The Dynamic Duo: UX Designer & Product Manager

  Imagine two stone pillars working in harmony to support an arch.   Not only can they hold more weight together than alone, their interaction creates an entirely new and functional architectural element — the doorway. Like these two crucial yet distinct columns, the UX designer and product manager are the two core entities on whom the success of a product rests.   Don’t be fooled into thinking that these two players are interchangeable. Both positions work intimately with the product, but each has distinctly different area of expertise. UX designers generally focus on the creative formation of the product idea, while product managers direct the practical application of the idea.  

UX Designers Create, Product Managers Execute

  UX designers take on the creative side of product development. They translate the company’s vision into the product interface, implementing their knowledge of user behavior. The goal of a user experience designer is to determine the ultimate experience users will have while using the product. This is based on extensive market and user research coupled with a deep knowledge of the human psyche.   Product managers execute the product vision. They ensure smooth communication and cooperation between the various teams throughout development. Product managers support the UX designer’s work, helping to practically apply the user requirements within the product by utilizing various tools such as the product roadmap.   The product manager and UX designer work simultaneously in order to develop a successful product. A good product team consists of a project manager and UX designer who know how to work together and support each other’s roles, while executing their own individual tasks.  

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UX Designer V Product Manager by Megan Wilson
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Megan Wilson is user experience specialist & editor of UX Motel. She is also the Quality Assurance and UX Specialist at WalkMe Megan.w(at)walkme.com