The role of soft skills in the software product management competence model : a quantitative analysis

Abstract

The Software Product Management (SPM) Competence Model serves as a comprehensive framework delineating the essential knowledge, skills, and behaviors required for effective management throughout the software product lifecycle. This model emphasizes the importance of both hard and soft skills, recognizing that while technical expertise is crucial, soft skills such as communication, emotional intelligence, and collaboration are often the differentiators between competent and exceptional product managers. Recent research underscores the significance of these soft skills in navigating the complexities of software development, fostering collaboration, and leading diverse teams through various stages of the product lifecycle. The analysis presented in this study reveals strong correlations between soft skills and product success, indicating that proficiency in these areas enhances team dynamics and overall project outcomes. By integrating insights from the SPM competence model with empirical findings on soft skills, this research highlights the multidimensional profile of competencies necessary for software product managers. The results suggest that a balanced focus on both technical and interpersonal skills is essential for aligning product management efforts with organizational goals and meeting customer needs effectively. This study contributes to the understanding of the critical role soft skills play in software product management, advocating for their inclusion in professional development and training programs for product managers.