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Product Thinking Newsletter by Melissa Perri

Understanding Product vs Project Management

Published 2 months ago • 2 min read

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Hi Product people,

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In this week’s Product Thinking podcast, I explored the nuanced roles of product management and project management. It’s a common mix-up, yet understanding their distinct contributions is key to driving product success. I discussed how these roles complement each other, with product management focusing on the 'why' and value creation, and project management ensuring the 'when' and timely delivery.

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"Product management is about the why and the value creation part of it. Project management is more about the when, coordinating resources, timelines, and making sure it actually gets done."

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I dived into the evolution of these roles with the rise of Agile, where teams began managing projects themselves, often blurring the lines between these two functions. However, in larger organizations with complex products, having dedicated project managers can greatly enhance coordination across multiple teams and initiatives.

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This episode is packed with insights into how both roles can coexist to create more impactful product strategies. Don’t miss out and listen to the full episode for a deeper understanding!

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🎧 Listen to the full episode here: Apple | Spotify

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Looking forward to hearing from you!

See you in the new year,

Melissa Perri

Founder Product Institute, Board Member, and Teacher
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You’ll hear us talk about:

  • 01:19 - Differentiating Product and Project Management

Melissa clarifies the core differences between product and project management, emphasizing the importance of focusing on value creation and timelines.

  • 02:43 - The Role of Agile in Product Development

A discussion on how Agile practices have transformed traditional project management roles and why product managers often take on project tasks in smaller teams.

  • 04:04 - Leveraging Roles for Product Success

Insights into how larger organizations can benefit from dedicated project managers and the value they add in coordinating across multiple products and teams.

Other Resources:

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THE PRODUCT THINKING PODCAST IS SPONSORED BY

Product Management training at scale for teams and individuals, created by Melissa Perri.

LEARN MORE

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Do you have a product dilemma you just can’t solve? Are you in need of some pointed career guidance? We’ve got a direct line to Melissa, so now’s your chance to ask her anything you’d like. You can record a voice message here, or you can submit a question via form below. Melissa just might answer it in a future Dear Melissa segment of the podcast.

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The CPO Accelerator is a members-only live virtual course for product leaders taught by Melissa Perri. The move from product leader to VP or CPO can be challenging. It takes a whole new set of skills to succeed at the next level, and you may be the first person at your company to hold this seat at the executive table.

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Product Thinking is the newsletter of Product Institute, Inc. and Melissa Perri.

Product Thinking Newsletter by Melissa Perri

All things Product Management

Subscribe to this newsletter if you are a product manager or product leader interested in leveling up your strategy, process, and insights into technology. I send out emails once a week on Wednesdays.

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