Abstract
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become the defining capability of modern organizations—yet most projects still fail to deliver. Recent reports, including those from Project Management Institute (PMI) and Gartner show that over 80% of AI initiatives never reach production or meet the expectations set for them. The root cause is not the technology itself, but the approach: many teams apply traditional IT methods to manage systems that are inherently data-driven, probabilistic, and ethically complex.
This approach is fundamentally flawed. AI projects are not software projects–they are exploratory, scientific endeavors where success depends on data quality, iterative experimentation, and continuous monitoring.
The new PMI framework, leading to the PMI Certified Professional in Managing AI (PMI-CPMAI)™ certification, directly addresses this gap by providing a structured, adaptable approach that connects project management with the realities of data science, ethics, and governance. The goal is to enable organizations to apply AI responsibly, sustainably, and at scale.
This whitepaper analyzes the core components of the PMI-CPMAI™ approach. We detail how project leaders can apply the six-phase lifecycle, leverage the seven AI patterns for strategic classification, and establish trustworthy AI governance to turn experimentation into measurable enterprise value.
Coach, Speaker & Trusted Guide for Human-Centered PM Excellence
Markus Kopko is a seasoned expert in project, program, and portfolio management with over two decades of experience in shaping strategic transformation across industries. As Principal Consultant, founder of „MP4PM – Method Power for Project Management“ – (www.mp4pm.club ) – and content creator, he has supported countless professionals on their journey toward PMI certification (e.g. PMP, PgMP) and practical excellence in applying global standards (e.g. PMBoK Guide, ITIL etc.) in their daily work.
A trusted advisor and international speaker, Markus served on the PMI Review Team for the PMBOK® Guide – 7th Edition, contributes to the Core Development Team of the upcoming PMI Standard on AI in Project, Program, and Portfolio Management, and regularly publishes thought leadership content on integrating modern methodologies with real-world delivery.
Markus specializes in strategic program management, lifecycle governance, stakeholder alignment, and benefits realization. He is widely recognized for translating complex frameworks into actionable practices, helping organizations align execution with strategic intent – especially in AI-driven environments.
He holds certifications including PMP®, PgMP®, and is also a Certified AI Transformation Lead (C-AITL by USAII). Markus shares his expertise through global PMI communities, keynote contributions, and coaching – always with one core principle: Lead with empathy. Empower with trust. Show up human — every single day.“
