For Other Terms, Refer to the Glossary and Lexicon

PMBOK v8 Definition

The PMBOK v8 standard explicitly states: "For other terms used in this standard, refer to the glossary and the PMI Lexicon of Project Management Terms." This directive appears in the foundational elements section (Section 1.3) and establishes that the glossary and PMI Lexicon are the authoritative sources for understanding project management terminology beyond what is defined in the main body of the standard. The glossary is embedded within the PMBOK Guide itself, while the PMI Lexicon is a separate, comprehensive resource maintained by PMI.

Why It Matters for the Exam

This concept is tested because PMI exam questions frequently use specific terminology that may not be fully defined within the main text of each section. The exam expects you to know that the glossary and Lexicon are the definitive references for resolving term confusion. Questions often appear in the "interpretation" category, where you must select the correct definition or identify which resource provides the authoritative meaning of a project management term.

Key Points to Remember (for the exam)

• Primary Reference: The glossary within the PMBOK Guide is the first source for term definitions.
• Secondary Source: The PMI Lexicon of Project Management Terms is the external, comprehensive reference.
• Scope of Application: This applies to "other terms used in this standard" – meaning terms not explicitly defined in the immediate context.
• Exam Strategy: When a question uses a term you are unsure about, recall that the glossary and Lexicon are the official definition sources.
• Common Confusion: Do not confuse the PMI Lexicon with the PMBOK Guide glossary – the Lexicon is a separate publication, while the glossary is part of the standard.
• Purpose: This directive ensures consistency in terminology across all PMI standards and publications.
• Exam Relevance: PMI tests your ability to locate the correct definition source, not just memorize definitions.

Typical PMI Exam Example

A project manager encounters the term "project life cycle" in a performance domain description but cannot find its definition in that section. According to PMBOK v8, where should the project manager look for the authoritative definition? The correct answer is: the glossary of the PMBOK Guide or the PMI Lexicon of Project Management Terms.

PMI Exam Traps

• Trap: Assuming every term is defined within its specific section. Reality: The standard explicitly directs you to the glossary and Lexicon for "other terms."

• Trap: Confusing the PMI Lexicon with a dictionary or general business glossary. Reality: The Lexicon is a PMI-specific publication containing standardized project management terms.

• Trap: Thinking the glossary and Lexicon are optional references. Reality: They are mandatory sources for understanding the standard's terminology.

• Trap: Believing the PMBOK Guide defines all terms within its performance domains. Reality: The standard intentionally limits in-text definitions and directs you to the glossary and Lexicon.

Important PMI Connections

Quick Review Questions

1. Where does PMBOK v8 direct you to find definitions for terms not explicitly defined in the main text of a section?

2. What is the difference between the glossary in the PMBOK Guide and the PMI Lexicon of Project Management Terms?

3. In which section of the PMBOK v8 does the directive to use the glossary and Lexicon appear?

4. If a term appears in a performance domain but is not defined there, what two resources should you consult?

5. Why does PMI maintain a separate Lexicon of Project Management Terms in addition to the PMBOK glossary?

PMBOK v8 Reference

Section 1.3 – Foundational Elements of Project Management