A product manager is responsible for guiding the success of a product and leading the cross-functional team that is responsible for continuously improving it. The role is highly collaborative and cross-functional, and responsibilities can encompass product marketing, forecasting, and profit and loss (P&L) . The following are some of the key responsibilities of a product manager:
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Defining the product strategy, roadmap, and features: A product manager defines the strategy, roadmap, and features for a product or product line based on customer needs. By analyzing the market and competition, a product manager crafts a product vision that delivers unique value to customers and the business.
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Prioritizing product features: A product manager is responsible for prioritizing the product backlog and creating user stories.
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Gathering and interpreting customer feedback: Part of a product managers responsibilities is to search out, gather, handle, and prioritize customer needs and wants. Knowing the market requirements is key.
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Advocating for customers and their needs: The role description for a product manager includes the responsibility to advocate for customers and their needs. If there are issues with product-market fit, the product manager must advocate for what the customer wants.
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Determining metrics for success: A product manager is responsible for determining metrics for success and ensuring that the product supports the company’s overall strategy and goals.
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Coordinating all the processes needed to get a product ready for the market: The product manager role is responsible for the prioritization of a product’s release course and product life cycle, as well as for coordinating all the processes needed to get a product not only ready for the market but onto the market as well.
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Leading cross-functional teams: Product managers guide the development of a companys product or feature, and serve as a liaison between business, technology, and design teams. They lead cross-functional teams responsible for improving the product and its features.
The specific responsibilities of a product manager may vary depending on the size of the organization and the type of product management role. However, the role generally involves a wide range of skills, including domain expertise, strategic thinking, communication, and leadership.