In an effort to make it easier to obtain and report PDUs, PMI recently streamlined their PDU categories.  The new system features only 6 categories, versus 18 under the previous model.  This is a positive change for project managers trying to maintain PMP certification.  Below is a summary of the changes, along with my favorite picks on creative and easy ways to get PDUs.

EDUCATION (pretty much unlimited PDUs here)

• "Category A: Courses offered by PMI R.E.P.s or Chapters and Communities" - There aren't any real changes here.  The category listing was simplified, so that these items come up first on the list.  Some of my picks:
• Beyond20 holds free webinars worth 1 PDU on a variety of subjects (hot topics like ITIL and Agile / Scrum, advanced Project Management concepts, etc.) most Fridays. Contact us to find out when the next one is scheduled.
• Another one of my favorite things to recommend in this category is to listen to PMIWDC webinars.  If you are already a PMI member, joining the Washington DC chapter costs $35/year, and they offer more than 100 webinars to their members for FREE!  You don't have to live or work in DC to join the chapter, and the quality of the presenters is generally very high.
• Adding a credential to your resume is a great way to get PDUs and differentiate yourself in the marketplace.  Consider getting one of PMI's other certifications (i.e. PgMP) or another "best practice" like Six Sigma, PRINCE2, ITIL, etc.
  

• "Category B: Continued Education" - This section has been simplified to encompass any non-PMI or non-REP events, courses, etc.
  
• "Category C: Self Directed Learning" - I really like the changes in this category.  First, the maximum number of PDUs has been raised from 15 to 30 PDUs per 3-year cycle.  Second, a lot more items have been included in this category.  For example, this category now encompasses: reading articles, white papers, books, or instructional manuals, watching project management videos, having discussions with other project management professionals, mentoring or being mentored, etc.
  

GIVING BACK TO THE PROFESSION (a total of 45 PDUs can be earned across these 3 categories)

• "Category D: Creating New Project Management Knowledge" – Not much has changed here.  
• My favorite item in this category that I always recommend to PMPs is authoring an article, which earns 15 PDUs.  You can write an article on any area of expertise you have (a single page is fine) and submit it to a PMI chapter.  Most PMI chapters have newsletters, and they are always looking for content. 
  
• Another fantastic way to get PDUs is to speak.  Many PMI chapters have formed Toastmasters groups.  You not only earn PDUs by attending, but become a better communicator too!
  

• "Category E: Volunteer Service" – By becoming a PMI volunteer, you can earn up to 45 PDUs.  This is HUGE!  Previously, volunteers only earned 3-5 PDUs per calendar year, regardless of the amount of effort expended (which can be significant, believe me!).  Now, PMI is awarding 1 PDU for each hour of non-compensated service.  That is amazing! 
  
• I highly encourage anyone looking for PDUs to becoming a PMI volunteer for their local PMI chapter.  It is worthwhile not only in maintaining your certification, but in your overall career.  You will network with lots of other project management professionals, pick up a few new skills, and be able to showcase your talents to others.  I have known countless people that have found jobs by volunteering with PMI.  It is definitely worth your time.

• "Category F: Work as a Practitioner" - For each year you work as a Project Manager, you can claim 5 PDUs.  Over the course of three years, you can earn 15 PDUs.  No change here. 

Interested in learning more?  Check out PMI's site with details on the six PDU categories here.

Have other great ideas on ways to earn PDUs?  I would love to hear them!