Product Owner (PO) VS Product Manager (PM)

Product Owner (PO) and Product Manager (PM) roles differ in a simple, non-technical way:

Product Manager (PM) = Restaurant Owner
- Decides the overall vision: What kind of restaurant it will be (Italian, fast food, fine dining).
- Understands customer needs: Talks to diners to know what they like.
- Plans the long-term menu and strategy.
- Makes sure the restaurant stays profitable and competitive.
Product Owner (PO) = Head Chef
- Works with the team (kitchen staff) to prepare the dishes.
- Focuses on daily execution: Which dishes to cook today, what ingredients to use.
- Ensures quality: Makes sure the food meets customer expectations.
- Adjusts based on feedback but follows the overall vision set by the owner.

Vision & Strategy – Defines the long-term goal of the product.
- 📌 Example: Decides whether the restaurant should focus on fine dining, fast food, or expand into delivery.
Market & Customer Research – Understands customer needs and market trends.
- 📌 Example: Conducts surveys, studies competitors, and identifies demand for vegan dishes.
Business & Revenue Goals – Ensures the product is profitable.
- 📌 Example: Sets pricing for dishes, negotiates with suppliers, and explores new locations.
Stakeholder Collaboration – Works with executives, marketing, sales, and investors.
- 📌 Example: Discusses expansion plans with investors or works with marketing to attract more customers.
Roadmap & Future Planning – Plans for long-term growth and product evolution.
- 📌 Example: Decides when to introduce seasonal dishes, open a new branch, or add online ordering.

Backlog Management – Decides what features (or tasks) should be done first.
- 📌 Example: Prioritizes adding new dishes based on customer demand.
Requirement Gathering & Clarification – Works with the team to ensure everyone understands the tasks.
- 📌 Example: Explains to chefs how to prepare new dishes and ensures they meet quality standards.
Sprint Planning & Execution – Works with the team to deliver features efficiently.
- 📌 Example: Ensures the kitchen operates smoothly and orders are served in the right order.
Feedback & Iteration – Collects user feedback and ensures improvements.
- 📌 Example: Adjusts recipes or portion sizes based on customer complaints.
Collaboration with Development Team – Acts as a bridge between business goals and the technical team.
- 📌 Example: Ensures chefs and waitstaff (developers and support teams) understand daily priorities and customer needs.

The Product Manager (Restaurant Owner) focuses on long-term strategy, business growth, and customer trends.
The Product Owner (Restaurant Manager) focuses on daily execution, team coordination, and product delivery.