framework for organizations seeking to integrate AI responsibly into their value creation processes.
It is essential reading for:
- PMO leaders
- Portfolio and program managers
- Transformation leaders
- Executives
- Anyone interested in the future of project management and the role of AI within organizations
The message is clear: project management is evolving—from an operational discipline into a core organizational capability for success in an increasingly AI-driven world.
PMI members can download the standard here:
https://www.pmi.org/standards/artificial-intelligence
