What is a Technical Program Manager (TPM)?

A Technical Program Manager (TPM) is a special type of program management role often found in the tech field. The definition of TPM largely varies from company to company or even team to team. You have most likely heard of the titles Technical Project Manager and Technical Product Manager, both of which can be abbreviated to ‘TPM’. However, for this topic, I will focus on TPM as in Technical Program Manager.

To get an understanding of the TPM role, let’s start with the basics - projects and programs.

Project - is an endeavor with finite start and finish, with primary focus on execution and a goal to create specific product/service, often managed through TPM project management.

Example: Launching Google Maps to one new country/locale

Program - Collection of interdependent projects that need to be managed and coordinated together. Scope is usually larger and can last longer through multiple phases, often overseen by a technical program manager.

Example: Launch Google Maps in multiple languages in a region with specific plan to increase available features over time.

Project Manager vs Program Manager

A Project Manager generally manages a single project and the teams responsible for fulfilling that project at any given time. The goal is to achieve deliverables with resources available within schedule and budget.

A Project manager’s role is more tactical, with focus on operational elements such as meeting deadlines, staying within budget and delivering on time. A Project manager’s work is complete when the project is complete. Understanding what is a TPM in project management sheds light on the broader scope and responsibilities of a Technical Program Manager.

A Program Manager manages collection of projects, ongoing iterative changes and/or multiple programs. They track interdependencies across programs, creating program level plans to achieve a combined goal. They collaborate across teams and other project managers to understand status across the projects and support action to improve delivery.

Program Manager is usually seen as a leader for the entire program. They can articulate goals and objectives and its impact on the business. Role extends beyond completion of individual programs and looks at long term goals.

What does TPM stand for?

TPM stands for Technical Program Manager

Technical Program Manager is a type of Program Manager where the primary focus is on managing technical programs. TPM role is highly complex with three main axis - T for Technical, P for Program Sense, M for Management specific to Leadership and Communication.

What Skills Do Technical Program Managers Need?

The TPMs typically have domain expertise in specific technology that is leveraged to design, create and deliver business objectives. The programs can vary from deeply technical to large, complex multi-year strategic initiatives. They often span multiple teams, organizations or even companies.

TPMs are problem solvers with excellent leadership skills who can motivate the team to reach all business objectives. They understand team dynamics, product ecosystem and technical landscape. They often work on product/features that are technically complex and require extensive cross functional collaboration

Using the example of Google Maps, a TPM team led by a TPM leader will create an internationalization plan for launching to multiple countries and work with global teams (engineering, testing, marketing, legal, policy, etc.) across the company, including other program and project managers, to manage and track towards the desired business outcome - making Maps available in local languages in a certain region within a specific timeline.

Read more about the Core TPM Skills required to pave a successful Technical Program Manager career path.

What Does A Technical Program Manager Do?

TPMs come in many flavors and their role is very nuanced. Over the next few posts, I will dive into various aspects of being a TPM. I will cover topics such as

• Technical Program Manager role and responsibilities

• What to expect in Technical Program Manager interviews (TPM Interview Course)

• What is the best Technical Program Manager course

• How to think about Technical Program Manager salary

• What is the Technical Program Manager's career path

• What are the key Technical Program Manager skills and how to build them

How to become a strong Technical Program Manager?

Check out the technical program management training material and resources like TPM toolkits with templates and frameworks to elevate your execution skills.

---

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What does TPM stand for?

TPM stands for Technical Program Manager

How do I become a successful technical program manager?

Building the Core TPM Skills and focusing on high-value meaningful work will pave the way for success. Setting yearly goals will help clarify the plan and steps to get there.

What does a good technical program manager do?

Achieving excellence as a TPM requires the TPM to go beyond tactical task management. TPM needs to demonstrate strategic thinking, cross-functional leadership and broad execution among other things.

What are some technical program manager requirements?

The Core TPM Skills required are deep technical expertise, solid program management skills, strong leadership skills and effective communication skills.

How To Become a Technical Program Manager?

Becoming a Technical Program Manager typically involves a blend of technical expertise and strong leadership skills. Start by gaining experience in project management or a technical role, develop your communication and problem-solving skills, and consider pursuing relevant certifications. Networking within the tech industry and showcasing your ability to handle complex technical programs will also be beneficial. Check out our detailed guide on [Core TPM Skills](link to your blog post) for a roadmap to pave your way to success.

What Is The TPM Full Form?

TPM stands for Technical Program Manager. In the tech field, this role involves managing complex technical programs that may span across multiple projects, teams, and even organizations.

What Is the Difference Between a Technical Project Manager vs a Technical Program Manager?

The main difference lies in the scope of their responsibilities. A Technical Project Manager focuses on managing a single project, ensuring it stays on schedule and within budget. On the other hand, a Technical Program Manager oversees a collection of interdependent projects, often with a broader scope and longer duration. They handle program-level plans, coordinate interdependencies, and have a more strategic, long-term focus.

What Is a Technical Project Manager?

A Technical Project Manager is responsible for overseeing a specific project from start to finish. They work on ensuring that the project meets its goals within the given constraints of time and budget. While their role is more tactical, it's crucial for the successful execution of a particular project.

What Is the Difference Between a Product Manager vs Program Manager?

The distinction lies in their focus and scope. A Product Manager primarily deals with individual products, shaping their features and functionalities. In contrast, a Program Manager handles a collection of projects or programs, coordinating efforts and ensuring they align with broader business goals.

What Does a Technical Project Manager Do?

A Technical Project Manager is the go-to person for ensuring that a specific project is executed smoothly. They manage teams, budgets, and timelines, ensuring that the project's objectives are met. Their role is more operational, focusing on the day-to-day aspects of project execution.