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Is there Any Difference between Project Managers and Product Managers?

While the titles project manager and product manager may seem similar, there are not the same. The reality is that these two have slightly different objectives and responsibilities. Here we will explain the main points of differences between the two positions, as well as the similarities.

1. Project Managers

A project manager is responsible for successful completion of a project. The project can be either a single project or a series of projects that accomplish one big goal. Each project has a defined start and ends time. Also, the scope of the project is fixed at the start. The role of the project manager is to lead a team with broad skill sets to successfully achieve project goals within time and budget.

The responsibilities of the project manager include the following.

• Successful project delivery
• Effective team collaboration
• Coordination with the product managers
• Communicating with project stakeholders

2. Product Managers

A product manager is the manager of a product. The product can be tangible or intangible. Tangible products include a physical product, while intangible products include service delivery.

Often described as a product’s CEO, product managers devise strategies, prioritize resources, and incorporate customer’s suggestions when defining features. They are involved throughout the lifecycle of the product. Unlike the role of project managers, their role does not stop once the product is completed. It continues throughout the product lifecycle.

Responsibilities of the product managers include the following

• Successful product delivery
• Leading product teams
• Coordinating with project managers
• Communicating directly with product customers

Project Manager and Product Manager —Role Overlap

Project managers and product managers have different responsibilities. However, their roles do overlap. Both of them need have good communication skills, time management skills, and leadership qualities. Moreover, both the management position requires excellent interpersonal and organizational skills.

That’s why the product managers are often asked to carry on a dual role by taking responsibility for a project. While it’s possible to have both the project manager and product manager role played by a single person, it’s often recommended to separate the roles to avoid conflict of interests.

Conclusion

Project managers and product managers are different concepts. You need to understand the differences and also the similarities between the two. While the roles do overlap in certain situations, the exact responsibilities are different. Project managers focus internally on the project and the association comes to an end after completion of the project. On the other hand, product managers focus externally on the customer and the product association remains through the product life cycle.

Whatever the role, both can benefit from using effective project management techniques and online project management software. This is because they have the overarching goal of leading the team effectively to achieve goals.