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Three PMs: Project, Product and Program Managers

Learn the difference between project management, product management and program management.

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By Andrew Monko

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How do the job titles project manager, product manager and program manager differ?

These titles certainly sound similar and often create confusion. You may even think that they are all project management jobs. Abbreviating these titles to "PM" can add to the confusion, as well as the fact that some may possibly be known under alternate titles in different industries. In reality, each position typically performs a distinct and separate role within a company structure.

The following guide defines project management, product management and program management, and differentiates each type of manager's role.

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Project Manager

A project manager is charged with the successful delivery of a project that meets all budget, scope and scheduling requirements. Risk assessment, project-team leadership and resource allocation are also routine components of a project manager's job.

Any project of any size, and in any industry, can benefit from the services of a project manager to define the project, coordinate implementation and ensure its final success. Once the project is completed, however, a project manager will often move to work on a different project or venture. According to the Project Management Institute's Project Management Body of Knowledge, a project is "a temporary endeavor undertaken to create a unique product, service, or result."

Many project management jobs exist because managing a project is itself applicable to a wide spectrum of dissimilar industries.

Key point: Project managers typically work on finite projects, then move on to new assignments.

Possible aliases: Business analyst, campaign manager, workflow administrator, computer and information systems manager (IT), construction manager (construction), project engineer (chemical industry)

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Product Manager

A product manager is often found in a marketing department, although different companies may place this role in other branches of their organizational structure, depending on the industry. Product managers are responsible for a product's overall and continuing success. A product manager may employ the services of a project manager to help roll out a new or updated product or service, but when the project is finished, the project manager will transition to a new assignment, while the product manager continues to support the product over its lifecycle. The job of overseeing a product or service throughout its entire life span belongs to the product manager alone.

New projects that involve project managers may be created if the product is expanded or revised, but the product manager maintains continuity with the product.

Key point: Product managers are continuously responsible for the success of a product.

Possible aliases: Brand manager, Marketing manager

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Program Manager

Typically found in larger companies and organizations, program management operates a layer above project management, overseeing ongoing strategic programs to accomplish long-term goals for the company. A program manager oversees multiple, and often interdependent, projects. While program management may involve orchestrating several projects, there is typically a singular goal that the program manager strives to achieve to benefit the organization (increasing a product's sales or improving customer satisfaction, for example).

Key point: Program management is a "macro view"—an oversight of several projects within a program to accomplish an organizational objective.

Possible alias: Division director

Sources: www.opm.gov; www.group.slac.stanford.edu

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