I indirectly started doing product management at a startup in 2023, when I joined the team initially as a Technical Writer. I didn’t plan to step into the role, but I naturally found myself communicating with cross-functional teams, knowing what needed to be done, and guiding the product’s direction. Over time, I got to like it!
Now that I’m writing this, I just realized I’ve been doing project management since 2020, when I first got the idea to build Envitab—a platform that connects people with companies that dispose of trash; think Uber but for trash pickup.
I created my first business model for Envitab on July 17th, 2022, using the Lean Stack software, which is a tool for quickly creating business models with the LEAN methodology—a framework for testing and validating ideas with minimal resources.
I also made a PRD (Product Requirements Document, a detailed outline of a product’s features), a wireframe/UI, and even a landing page (HTML and CSS 😎).
It’s 2024, and I’m still working on Envitab. The product is coming together, and I’ll be setting up a team soon :)
Connecting the dots, all the time I spent learning programming/software development, UI/UX, and even Cybersecurity (yes, I dabbled in that too back in 2020!) was actually prepping me for a time like this, where I’m fully building and managing projects/products.
Now, with that intro done, let's dive into the core of today’s topic:
- What is a product and project?
- What is product management?
- What is project management?
- How do the two work together?
What’s the Difference Between a Product and a Project?
In simple terms, a product is something you create and maintain, with the goal of continuously delivering value to customers. Think about the iPhone—Apple releases new versions, fixes bugs, and constantly improves the product.
A project, on the other hand, is a temporary endeavor with a defined start and end. Projects help bring the product to life. For example, Apple’s team might start a project to develop a new iPhone feature. Once the feature is launched, that specific project ends, but the product continues evolving.
What is Product Management?
Product management is about the what and why of a product. The product manager defines the vision, sets the roadmap, and decides which features should be built. Their focus is on delivering value to customers while aligning with the company's business goals.
What is Project Management?
Project management focuses on the how. Project managers ensure that things are executed on time, within scope, and with the resources available. They’re responsible for making sure the product team stays on track during development, hitting deadlines, and avoiding scope creep.
How Do Product and Project Management Work Together?
Both roles are crucial in building successful products. While the product manager sets the direction and vision, the project manager handles the execution and ensures the team delivers the product on time. It's like driving a car—the product manager is the one holding the map, deciding where to go, and the project manager is the one making sure the car doesn’t run out of gas or break down along the way.
However, the skills between both roles are highly transferable, and one person can function across both. Understanding the vision helps execute better, and being aware of project constraints can guide more realistic product decisions. In startups or small teams, you might find yourself wearing both hats—setting the vision and managing the timeline—and that’s where adaptability and cross-functional skills really come in handy.
Now, I’m taking the Google Professional Certification on Project Management to build my skills and understand the field better. As I continue to work on Envitab, these skills will be invaluable.
This is day 2 of my 100 days writing challenge.
Reflecting on my journey so far, I’ve realized that all the skills I picked up—whether through technical writing, programming, or even managing cross-functional teams—have led me to this point. Product and project management might seem daunting, but by consistently learning, practicing, and reflecting on past experiences, we grow stronger in these roles.
Have you been managing products or projects without realizing it? Take a step back and connect the dots in your journey. If you're interested in pursuing these fields, tools like Lean Stack and certifications like Google’s Project Management course are great places to start.
Until next time,
Ekemini
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