For a Developer who is working as a Project Manager, is the Project+ worth the investment?

Question

I have been a developer for 5 years and recently took a position within my company as a Junior Project Manager. I enjoy this track as I also get to do some coding on the side for bug fixes or quick Perl scripts (I am more of a Python guy myself, but I use what I need to use). At any rate, I have been thinking about getting a Project+ Certification as I feel that I will enjoy being a Project Manager in the IT field. I don't yet have enough time under my belt for the more difficult (and more prestigious) PMP, but still want to have something on my resume in case the economy causes my employer to let people go.

So, to make a short question long, is the Project+ certification worth the time, money, and effort needed to get it? I am always hesitant about paying for certifications as they often only serve to get the foot in the door; once a job is attained they typically add little. Unless I am mistaken.

What do you guys think?

Answer 1

My experience has been that the Project+ certification does not hold near the weight and prestige as the PMP. I don't think it is worth the time and money to go after that cert. You can always look at the CAPM if you want something from PMI but don't have the PDUs or time in for the full PMP. Studying for the CAPM counts towards the PMP as a bonus!

Answer 2

I moved from the development side to the PM side as well.

My experience is that the only cert that makes a bit of difference is the PMP cert. Your foot is already in the door. Don't waste your time.

Just my thoughts.