When you think of a UX conference, you’d expect to see designers, researchers, and product thinkers in the room, not project managers. But being at UX+ Conference 2025 reminded me that my role is deeply tied to design, even if it’s often seen as separate.
One of the opening talks focused on AI and design. The message was clear, AI isn’t just a shiny tool, it comes with responsibility. For me, this reinforced the PM’s role in helping teams balance innovation with accountability, making sure new tech actually serves users and not just roadmaps.
I used to think “the little things matter the most” only applied to love, but it turns out it’s just as true in design. The systems thinking session showed how the smallest design decisions can echo across teams and timelines. As a PM, I see this play out constantly, tiny choices that either keep everything flowing smoothly or create roadblocks later. It’s a reminder that paying attention to the details is often what protects the bigger picture.
Collaboration came up again and again throughout the conference, but what clicked for me was this: product, design, and engineering aren’t just teammates, I’d say they’re more of a family. And like Stitch says, “ohana means family, and family means nobody gets left behind.” That’s exactly how I see my role as a PM, keeping that family spirit alive, making sure no one’s voice is overlooked, and holding the team together so we move forward as one.
And finally, the recurring reminder was adaptability. Whether in design, code, or project planning, flexibility is what allows us to respond when users behave in ways we didn’t predict. It’s a quality I see as central to successful project management.
Walking out of the conference, I realized that project management isn’t outside of design, it’s woven into it. My job isn’t just to move projects forward, but to create the environment where design excellence, engineering focus, and user value can all meet.
That’s also why I’ve been intentional about upskilling. Learning moments like UX+ remind me that growth doesn’t stop, whether it’s about AI, systems thinking, or collaboration. And it’s great to see communities like UpskillNowPH making that possible locally—with Sir Rhods soon teaching UI and UX, there are even more ways for professionals like us to sharpen our craft.
At QT Solutions, we carry the same mindset into our work: blending design, engineering, and management so that the little things don’t get overlooked, teams stay aligned, and user experiences truly shine.
So, what’s a project manager doing at a UX conference?
Turns out, the same thing as everyone else: building better experiences, one detail at a time.