How is the relationship between a Product Owner (PO) and a Product Manager (PM) characterized?

The relationship between a Product Owner (PO) and a Product Manager (PM) is primarily characterized by the focus of each role. The Product Owner is intimately involved with the development team and has a strong emphasis on the delivery of value through user stories, backlog management, and ensuring the team is aligned on features being built. This team-oriented perspective means the PO is deeply engaged in the daily activities and processes that drive product development.

On the other hand, the Product Manager has a broader, market-oriented view. This role is responsible for understanding customer needs, the competitive landscape, and the overall market strategy. The PM looks beyond the daily tasks and focuses on long-term vision, aligning the product development with business goals and market opportunities.

These differing focuses—team-oriented for the PO and market-oriented for the PM—illustrate the complementary nature of their roles. The synergy between the two ensures that while the Product Owner drives execution and delivery, the Product Manager aligns the product strategy with the broader market context.