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15 Best Project Management Software Solutions for Your Team in 2024

15 Best Project Management Software Solutions for Your Team in 2024

By Charlie Ell Hajj

As of July 2024, there are over 2,200 project management software solutions on the market, according to Software Advice! The market is expected to grow by more than 10% per year, on average, for at least the next five years. That’s an overwhelming number of options to sift through!

With so many choices available, you’re likely wondering which software is right for your team.  We’ve compiled a list of the best project management software options and engaged in extensive hands-on testing of the top 5 project management tools to help you find the perfect solution for your company. 

Best Project Management Software FAQs

Why would you want a list of the best Project Management Software Solutions?

Not all project management solutions are built alike. There is an incredibly broad range of tools on the market, which means no one option is right for every business and every team.

Some project management solutions offer simple, easy to navigate ways of managing tasks, while others boast an end-to-end business solution. Then there’s everything in between.

Maybe you’ve outgrown your old tool, or are choosing a solution for the first time. In either case, simply picking the first software that someone recommends could lead to disaster, if it’s the wrong fit for your team. One of the main reasons software projects fail is that users don’t like or can’t use the solution.

That’s why we’ve brought together a comprehensive list of the best project management software and laid out the pros and cons of each choice. So, you can compare the top options on the market and make sure the tool you select is the best project management software for your team and company.

Project Management Software Pros

A good project management software (and vendor) will offer the following benefits:

  • Is easy-to-use for the whole team but is powerful enough for complex projects
  • Keeps you organized, accountable, and focused
  • Shows the ROI of your team’s production to management
  • Vendor shows an interest in your success with regular interaction
Project Management Software Cons

The cons list is more about how you will use the software as most software is pretty good.

  • Too complicated and powerful for your use (e.g. you bought an enterprise solution but you only need a checklist)
  • Not knowing your top three needs (e.g. you need task dependencies but you bought a basic tool that doesn’t have it)
  • Inability to track work from a 10,000 ft view – You should be able to see all your work at a glance
  • Limited, paid, or no support offerings from your vendor – All too often they are hard to reach or you need to pay for time to talk with support

#1 Rated Project Management Software: Workzone

“It is easy and user friendly! It keeps all my tasks and to-do lists organized. We use Workzone in our weekly Marketing meetings to track everyone’s progress.”
Danielle Seabolt
Blue Rhino

Best Project Management Software, at a Glance

SoftwareBest forPricingUser Rating
WorkzoneBest Overall$24/user/month, $34/user/month, Custom pricing4.8/5
AsanaBest for Team CollaborationFree,
$10.99/user/month, $24.99/user/month, Custom pricing
4.5/5
MondayBest for CustomizationFree,  
$12/user/month, $17/user/month, $28/user/month, Custom pricing
4.6/5
ClickUpBest for Comprehensive Task ManagementFree 
$10/user/month, $19/user/month, Custom pricing
4.6/5
WrikeBest for Large TeamsFree $9.80/user/month, $24.80/user/month, Custom pricing4.3/5
Microsoft ProjectBest for Comprehensive Planning$10/user/month, $30/user/month, $55/user/month4.4/5
TrelloBest for Kanban-Style ApproachFree
$5/user/month, $10/user/month, $17.50/user/month
4.5/5
JiraBest for Agile and Technical TeamsFree
$7.16/month/user, $12.48/month/user, Custom Pricing
4.4/5
BasecampBest for Simple Project ManagementPersonal: $15/user/month, Business: $299/month4.3/5
WorkfrontBest for Enterprise-Level Project ManagementRequest pricing4.4/5
AirtableBest for Versatile Data ManagementFree,
Team Plan: $20/user/month, Business Plan: $45/user/month, Enterprise Plan: Custom pricing
4.7/5
Zoho ProjectsBest for Integration with Zoho SuiteStandard: $14/user/month, Professional: $23/user/month, Enterprise: $40/user/month, Ultimate: $52/user/month4.3/5
PodioBest for Custom Workflow CreationFree Plan,
Plus Plan: $11.20/user/month, Premium Plan: $19.20/user/month
4.3/5
QuireBest for Detailed Task PlanningFree,
Professional: $7.65/user/month, Premium: $13.95/user/month, Enterprise: $19.95/user/month
4.7/5
FreedcampBest for Cost-Effective Project ManagementFree, Pro: $1.49/user/month, Business: $7.49/user/month, Enterprise: $16.99/user/month4.6/5

Workzone – Best Overall

Workzone the best project management software dashboard

Workzone is a powerful tool for teams of 10 or more. It offers a comprehensive set of features, making it one of the best project management tools available for managing multiple projects with ease.  

Key Features: 

  • Task Dependencies: Links dependent tasks and automatically calculates start dates based on the end date of preceding tasks.
  • Reports: Offers customizable and automated reports for up-to-date project status information.
  • Task Visibility: Displays all tasks in one view to reduce the need for switching screens.
  • Branding: Allows for extensive customization to match team branding.
  • Templates: Provides reusable project templates to save time and ensure consistency.
  • Request Forms: First to offer customizable forms that capture key info, send requests to the right people, and provide a central dashboard for managing communications.
  • Time Tracking: Built-in time tracking to monitor time spent on tasks.
  • Resource Management: Tools to view team workloads and assign tasks efficiently.

Integrations:

Workzone integrates with popular tools like Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, Slack, Harvest, Hubspot, Github, and Dropbox. Workzone can connect to over 1,000 web apps.

User Reviews:

Workzone is highly rated by its users. On Software Advice, it scores 4.8 out of 5 from over 200 reviews. Users frequently highlight the software’s ease of use, comprehensive feature set, and excellent customer service. Many users appreciate the dashboard, which displays all critical project information at a glance. The ability to save projects as templates is another frequently mentioned benefit. 

One of the standout aspects of Workzone is its support team. Users have reported having a dedicated customer success person who regularly checks in to ensure they are getting the most out of the product.  

Workzone review

Pricing:

  • Team: $24/user/month. 
  • Professional: $34/user/month.  
  • Enterprise: Custom pricing.

Pros:

  • Comprehensive Feature Set: Includes task dependencies, project templates, detailed reports, time tracking, and resource management.
  • Unlimited Support: Free training and coaching sessions ensure users can fully utilize the software. The free onboarding process helps new customers get started quickly and effectively.
  • User-Friendly: The software is praised for its ease of use and straightforward implementation into daily processes.
  • High Visibility: Offers a clear view of all tasks and projects in one place, improving transparency and efficiency​.

Cons:

  • No Free Version: Might not suit very small teams or startups with limited budgets as there is no free tier available​ 
  • No Video Mark-up Tool: Workzone lacks a video mark-up feature.

Bottom Line:

Workzone excels in providing a complete project management solution that is both powerful and easy to use. It has all the features you need, like task management, reporting, and time tracking, making it perfect for teams of any size. One thing that really stands out is their customer support. They offer free training and are always there to help, which is super important when you’re learning a new tool. 

Testing the tool revealed that Workzone’s user-friendly interface and comprehensive feature set significantly improve project workflows and team productivity. We chose to highlight Workzone because it strikes a great balance between being feature-rich and user-friendly. Workzone is a top choice if you want a reliable, easy-to-use project management tool that also offers excellent support to help you get started and keep going strong. 

Asana – Best for Team Collaboration

Asana project management software

Asana is a comprehensive project management tool that helps teams streamline workflows and enhance collaboration. With its user-friendly interface and robust capabilities, Asana provides a powerful platform for managing projects and tasks efficiently. This makes Asana one of the best project management tools available.

Key Features:

  • Resource Management: Helps plan timelines, adjust workloads, and allocate resources efficiently.
  • Goals Reporting: Allows teams to set, track, and manage goals while aligning them with company objectives.
  • Workflows and Automation: Users can create custom workflows and automate tasks with tools like rules, forms, templates, and bundles.
  • Asana Intelligence (AI): Enhances work management with smart status updates, smart answers, smart goals, smart reporting, and smart workflows.
  • Agile Management: Supports Agile projects and Scrum sprints with Kanban boards, timelines, custom fields, and task dependencies.
  • Reporting and Analytics: Provides advanced reporting with custom dashboards and progress tracking.

Interested in a full list of Asana alternatives? Check out our list of 26 Asana Alterantives and Competitors

Integrations:

Asana integrates with a wide range of third-party applications, including Microsoft Teams, Google Sheets, Adobe Creative Cloud, Google Calendar, Dropbox, Slack, Google Drive, Tableau, and so on. 

User Reviews:

Asana is highly rated by its users, scoring 4.5 out of 5 on Software Advice from over 12,000 reviews. Users often praise its intuitive design, which makes task management enjoyable and efficient. The interface is noted for being minimalistic, smart, and goal-oriented. Many users appreciate the timeline view for project planning and the ability to track milestones. However, some users note that the mobile app could be improved.

Asana review

Pros:

  • User-Friendly Interface: Asana has a simple design that is easy to navigate, helping users manage tasks without confusion.
  • AI Capabilities: Asana uses AI for smart status updates, smart goals, and smart reporting, enhancing work management.
  • Free Version: Asana offers a free plan with essential project management features, making it accessible for individuals and small teams.
  • Extensive Integrations: Connects with over 100 popular apps to streamline workflows.

Cons:

  • Limited Project Management Capabilities: Asana lacks some key features like budget forecasting, comprehensive reporting, and invoicing without integrations.
  • No Built-in Time Tracking: Lacks native time tracking, which is important for teams needing to monitor time spent on tasks.
  • Mobile App Limitations: The mobile app could be more user-friendly and functional.

Pricing: 

  • Personal: Free 
  • Starter: $10.99 per user/month 
  • Advanced: $24.99 per user/month 
  • Enterprise: Custom pricing.
  • Enterprise+: Custom pricing.

Bottom Line:

Asana excels in providing a user-friendly and highly integrative project management solution. It offers robust features for task management, collaboration, and reporting, making it an excellent choice for teams of any size. During our testing, Asana’s intuitive design and powerful collaboration tools were found to significantly enhance team efficiency and project tracking.

We chose Asana as one of the top project management tools because it strikes a great balance between functionality and ease of use. If you want a reliable, easy-to-use project management tool with excellent integration capabilities, Asana is a top choice.

Monday – Best for Customization

Monday dashboard

Monday is a top project management platform that helps teams of all sizes plan, prioritize, manage, and execute their work more effectively. Its no-code/low-code, fully customizable interface, and 200+ ready-made templates make it easy for every type of user to get started quickly.

Key Features:

  • Track Project Time: Helps teams monitor hours worked, manage budgets, and ensure accurate client billing.
  • Automate Tasks: No-code automation helps with repetitive tasks like notifications, assignments, and status updates.
  • AI Tools: Uses AI for smart automations and various apps, though these features need admin approval.
  • Sprint Management: Supports Agile projects by allowing teams to plan sprints, assign tasks, and manage workloads.
  • Resource Planning: Tools to see team availability, prevent overbooking, and use resources efficiently.

Integrations:

Monday.com integrates with over 200 commonly used apps and tools such as Outlook, Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Excel, Gmail, Google Drive, and Dropbox.  

Click here to see our full list of Monday alternatives

User Reviews:

Monday.com scores 4.6 out of 5 on Software Advice from over 4,600 reviews. Users love its user-friendly interface. Monday is highly regarded for its ability to facilitate effective team collaboration, especially for remote teams, and its advanced reporting and customizable features make it a valuable tool for managing various projects.

Some users find the platform overwhelming initially due to its many features and modules. The onboarding process can be challenging if you can’t dedicate enough time to learning the tool.  

monday review

Pros:

  • Facilitates Effective Collaboration: Ideal for remote teams with features like shared boards and documents.
  • User-Friendly Interface: The modern, intuitive UI is particularly praised for its timeline views.
  • Customizable: Highly customizable with more than 200 project templates.
  • Advanced Reporting: Offers advanced reporting capabilities to track progress and make data-driven decisions.
  • Notifications: Keeps teams updated with real-time notifications

Cons:

  • Limited Free Plan: The free plan lacks essential features like automations and integrations.
  • No Built-In Chat: Monday doesn’t have an integrated chat feature for real-time team communication.
  • No Built-in Time Tracking: Time tracking is only available on Pro plans.

Pricing:

CRM Plan:

  • Individual: Free
  • Basic: $12/user/month 
  • Standard: $17/user/month  
  • Pro: $28/user/month  
  • Enterprise: Custom pricing  

Work Management Plan:

  • Individual: Free
  • Basic: $9/user/month  
  • Standard: $12/user/month 
  • Pro: $19/user/month  
  • Enterprise: Custom pricing 

Bottom Line:

Monday.com is an excellent choice for teams looking for a highly customizable and user-friendly project management tool. When testing Monday.com, its customizable interface and extensive template library proved to be adaptable to various project needs, enhancing team collaboration and productivity. It’s great for teams that want to streamline their workflows and improve collaboration. 

If you need a tool that grows with your team and integrates well with other software, Monday.com is a top choice.

Clickup – Best for Comprehensive Task Management

Clickup project management dashboard

ClickUp is a cloud-based collaboration and project management tool suitable for businesses of all sizes and industries. With features like communication tools, task assignments, statuses, alerts, and a task toolbar, ClickUp stands out as one of the best project management software options for managing various team needs efficiently.

Key Features:

  • Automations: Over 100 pre-built automations help streamline tasks and workflows.
  • Sprint Planning: Agile project management tools for planning, tracking, and reporting sprints.
  • Goal Setting: Teams can set, track, and manage goals with progress tracking and real-time updates.
  • Time Tracking: Available in Business plans, allowing users to monitor time, set estimates, add notes, and view time reports.
  • Custom Fields: Add unique data fields such as text, numbers, dates, and dropdowns to tasks for custom tracking and reporting.

Integrations: 

ClickUp integrates with popular tools like Slack, GitHub, HubSpot, Harvest, Google Drive, OneDrive, Google Calendar, Figma, Vimeo, YouTube, Loom, and so on.  

User Reviews: 

ClickUp scores 4.6 out of 5 on Software Advice from over 4,100 reviews. Users love its task management features, versatility, and user-friendly interface, which makes managing tasks and projects straightforward and efficient. One user praised ClickUp for offering a holistic view of projects and effective tracking notifications.

Many users find ClickUp’s vast array of features initially overwhelming and report that it requires time and effort to master.

clickup review

Pros:

  • Many Automation Options: ClickUp offers over 100 pre-built automations to help users save time on repetitive tasks and workflows.
  • Customizable: Highly customizable even in lower-tier plans.
  • Real-time Collaboration: Features like integrated chat, comments, and mentions facilitate effective team collaboration.
  • Extensive Features: Offers a wide range of features including time tracking, automations, and real-time document collaboration.

Cons:

  • Limited Features for Basic Plans: Some advanced features like team reporting, time tracking, and file proofing are only available in the Business and Enterprise plans.
  • Technical Problems: Users have reported occasional technical bugs and performance issues, which can disrupt workflows and reduce productivity.
  • No Built-in Onboarding Process: Paid live trainings are available, but there’s no comprehensive onboarding process for new users.

Pricing: 

  • Free 
  • Unlimited: $10/user/month 
  • Business: $19/user/month 
  • Enterprise: Custom pricing.

Bottom Line:

ClickUp is an excellent choice for teams looking for a comprehensive task management tool. We chose to highlight ClickUp because it offers a wide range of features and customization options at an affordable price. It’s great for teams that want to streamline their workflows and improve collaboration with a tool that grows with their needs, making it one of the top project management software options available. If you need a flexible, all-in-one project management solution, ClickUp is a top choice.

Interested in more Clickup Alternatives? Check out our list of 21 Clickup Alternatives & Competitors

Wrike – Best for Large Teams

Wrike project management software dashboard

Wrike is a cloud-based project management platform for teams of 20+ that is suitable for both large enterprises and SMBs. It supports remote work for various teams. Wrike allows for structuring via folders, projects, and tasks, and auto-assignment based on task statuses.

Key Features:

  • Project Management: Wrike offers robust project management tools, including task dependencies, Gantt charts, and real-time collaboration features.
  • Resource Management: Offers resource allocation with tools for time tracking, resource forecasting, and utilization reports to avoid overbooking and ensure efficient use of resources.
  • Sprint Planning and Management: Supports Agile methodologies with tools for planning sprints, assigning points, managing workloads, and automating workflows.
  • Project Risk Management: Helps teams identify, assess, and mitigate risks throughout the project lifecycle with tracking, reporting, and real-time alerts.
  • Custom Request Forms: Simplifies the process of collecting and managing requests with customizable forms that automate task creation and ensure requests reach the right team members.

Integrations: 

Wrike integrates with over 400 tools, including Slack, Microsoft Teams, Adobe Creative Cloud, Google Drive, Microsoft OneDrive, Dropbox, Zoom, GitHub, Miro, SharePoint, and Hubspot.

For a full list of Wrike alternatives, click here to read our list of the 23 Best Wrike Alternatives & Competitors  

User Reviews:

Wrike scores 4.3 out of 5 on Software Advice from over 2,600 reviews. Users often praise Wrike for its customizable and flexible features, which allow teams to set up the platform in a way that suits their workflow best. The integration options are highly valued, making it easier to link with other tools teams are already using. 

On the downside, some users find Wrike challenging to navigate at first due to its extensive features and customization options. The initial setup can be overwhelming and requires time and effort to master. 

Wrike review

Pros:

  • Highly Customizable: Wrike offers a wide range of customization options, allowing teams to tailor the platform to their specific workflow needs.
  • Robust Integrations: Integrates with over 400 tools.
  • Strong Collaboration Tools: Features like proofing tools and custom request forms simplify collaboration and task management.
  • Free 14-Day Trial: Allows new users to explore the platform without any commitment.

Cons:

  • No Built-in Direct Messaging: Lacks an integrated chat feature, which can be a drawback for teams that rely on in-app communication.
  • Complex Initial Setup: Setting up the platform and configuring advanced features can be time-consuming and technically challenging.
  • Advanced Features Locked Behind Higher Plans: Many of Wrike’s advanced features are only available in the higher-tier plans, which might not be affordable for all users.

Pricing:

  • Free Plan: $0 
  • Team: $9.80/user/month 
  • Business: $24.80/user/month 
  • Enterprise: Custom pricing 
  • Pinnacle: Custom pricing 

Bottom Line:

Wrike is an excellent project management tool for large teams and enterprises. Our testing showed that Wrike’s robust functionality and integration capabilities enhance project visibility and team coordination. Its extensive features like Gantt charts, resource management, and real-time updates make it one of the best project management app options for complex project needs. 

We chose to highlight Wrike because it offers a comprehensive suite of tools that cater to large teams and detailed projects. If you need a powerful, flexible project management solution that scales with your team, Wrike is a great option.

Microsoft Project – Best for Comprehensive Planning

Microsoft project board

Microsoft Project is project management software designed for businesses of all sizes. It helps teams create project schedules, assign tasks, manage resources, and track project status. The software includes customizable templates and visual roadmaps for planning. It also provides tools for budgeting and project portfolio management, making it one of the best project management tools available.

Curious about more Microsoft Project alternatives? Click here to see our list of 28 Microsoft Project Alternatives for Project Management

Key Features:

  • Project Planning: Creates detailed schedules, sets task dependencies, and allocates resources efficiently.
  • Resource Management: Allocates resources, tracks utilization, and manage workloads to prevent overbooking.
  • Budget Tracking: Monitors expenses and compares actual costs against the budget.
  • Integration with Microsoft Tools: Works seamlessly with Excel, SharePoint, and Power BI.
  • Portfolio Management: Manages and prioritizes multiple projects, aligning them with business goals.
  • Project Roadmaps: Tracks programs and creates comprehensive project portfolios.
  • Reporting and Analytics: Generates detailed reports and dashboards for project performance insights.

Integrations:

Microsoft Project integrates with Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, Excel, Word, Outlook, Power BI, Dynamics 365, Azure DevOps, OneDrive, and Planner. 

User Reviews:

Microsoft Project has a rating of 4.4 on Software Advice. Users praise Microsoft Project for its robust scheduling and project planning features and the seamless integration with other Microsoft tools like Excel, SharePoint, and Power BI. The tool’s detailed reporting and analytics capabilities help users gain valuable insights into project performance.

Some users find Microsoft Project difficult to use initially due to its complexity, requiring significant training to master. The interface feels dated and less intuitive compared to newer project management apps.  

Microsoft project review

Pros:

  • Comprehensive Features: Advanced tools for project planning, scheduling, and tracking.
  • Resource Management: Efficient allocation and tracking of resources.
  • Integration with Microsoft Tools: Seamless integration with Excel, Word, Outlook, Teams, and more.
  • Detailed Reporting: Robust reporting and analytics capabilities.
  • Flexible Deployment: Available as both a cloud-based and on-premises solution.

Cons:

  • Few Task View Options: It offers Grid View, Board View, and Gantt View but lacks other views like Calendar View found in some other tools.
  • Dated Interface: The user interface is not as modern or intuitive as other project management tools.
  • Limited Collaboration Features: Lacks built-in direct messaging and advanced collaboration tools.

Pricing: 

  • Project Plan 1: $10/user/month
  • Project Plan 3: $30/user/month
  • Project Plan 5: $55/user/month

Bottom Line:

Microsoft Project is a powerful tool for detailed project planning and resource management. It stands out due to its robust features and seamless integration with other Microsoft tools, making it one of the best project planning software options for teams already using the Microsoft ecosystem. 

When testing the tool, its comprehensive scheduling and resource management features proved to be essential for complex projects, ensuring efficient project execution and monitoring. If your team needs a detailed and integrated project management solution, Microsoft Project is a top choice.

More Best Project Management Software Tools

Trello – Best for Kanban-Style Approach

Trello dashboard

Trello uses a Kanban-style project management approach, showing each project as an individual “board” broken up into “lists” and “cards.” This visual tool is popular for its simplicity and effectiveness in task management.

Key Features:

  • Integrations: Connects with tools like JIRA Cloud, Bitbucket Cloud, Google Drive, GitHub, and Slack.
  • Drag-and-Drop Interface: Easy-to-use system for moving tasks between different stages.
  • Automation: Simplifies repetitive tasks with automation.
  • Ready-to-Use Templates: Provides templates for quick setup.
  • Power-Ups: Enhances boards with additional features and integrations.
  • Boards: Visual boards for organizing and prioritizing tasks.

Integrations:

Trello integrates with a variety of online applications, including JIRA Cloud, Bitbucket Cloud, Google Drive, GitHub, and Slack, making it one of the best project management apps for enhancing productivity.

User Reviews:

Trello has a rating of 4.5 on Software Advice. Users praise Trello for its simple, user-friendly interface that makes project planning and task management easy. The Kanban-style drag-and-drop system is particularly appreciated for its visual approach to organizing tasks, which enhances collaboration and team communication. The ability to customize boards and the ease of setup are frequently highlighted, making Trello an excellent choice for freelancers and small businesses.

Trello lacks advanced features like budget tracking and expense monitoring, which can be a drawback for managing more complex projects.  

To see more Trello alternatives check out our article about the 46 Best Trello Alternatives For Your Project Management in 2024

Trello review

Pros:

  • User-Friendly Interface: Trello’s simple, intuitive interface makes it easy to use.
  • Kanban-Style System: The drag-and-drop system simplifies task organization.
  • Customizable Boards: Boards can be tailored to fit specific project needs.
  • Easy Setup: Quick and easy to set up, ideal for freelancers and small businesses.

Cons:

  • Limited Advanced Features: Lacks budget tracking and expense monitoring.
  • Reporting: Offers limited reporting features.
  • Restrictions on Free Version: The free version has become more restricted over time.

Pricing:

  • Free 
  • Standard: $5/user/month 
  • Premium: $10/user/month 
  • Enterprise: $17.50/user/month 

Bottom Line:

Trello is an excellent project management tool for small teams and simple projects. Its user-friendly, Kanban-style boards and drag-and-drop interface make it one of the best task management software options for freelancers and small businesses. 

However, it lacks advanced features like budget tracking and detailed reporting, which can be a limitation for larger or more complex projects. If you need a straightforward, visual tool for managing tasks and enhancing teamwork, Trello is a top project management app to consider.

Jira – Best for Agile and Technical Teams

Jira project management dashboard

Jira, developed by Atlassian, is a leading project management tool known for supporting Lean and Agile methodologies. Originally designed for bug tracking, it has evolved into a robust platform for project management.

Key Features:

  • Goal Tracking: Allows teams to set and monitor progress toward project goals.
  • Project Boards: Visualize tasks using Scrum, Kanban, and custom boards to organize work efficiently.
  • Sprints & Backlog: Manages Agile sprints and backlog, helping teams plan and track progress.
  • Dependency Management: Tracks task dependencies to streamline workflows and avoid bottlenecks.
  • Customizable Workflows: Enables teams to adapt workflows to fit specific needs, supporting Scrum, Lean, and Kanban methods.

Integrations:

Jira integrates with a wide range of tools, including Confluence, Bitbucket, Slack, GitHub, Microsoft Teams, Google Drive, and more.  

User Reviews:

Jira has a rating of 4.4 on Software Advice. Users praise Jira for its comprehensive interface and robust project management capabilities, particularly for tracking issues and managing tasks. The ability to customize workflows and the extensive add-ons available are also highlighted positively. 

However, the initial setup can be complex, and some features have limitations, such as performance issues with large datasets and a steep learning curve for non-technical users.

Jira review

Pros:

  • Highly Customizable Workflows: Supports various project management styles, including Scrum, Lean, and Kanban.
  • Extensive Add-Ons: Over 1,000 add-ons available to extend functionality.
  • Powerful Reporting: Excellent for generating reports for road mapping and Agile management.
  • Effective Issue Tracking: Great for tracking and prioritizing issues.
  • Intuitive Interface: Easy to distribute work and track progress.

Cons:

  • Limited Collaboration Features: Collaboration features within the app are limited.
  • Best for Technical Teams: May be challenging for non-technical users.
  • Performance Issues: Can be slow with large datasets.

Pricing: 

  • Free
  • Standard: $7.16/month/user
  • Premium: $12.48/month/user
  • Enterprise: Contact Sales

Bottom Line:

Jira is a top project management tool for Agile and technical teams, offering extensive customization and powerful features for managing complex projects. Its robust issue tracking and reporting capabilities make it one of the best project management tools for software development and technical projects. 

While it may be challenging for non-technical users and lacks some collaboration features, its strengths in customization and integration make it a valuable tool for those needing advanced project management capabilities. If your team works in a technical field and values detailed customization, Jira is an excellent choice.

Click here to see our full list of the 18 Best JIRA Alternatives For Project Management

Basecamp – Best for Simple Project Management

Basecamp project management software dashboard

Basecamp offers a visually appealing interface with intuitive icons. By centralizing all discussions and collaborations, the software streamlines workflows and enhances efficiency. It is a suitable Wrike alternative for users seeking a simpler way to manage projects.

Key Features:

  • File Sharing: Allows teams to upload and share files easily.
  • Templates: Provides ready-to-use templates to save time on setup.
  • Document Management: Organizes documents within each project for easy access.
  • Real-Time Messaging: Facilitates quick communication through chat.
  • Reporting: Generates basic reports to keep track of project progress.

Integrations:

Basecamp integrates with various tools, including Zapier, Slack, Google Drive, Dropbox, Microsoft Outlook, and HubSpot.

Want to see more Basecamp alternatives? Check out our list of the 28 Best Basecamp Alternatives for Project Management

User Reviews:

Basecamp has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 on Software Advice. Users praise its user-friendly design and strong performance in task allocation and communication through threads. The software’s simplicity makes it easy to locate documents and manage tasks. Users also appreciate the customization options for notifications and schedules, which help streamline their workflows.

Some users find Basecamp limiting because it only allows viewing one project at a time and lacks advanced project management features like Gantt charts, time tracking, and dependent subtasks.  

Basecamp review

Pros:

  • User-Friendly Design: Simple and intuitive interface makes it easy for users to navigate and manage tasks.
  • Effective Task Management: Each project has its own section for documents and files, making it easy to locate materials.
  • Customization: Users can tailor notifications and create personalized schedules to fit their workflow.
  • Strong Communication Tools: Facilitates team collaboration through threaded discussions and real-time messaging.

Cons:

  • Limited Project View: Only allows viewing one project at a time, which can be restrictive.
  • Lacks Advanced Features: Missing key project management tools like Gantt charts, time tracking, and dependent subtasks.

Pricing: 

  • Personal: $15/user/month
  • Business: $299/month

Bottom Line:

Basecamp is an efficient collaboration tool used by many teams worldwide. Its user-friendly design and strong communication tools make it one of the best team management software options for simple projects. 

Basecamp excels in providing a straightforward, easy-to-use platform for managing tasks and enhancing team communication, but teams needing more advanced functionality should consider other options.

Workfront – Best for Enterprise-Level Project Management

Workfront dashboard

Workfront, founded in 2001, primarily serves enterprise-level customers by combining complex project management with issue tracking, document collaboration, and portfolio management. It also added proofing capabilities through its acquisition of Proofhub in 2015.

Key Features:

  • Goal Tracking: Allows teams to set and monitor progress towards project goals.
  • Workflow Automation: Automates repetitive tasks to save time and reduce errors.
  • Team Collaboration: Facilitates communication and collaboration among team members.
  • Resource Management: Helps allocate and track resources to ensure optimal utilization.
  • Budgeting: Tracks project expenses and compares them against the budget.
  • Agile Work Management: Supports Agile methodologies for flexible project management.
  • Proofing: Provides tools for reviewing and approving documents and designs.
  • Reports: Generates detailed reports for project performance and progress tracking.

Integrations:

Workfront integrates with various tools, including Adobe Creative Cloud, Microsoft Teams, Slack, Google Drive, Salesforce, and Jira, enhancing its functionality and connectivity.

User Reviews:

Workfront has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 on Software Advice. Users commend the platform for its extensive toolset and the ability to track projects and documents in one easily accessible location, which is beneficial for audits and record-keeping. The support staff and ease of collaboration are also praised. 

Some users find the interface confusing and report issues with document and task management, as well as challenges in maintaining timelines due to frequent updates that sometimes lead to lost functionality.

Workfront review

Pros:

  • Comprehensive Feature Set: Includes goal tracking, workflow automation, team collaboration, resource management, budgeting, and more.
  • Suitable for Large Organizations: Designed to meet the needs of mid-sized companies to large corporations.
  • Integrated Issue Tracking and Document Collaboration: Combines project management with issue tracking and document collaboration.
  • Extensive Team Functionalities: Offers tools for timesheets, assignment tracking, and planning.

Cons:

  • Steep Learning Curve: Requires significant onboarding and training time.
  • User Interface: Some users find the interface uninspiring and confusing.

Pricing: 

Workfront does not publicly disclose pricing; potential customers need to request pricing information.

Bottom Line:

Workfront offers an extensive set of features tailored for large organizations and complex project management needs. Its robust toolset and integration capabilities make it a potent alternative to Wrike for enterprises needing comprehensive project management tools. 

For enterprises looking for a detailed and scalable project management solution, Workfront stands out as a top choice due to its extensive functionalities and strong support for collaboration and resource management.

Airtable – Best for Versatile Data Management

Airtable project management dashboard

Airtable, founded in 2012, has evolved from a simple spreadsheet format to a comprehensive project management platform. Airtable allows users to create custom apps for their campaigns or organizations.  

Key Features:

  • Apps: Lets users build custom apps tailored to their specific needs, enhancing project functionality.
  • AI: Incorporates automation features to handle repetitive tasks and streamline workflows.
  • Team Collaboration: Facilitates real-time collaboration, allowing team members to share files and communicate within the platform.
  • Reports: Generates customizable reports to track project progress and performance metrics.
  • Customizable Views: Offers various views such as calendar, kanban, and timeline, making it easy to visualize and manage projects.
  • Automations: Automates routine tasks, improving efficiency and reducing manual effort.

Integrations:

Airtable integrates with several tools, including Dropbox, Box, Evernote, Google Drive, Slack, and Microsoft Outlook, enhancing its functionality and connectivity.

User Reviews:

Airtable has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 on Software Advice. Users praise its powerful tools, customization options, and user-friendly interface, making it ideal for various project management tasks. They appreciate its flexibility, robust feature set, and the ability to create custom apps and templates. 

Some find the transition from traditional spreadsheets challenging and note that task visibility can be lacking. The free version’s record limit and absence of rich text capabilities are also mentioned.

Airtable review

Pros:

  • Spreadsheet Simplicity with Database Power: Combines the ease of a spreadsheet with the advanced features of a database, making it versatile for various tasks.
  • Customizable Views: Provides different ways to view and manage projects, such as calendar, kanban, and timeline views.
  • Live Updates: Keeps teams organized with real-time updates on changes, ensuring everyone is on the same page.
  • Custom Apps: Allows for the creation of custom applications tailored to specific workflows or projects, enhancing flexibility and functionality.

Cons:

  • Steep Learning Curve: Transitioning from traditional spreadsheets to Airtable’s interface can be difficult, requiring time and effort to master.
  • Limited Communication Tools: Falls short as a centralized hub for team communication, necessitating the use of additional tools.
  • Task Visibility and Notifications: Some users find the task visibility and lack of a robust notification system for workflow changes inconvenient.

Pricing: 

  • Free 
  • Team Plan: $20/user/month 
  • Business Plan: $45/user/month 
  • Enterprise Plan: Custom pricing.

Bottom Line:

Airtable stands out as a versatile project management solution that blends the familiarity of spreadsheets with powerful database functionalities. It excels in organizing data and offering various project views, making it ideal for teams seeking flexibility and customization. 

For organizations looking to streamline project organization and collaboration without sacrificing customization, Airtable offers a compelling solution.

Click here to see our full list of Airtable Alternatives

Zoho Projects  – Best for Integration with Zoho Suite

Zoho projects project management software

Zoho Projects is a robust project management solution that has been serving various project management needs since 2006. It automates workflows, allocates tasks, records time logs, and facilitates team collaboration. Zoho Projects also provides analytical insights through reports and monitors bugs, making it a comprehensive tool for managing projects.

Key Features:

  • Project Planning: Uses Gantt charts to help plan, visualize, and manage project timelines effectively.
  • Collaboration Tools: Provides real-time communication and file-sharing capabilities to enhance team collaboration.
  • Document Management: Organizes and stores all project-related documents in a centralized location for easy access and management.
  • Reports: Generates comprehensive reports that provide insights into project progress and performance metrics.
  • Automations: Streamlines routine tasks with automation, reducing manual effort and increasing efficiency.

Integrations:

Zoho Projects integrates seamlessly with various tools, including Google Drive, Dropbox, Slack, GitHub, Microsoft Teams, Zoho CRM, and Zoho Analytics.  

User Reviews:

Zoho Projects has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 on Software Advice. Users appreciate its ease of use, intuitive interface, and robust mobile application. The availability of a good free tier and industry-specific templates simplifies setup and enhances usability. Many users highlight the seamless integration with other Zoho products as a significant advantage, making it a highly effective project management tool for those already invested in the Zoho ecosystem.

Some users report challenges with customer support, citing unresponsiveness and inconsistencies. Additionally, some users find the interface less user-friendly compared to more focused project management tools.

zoho projects review

Pros:

  • Seamless Integration: Perfect for teams already using Zoho’s suite of products, providing a cost-effective and integrated project management experience.
  • Unlimited Users: Allows unlimited users on any plan at no extra cost, making it highly scalable for growing teams.
  • Customizable Views: Offers various views such as calendar, Gantt chart, and kanban, helping teams visualize and manage projects effectively.
  • Industry-Specific Templates: Provides templates tailored for different industries, simplifying project setup and management.

Cons:

  • Limited Advanced Features: Lacks some advanced project management features found in other tools like ClickUp, which may be necessary for complex project needs.
  • Customer Support Issues: Reports of unresponsive and glitchy customer support can hinder the user experience.

Pricing: 

  • Standard: $14/user/month.
  • Professional: $23/user/month.
  • Enterprise: $40/user/month.
  • Ultimate: $52/user/month.

Bottom Line:

Zoho Projects stands out for its seamless integration with the Zoho ecosystem, making it an excellent choice for teams already using other Zoho products. It offers robust features for task management, project planning, and collaboration, making it one of the best project management tools for businesses seeking an integrated solution. 

Zoho Projects remains a strong contender for businesses looking for scalable and comprehensive project management software within the Zoho suite.

Podio – Best for Custom Workflow Creation

Podio dashboard

Podio, developed by Citrix, is a project management and social collaboration tool designed to help businesses create custom applications tailored to their unique needs without requiring technical skills. It allows for extensive customization through its app market and offers a variety of social collaboration features, making it ideal for small to mid-sized organizations seeking a flexible project management solution.

Key Features:

  • Real-Time Collaboration: Includes built-in messaging, video chat, and social tools like “likes” to enhance team interaction and communication. 
  • File Sharing: Provides seamless file sharing across projects and tasks, integrating with various storage platforms to keep all documents organized and accessible.  
  • Customizable Workflows: Users can create custom applications and workflows that fit their specific business processes, offering a high degree of flexibility.  
  • Advanced Reporting: Offers robust reporting capabilities that allow users to create detailed reports and dashboards to gain insights into project performance.  
  • Integrated Chat: Features instant messaging and video calling within the platform, enabling real-time communication without switching between different tools.
  • Workflow Automation: Automates repetitive tasks and sets up triggers for essential time-sensitive actions, helping to speed up critical processes.

To see a full list of Podio Alternatives, check out our article of the 24 Best Podio Alternatives for Project Management

Integrations:

Podio integrates with numerous platforms to enhance its functionality. Key integrations include Google Drive, Dropbox, Slack, Microsoft Teams, GoToMeeting, Zendesk, Evernote, and FreshBooks.  

User Reviews:

Podio has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 on Software Advice. Users appreciate its extensive customization capabilities, allowing for tailored workflows and project management setups. The platform’s numerous native and external integrations are also highlighted positively, making it versatile across various industries.

Some users find the interface challenging to navigate initially and report difficulties with integrating Podio with other platforms. Additionally, the absence of features like attachment markup and detailed time tracking is seen as a drawback.

podio review

Pros:

  • Strong Customization: Highly customizable to fit various business needs, allowing users to create tailored workflows and applications.
  • Integration Features: Good integration with popular tools such as Google Drive, Dropbox, Slack, and GoToMeeting, enhancing functionality and connectivity.
  • Mobile-Friendly: Excellent mobile app design allows teams to stay organized on the go, whether on a desktop or mobile device.
  • Collaborative Tools: Social tools like built-in sharing and peer recognition enhance team collaboration and communication.

Cons:

  • Limited Advanced Features: Missing some advanced project management features like budget management and comprehensive project dashboards.
  • Customer Support: Some users report issues with customer support being unresponsive and inconsistent, which can hinder the user experience.

Pricing: 

  • Free Plan 
  • Plus Plan: $11.20/user/month.
  • Premium Plan: $19.20/user/month.

Bottom Line:

Podio excels in providing a highly customizable project management solution with strong integration capabilities, making it a versatile tool for small to mid-sized teams. Its collaborative features and mobile-friendly design enhance team communication and productivity. 

Podio is a valuable tool for businesses needing a flexible and customizable project management platform, but teams with more complex needs might need to explore other options.

Quire – Best for Detailed Task Planning

Quire project management dashboard

Quire stands out as a modern project management tool designed to break down complex projects into manageable tasks. This approach ensures users can see both the big picture and the details, making it ideal for achieving grand project objectives through small, actionable steps.

Key Features:

  • Nested Task List: Breaks down projects into smaller, manageable tasks, creating a tree-like structure for easy organization.
  • Kanban Board: Visualizes work progress, helping teams focus on critical tasks and manage workflow effectively.
  • Real-Time Collaboration: Provides instant updates and built-in instant messaging for seamless team communication.
  • File Sharing: Integrates with Google Drive for attaching and sharing documents within tasks.
  • Workflow Automation: Automates repetitive tasks and sets up triggers for essential actions, saving time and increasing efficiency.

Integrations:

Quire integrates with various platforms such as Google Drive, Slack, GitHub, Google Calendar, and more. These integrations enhance its functionality and ensure smooth workflow and connectivity across different tools.

User Reviews:

Quire is highly rated with a score of 4.7 out of 5 on Software Advice. Users appreciate its intuitive interface, powerful task management features, and flexibility in customizing workflows. The ability to break down projects into nested tasks and the real-time collaboration features are highly praised. 

However, some users report limited storage in the free version and the lack of advanced reporting features is also noted as a drawback

Pros:

  • Intuitive Interface: Easy to use with a clean, elegant design that enhances user experience.
  • Powerful Task Management: Enables detailed task breakdowns and efficient organization.
  • Real-Time Updates: Keeps all team members synchronized with instant updates and notifications.
  • Mobile Accessibility: Robust mobile apps for continuous task management on the go.

Cons:

  • Storage Limits: The free plan has limited storage, which can be restrictive for larger projects.
  • Limited Advanced Features: Lacks comprehensive project dashboards and advanced reporting capabilities.

Pricing: 

  • Free 
  • Professional: $7.65/user/month 
  • Premium: $13.95/user/month 
  • Enterprise: $19.95/user/month

Bottom Line:

Quire excels in decomposing complex projects into manageable tasks and providing a clear, visual approach to project management. Its intuitive interface and real-time collaboration features make it a standout tool for enhancing productivity. 

Quire is particularly well-suited for small to mid-sized teams seeking a detailed and organized approach to project management.

Freedcamp – Best for Cost-Effective Project Management

Freedcamp project management software

Freedcamp is a versatile project management tool offering a range of features at no or low cost, making it ideal for nonprofits, teachers, and students. It’s designed to facilitate project planning and collaboration, with more advanced features available in its paid versions.

Key Features:

  • Task and Work Management: Allows users to create and manage tasks and subtasks, set milestones, and organize tasks with custom fields and statuses.
  • Project Tracking and Collaboration: Includes a global calendar view, Gantt charts for scheduling, and discussion spaces to replace email threads. Centralized file management integrates with Google Drive, OneDrive, and Dropbox.
  • Workflow Automation: Supports automating repetitive tasks and email-in functionality for task updates directly from an inbox.
  • Advanced Apps: Offers a wiki for dynamic documents, an issue tracker, CRM for managing contacts and deals, and invoicing tools.

Integrations:

Freedcamp integrates seamlessly with tools like Google Drive, OneDrive, Dropbox, Slack, and Google Calendar, enhancing its functionality and making it suitable for various business needs.

User Reviews:

Freedcamp has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 on Software Advice. Users praise its simplicity, user-friendly interface, and effectiveness in task management and project planning. The ability to quickly view and prioritize tasks, along with incremental improvements, is appreciated. 

Some users find scheduling repeating tasks confusing, note limited columns on the Kanban board, and mention insufficient links between tasks, discussions, and the calendar.

freedcamp review

Pros:

  • Free and Affordable Plans: Offers many features at no cost, making it an attractive entry point.
  • Customizable Interface: Provides various views and functions to suit different needs, from simple task management to comprehensive planning.
  • Unlimited Users and Projects: The free plan includes unlimited users, projects, and storage, which is ideal for growing teams.

Cons:

  • Simpler Tool: Due to its free nature, it lacks some advanced features found in more sophisticated tools.
  • Less Intuitive: Some users find the platform challenging to navigate and onboard.
  • Missing Advanced Features: Lacks task dependencies and other advanced project management features necessary for complex projects.

Pricing: 

  • Free 
  • Pro: $1.49/user/month 
  • Business: $7.49/user/month 
  • Enterprise: $16.99/user/month 

Bottom Line:

Freedcamp excels in providing cost-effective project management solutions, offering robust planning and collaboration features for free. Its customizable interface and various integration options make it suitable for diverse business needs. 

While it lacks some advanced features, Freedcamp is an excellent choice for users seeking an accessible, budget-friendly project management tool.

Research Methodology 

Our selection and evaluation of the top project management tools were conducted with rigorous attention to detail, ensuring our recommendations are trustworthy and relevant.  

  • Human Evaluation: A dedicated team of experts carefully selected and assessed each tool, providing an unbiased and thorough review.
  • Hands-On Testing: We engaged in extensive hands-on testing of the top 5 project management tools we listed, exploring features, interfaces, and usability to provide practical insights and firsthand experiences.  
  • Independent Review: Our evaluations were conducted independently, with no fees accepted from software vendors, ensuring unbiased and impartial results.
  • Selection Criteria:
    • User Reviews: We analyzed real user feedback from platforms like Software Advice to understand practical experiences, common issues, and the overall satisfaction of real users.
    • Integration Abilities: We assessed how well each tool integrates with other popular software and services, emphasizing the ease of incorporating the tool into existing workflows.
    • Feature Analysis: Each tool’s features were rigorously tested to ensure they met the diverse needs of project management, from basic task tracking to advanced workflow automation.
  • Rating Requirement: To ensure reliability and user satisfaction, all tools were required to have a profile on Software Advice with a minimum rating of 4.3 stars, with most selected tools having ratings above 4.5 stars.

How to Choose the Right Project Management Software for Your Needs

Here are some practical tips to guide you in making the best choice of the top project management software for your needs:

  • Identify Your Needs:
    • Team Size and Structure: Consider the size of your team and how they collaborate. Some tools are better suited for small teams, while others are designed for large enterprises.
    • Project Complexity: Assess the complexity of your projects. Simple task management may require different features compared to complex project portfolios.
    • Workflow Requirements: Identify the specific workflows your team uses. Do you need Agile methodologies, Gantt charts, Kanban boards, or time tracking?
  • Essential Features:
    • Task Management: Ensure the software offers robust task management capabilities, including task assignments, due dates, and priorities.
    • Collaboration Tools: Look for features that facilitate communication and collaboration, such as real-time chat, file sharing, and discussion forums.
    • Integration Capabilities: Check if the software integrates with other tools your team uses, like email, calendars, cloud storage, and CRM systems.
  • User Experience:
    • Ease of Use: Choose a tool with an intuitive interface that your team can quickly learn and adapt to.
    • Customization Options: Look for software that allows you to customize workflows, fields, and views to match your team’s processes.
    • Mobile Access: Ensure the software has mobile apps so team members can manage tasks on the go.
  • Scalability and Flexibility:
    • Growth Potential: Select software that can scale with your team as it grows. Consider if the tool can handle an increasing number of projects and users.
    • Flexibility: Choose software that can adapt to different project types and workflows, allowing for flexibility in project management.
  • Customer Support and Resources:
    • Support Availability: Check the availability and quality of customer support. Look for software that offers 24/7 support, live chat, and comprehensive help centers.
    • Training and Resources: Consider if the software provides tutorials, onboarding sessions, webinars, and documentation to help your team get started and make the most of the tool.
  • User Reviews and Ratings:
    • Real User Feedback: Read reviews and ratings from real users on platforms like Software Advice, G2, and Capterra. Pay attention to common praises and complaints to gauge the software’s strengths and weaknesses.

Conclusion

Our comprehensive list of the best project management app solutions should help you narrow down the top options for your team, ensuring you can confidently select the perfect tool.

Still trying to figure out which solution to go with? Check out our Buyer’s Guide for tips on identifying your needs and determining which features to look for. 

Remember to consider technical features, onboarding, training, and support when choosing a project management tool. Effective project management tools should be user-friendly and provide comprehensive support to ensure smooth adoption by your team.

Worzone’s battle-tested adoption process, unlimited training, and ongoing quarterly support calls have proven to be 2.7x more effective at helping businesses adopt consistent project management habits.

Does your team need a project management tool that the whole team will adopt and use? Workzone may be just the ticket…

For more insights, explore our comparisons on: