Will Gen AI Consolidate the PM and UX Roles?

Lessons In Product Management

Episode Summary:

In this episode, John Fontenot explores a thought-provoking topic: the potential consolidation of Product Management (PM) and User Experience (UX) roles due to advancements in Generative AI. He examines the overlap between these two disciplines, the evolving responsibilities of PMs and UX designers, and how organizations may react to increased efficiency through AI.

Key Takeaways:

1. Understanding the Unique Roles of PM and UX Designer (00:25 - 02:32)

• PMs focus on business objectives, prioritization, roadmaps, stakeholder management, and go-to-market strategies.

• UX designers specialize in information architecture, interaction design, prototyping, and usability testing.

• Despite distinct roles, there is a significant overlap, particularly in customer research, solution ideation, and user flow testing.

2. Will AI Eliminate the Need for Both Roles? (02:35 - 06:50)

• AI can increase efficiency, but does it replace UX or PM roles entirely?

• Many organizations underutilize UX designers, treating them primarily as visual designers.

• AI efficiency gains should ideally allow both roles to focus on higher-level strategic work rather than replacing either.

3. The Risk of Role Consolidation (06:55 - 09:25)

• Companies with limited UX investment might see AI as an opportunity to eliminate UX roles, shifting responsibilities to PMs.

• Similarly, strategic UX professionals who engage with stakeholders and business objectives could replace PMs in certain organizations.

• PMs focused only on execution (e.g., writing JIRA tickets) may find their roles at risk in the future.

4. The Need for Cross-Skilling (09:30 - 13:40)

• PMs should develop UX skills (e.g., using Figma, understanding usability principles) to become better collaborators and future-proof their careers.

• UX designers should engage more in strategy, business alignment, and product thinking to solidify their role.

• Organizations benefit when both disciplines embrace AI efficiencies while maintaining their unique expertise.

5. Future-Proofing Your Career (13:40 - End)

• PMs and UX designers should leverage AI as a tool rather than fearing replacement.

• Developing cross-functional skills ensures career longevity and adaptability.

• A collaborative approach leads to better business outcomes and personal career growth.

Final Thoughts:

John concludes by urging PMs and UX designers to embrace AI-driven efficiencies while strengthening their core competencies. By adapting and evolving, professionals in both fields can safeguard their careers and contribute more effectively to their organizations.

Resources Mentioned:

• Interaction Design Foundation Courses

• Path2Product

Connect with Us:

• LinkedIn: John Fontenot

• Twitter: @productfont

• Instagram: @product.font

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