Project Manager vs Scrum Master: Which is a better career choice for you?

If you are contemplating a career in either project management or as a scrum master, it is important to understand the similarities and differences between these two roles. Scrum Masters work with Scrum teams to guide them in creating large products in short cycles, ensuring adherence to Scrum principles and Agile methodologies. On the other hand, Project Managers handle the logistical elements of a project, focusing on planning, organizing, and completing projects successfully. 

To prepare for a career as a Scrum Master, it is recommended to undergo training and certification programs to become Certified Scrum Master. For those interested in pursuing a career as a Project Manager, it is important to develop strong leadership qualities and project management expertise. The choice between becoming a Project Manager or a Scrum Master depends on your interests, skills, and career goals. Both roles offer rewarding opportunities and the chance to make a significant impact on project success. 

Also read: 5 ways an MBA in Project Management can help you advance your career

What is a project manager?

A project manager is a professional responsible for planning, executing, and overseeing projects from start to finish. Their job is to ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and according to the desired quality standards. The role of a project manager includes coordinating internal resources and external vendors, developing project plans, managing resources, tracking progress, and maintaining project documentation.

They are also responsible for managing scope, setting quality and performance standards, assessing risks, and reporting project outcomes. Additionally, project managers play a crucial role in building and developing project teams, as well as maintaining relationships with clients.

Also read: How MBA in Project Management can help you tackle complex projects

What is a scrum master?

A Scrum Master is a crucial role in agile software development, specifically working under the Scrum methodology. They act as facilitators for agile teams, bridging the gap between various departments and working closely with the product owner to translate tasks for developers. The responsibilities of a Scrum Master include assigning tasks, keeping the team on track, and maximizing productivity.

The Scrum Master plays a vital role in keeping the project moving forward and facilitating daily meetings. It’s important to note that they do not have sole authority or responsibility for the project outcome. The Scrum Master is responsible for gluing everything together and ensuring that Scrum is being implemented effectively. They wear different hats, including being a facilitator and a coach, to help the team achieve their objectives while promoting continuous improvement.

Differences between project manager and scrum master 

Here’s a table highlighting the key differences between a Project Manager and a Scrum Master:

	Project Manager	Scrum Master
Focus	Project Management	Scrum Framework and Agile Principles
Role	Responsible for overall project success	Facilitates the Scrum process and team dynamics
Responsibilities	Planning, organizing, and controlling project activities	Ensuring adherence to Scrum principles and practices
Authority	Decision-making authority for the project	No formal authority over the team
Scope	Manages the entire project lifecycle	Focuses on a specific Scrum team or project
Team interaction	Works closely with stakeholders, team members, and resources	Collaborates with the development team and Product Owner
Documentation	Emphasizes detailed project documentation	Encourages minimal documentation
Monitoring	Tracks project progress and adjusts plans as needed	Facilitates daily stand-ups, sprint planning, and reviews
Project metrics	Measures project success based on objectives, deliverables, and KPIs	Monitors team velocity, burndown charts, and sprint goals
Change management	Manages change requests and assesses their impact on the project	Promotes adaptive responses to changes in the Scrum process
Certifications	PMP (Project Management Professional) or PRINCE2 certification	Certified Scrum Master (CSM) or Professional Scrum Master (PSM) certification

What are the various industries that project managers and scrum masters can work in?

The various industries that project managers and scrum masters can work are discussed below:

1. Information Technology (IT)
2. Construction
3. Healthcare
4. Financial Services
5. Manufacturing
6. Marketing and Advertising
7. Education
8. Retail

Also read: How to choose the best MBA Project Management course

Average salaries of project manager and scrum master

According to the information gathered from various sources, the average salaries of project managers and scrum masters can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, education, certifications, and additional skills. The salary of a Scrum Master can go up to ₹ 26.4 Lakhs whereas the salary of a project manager can go up to ₹ 28.0 Lakhs. 

How does an MBA in project management prepare you for these roles?

An MBA in project management prepares individuals for various roles by equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively lead and manage projects. One of the key skills that an MBA program focuses on is communication. Project managers and scrum masters need to be able to communicate effectively with stakeholders, team members, and clients to ensure that everyone is on the same page and working towards the same goal. 

An MBA in project management provides individuals with a solid foundation in business principles and practices. This includes understanding financial management, risk assessment, and strategic planning, all of which are crucial aspects of project management. Having this business acumen allows project managers to make informed decisions and allocate resources effectively, ultimately leading to successful project outcomes.

Secure high-paying jobs across industries with an online MBA in project management on Online Manipal

Manipal University Jaipur offers an online MBA in Project Management program through Online Manipal that equips students with the skills and knowledge required to excel in the field of project management. This program is designed to meet the demands of professionals who are seeking high-paying jobs across various industries. The program focuses on various facets of project management. The curriculum covers the overall project management lifecycle, including project planning, budgeting, quality, risk, and more.

Also read: Why choose an MBA in Project Management?

The program also emphasizes the importance of practical application, bridging the gap between theory and practice. Through case studies and real-world examples, students gain valuable insights into the challenges and complexities of managing projects in different industries. Furthermore, the program faculty consists of experienced professionals and industry experts who provide valuable guidance and mentorship to students. Overall, the online MBA in Project Management program offered by MUJ provides a comprehensive and flexible learning experience for individuals looking to secure high-paying jobs in project management. 

Conclusion

Choosing between a career as a Project Manager or a Scrum Master depends on personal preferences, skills, and career goals. Project Managers excel in structured project management, while Scrum Masters thrive in agile, iterative environments. Project Managers handle broader scopes and collaborate with stakeholders, while Scrum Masters focus on guiding and empowering teams. The decision should consider individual strengths, interests, and work environments. Enroll in the MBA in Project Management course through Online Manipal and fulfill your career ambitions.

Also read: What will you learn in an MBA in Project Management?