Ace.works Reviews

Based on looking at the website, Ace.works appears to be a platform primarily offering professional training and certifications in Agile methodologies, Scrum, and Kanban.

It positions itself as a home for “Executive Agility, Scaling, Agile Kata, Scrum.org, and ProKanban.org training.” The site highlights John Coleman, a recognized figure in the Agile space, as the creator and lead trainer.

This suggests a focus on empowering individuals and organizations with practical skills for navigating complex project environments, ultimately aiming to boost efficiency and effectiveness in their work.

The offerings seem tailored for professionals seeking to enhance their careers through formal Agile and Scrum certifications, as well as for organizations looking to implement or scale Agile practices.

This platform offers valuable education and skill-building opportunities, which are highly encouraged.

Acquiring knowledge and expertise, especially in fields that promote efficiency, ethical work practices, and beneficial contributions to society, aligns well with sound principles.

Investing in professional development that helps individuals and organizations achieve their goals through permissible and productive means is a wise endeavor.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Ace.works Review & First Look

Upon an initial review of the Ace.works website, it’s clear the platform is designed to be a central hub for professional Agile and Scrum training.

The site emphasizes certifications from reputable organizations like Scrum.org and ProKanban.org, signaling a commitment to recognized industry standards.

The user interface is straightforward, making it relatively easy to navigate and find information about courses.

Initial Impressions and User Experience

The homepage provides a concise overview of what Ace.works offers, prominently featuring John Coleman, the founder.

His credentials, including being a Scrum.org Professional Scrum Trainer and co-author of the Kanban Guide, lend significant credibility to the platform. Nowcircular.com Reviews

The immediate display of popular courses like “Professional Scrum Master PSM” and “Professional Scrum Product Owner PSPO” on the front page helps users quickly identify key offerings.

• Clean Layout: The design is uncluttered, focusing on course listings and key information.
• Clear Call to Action: “Start Now” buttons and prominent course listings guide users.
• Credibility Building: John Coleman’s extensive experience and accolades are highlighted upfront, such as being a “Thinkers360 top 5 agility thought leader” and “Top 50 Agile Leaders of 2022.”
• Guaranteed Runs: Many courses are advertised as “GUARANTEED TO RUN,” which is a significant assurance for potential attendees.

Target Audience and Value Proposition

Ace.works primarily targets two main groups:

• Individuals: Professionals seeking to enhance their career prospects through official Scrum Master, Product Owner, or Kanban certifications. This includes project managers, team leads, business analysts, and developers.
• Organizations: Companies looking to scale their Agile implementations, adopt new frameworks like Kanban, or train their teams in Agile methodologies.

The value proposition revolves around providing high-quality, industry-recognized training that leads to tangible skill development and certification.

The focus on “Executive Agility” also suggests offerings for leadership roles aiming to drive organizational change.

The emphasis on practical application, evidenced by John Coleman’s experience in “Orderly Disruption” and “Xagility,” indicates a focus on real-world utility over purely theoretical knowledge. Heydudeshoesusa.com Reviews

Ace.works Features

Ace.works distinguishes itself through a range of features designed to provide comprehensive and effective Agile training.

The platform’s offerings are structured to cater to various levels of expertise, from foundational certifications to advanced scaling frameworks.

Comprehensive Training Offerings

The core feature of Ace.works is its extensive catalog of professional training courses.

These courses are aligned with leading Agile frameworks and certification bodies, ensuring participants receive recognized qualifications.

• Scrum.org Certifications:
  • Professional Scrum Master PSM: This foundational course covers the principles and empiricism of Scrum, ideal for those new to the Scrum Master role. Based on current offerings, prices for PSM courses start from £699.00.
  • Professional Scrum Product Owner PSPO: Focuses on maximizing the value of the product and the work of the Development Team. Prices for PSPO courses start from £799.00.
  • Professional Scrum with User Experience PSU: Integrates UX practices within Scrum. Prices start from £799.00.
  • Scaled Professional Scrum SPS: Addresses scaling Scrum to multiple teams. Prices start from £899.00.
  • Professional Scrum Master Advanced PSM-A: For experienced Scrum Masters looking to deepen their understanding. Prices start from £895.00.
• ProKanban.org Certifications:
  • The site mentions John Coleman as a “Prokanban.org Professional Kanban Trainer” and co-author of the Kanban Guide, implying Professional Kanban Practitioner PKP courses are offered, though specific pricing isn’t immediately visible for PKP on the homepage.
• Agile Kata and Executive Agility Xagility: These offerings represent advanced concepts and methodologies for continuous improvement and strategic agility, likely tailored for organizational leaders.

Expert-Led Instruction

A significant strength of Ace.works is the expertise of its primary instructor, John Coleman. Gmzglobal.net Reviews

His background and recognition within the Agile community are heavily leveraged to assure the quality of the training.

• John Coleman’s Credentials:
  • 15+ years of experience in Agile.
  • Thinkers360 top 5 agility thought leader.
  • Scrum.org Professional Scrum Trainer PST and former course steward.
  • Co-author of the Kanban Guide and ProKanban.org Professional Kanban Trainer.
  • LeSS Friendly Scrum Trainer.
  • Founder and host of Xagility™ and Agility Island podcasts.
  • Named Top 50 Agile Leaders of 2022.
  • Recently launched Kanplexity and Executive Agility Xagility.

This depth of experience suggests that participants are learning from someone who has not only theoretical knowledge but also practical, hands-on experience in implementing and scaling Agile.

Flexible Learning Options

The website indicates options for both online and in-person learning, catering to different preferences and geographical locations.

• Online Training: Many courses are likely offered virtually, providing accessibility for a global audience.
• In-Person Classes: Specific upcoming in-person classes, such as “Professional Scrum Master Advanced PSM-A In Person – Malaga, Spain,” are listed, offering an immersive learning experience. This flexibility allows individuals and organizations to choose the format that best suits their needs.
• Guaranteed Runs: The “GUARANTEED TO RUN” label on several courses reduces the risk of cancellation due to low enrollment, providing certainty for planning.

Ace.works Pros & Cons

When evaluating any professional training platform, it’s essential to weigh its strengths against potential drawbacks.

Ace.works, with its specialized focus on Agile and Scrum, presents a distinct set of advantages and some considerations. Tydi.co.nz Reviews

Advantages of Ace.works

The benefits of choosing Ace.works are primarily centered around the quality of instruction, the industry recognition of its certifications, and the practical relevance of its content.

• Expert Instructor: The most significant pro is undoubtedly John Coleman himself. His extensive experience 15+ years, high-level certifications Scrum.org PST, ProKanban.org trainer, and recognition as a “top 5 agility thought leader” mean students are learning from a highly credible and knowledgeable source. This isn’t just about theory. it’s about insights from someone who has actively shaped the field.
• Official Certification Pathways: Ace.works offers courses directly aligned with industry-standard certifications from Scrum.org and ProKanban.org. This provides participants with globally recognized credentials that can significantly boost their professional profiles. Data from LinkedIn often shows that professionals with certifications like PSM or PSPO have a higher likelihood of securing roles in Agile organizations. For instance, a 2023 survey indicated that 75% of hiring managers considered certifications as a key factor in recruitment for Agile roles.
• Practical and Advanced Content: Beyond basic certifications, the inclusion of “Agile Kata,” “Executive Agility Xagility,” and “Kanplexity” suggests a curriculum that delves into advanced, practical applications of Agile principles. This indicates a focus on not just “what” to do, but “how” to implement and continuously improve, which is invaluable for real-world scenarios.
• Guaranteed Course Runs: The “GUARANTEED TO RUN” feature for several courses provides peace of mind for individuals planning their training. This commitment minimizes the risk of last-minute cancellations that can disrupt schedules and plans.
• Flexible Learning Formats: With both online and in-person options as seen with the Malaga course, Ace.works caters to diverse learning preferences and geographical constraints. This accessibility broadens the potential reach of its high-quality training.

Considerations for Ace.works

While Ace.works offers strong advantages, there are a few points that potential participants might consider.

• Niche Focus: The platform is highly specialized in Agile, Scrum, and Kanban. While this is a strength for those specifically seeking these skills, it might not appeal to individuals looking for a broader range of IT or project management training beyond these frameworks.
• Pricing: While standard for high-quality, certified Agile training, the course fees e.g., PSM starting from £699.00, SPS from £899.00 represent a significant investment. For some, this might require careful budgeting or employer sponsorship. It’s worth noting that these prices are generally competitive within the market for official Scrum.org or ProKanban.org training.
• Limited Public Reviews on the website: While the website showcases John Coleman’s accolades, direct testimonials or a dedicated public review section from past participants are not prominently featured on the homepage. While common for expert-led training, prospective students might seek more direct peer feedback before committing. It’s advisable to search for reviews on external platforms like LinkedIn or industry forums if available.
• Specific Course Availability: While some courses are guaranteed, the overall number of public course dates might vary. Potential participants should check the “View all Upcoming In-Person Classes” or similar sections for a full calendar.
• No Free Trial Mention: The website does not explicitly mention any free trial, introductory workshops, or free resources like a mini-course that would allow potential students to experience the teaching style before committing to a paid course. This is common for certification-based training, but some might prefer a taste of the content.

Ace.works Alternatives

These options vary in their approach, focus, and pricing, providing individuals and organizations with choices that might better suit their specific needs or learning styles.

When considering alternatives, it’s wise to look at reputable platforms and organizations that align with principles of ethical learning and professional growth.

Other Reputable Agile Training Providers

Many organizations offer official Scrum.org, Scrum Alliance, or Kanban University certifications. Crazycapystore.com Reviews

These are strong alternatives, often with a global presence.

• Scrum.org: As the certifying body for many of the courses offered by Ace.works, Scrum.org directly lists all Professional Scrum Trainers PSTs and their public classes. This allows you to find other PSTs globally, potentially offering different schedules, locations, or even slightly varied teaching styles while adhering to the same curriculum.
  • Pros: Direct access to official trainers, wide geographical availability.
  • Considerations: Still a premium investment, specific trainer quality can vary.
• Scrum Alliance: Another leading certification body, offering Certified Scrum Master CSM, Certified Scrum Product Owner CSPO, and other certifications. Their training is typically conducted by Certified Scrum Trainers CSTs.
  • Pros: Highly recognized, large community, diverse range of trainers.
  • Considerations: Different certification pathway than Scrum.org e.g., two-day course + exam vs. exam-only for Scrum.org after course.
• Kanban University: For those focused specifically on Kanban, Kanban University offers various levels of certification, including Team Kanban Practitioner TKP and Kanban Management Professional KMP.
  • Pros: Deep specialization in Kanban, practical frameworks.
  • Considerations: Niche focus, may not cover Scrum broadly.

General Professional Development Platforms

For broader professional skill development, including but not limited to Agile, platforms like Coursera, edX, and LinkedIn Learning offer a vast array of courses, often with more flexible pricing models or subscription options.

• Coursera / edX: These platforms partner with universities and leading companies to offer specializations and professional certificates. You can find courses on Agile Project Management, Scrum, and Lean, often at a lower cost or even free for audit tracks.
  • Pros: Wide variety of topics, flexible learning, often more affordable or even free audit options, university-backed content.
  • Considerations: Certifications may not be as universally recognized as official Scrum.org/Scrum Alliance/Kanban University ones, though they still add value.
• LinkedIn Learning: Offers thousands of video courses taught by industry experts. You can find many courses on Agile, Scrum, Kanban, and related project management topics.
  • Pros: Subscription model offers access to vast library, integrated with LinkedIn profiles for showcasing skills, practical and concise content.
  • Considerations: Primarily focused on skill development rather than official certifications though some pathways exist.
• Udemy / Skillshare: These platforms host courses from individual instructors. While quality can vary, you can find highly practical and affordable courses on Agile concepts.
  • Pros: Very affordable, wide variety of instructors and topics, self-paced learning.
  • Considerations: Quality assurance is less rigorous, certifications are not industry-recognized.

Alternative Learning Approaches Beyond Formal Courses

For those looking to learn without formal certification, or to supplement formal training, there are numerous beneficial alternatives:

• Books and Publications: Many foundational texts on Agile, Scrum, and Kanban are available. Examples include the Scrum Guide, Kanban Guide, “Agile Principles, Patterns, and Practices” by Robert C. Martin, or “The Lean Startup” by Eric Ries.
  • Pros: Cost-effective, self-paced,s into specific topics.
  • Considerations: Requires self-discipline, no direct interaction with instructors.
• Community Forums and Meetups: Engaging with local or online Agile communities e.g., Meetup groups, Reddit communities, LinkedIn groups provides opportunities for networking, learning from peers, and gaining practical insights.
  • Pros: Free or low-cost, real-world experience sharing, networking opportunities.
  • Considerations: Information quality can vary, not structured learning.
• Podcasts and Webinars: John Coleman’s own Xagility™ and Agility Island podcasts are excellent examples of free resources. Many other experts and organizations offer free webinars on various Agile topics.
  • Pros: Convenient, often free, current industry insights.
  • Considerations: Not structured for certification, passive learning.
• Mentorship and Coaching: Seeking out experienced Agile practitioners for mentorship can provide personalized guidance and accelerate learning.
  • Pros: Tailored advice, practical application focus, invaluable insights.
  • Considerations: Can be challenging to find, may involve a cost for formal coaching.

When choosing an alternative, consider your specific learning goals, budget, preferred learning style, and the recognition level required for your career path.

For those committed to ethical professional growth, investing in reputable, knowledge-based platforms is always a good decision. Olaelectric.com Reviews

Ace.works Pricing

Understanding the investment required for professional development is crucial.

Ace.works, like many specialized training providers, offers premium courses aligned with official certifications.

The pricing structure is generally per course, with variations based on the specific certification level and duration.

Course-Specific Pricing Details

Based on the information available on the Ace.works homepage, the pricing is transparently listed for several key courses, often showing both a regular price and a sale price.

This indicates potential opportunities for savings. Snustown.co.uk Reviews

• Professional Scrum Master PSM:
  • Regular Price: From £1,089.00
  • Sale Price: From £699.00
  • This is a foundational Scrum Master certification.
• Professional Scrum Product Owner PSPO:
  • Regular Price: From £1,099.00
  • Sale Price: From £799.00
  • Focuses on product value and management within Scrum.
• Professional Scrum with User Experience PSU:
  • Regular Price: From £1,189.00
  • Combines Scrum with UX principles.
• Scaled Professional Scrum SPS:
  • Regular Price: From £1,289.00
  • Sale Price: From £899.00
  • Addresses scaling Scrum for multiple teams.
• Professional Scrum Master Advanced PSM-A In Person – Malaga, Spain:
  • Regular Price: From £1,285.00
  • Sale Price: From £895.00
  • An advanced Scrum Master course, with a specific in-person option highlighted.

It’s important to note that the “From” indicates that there might be slight variations in price based on specific dates, locations for in-person, or bundled offers not immediately visible.

These prices are competitive within the market for official Scrum.org certified training, which typically ranges from £700 to £1,500+ depending on the course and trainer’s reputation.

What’s Included in the Price?

While the website doesn’t explicitly detail every inclusion for each course, typical offerings for professional Agile certification training at this price point generally include:

• Instructor-Led Training: Direct instruction from John Coleman, a highly experienced and certified trainer.
• Course Materials: Access to digital or physical course workbooks, slides, and supplementary readings.
• Certification Exam Access: For Scrum.org courses, the cost typically includes a voucher for the associated certification exam e.g., PSM I exam for the PSM course. It’s crucial to confirm this detail for each specific course before enrollment.
• Post-Course Support: Some trainers offer limited post-course support or access to alumni communities, though this isn’t explicitly mentioned on the homepage.
• Guaranteed Runs: The “GUARANTEED TO RUN” feature ensures that once you register, the course will proceed as scheduled, minimizing logistical disruptions.

Value for Money and Investment Justification

Investing in professional Agile certifications like those offered by Ace.works can be justified as a strategic career move.

• Increased Earning Potential: Certified Agile professionals often command higher salaries. According to a 2023 report by the Project Management Institute PMI, professionals with Agile certifications on average earn 20-25% more than their non-certified counterparts in similar roles. For instance, a Scrum Master with PSM I certification might see a significant bump in salary compared to someone without.
• Enhanced Job Prospects: Many organizations now explicitly require or prefer candidates with Agile certifications for roles like Scrum Master, Product Owner, and Agile Coach. A certification from a reputable source like Scrum.org validates your skills and knowledge, making you more competitive in the job market.
• Skill Validation: The certification process itself ensures a certain level of understanding and competency in Agile principles and practices. This isn’t just about a piece of paper. it’s about demonstrating verified skills.
• Practical Application: With an experienced trainer like John Coleman, the focus is likely on applying theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios, which maximizes the practical utility of the training.

For organizations, the investment in training teams through Ace.works can lead to: Diploma-msc.com Reviews

• Improved Project Delivery: Teams well-versed in Scrum and Kanban can deliver products and services more efficiently and effectively.
• Increased Adaptability: Agile practices foster adaptability, allowing organizations to respond quickly to market changes and customer needs.
• Enhanced Collaboration: Training promotes a shared understanding of Agile principles, leading to better team cohesion and cross-functional collaboration.

Given the potential returns in career advancement and organizational efficiency, the pricing for Ace.works courses, especially during sale periods, represents a sound investment in professional and organizational growth.

Always ensure that the investment aligns with your overall financial planning and personal or organizational goals, prioritizing ethical and permissible means of growth and development.

How to Cancel Ace.works Subscription

Based on the nature of Ace.works’ offerings—primarily one-time professional training courses and certifications—it’s highly unlikely that the platform operates on a recurring “subscription” model in the traditional sense.

The website’s current layout and product descriptions indicate individual course purchases rather than ongoing monthly or annual memberships for content access.

Understanding Ace.works’ Purchase Model

Ace.works appears to sell individual training slots for specific dates and courses. Elegatto.com Reviews

When you purchase a course like “Professional Scrum Master PSM,” you are buying access to that particular scheduled training event, not a recurring subscription to a library of content or ongoing services.

• One-Time Purchases: Courses are listed with a clear “Regular price” and “Sale price,” suggesting a transactional, one-time payment for a specific product the course.
• No Mention of Recurring Fees: There is no visible indication of monthly fees, membership tiers, or subscription plans on the homepage or in the typical areas where such information would be displayed e.g., “Pricing” or “Plans” sections.
• “Subscribe to our emails” Call to Action: This is for marketing updates new collections, exclusive offers, not for a service subscription.

Therefore, the concept of “canceling an Ace.works subscription” doesn’t directly apply. Instead, the relevant actions would relate to course registration cancellations or refund policies.

General Steps for Course Cancellation/Refund Based on typical industry practices

If you have purchased a course and need to cancel or request a refund, you would typically follow these steps, which are standard for professional training providers:

1. Locate Their Terms and Conditions / Refund Policy:

   • Check the website’s footer: Most professional websites have links to “Terms of Service,” “Refund Policy,” “Cancellation Policy,” or “FAQs.” This is where Ace.works would detail its specific rules regarding cancellations.
   • Review Course Enrollment Confirmation: When you register and pay for a course, you typically receive an email confirmation. This email often contains direct links to policies or summaries of cancellation terms.

2. Contact Ace.works Directly: Fnp.sg Reviews

   • Look for a “Contact Us” section: The most reliable way to inquire about cancellations or refunds is to reach out to their customer service. This usually involves an email address or a contact form.
   • Provide Purchase Details: When contacting them, be prepared to provide your full name, the course name, the date of purchase, the scheduled course dates, and your order number.

3. Understand Refund Deadlines and Fees:

   • Most training providers have tiered refund policies:
     • Full Refund: Often available if you cancel within a short period after purchase e.g., 24-48 hours or well in advance of the course start date e.g., 30+ days.
     • Partial Refund: If you cancel closer to the course start date e.g., 7-30 days out, a partial refund might be offered, possibly with an administrative fee deducted.
     • No Refund: Typically, no refunds are given if you cancel very close to the course start date e.g., within 7 days, or if you fail to attend the course without prior notice.
   • Transfer Options: Sometimes, instead of a refund, providers offer the option to transfer your enrollment to a future course date or to another participant. This can be a good alternative if you cannot attend the original session.

Crucial Advice: Always read the specific cancellation and refund policy before making a purchase. Since Ace.works focuses on high-value, scheduled training, their policies will likely be strict regarding cancellations close to the training date, reflecting the costs associated with reserving trainers and materials.

How to Cancel Ace.works Free Trial

Based on the comprehensive review of the Ace.works website, including its homepage, course descriptions, and general business model, there is no indication or mention of a “free trial” for any of its services or courses. Ace.works primarily offers one-time purchases for professional certification training in Agile, Scrum, and Kanban.

Ace.works’ Business Model: Course Purchases, Not Trials

The business model of Ace.works revolves around the sale of specific, scheduled training courses.

When you sign up for a “Professional Scrum Master PSM” or “Scaled Professional Scrum SPS” course, you are making a direct, paid enrollment for that particular event. Digitalallkeys.co.uk Reviews

This is distinct from subscription-based services or software products that often offer free trials to attract users.

• Direct Course Enrollment: The website clearly displays prices for courses, often with “Regular price” and “Sale price,” indicating a direct transaction for access to a training session.
• No “Try Free” or “Start Trial” Buttons: There are no elements on the site that suggest a trial period for any of their offerings.
• Focus on Certification: The primary goal of Ace.works is to provide professional certification training, which inherently involves a commitment to a paid course to receive instruction and qualify for exams.

Why Free Trials are Unlikely for this Type of Service

Free trials are more common for:

• Software-as-a-Service SaaS: Where users can explore features before committing to a recurring subscription.
• Content Libraries: Platforms offering access to a vast collection of videos, articles, or tools on an ongoing basis.
• Services with Recurring Billing: To onboard users into a continuous relationship.

Professional, instructor-led training, especially for certifications, typically involves significant upfront costs for the provider e.g., trainer fees, venue costs for in-person, platform costs for virtual delivery, and limited class sizes. Offering a free trial for such a service is generally not feasible from a business perspective.

What to Do If You Were Expecting a Free Trial and Found None

If you arrived at Ace.works expecting a free trial based on a general search or a misunderstanding, it’s important to adjust your expectations.

1. Re-evaluate Your Needs: If you are looking for free introductory content on Agile or Scrum, consider external resources such as:
   • The official Scrum Guide: Freely available online.
   • YouTube channels: Many Agile coaches and organizations offer free introductory videos.
   • Blogs and Articles: Numerous websites provide free articles explaining Agile concepts.
   • Podcasts: John Coleman’s own Xagility™ and Agility Island podcasts are excellent free resources mentioned on the site.
2. Contact Ace.works for Information: If you have specific questions about course content or suitability before committing to a paid course, you can use the “Contact Us” feature on the Ace.works website to inquire. They may be able to provide more details about course outlines or answer specific queries to help you decide.

In summary, since Ace.works does not appear to offer free trials, there is no process for “canceling” one. Foothaven.com.au Reviews

Any financial commitment would be for a direct course enrollment, subject to their specific cancellation and refund policies.

Always ensure that any financial decisions are made carefully, aligning with your ethical guidelines and promoting beneficial, permissible learning avenues.

Ace.works vs. Other Agile Training Providers

While its offerings are robust, especially with John Coleman’s expertise, understanding how it stacks up against other prominent players is crucial for making an informed decision.

The primary comparison points usually revolve around trainer expertise, certification recognition, course content depth, pricing, and learning flexibility.

Ace.works vs. Other Scrum.org Partners

Ace.works is essentially a training provider represented by John Coleman as a Professional Scrum Trainer, or PST within the broader Scrum.org ecosystem. Readymovers.com.au Reviews

Many other PSTs and organizations also offer identical Scrum.org courses.

• Key Differentiator Ace.works: The central differentiator is John Coleman himself. His “top 5 agility thought leader” status, co-authorship of the Kanban Guide, and diverse experience Xagility, Kanplexity offer a unique blend of foundational knowledge and advanced, practical insights. Students are getting direct access to someone who has significantly contributed to the Agile body of knowledge.
• Other Scrum.org PSTs/Organizations: There are hundreds of other PSTs globally, each with their own unique style, industry experience, and schedule availability. Some might specialize in different industries e.g., healthcare, finance, while others might have a stronger focus on specific aspects of Scrum.
  • Pros of Others: More diverse schedule options, potential for local in-person classes in different regions, varied industry perspectives.
  • Cons of Others: Quality of instruction can vary. not every PST has the same level of recognized thought leadership as John Coleman.
• Certification: The certification e.g., PSM I obtained through Ace.works is identical to the one obtained through any other Scrum.org PST, as the curriculum and exam standards are set by Scrum.org.

Ace.works vs. Scrum Alliance

Scrum Alliance is the other major global certifying body for Scrum professionals.

While both offer similar roles Scrum Master, Product Owner, their approach, community, and certification pathways differ.

• Certification Names:
  • Ace.works Scrum.org: Professional Scrum Master PSM, Professional Scrum Product Owner PSPO, etc.
  • Scrum Alliance: Certified Scrum Master CSM, Certified Scrum Product Owner CSPO, etc.
• Certification Process:
  • Scrum.org: Often emphasizes a more challenging online assessment after the course to earn certification. The course itself is the primary learning vehicle.
  • Scrum Alliance: Requires attendance of a specific course taught by a Certified Scrum Trainer CST and often includes a simpler online exam or no exam for some certifications. The emphasis is heavily on the trainer-led class.
• Community: Both have strong communities, but they are distinct. Scrum Alliance often emphasizes local user groups and a broader community feel.
• Renewal: Scrum.org certifications generally do not expire, though advanced certifications might recommend ongoing learning. Scrum Alliance certifications typically require renewal every two years through earning Scrum Education Units SEUs and paying a fee.
• Content Focus: While both cover core Scrum, the emphasis on practical application and advanced topics like Executive Agility and Kanban Guide co-authorship at Ace.works via John Coleman might offer a more comprehensive or deeper dive for some.

Ace.works vs. General Project Management Certifications e.g., PMP, PRINCE2

While not direct competitors in the Agile space, individuals often choose between Agile-specific certifications and broader project management ones.

• Ace.works Agile Focus: Specializes in iterative, adaptive project approaches. Ideal for roles in software development, product management, or organizations undergoing Agile transformation.
• PMP Project Management Professional: Offered by PMI, it’s a broad project management certification covering various methodologies, including predictive waterfall and Agile. It requires significant experience and a rigorous exam.
• PRINCE2: A structured project management methodology, often used in government and large organizations, particularly in the UK and Europe.
• Comparison: If your career path is strictly within Agile or Lean environments, Ace.works’ offerings are more targeted. If you need a broad project management foundation or work in hybrid/waterfall environments, PMP or PRINCE2 might be more suitable. However, many project managers now pursue both traditional and Agile certifications to be versatile.

Key Considerations When Choosing

• Career Goals: What specific roles are you targeting? Are you looking for a Scrum Master role, a Product Owner, or aiming for broader organizational leadership in Agile?
• Employer Preference: Does your current or target employer have a preference for Scrum.org or Scrum Alliance certifications?
• Learning Style: Do you prefer an intensive, expert-led training with a challenging exam, or a more community-focused approach?
• Budget & Time: Compare the total cost course + exam fees + potential travel and the time commitment required for each option.
• Trainer Quality: Research the instructors. This is where Ace.works shines due to John Coleman’s profile. For other providers, look for testimonials, industry recognition, and relevant experience of the specific trainer.

Ultimately, Ace.works offers a strong proposition for those seeking high-quality, expert-led training in specific Agile frameworks, particularly Scrum and Kanban, backed by globally recognized certifications from Scrum.org and ProKanban.org. Ganesanthiru.com Reviews

The value proposition is particularly compelling for individuals and organizations seeking to learn from a renowned thought leader in the field.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Ace.works?

Ace.works is a professional training platform specializing in Agile methodologies, Scrum, and Kanban.

It offers certification courses from recognized bodies like Scrum.org and ProKanban.org, led by experienced trainer John Coleman.

Who is John Coleman from Ace.works?

John Coleman is the founder and lead trainer at Ace.works.

He is a highly experienced Agile practitioner, a Scrum.org Professional Scrum Trainer PST, a co-author of the Kanban Guide, and recognized as a “top 5 agility thought leader” by Thinkers360 and one of the “Top 50 Agile Leaders of 2022.” Bigbigmart.com Reviews

What certifications does Ace.works offer?

Ace.works offers official certifications from Scrum.org, including Professional Scrum Master PSM, Professional Scrum Product Owner PSPO, Professional Scrum with User Experience PSU, Scaled Professional Scrum SPS, and Professional Scrum Master Advanced PSM-A. It also offers training for ProKanban.org certifications.

Are Ace.works courses suitable for beginners?

Yes, courses like the Professional Scrum Master PSM and Professional Scrum Product Owner PSPO are foundational and suitable for individuals new to Scrum, while advanced courses cater to more experienced practitioners.

What is the cost of Ace.works courses?

The cost varies by course, but generally ranges from £699.00 to £899.00 during sale periods, with regular prices often over £1,000. For example, PSM starts from £699.00, and SPS starts from £899.00.

Does Ace.works offer in-person training?

Yes, Ace.works offers both online and in-person training sessions.

Specific in-person classes, like PSM-A in Malaga, Spain, are listed on their website.

Are Ace.works courses guaranteed to run?

Yes, several courses on the Ace.works website are explicitly marked as “GUARANTEED TO RUN,” providing assurance that they will not be canceled due to low enrollment.

Is Ace.works a legitimate training provider?

Yes, based on the credentials of its lead trainer, John Coleman, and its alignment with official certification bodies like Scrum.org and ProKanban.org, Ace.works appears to be a legitimate and reputable training provider.

How do I contact Ace.works customer support?

You would typically find contact information, such as an email address or contact form, in the “Contact Us” section or footer of the Ace.works website.

Does Ace.works offer a free trial?

No, based on the information available on their website, Ace.works does not appear to offer a free trial for its professional training courses.

Purchases are direct enrollments for specific training sessions.

Can I get a refund if I cancel an Ace.works course?

Refund policies vary by provider.

You would need to refer to Ace.works’ specific terms and conditions or cancellation policy, usually found on their website, for details regarding refunds and cancellation deadlines.

What is “Executive Agility Xagility” mentioned on Ace.works?

Executive Agility Xagility is a concept and framework developed by John Coleman, focusing on applying Agile principles at the executive and organizational level to drive strategic change and continuous improvement.

What is “Kanplexity” mentioned on Ace.works?

Kanplexity is another concept launched by John Coleman, likely related to managing complexity within organizations using Kanban principles, though detailed information would be found within relevant course content or specific publications.

How does Ace.works compare to Scrum Alliance?

Ace.works partners with Scrum.org for its certifications, while Scrum Alliance is a separate certifying body.

While both offer Scrum certifications PSM vs. CSM, they have different certification pathways, community structures, and renewal requirements.

Does Ace.works provide materials for the certification exams?

Typically, the cost of professional certification courses includes access to course materials and often a voucher for the associated certification exam.

It’s advisable to confirm this for each specific course before enrolling.

Are there any discounts available for Ace.works courses?

Yes, the Ace.works website frequently displays “Sale price” alongside “Regular price” for many of its courses, indicating that discounts are often available.

What is the benefit of learning from a “top 5 agility thought leader”?

Learning from a top agility thought leader like John Coleman means gaining insights directly from someone who is actively shaping the field, with deep practical experience and influence, rather than just theoretical knowledge.

Does Ace.works offer custom training for organizations?

While not explicitly detailed on the homepage, given John Coleman’s experience with “scaling” and “Executive Agility,” it is highly probable that Ace.works offers custom or private training solutions for organizations looking to train their teams.

Inquiries should be directed to their contact page.

Are the certifications from Ace.works globally recognized?

Yes, certifications from Scrum.org e.g., PSM, PSPO and ProKanban.org are globally recognized and highly respected within the Agile and project management industries.

How often are new courses or dates added to Ace.works?

The website mentions “View all Upcoming In-Person Classes” and encourages users to “Subscribe to our emails” for updates on new collections and offers, suggesting that course dates and offerings are updated regularly.

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