Two different classifications of managers are product managers and project managers; these are critical management roles, and often do not get the recognition that they deserve.
To differentiate between the two needs an understanding of what each entails. For a start, a product includes an item or service that is offered for sale. They are thought of, developed, introduced and managed in a market over a particular time span.
A project is a series of tasks and activities, which contribute to the creation, or support of a product or service. They are organised within a framework and are subject to being dependent on the performance of others, which can make them a risky business.
A product manager, therefore, is the leader of production teams, and is responsible for the optimisation of the product and its market value. Product managers should use strategies that are consistent with corporate strategies.
Project managers, on the other hand, are responsible for the planning, monitoring and overseeing of all aspects of a project. They need to motivate and synchronise resources so that objectives can be met within the constraints of time, cost and quality.
Product and project managers share some common characteristics. They both need to have excellent time management, organisational and interpersonal skills. They also need to be single minded and relentless in pursuit of their goals, and they need very definite leadership qualities in order to get the best from their teams. To be able to combine a relentless attitude while at the same time inspiring others to work well is a skill that many mangers actually lack, depending on fear tactics instead. This can have a negative impact because many workers will only work well under these circumstances if the spotlight is actually on them, so proper management training is essential for both product and project managers.
To differentiate between the two needs an understanding of what each entails. For a start, a product includes an item or service that is offered for sale. They are thought of, developed, introduced and managed in a market over a particular time span.
A project is a series of tasks and activities, which contribute to the creation, or support of a product or service. They are organised within a framework and are subject to being dependent on the performance of others, which can make them a risky business.
A product manager, therefore, is the leader of production teams, and is responsible for the optimisation of the product and its market value. Product managers should use strategies that are consistent with corporate strategies.
Project managers, on the other hand, are responsible for the planning, monitoring and overseeing of all aspects of a project. They need to motivate and synchronise resources so that objectives can be met within the constraints of time, cost and quality.
Product and project managers share some common characteristics. They both need to have excellent time management, organisational and interpersonal skills. They also need to be single minded and relentless in pursuit of their goals, and they need very definite leadership qualities in order to get the best from their teams. To be able to combine a relentless attitude while at the same time inspiring others to work well is a skill that many mangers actually lack, depending on fear tactics instead. This can have a negative impact because many workers will only work well under these circumstances if the spotlight is actually on them, so proper management training is essential for both product and project managers.
