In this episode of PM Untold, we dive into the real story behind the making of the PMBOK Guide. Dirk Withake, one of the contributors to the 8th edition, takes us behind the scenes of how the world’s most influential project management standard continues to adapt, mature and stay relevant in a rapidly changing profession.
Far from a simple update, PMBOK 8 reflects years of reflection, debate, field experience and a shared ambition to make project management more human centered, value driven and aligned with the realities practitioners face today. Dirk shares what sparked the need for change, how the global volunteer community shaped the new edition and what principles guided this transformation.

During the conversation, Dirk also highlights three books that have influenced his thinking and leadership approach:

• The Prince by Niccolò Machiavelli
• The Art of War by Sun Tzu
• Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink

This episode offers a rare look into how the PMBOK evolves and why its future depends on collaboration, diversity of thought and the lived experience of project professionals around the world.

Listen now at pmi-belgium.be/podcast