16 Best Project Management Tools for Businesses to Improve Productivity in 2024

Oct 23, 2024

People manage projects in different ways. Some prefer using their inbox to track tasks, others like visualising work on a Kanban board or calendar, and some still rely on pen and paper.

While these methods might work individually, collaborating as a team requires a flexible project management tool that suits everyone’s needs. With many teams still working remotely, it’s more important than ever to have a task management app that keeps projects on track, fosters collaboration, and ensures everyone stays informed.

On a typical day, people are juggling deadlines, managing resources, and keeping stakeholders in the loop – these tasks can feel overwhelming. Many even struggle with basic project management, often missing important tasks while handling client requests or diving into reports and analytics.

Fortunately, project management software can provide structure and help automate much of the work. So, we’ve done the work for you, by comparing different project management setups. We’ve looked into their standard features, collaboration potential, and the impact of good or poor project management.

Let’s get down to business!

16 Best Project Management Tools to Use in 2024  

Below is a table showing a list of different project management software solutions.

Name

Best for

Pricing

Zoho Projects

Small and Growing teams

From $0 (0) to $9 (4,320) per user/month

ClickUp

AI-powered project management

From $0 to $19 per month; custom pricing for enterprise plans

Asana

Simple project management

From $0 to $30.49 per month; custom pricing for enterprise plans

Trello

Visual workflow management with Kanban boards

From $0 to $17.50 per month for 50 users

Wrike

Managing multiple stakeholders

From $0 to $24.80 per month; custom pricing for enterprise plans

Monday

Scalable project management for growing teams

From $0 to $24 per month; custom pricing for enterprise plans

Jira

Agile development and IT project management

From $0 to $16 per month; custom pricing for enterprise plans

Basecamp

Collaboration for small teams

From $15 to $299 per month

Airtable

Creating custom apps and workflows

From $0 to $45 per seat/month

billed annually

Smartsheet

Excel-like project management

From $0 to $32 per month; custom pricing for enterprise plans

Adobe Workfront

Project management for creative and marketing teams

Custom pricing

Microsoft Project

Advanced resource management for enterprises

From $10 to $55 per month and $679.99 to $1299.99 for licence purchase

TeamWork

Tracking projects and reviewing performance

From $0 to $25.99 per month; custom pricing for enterprise plans

Celoxis

Managing complex portfolios and multiple tasks

From $15 to $25 per month

Miro

Brainstorming with online whiteboards

From $0 to $20 per month; custom pricing for enterprise plans

Nifty

Connecting remote teams

From $0 to $499 per month

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What are the Top 6 project management tools?   

Here are the top project management tools for businesses of all sizes.

1. Zoho Projects  

Zoho Projects is part of the larger Zoho ecosystem, which includes tools like CRM, recruitment software, and sales platforms. It’s a great fit for businesses already using other Zoho tools, as it allows easy data sharing across platforms.

Pros and Cons

Zoho Projects focuses heavily on task management and automation, helping managers stay on top of projects while enabling teams to collaborate effectively. However, the absence of a multi-select feature can make working with custom fields tricky.

Key Features

  • Blueprints: Visualise complex workflows and set up automatic progress notifications to keep tasks moving smoothly.

  • Issue Management: Track and flag issues efficiently, with options to create custom views that highlight urgent or important bugs.

  • Gantt Charts: Manage projects visually by assigning tasks, setting baselines, and tracking progress through detailed timelines.

Integrations

Though Zoho Projects doesn’t offer as many integrations as some competitors, it connects with essential tools like Google Workspace and Microsoft 365.

Pricing

  • Free: $0 for up to 3 users

  • Premium: $5 per user/month (billed monthly)

  • Enterprise: $9 per user/month (billed monthly)

Customer Feedback

Users appreciate how Zoho Projects makes it easy to break down large tasks and manage technical projects. The platform has a Capterra rating of 4.3/5 from over 320 reviews.

Support

While phone support isn’t available, users can reach out through email for assistance. Additionally, there’s an extensive library of resources, including FAQs, tutorials, and a knowledge base to guide users through common issues. You can also reach out to us for technical support.

>>Try Zoho Projects for free<<

2. Asana  

Asana is a widely used project management tool designed for businesses of all sizes. It combines project tracking, dashboards, file storage, and more in a visually appealing platform.

Pros and Cons  

Asana offers multiple features to help teams stay organised, manage resources, and monitor tasks through a clean interface. However, it lacks advanced proofing capabilities and can make it difficult to set up governance controls across accounts. Teams handling complex projects might find the platform somewhat limited for their needs.

Key Features  

  • Workflow Builder: A visual tool that lets users design custom workflows and connect team members efficiently.

  • Strategic Goals: Helps managers align teams with company objectives by setting clear goals and tracking performance metrics.

  • Gantt Charts: Provides an easy way to view deadlines, manage resources, and monitor progress visually.

Integrations  

Asana integrates with over 200 apps, including popular tools like Google Drive, Google Calendar, Slack, and more, making it easy to sync with existing workflows.

Pricing  

  • Basic: $0

  • Premium: $13.49 per user/month (billed monthly)

  • Business: $30.49 per user/month (billed monthly)

  • Enterprise: Custom pricing

Customer Feedback  

Many users appreciate how Asana simplifies project communication and keeps everyone aligned. However, some find the interface confusing or hard to navigate at times. The software holds a Capterra rating of 4.5/5 from over 12,000 reviews.

Support  

Asana offers several support options, but users may struggle with the lack of phone or live chat assistance. While training is available, some users feel the response time for “how-to” questions is slower than expected, and the learning materials could be more comprehensive.

3. ClickUp  

ClickUp is a popular project management platform that caters to teams of all sizes, including remote teams. It offers essential features for planning, organising, and managing tasks efficiently.

Pros and Cons  

ClickUp provides an all-in-one solution with workflow automation, Gantt charts, and resource management at accessible prices. It’s a flexible tool that suits most project management needs.

However, users report frequent bugs and occasional downtime, which can disrupt work on tight schedules. Additionally, its proofing and approval tools are not as advanced as some competitors’.

Key Features  

  • Document Hub: Store internal documents, FAQs, and wikis in one place to streamline onboarding and make information easy to find.

  • Checklists: Break tasks into smaller activities to monitor progress more effectively and resolve roadblocks quickly.

  • Mind Maps: Visualise projects and tasks to help teams understand strategies and their roles in achieving project goals.

Integrations  

ClickUp offers a wide range of integrations with tools like Slack, Google Calendar, Outlook, HubSpot, and many more, allowing teams to stay connected with their favorite apps.

Pricing Plans  

  • Free Forever: $0

  • Unlimited: $9 per user/month (billed monthly)

  • Business: $19 per user/month (billed monthly)

  • Business Plus: $29 per user/month (billed monthly)

  • Enterprise: Custom pricing

Customer Feedback  

Users appreciate ClickUp’s ability to capture client feedback and track multiple tasks and projects efficiently. However, some customers find the notifications overwhelming, filling dashboards and inboxes quickly. ClickUp holds a Capterra rating of 4.7/5 from over 3,600 reviews.

Support  

ClickUp does not offer phone support, which may be a drawback for some users. While email support and other resources are available, the absence of a user community limits opportunities for customers to share insights and learn best practices from each other.

4. Adobe Workfront  

Adobe Workfront is a popular project management tool, especially among marketing teams. It offers a wide range of features suited for enterprise-level organisations, making it ideal for teams that need advanced tools. However, the higher price reflects its robust capabilities.

Pros and Cons  

Adobe Workfront provides essential project management features like Gantt charts, reporting tools, and advanced dashboards. As expected from an Adobe product, it also excels in proofing and asset management.

However, some users report that the latest user interface can be difficult to navigate, limiting adoption by new users who prefer familiar tools. Additionally, bugs in the Digital Asset Management (DAM) feature can cause delays in publishing.

Key Features  

  • Scenario Planner: Helps teams prepare for potential outcomes by simulating different scenarios and evaluating their impact.

  • Strategic Goal-Setting: Enables teams to set measurable goals and track progress to ensure alignment across projects.

  • Detailed Dashboards: Provides real-time insights into workflows, making it easy to monitor both team and individual progress.

Integrations  

Adobe Workfront integrates seamlessly with other Adobe tools, including Creative Cloud, allowing smooth collaboration across platforms. However, the software offers limited support for third-party app integrations.

Pricing  

  • Select: Contact Adobe for a quote

  • Prime: Contact Adobe for a quote

  • Ultimate: Contact Adobe for a quote

Customer Feedback  

Users appreciate Workfront’s powerful analytics and collaboration features. However, some feel it lacks additional tools needed for more advanced project management. The platform holds a Capterra rating of 4.4/5 from over 1,300 reviews.

Support  

Workfront offers standard support five days a week but does not provide assistance on holidays. The absence of a free trial also means users must commit to the platform without testing it first.

5. Microsoft Project  

Microsoft Project is a widely recognized project management tool from the Microsoft family, designed to streamline tasks and resource management. It performs well for individual projects but may be less popular for managing multiple, concurrent projects.

Pros and Cons  

Microsoft Project offers a range of powerful tools, including Gantt charts, grid views, and boards, along with resource management features to coordinate tasks and teams.

However, it works best when used with other Microsoft products like Outlook, Teams, and SharePoint, which can be limiting for those seeking a comprehensive, all-in-one platform.

Key Features  

  • Interactive Dashboards: While dashboards require integration with Power BI, they provide quick insights into project progress and team performance.

  • Gantt Timeline View: The Gantt view helps users visualise project timelines, track deadlines, and identify potential bottlenecks.

  • Budget Tracking: Although better suited for individual projects, this feature helps monitor spending and ensure budgets stay on track.

Integrations  

Microsoft Project integrates seamlessly with other Microsoft tools but offers limited third-party app connections. However, it does support integrations with popular platforms like Slack, Google Calendar, Outlook, and HubSpot.

Pricing Plans  

  • Project Plan 1: $10 per user/month

  • Project Plan 3: $30 per user/month

  • Project Plan 5: $55 per user/month

  • On-premises Solutions: Custom pricing

Customer Feedback  

Users appreciate the platform’s ability to manage complex projects effectively. However, many feel it can be expensive, especially since additional licences are often needed for access to essential tools in the Microsoft suite. Microsoft Project has a Capterra rating of 4.4/5 from over 1,700 reviewers.

Support  

Getting started with Microsoft Project can take time, but users have access to training resources, FAQs, and a community hub for support. Help tickets can be raised through the Microsoft Admin Center, and larger accounts have the option to upgrade to paid on-premises support.

6. Trello  

Trello is one of the earliest tools built around the Kanban methodology, offering a visual way to manage tasks with simple drag-and-drop features. Its intuitive design makes it easy to collaborate, even with external users, making it a favorite for many teams.

Pros and Cons  

Trello offers an enjoyable task management experience, with visually appealing boards and a user-friendly interface that helps teams stay productive.

However, it lacks advanced project and portfolio management capabilities, making it less suitable for businesses that need high-level planning and strategic oversight.

Key Features  

  • Kanban Boards: Trello’s drag-and-drop Kanban boards are well-known for their ease of use and visual appeal.

  • Custom Cards: Task cards can be personalized with due dates, comments, and attachments to keep everyone aligned.

  • Workflow Automation: Automate repetitive tasks by setting up rules that trigger card movements and notifications.

Integrations  

Trello offers over 200 integrations, including popular apps like Google Workspace, Slack, and more, making it easy to connect with other tools.

Pricing Plans  

  • Free: $0

  • Standard: $6 per user/month (billed monthly)

  • Premium: $12.50 per user/month (billed monthly)

  • Enterprise: $17.50 per user/month (billed annually)

Customer Ratings and Reviews  

Trello is widely appreciated for its simple, Kanban-style task management and ease of use. However, some users find it lacks the flexibility of other project management tools when handling more complex workflows. Trello holds a Capterra rating of 4.5/5 from over 22,500 customers.

Support  

Trello provides email support during regular business hours (Monday to Friday). Additionally, users can find helpful tips and solutions through the Trello community forum.

What makes the best project management tool?  

Not all project management tools are the same. There are free project management tools with basic features for simple tasks, and there are also advanced enterprise-grade resource management tools for complex needs. These tools can also help with time tracking, project planning, and more.

However, with so many options available, you must look for some important features that make the best project management apps. for your needs. To make this easier, we’ve grouped the key features into three categories: essential, advanced, and extra. Let’s get started below.

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Essential features in the best project management tool  

Here are the essential features to look for in a project management tool:

Task Management:
A good tool should let you create, assign, and manage tasks, set deadlines, prioritize work, and identify task dependencies. Breaking large projects into smaller tasks makes things more manageable and improves productivity.

Collaboration Tools:
Since teamwork is essential, the tool should have features that help teams work smoothly together. This could include shared document access, messaging, and discussion spaces. It’s a good idea to have team members test the software with you before making a final decision to ensure it meets everyone’s needs.

Knowledge Management:
Top tools offer easy ways to create, organise, and share important documents. Features like searchable project briefs, editable templates, SOPs, and wikis can make a big difference in project success by keeping everyone aligned.

Planning and Scheduling:
Look for tools that give you a clear view of your project’s progress. Features like Gantt charts, task lists, time tracking, budgeting, workload analysis, and the ability to add milestones and dependencies are essential for smooth planning and scheduling.

Artificial Intelligence (AI):
AI is no longer just a bonus—it’s essential. Modern tools use AI to analyse data, automate workflows, and provide insights that help you make better decisions and manage resources efficiently. AI can speed up processes and unlock more value from your projects.

Advanced features in the top project management tool  

Advanced features help manage the complex projects, so you need to look for:

Resource Management:
Project managers need to assign and adjust resources as project needs evolve. This includes managing shared tools, limited budgets, or skilled team members. Time tracking, goal tracking, and other resource management tools are essential for maintaining productivity and ensuring smooth performance.

Reporting and Analytics:
Reports and data insights are crucial for monitoring project progress and performance. Real-time dashboards that track metrics like time spent, costs, and earned value can provide valuable insights. With data-backed interventions, managers can quickly address any issues and keep projects on track.

Automation:
No project manager enjoys doing repetitive tasks manually. Automation tools can handle routine updates and workflows, reducing manual effort while maintaining speed and accuracy. This frees up time for more strategic work.

Customization:
The best project management tools allow teams to tailor workflows, dashboards, and views to their specific needs. Features like custom fields for unique project details and access controls for sensitive information help teams stay organised and efficient.

Extra features in the top project management tool  

When choosing the best project management tool, consider these additional factors:

Integrations:
It’s important that the tool connects smoothly with other apps and platforms, like CRM or accounting software. Check if the integrations are built-in or require a third-party service to function. Seamless integration makes work easier and more efficient.

Data Security and Privacy:
With growing concerns about data privacy, it’s crucial to choose software that provides strong security features. Make sure the platform gives you full control over your data and meets privacy standards to protect sensitive information.

Scalability:
Your project management tool should grow with your needs. Look for one that can scale both horizontally (adding new projects) and vertically (handling larger, more complex tasks). This flexibility ensures the tool remains valuable as your team or project expands.

Ease of Use:
Even if you’re comfortable with tech, not everyone on your team or among stakeholders may be. Choose software that is intuitive, easy to navigate, and user-friendly to encourage adoption and make sure everyone can use it effectively.

Pricing:
Don’t just look at the basic price. Consider all costs, including setup fees, recurring subscriptions, and additional features. Make sure the total cost aligns with your budget and the size of your team.

Use these 5 steps to Choose a Project Management software  

Every project management tool offers unique benefits. To help you decide, here’s a simple 5-step process:

Step 1: Identify your project management needs based on factors like project type, team size, workflow, and collaboration style.

Step 2: Organise your desired features into four categories: must-haves, advanced features, future needs, and other considerations.

Step 3: Narrow down your options by researching features, pricing, capabilities, and user reviews to see which tools match your priorities from Step 2 (the list above is a great place to start!).

Step 4: Sign up for free trials or product demos to see how the tools perform in a practical setting. You can use Zoho Projects for free today.

Step 5: Review your results and choose the tool that fits best. Start with the basics when implementing the solution, and scale up by adding features as your needs grow.

Why do companies need project management software?   

The importance of reliable tools for businesses to stay competitive can not be overemphasised. Without an effective system to keep teams aligned, improve workflows, and centralise tasks, organisations risk losing valuable time and resources daily. Data shows that because of improper project management, companies suffer wasted time on unstructured tasks, disorganised workflows, and revenue loss from unproductivity amongst team members. To reclaim time and maximise resources, businesses need a project management tool that offers:

  • Improved efficiency: Automate repetitive tasks, eliminate bottlenecks, and speed up project completion.

  • Customization: No two businesses are the same. Choose software that adapts to your processes and lets you create tailored workflows.

  • High-speed performance: Slow systems disrupt work. Look for platforms with quick loading times, real-time updates, and minimal downtime.

  • Complete visibility: Gain a clear overview of your work, with options to zoom in on specific tasks or view overall project progress at a glance.

  • Future-ready technology: As AI continues to shape the future of work, your project management solution should offer innovative features that prepare you for tomorrow’s challenges.

With the right software in place, businesses can regain control of their time, improve productivity, and position themselves for long-term success.

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Let’s Help You Implement the Best Project Management Tool  

Every team has different needs, whether you’re managing simple tasks or complex projects, so it’s essential to find a solution that suits your workflow, team size, and collaboration style. The tools listed in this article cover a range of features, from basic task management to advanced automation and AI capabilities, giving you plenty of flexibility to choose what fits your needs.

However, you also need an implementation partner like us to advise you based on your unique business needs and help you set up the tool. If you need help to choose or implement any digital solution, you can book a free discovery call now.

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