PM vs Business Analyst; Your Guide to Choosing the Right Path

If you’re career-switching or stepping into the project world for the first time, you’ve probably asked:
“Should I become a Project Manager or a Business Analyst?”

It’s a smart question and one we hear a lot inside the RNRS community. The good news? You can’t really go wrong. Both are in-demand, people-focused roles that offer great growth potential. But they do require different mindsets and skill sets.

Let’s walk through the core differences so you can figure out which one fits you best.

What a Project Manager Really Does

Imagine a conductor standing in front of an orchestra, waving their baton while dozens of musicians follow the rhythm. That’s a Project Manager. They don’t play every instrument but they’re responsible for how the whole performance comes together.

A PM’s job is to make things happen.
They coordinate moving parts. Keep timelines on track. Manage risk. Keep people accountable. And get results.

Key PM traits:

If you enjoy bringing people together and driving execution, this might be your lane.

What a Business Analyst Actually Does

Now, picture a waiter in a high-end restaurant. A customer walks in, tired and unsure of what they want. The waiter doesn’t just drop a menu; they ask questions, clarify preferences, and guide the person to what they really need.

That’s the essence of a Business Analyst.
They don’t just gather requirements, they help define them.

A BA’s job is to understand the problem and shape the solution.
They bridge the gap between the business and technical teams. They map out processes, dig into data, and clarify the “why” behind the work.

Key BA traits:

If you enjoy analysis, flowcharts, and structured problem-solving, this could be your space.

Which Role Is Easier?

Here’s a personal take from someone who’s worked with and managed both:

Project management is easier than business analysis.

Now, that’s a subjective view. But the logic is this: PMs focus on coordination and delivery. BAs get deeper into process design and business requirements. That often requires more technical insight and a closer relationship with subject matter experts.

That said, neither role requires you to be a tech wizard. Both roles can be learned and both are open to career changers.

So... Which One Should You Choose?

We can’t answer that for you, but here’s how to think about it:

If you enjoy..

You don’t need to lock yourself into a path forever. Many PMs become BAs. Many BAs step into PM roles. Both careers build valuable, transferable skills.

The real question isn’t, “Which one is better?” It’s: “Which one matches how I like to work right now?”