Technical program management has evolved significantly in the few years since its inception. Initially focused on managing isolated technical projects, the role of TPM now encompasses a broad range of responsibilities closely aligned with organizational strategy. As technology has advanced and projects have become more complex, the need for a dedicated professional to oversee the integration of technical and business objectives in Agile environments has likewise grown. This has positioned TPMs as crucial players in the tech industry, driving initiatives that span multiple departments and require a deep understanding of both technical and managerial principles.
Today’s TPMs are responsible for managing complex, cross-functional projects to deliver significant business value. They coordinate efforts across various teams and departments, handle risk management, and ensure that projects meet their objectives. By bridging the gap between technical teams and business stakeholders, TPMs help ensure the successful delivery of high-impact projects.
TPMs handle a variety of tasks that require both technical and managerial skills. Their responsibilities generally include:
- Initiating and planning projects
TPMs define project requirements, set objectives, and develop detailed project plans to guide execution.
- Managing schedules
These professionals oversee the implementation of project plans, promoting strict adherence to timelines while maintaining quality standards.
- Reporting
Often, reporting on project progress falls to the TPM. These reports are designed to inform various stakeholders and keep them up to date on specific developments, such as schedules, budgets, or unforeseen problems.
- Coordinating cross-functional teams
Acting as a central point of contact, technical program managers facilitate communication and collaboration between departments.
- Testing and reviewing
TPMs might be responsible for evaluating potential solutions within their program, relying on user testing to assess functionality and code testing for technical accuracy. TPMs often conduct broader tests than QA teams to ensure the product meets the business requirements.
- Leading and inspiring
Although TPMs work to motivate others to focus on the business outcomes of projects. This can extend beyond the teams and departments directly responsible to essentially everyone within the company.
Technical program management is a relatively new field, and the specializations within the role are still evolving. However, some common sub-categories of TPMs have emerged, each focusing on specific aspects of technology and project management.
- Front-end TPM
These TPMs focus on projects related to the user interface and experience. They work closely with design and development teams to ensure that the visual and interactive elements of a product are seamless and user-friendly.
- Back-end TPM
Back-end TPMs concentrate on the server-side components of projects. They manage databases, server logic, and integration with front-end systems, ensuring that the infrastructure is comprehensive, scalable, and efficient. They are also responsible for other back-end elements such as encryption.
- Senior TPM
A more experienced role compared to standard TPMs, Senior TPMs handle larger, more complex projects and provide mentorship to junior TPMs. They often have a broader strategic impact within the organization, influencing higher-level decision-making and long-term planning.
As you work to make your mark as a technical program manager, there are several skills you will want to develop. These consist of the technical skills that will allow you to work with the tools and platforms that make project management possible, but they also include interpersonal skills—essential for interacting with and guiding teams and stakeholders.
This mix of hard and soft skills can provide you with a solid foundation for success:
There is an important human element in technical program management. The right soft skills will allow you to navigate these dynamic relationships as you help others understand and complete their projects.
Communication skills
TPMs must convey complex ideas clearly and concisely to both technical and non-technical stakeholders, ensuring everyone is aligned.
Emotional intelligence
Understanding and managing their own emotions, as well as those of their team members, helps TPMs navigate interpersonal dynamics and foster a positive work environment.
Business knowledge
A solid understanding of the business context in which they operate allows TPMs to align projects with organizational goals and deliver tangible value.
Critical thinking
TPMs need to analyze situations, identify potential issues, and devise effective solutions quickly and efficiently.
Leadership skills
Inspiring and guiding teams through challenging projects requires strong leadership, even if the TPM does not have formal authority over everyone involved.
The 'T' in TPM stands for ‘technical,’ so it’s little wonder that technical capabilities are a major part of the job. These hard skills enable TPMs to make informed decisions, contribute to technical discussions, and ensure the technical feasibility of project plans.
Technical expertise
In-depth knowledge of relevant technologies enables TPMs to make informed decisions and effectively contribute to technical discussions
Risk management skills
Identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks is crucial for maintaining project continuity and success.
Project management skills
Proficiency in project management methodologies, tools, and best practices is essential for planning, executing, and closing projects efficiently.
Understanding of Agile methodologies
Familiarity with specific Agile frameworks, practices, and tools (as well as processes such as Scrum and Kanban) provides a competitive edge, preparing the TPM for managing iterative development cycles, enhancing team collaboration, and helping deliver high-quality products within tight deadlines.
Although technical program managers and product managers (PMs) share some overlapping responsibilities, their roles are distinct, catering to distinct aspects of a project's life cycle. Both positions are integral to project success, but they focus on different elements and processes.
- A product manager is primarily responsible for the overall vision, strategy, and roadmap of a product. They ensure that the product meets customer needs and business goals. PMs work closely with stakeholders, gather and prioritize requirements, and guide the development team to deliver a successful product.
- Technical program managers oversee the execution of technical projects within a program, ensuring they align with organizational goals and are completed on time and within budget. They manage cross-functional teams, handle risk management, and ensure technical feasibility.
To summarize, the product manager’s role is more focused on the market and user experience, while TPMs are tasked with the integration of technical and business objectives, often coordinating multiple projects to achieve a cohesive program outcome. Still, this distinction may not be universal across every organization.
Similarly, the distinction between the roles of technical program manager and technical project manager is a subtle one. Both manage technical initiatives, but within a different scope.
- Technical program managers are involved in multiple related projects at once, helping guide them towards larger strategic goals. These professionals focus more on long-term success, working to align projects across teams and departments.
- Technical project managers oversee specific, short-term projects. Their responsibilities involve managing resources, establishing schedules, and working with budgets to help ensure successful project delivery. They often take a more hands-on approach to overseeing and directing technical teams.
Those who are interested in pursuing a career in technical project management can find essential resources and industry insights through the ServiceNow Technical Project Management Career Journey.
As more and more organizations recognize the need to integrate technical and business objectives, the demand for talented TPMs is growing. Individuals typically transition into TPM roles from related positions (such as product manager, software engineer, hardware engineer, engineering manager, program manager, or business analyst). These roles help provide foundational skills in project management, technical expertise, and business acumen.
Advancement opportunities for TPMs often include moving into senior technical program managers roles. This allows them to handle larger, more complex projects and mentor junior team members. From there, they may move into executive positions such as director of program management, vice president of engineering, or even chief technology officer, where they can have a greater influence on broader strategic decisions and organizational direction.
Any business that delivers technical programs can benefit from a TPM. The following industries are good places to find for opportunities in technical program management:
Technology
In tech companies, TPMs manage software and hardware development projects, ensuring timely delivery and integration with other systems.
Healthcare
TPMs oversee the implementation of health IT systems, ensuring compliance with regulations and improving patient care through technology.
Finance
Financial institutions hire TPMs to manage the development of secure and efficient banking and investment platforms.
Retail
In retail, technical program managers coordinate e-commerce platform development and supply chain management systems, enhancing customer experience and operational efficiency.
- Telecommunications
Telecom companies employ TPMs to oversee network infrastructure projects, ensuring robust and scalable communication networks.
- Pharmaceuticals
Pharmaceutical TPMs manage the development of drug discovery and clinical trial systems, ensuring that projects comply with regulatory requirements and are completed efficiently.
- Government
Government agencies utilize TPMs to oversee the deployment of large-scale IT projects, ensuring they meet public needs and comply with regulatory standards.
Depending on a number of variables (including the geographic location of the business, your education and experience levels, etc.), the base salary range for a TPM in the United States typically ranges from around $113K to $162K according to Glassdoor. Additionally, promotions lead to greater earnings, so be sure to continue developing your skills so you can take advantage of advancement opportunities that come your way.
The journey to becoming a TPM may be a long one, but with the right roadmap you’ll know what steps you need to take and when. In almost every case, your first priority should be to get the requisite training, followed by building experience and professional networks to provide valuable insights into your ongoing career. More specifically, as you work towards becoming a technical program manager, these are some important milestones to keep in mind:
A bachelor’s degree in a technical or business-related field, such as Computer Science, Engineering, or Business Administration, is essential. This education provides the foundational understanding necessary for understanding both technical and managerial aspects of the role. At the same time, it signals to employers that you have a reliable knowledge base that you can build on.
Practical experience is crucial for becoming a TPM. Before focusing exclusively on technical program management, aim for 3–5 years of experience in related fields such as software development, engineering, or product management. This hands-on experience helps develop the technical and project management skills needed for the role.
Seek out mentorship from experienced TPMs or related roles. A strong mentor can provide valuable insights, guidance, feedback, and support as you navigate your career path and help you develop the skills you need for the TPM role.
Sometimes it's not just about what you know; it’s about who you know. Networking can play a big part in career advancement, so make a point to attend industry conferences, join professional associations, and connect with other professionals in the field. Building a strong professional network opens doors to job opportunities and ongoing professional development.
ServiceNow’s Career Journey is a comprehensive program designed to equip individuals with the skills needed to thrive. Providing a structured path to technical proficiency and career advancement, it emphasizes whole-person competencies and ‘power skills’ such as critical thinking and interpersonal communication. And, with more than 600 free courses, 18 job-related certification paths, networking opportunities, mentorship programs, and placement support, Career Journey provides the resources you need to prepare for a successful career in technical management.
Whether you are just starting out or looking to advance to a more senior position, ServiceNow can help get you there.