ABSTRACT
This study dispels the misconception
that product managers are responsible for the entire product management framework.
The software product management framework encompasses
diverse functions across departments, including engineering, finance, legal, sales,
marketing, customer service, and support. Managing all
these functions independently is deemed impractical for a Product Manager. The research
aims to elucidate the specific activities, responsibilities, and accountability of software product
managers (PMs) within the diverse organizational landscape. It focuses on
understanding the interplay between strategic product managers, technical product
managers, and other cross-functional roles. Utilizing a systematic
literature review, the product life cycle model, and the Responsibility,
Accountability, Consulted, and Informed (RACI)
technique, this study analyzes stakeholders’ roles in product management. The investigation identifies 19 key
activities for PMs. The study introduces two frameworks, the Software Product
Manager Life Cycle Model (SPM-LCM) and Software Product Manager RACI Framework (SPM- RF), outlining the comprehensive role of Software
Product Managers. These frameworks clarify product managers’ roles, responsibilities, and accountabilities, illustrating their interaction with cross-functional groups and providing an in-depth
understanding of their functions.