---
title: How does the role of a Scrum Master differ from a Project Manager?
description: "The [Scrum Master](https://www.thescrummaster.co.uk/glossary/scrum-master/) is not a [Project](https://www.thescrummaster.co.uk/glossary/project/) Manager. They are not the manager of the [Product Owner](https://www.thescrummaster.co.uk/glossary/product-owner/) or the Developers, and they do not dictate how the Developers should build a Done [Increment](https://www.thescrummaster.co.uk/glossary/increment/) or what is valuable to the [Product…"
url: "https://www.thescrummaster.co.uk/docs/how-does-the-role-of-a-scrum-master-differ-from-a-project-manager/"
updated: "2024-12-19"
category: Accountabilities / Scrum Master
---

# How does the role of a Scrum Master differ from a Project Manager?

The [Scrum Master](https://www.thescrummaster.co.uk/glossary/scrum-master/) is not a [Project](https://www.thescrummaster.co.uk/glossary/project/) Manager. They are not the manager of the [Product Owner](https://www.thescrummaster.co.uk/glossary/product-owner/) or the Developers, and they do not dictate how the Developers should build a Done [Increment](https://www.thescrummaster.co.uk/glossary/increment/) or what is valuable to the [Product Owner](https://www.thescrummaster.co.uk/glossary/product-owner/). Instead, the [Scrum Master](https://www.thescrummaster.co.uk/glossary/scrum-master/) supports and facilitates the team's efforts without assuming control over their specific tasks.

The primary focus of the [Scrum Master](https://www.thescrummaster.co.uk/glossary/scrum-master/) is to ensure that the team adheres to Scrum principles and practices. They help remove impediments and foster an environment of collaboration and continuous improvement. This distinct role allows the [Scrum Master](https://www.thescrummaster.co.uk/glossary/scrum-master/) to support the team in a way that a traditional [Project](https://www.thescrummaster.co.uk/glossary/project/) Manager might not, focusing on [Facilitation](https://www.thescrummaster.co.uk/glossary/facilitation/) rather than control.