What is the difference between a Product Owner and a product manager?

The difference between a Product Owner and a product manager lies primarily in their roles and responsibilities within a product development framework. A Product Owner focuses on maximising the value of the product by managing the product backlog, ensuring that the development team understands the items clearly. They typically operate within Agile environments, frequently liaising with stakeholders to refine product requirements.

Conversely, a product manager encompasses a broader scope, overseeing product strategy, vision, and market analysis. They are responsible for setting long-term goals, guiding the product’s lifecycle, and aligning the product with business objectives.