In project management, Scrum Master and Project Manager are two of the most crucial positions. 

Scrum Master and Project Manager are responsible for completing a project but have different roles, responsibilities, and focus. 

This article will explore the differences between Scrum Master and Project Manager and explain their distinct roles in project management.

Scrum Master vs Project Manager: Overview

Scrum Master is a Scrum team member, while Project Manager manages a project. The Scrum Master is responsible for ensuring that the Scrum team adheres to the principles and values of Scrum. The Project Manager is responsible for ensuring that the project is completed on time, within budget, and according to the specifications.

The table below summarises the key differences between Scrum Master and Project Manager:

Scrum Master	Project Manager
Member of the Scrum team	Responsible for managing the project
Focus on Agile methodology	Focus on traditional project management
Facilitates Scrum events and meetings	Plans, schedules and manages the project
Helps team members in problem-solving and decision-making	Coordinates resources, budgets, and timelines
Removes obstacles that impede the team's progress	Handles risks, issues, and changes in the project
Ensures the Scrum team adheres to Scrum principles and values	Ensures the project meets the objectives and stakeholders' expectations

Now, let's look at the roles and responsibilities of the Scrum Master and Project Manager in detail.

Scrum Master

Scrum Master is a member of the Scrum team, responsible for ensuring that the Scrum team adheres to the principles and values of Scrum. The Scrum Master facilitates Scrum events and meetings, removes obstacles that impede the team's progress, and helps team members in problem-solving and decision-making.

Roles and Responsibilities of a Scrum Master

Here are the key roles and responsibilities of a Scrum Master:

• Facilitates Scrum events and meetings: The Scrum Master enables Scrum events such as Sprint Planning, Daily Scrum, Sprint Review, and Sprint Retrospective. The Scrum Master ensures these events run smoothly and the team members participate actively. Here are the key roles and responsibilities of a Scrum Master:
• Helps team members in problem-solving and decision-making: The Scrum Master helps team members in problem-solving and decision-making. The Scrum Master encourages the team members to collaborate and make decisions collectively. The Scrum Master does not make decisions for the team but guides them towards making the right decisions.
• Removes obstacles that impede the team's progress: The Scrum Master removes barriers that interfere with the team's progress. The Scrum Master ensures the team has everything they need to complete the work, including resources, tools, and information.
• Ensures the Scrum team adheres to Scrum principles and values: The Scrum Master ensures that the Scrum team adheres to Scrum principles and values. The Scrum Master educates the team members on Scrum principles and values and encourages them to follow them.
• Facilitates communication and collaboration: The Scrum Master enables communication and cooperation between the team members, product owner, and stakeholders. The Scrum Master ensures everyone is on the same page without miscommunication or misunderstanding.

Project Manager

Project Manager is responsible for managing a project, ensuring that it is completed on time, within budget, and according to the specifications. The Project Manager coordinates resources, budgets, and timelines, handles risks, issues, and changes, and ensures that the project meets the objectives and stakeholders' expectations.

Roles and Responsibilities of a Project Manager

Here are the key roles and responsibilities of a Project Manager:

• Plans, schedules, and manages the project: The Project Manager plans, programs, and manages the project. The Project Manager defines the project scope, sets the project objectives, identifies the stakeholders, and creates the project plan. The Project Manager also manages the project budget, resources, and timeline.
• Coordinates resources, budgets, and timelines: The Project Manager coordinates resources, budgets, and timelines. The Project has the necessary human resources, equipment, and materials. The Project Manager also manages the project and ensures that that is completed within the allocated budget. The Project Manager creates a timeline for the project and ensures it is completed within the given timeframe.
• Handles risks, issues, and changes in the project: The Project Manager addresses risks, issues, and changes in the project. The Project Manager identifies the risks associated with the project and creates a risk management plan. The Project Manager also handles issues during the project and resolves problems. The Project Manager manages changes in the project scope, objectives, or timeline and timeline.
• Ensures the project meets the objectives and stakeholders' expectations: The Project Manager ensures that the project meets the goals and stakeholders' expectations. The Project Manager communicates regularly with the stakeholders and provides updates on the project's progress. The Project Manager also ensures that the project deliverables meet the stakeholders' expectations.

Scrum Master vs Project Manager: Which one to choose?

Scrum Master suits Agile projects requiring flexibility, adaptability, and continuous improvement. Scrum Master is also suitable for projects that involve software development, product development, or creative work. Choosing between Scrum Master and Project Manager depends on the project's nature, requirements, and constraints.

A project Manager suits traditional projects requiring a structured approach, defined requirements, and a fixed scope. Project Manager is also suitable for construction, infrastructure development, or manufacturing projects.

Scrum Master and Project Manager are essential roles in project management, with distinct roles, responsibilities, and focus. Scrum Master is a Scrum team member responsible for ensuring that the team adheres to Scrum principles and values. Project Manager is responsible for managing the project, ensuring that it is completed on time, within budget, and according to the specifications.

While Scrum Master and Project Manager have different roles and responsibilities, they can work together to ensure the project's success. Scrum Master can collaborate with the Project Manager to ensure the project follows Agile principles and practices. The project Manager can work with Scrum Master to ensure the project meets the stakeholders' expectations.

Ultimately, the choice between Scrum Master and Project Manager depends on the project's nature, requirements, and constraints. Choosing the proper role for the project can ensure its success and deliver the desired outcomes.