Comparative Analysis of PMBOK Guide 7th Edition and ISO 21500:2021 in the Context of Global Project Management Standards

As project management continues to evolve as a discipline, organizations increasingly turn to international standards to enhance efficiency and achieve strategic objectives. This study presents a comparative analysis of two globally recognized project management standards: the PMBOK Guide 7th Edition and ISO 21500:2021. The research examines definitions, structural frameworks, limitations, process groups, and knowledge areas within both standards. Using a structured comparative methodology, the study identifies key similarities and differences, addressing a notable gap in the existing literature. It outlines the research aim, provides an overview of the standards, explains the methodology, and evaluates findings across five core dimensions. Furthermore, it offers practical recommendations and insights for effective project management practices, contributing value to both academic and professional audiences. This study makes a unique contribution to the literature as the first academic research to present a direct comparative analysis of the PMBOK Guide 7th Edition and ISO 21500:2021; it clarifies the practical implications of these standards in global project management practices and demonstrates that their complementary use can strengthen project management practices.