How Wrike Puts Strategy, Goals, and Sprints in Sync
A company with a big product or product portfolio has to work to synchronize strategy with the daily efforts of each employee. If teams act out of order, the strategy remains just a beautiful document. In this article, we’ll unveil how our company aligns goals at different levels, what goals are set at different stages of planning, and who is involved in planning. Wrike has three levels of product goals: Annual Quarterly Team-specific sprint goals At each level, there are employees who build processes and are responsible for achieving the goals. Strategy and annual goals Wrike has a company strategy and a product strategy that supports it. To understand how they relate, let’s look at an example. If a company wants to operate more in the enterprise segment, certain product changes should follow — that is product strategy. Company strategy is much broader. In addition to product changes, we need, for example, to change the way we hire people in the sales department, restructure marketing, etc. Company strategy is about which market segments we want to go into, while product strategy is about how the product needs to be changed to enter these segments effectively. Since product strategy and company strategy are closely related, their updates occur synchronously. We usually review the strategy once a year. Company strategy is the responsibility of the executive team, in which the product organization is represented by the VP of Product. The executive team meets regularly and, as a result, defines the overall strategy of the company. That is how it becomes clear what we want to achieve as a company. The product team is less involved in this process: for example, the VP of Product can ask someone to work on a specific issue or prepare the necessary data. The product team is much more involved in product strategy. The VP of Product is responsible for this process and all product teams are engaged. To better understand the product strategy process, it is important to understand how our product team is structured. It consists of separate divisions (units). Each unit has its own leader. In this article, we will call them Lead Product Manager, but it can also be the Director of Product or Senior Product Manager. Within the units there are product teams, each headed by a product manager. The formation of the product strategy takes place in two directions: top-to-bottom and bottom-to-top. Top-to-bottom is the general vector of product development formed by the VP of Product. To do this, they use different input data: company strategy, general market trends, competitive research, reports from analytical agencies like Gartner, product sales analytics (e.g., stronger segments, growing segments, etc.). All this information helps us understand what to focus on. In addition, it allows us to understand our limitations. What resources can we invest in product development this year? What percentage do we need to spend on mandatory support processes, such as improving the technical platform and fixing defects? Top-to-bottom direction forms the framework within which concrete proposals for strategic initiatives need to be formulated. Bottom-to-top direction is ideas for strategic initiatives from the product team. They are formulated by Lead Product Managers but generally, they first consult with product managers from their unit. This is an opportunity for PMs to submit their ideas and participate in the formation of product strategy. When all proposals are collected, they are discussed at a series of meetings of unit leaders, where each idea is evaluated. We consider investment areas that will later be included in the product strategy according to different criteria. The prioritization processes are constantly refined and improved. For example, we can calculate the possible ROI from the implementation of some idea, see how it fits within the company strategy, and evaluate each idea according to ICE. After discussions and prioritization, the VP of Product analyzes the results and draws up the product strategy for the next year. The formed strategy first goes through a feedback loop. Lead product managers carefully study and discuss it, and then bring it to a meeting of all product managers. The output is a refined product strategy: Investment mix: This includes where and how much in percentage we will invest this year. High-level product goals of the year: An example of such a goal could be to release a solution for a new market segment or make the product cover some new big business needs. High-level goals serve as inspiration and usually turn out to be quite abstract in the sense that it is not at all obvious how exactly these goals can be achieved. There should be quite a few such goals. This year we have three of them. For each goal, we define a core metric on how we will measure success. Specific sub-objectives for each goal: These chart the path to the higher-level goals that we all believe in as a team. At the same time, this path is still formulated quite abstractly at the level of intermediate goals that we want to achieve, not specific features. For example, I’m currently in charge of a goal called “Improve Configurability of Platform.” A specific Lead Product Manager is responsible for each of its sub-objectives. Their task at the planning stage is to clarify the sub-objectives and, together with the product analyst, determine the metrics for those. We will work on the goal metric throughout the year, so for the metrics at the sub-objective level, we set quarterly goals. Quarterly Goals Quarterly goals stem from the sub-objectives defined during the yearly planning and may, to a limited extent, overlap with them. By the beginning of quarterly planning, we already have, in first approximation, Objectives (sub-objectives for top-level annual goals) and Key Results (goals for the metrics that we have defined for each quarter). But since the beginning of the year, some changes could have occurred, so some of the goals may be revised. We may decide not to work on some goals in the next quarter and instead focus only on part of the goals. There may also be additional new targets in a particular quarter. Like annual goals, quarterly goals are first discussed between the VP of Product and Lead Product Managers (who confer with their product management team). After discussing quarterly goals with unit leaders, the VP of Product presents quarterly goals at a general meeting of all product managers, answers questions, and collects feedback. The next task for product managers is to propose concrete initiatives that will help achieve this goal and the desired change in the metric. Ideas for initiatives are discussed within the unit with all product and development managers (after all, initiatives must be realistic). We hired unit managers in our company to be responsible for development within units. They help to plan how, where, and which teams to assign. Plus, the teams themselves can assess their capabilities and understand which initiatives they are ready to take on in the next quarter and which they are not. Ideas may also require discussion with other teams and units. Wrike is a large and complex product and you often need the help of other teams to achieve a goal. In order to properly formulate quarterly plans, it is necessary to take into account and calculate all these dependencies and agree on how we will achieve the overall result. After all discussions, plans are brought into the Wrike app, which is our main management tool. To make sure that we have the same understanding of what the plans turned out to be and why, a general meeting is held, at which the Lead Product Managers present the plans of the unit. The meeting is attended by all product managers and development managers, as well as everyone who wants to. Sprint Goals A specific team is responsible for sprint goals, including their product manager. All teams at Wrike work according to Scrum with a two-week iteration (very convenient when the planning cycle is aligned across the entire company). Specific processes can seriously differ from team to team. It has to be convenient for the team, while all the company requires is for each team to have a product increment at least once every two weeks that brings us closer to the common goal. The team as a whole builds sprint goals to achieve the quarterly goals that we jointly formulated for the quarter. Usually, the team highlights progress against quarterly goals on the Sprint Review. All teams try to set ambitious goals, so sprint goals are sometimes not met. We believe that this is not a big deal because the team is tasked to plan each sprint so that the unit gets closer to the overall quarterly goal. Planning tools We try to make the most of the Wrike app, at least for dogfooding purposes. You can build different levels and hierarchies of goals. We feed it annual goals, sub-objectives, quarterly plans with metrics, and even sprint goals. Goals can be viewed in different sections. For example, if a product manager plans sprints, they may not look at other goal hierarchies at all. At the same time, the connection between the levels is preserved and can always be traced or visualized. We use Wrike primarily for the implementation stage. The development of different options for plans and brainstorming is often done in Excel or Miro since those are better suited for working with unstructured data. Structure of goals in Wrike Company strategy (exec team) — annually Product strategy — annually. Driver — VP of Product Inputs: Company strategy Market data (trends, analysts, competitors, win/loss, etc.) Current investment mix Proposed areas of investments (Lead PMs in collaboration with PMs) -> evaluation Outcome: Investment mix Annual goals with metrics (three this year) Sub-objectives with metrics (e.g., improve configurability of the platform) Objective priorities Each objective has a responsible Lead PM who refines the definition and drives metrics discussion Feedback loop Quarterly goals: Sub-objectives for this quarter Suggested by VP Product, feedback loop Clarified metrics for the quarter — Lead PM + Analyst Proposed initiatives — PMs+teams, discussed with Lead PM, presented to a broader group Cross-unit dependencies resolving Sprint goal (Set by PM + team) This article was written by a Wriker, in Wrike. See what it’s like to work with us and what career development opportunities we offer here. Also, hear from our founder, Andrew Filev, about Wrike’s culture and values, the ways we work and appreciate Wrikers, and more here.
How Enterprise Banking Professionals Thrive With Project Management Software
Managing complex projects in the banking industry requires careful planning, coordination, and communication. Banking professionals must ensure that projects are completed on time, meet compliance requirements, and remain within budget. In this article, we’ll explore the ways in which project management software can benefit enterprise banking professionals and evaluate the best software solutions available. Try Wrike for free Understanding the Importance of Project Management in Enterprise Banking Effective project management is crucial to the success of enterprise banking professionals, as they work in an extremely competitive, highly regulated industry. The Role of Project Management in the Banking Industry One of the key roles of project management in the banking industry is to ensure that projects are aligned with the overall business strategy. This involves identifying projects that will help the bank achieve its strategic objectives and prioritizing them accordingly. Project managers must also verify that projects are completed within the allocated budget and timeline while meeting the required quality standards. Another important role of project management in banking is risk management. Project managers must identify potential risks associated with a project and develop mitigation strategies to minimize their impact. This is particularly important in the banking industry, where the consequences of project failure can be severe. Key Challenges Faced by Enterprise Banking Professionals One of the biggest challenges faced by enterprise banking professionals is managing the expectations of stakeholders. Stakeholders in the banking industry can include customers, employees, regulators, and shareholders. Each stakeholder has their own set of requirements, and project managers must confirm that these expectations are aligned with the project goals and objectives. Another challenge faced by enterprise banking professionals is ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements, as failure to comply can lead to significant penalties and reputational damage. All projects must be designed and executed in a way that follows all relevant regulations and standards. Enterprise banking professionals must also deal with limited resources and circumstances that change without warning. This can make it difficult to allocate resources effectively and ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget. Evaluating the Best Project Management Software for Enterprise Banking Project management software can offer enterprise banking professionals a range of benefits, including streamlining workflows, enhancing collaboration, ensuring compliance, and managing risk. However, with so many project management software solutions on the market, it can be challenging to select the right one. Here, we explore essential features and evaluate top project management software solutions for enterprise banking. Essential Features to Look for in Project Management Software Task management: Track tasks and deadlines, assign tasks to team members, and monitor progress. Resource allocation: Allocate resources effectively, such as assigning team members to specific tasks or projects. Project analytics: Gain insights into project performance, including progress, budget, and resource utilization, to make data-driven decisions and optimize project outcomes. Communication tools: Allow team members to collaborate effectively and stay connected via messaging, video conferencing, and file-sharing capabilities. Risk management: Anticipate and mitigate potential risks and challenges associated with projects. Top Project Management Software Solutions for Enterprise Banking Several project management software solutions are available that can benefit enterprise banking professionals. Examples include Wrike, Asana, Trello, Basecamp, and Monday.com. These software solutions offer a range of features that can help banking professionals streamline workflows, enhance communication, and ensure compliance. Wrike: Streamlines work processes for maximum efficiency, empowering teams across all departments to collaborate, manage projects, drive strategic initiatives, and achieve goals. Wrike is versatile and powerful, with features for true cross-departmental collaboration and powerful automation. Asana: Offers features such as task management, resource allocation, communication tools, and project analytics. Asana’s known for its user-friendly interface and customizable dashboards, which allow banking professionals to tailor the software to their specific needs. Trello: Offers a visual, card-based approach to task management. Trello’s recognized for its simplicity and flexibility, making it a good choice for banking professionals who need a streamlined solution. Basecamp: Provides a range of features, including task management, communication tools, and project analytics. Known for its all-in-one approach, it gives professionals a comprehensive solution for managing projects. Monday.com: Characterized by a customizable dashboard, task management, communication tools, and project analytics. Monday provides a solution that can adapt to changing needs. Streamlining Workflows and Enhancing Collaboration with Project Management Software Project management software has become an essential tool for enterprise banking professionals. With the fast-paced nature of the industry, it is crucial to have a system in place that can help streamline workflows and enhance collaboration among team members. Improving Communication and Teamwork in Enterprise Banking Projects Project management software provides a centralized platform for team members to collaborate on projects, as they have full access to project information, documents, and other resources from a single location. This can help to reduce confusion and keep all employees on the same page. Try Wrike for free Additionally, project management software offers a range of communication tools, such as chat, email, and video conferencing, that can be used to facilitate communication among team members. These tools help to ensure that issues are addressed promptly and efficiently and that everyone is aware of project developments. Tracking Progress and Managing Deadlines Effectively The ability to track project progress and manage deadlines effectively via project management software makes life easier for enterprise banking professionals. Not only can they easily monitor project status, identify areas where progress may be lagging, and make adjustments as needed to keep projects on track, but they can also set deadlines for tasks and milestones. This promotes a sense of accountability so that projects are completed on schedule. Ensuring Compliance and Risk Management with Project Management Software Let’s examine a few of the ways project management software can help banking professionals ensure compliance and strengthen their risk management practices. Integrating Regulatory Requirements into Project Management Processes With project management software, compliance requirements can be tracked and managed efficiently. The software will inform all stakeholders about compliance issues and keep all documentation up-to-date. This can help prevent compliance violations. Moreover, project management software can help enterprise banking professionals stay aware of any changes in regulatory requirements. The software can send alerts to project teams when there are any updates or changes to compliance requirements, which helps avoid legal repercussions. Identifying and Mitigating Risks in Banking Projects Project management software can help enterprise banking professionals identify potential risks and develop strategies to mitigate them. The software can provide a risk management framework that allows project teams to identify, assess, and prioritize risks. This can help project teams make informed decisions and adjust their strategies as needed. Project management tools can also help enterprise banking professionals identify emerging risks. The software can provide real-time data and analytics, allowing project teams to identify potential risks before they become major issues. This can help prevent project delays and ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget. Measuring the Impact of Project Management Software on Enterprise Banking Success Measuring the impact of project management software on enterprise banking success is essential to determining the value of these tools, and it is important to evaluate the impact of these tools on project success using key performance indicators (KPIs). Key performance indicators (KPIs) for Evaluating Project Success KPIs are metrics related to project timelines, budget, resource allocation, stakeholder satisfaction, and compliance. By tracking these KPIs, enterprise banking professionals can gain insights into project performance and determine the impact of project management software on project success. Conclusion Project management software offers enterprise banking professionals a range of benefits, including streamlining workflows, enhancing collaboration, ensuring compliance, and managing risk. By evaluating essential features and selecting the right software solution, banking professionals can improve project management processes and achieve greater success in their projects. Empower your banking professionals with Wrike's all-in-one project management software. Start your free trial today to explore the benefits of seamless collaboration and enhanced productivity. Try Wrike for free Note: This article was created with the assistance of an AI engine. It has been reviewed and revised by our team of experts to ensure accuracy and quality.
How Enterprise Telecommunications Professionals Thrive With Project Management Software
In modern business practices, project management is crucial for success. For those in the telecommunications industry, project management software can make the difference between success and failure. Try Wrike for free Understanding the Role of Project Management Software in Enterprise Telecommunications Efficient project management is critical in the telecommunications industry, where projects are complex and involve multiple stakeholders. Project management software provides a platform for telecommunications professionals to plan, manage, and execute their projects successfully. It enables teams to collaborate, monitor progress, and identify risks, resulting in projects being delivered on time and within budget. The Importance of Efficient Project Management in the Industry Because telecommunications projects tend to involve many moving parts, it is necessary to manage them effectively. Efficient project management software ensures optimal use of resources, minimizes risks, and enables telecommunications companies to stay ahead of the curve. Key Features of Project Management Software for Telecommunications Professionals Project management software comes with a range of handy features, such as: Task assignments and scheduling Resource allocation and tracking Budget tracking and management Collaboration and communication tools Real-time reporting and analytics Evaluating and Selecting the Right Project Management Software Choosing the right project management software can be a daunting task, but it's vital for success. Here are some key steps to take when evaluating and selecting the right software: Identifying Your Organization's Needs and Goals Understand your organization's goals, needs, and requirements by assessing what software features are critical to your company's success and identifying areas of the business that need improvement. If your organization has a lot of remote workers, look for software that has robust communication tools. Alternatively, if your organization deals with sensitive data, search for software that has strong security features. Try Wrike for free Comparing Top Project Management Software Solutions There are numerous project management software solutions available in the market. Comparing features, functionality, pricing, and customer support will enable you to make an informed decision. Consider involving your team members and stakeholders in the evaluation process to ensure that everyone's needs are taken into account. Remember to consider the software's ease of use. If the software is too complicated, it may be challenging to get your team members to use it effectively. Additionally, consider the software's scalability. If your organization grows, will the software be able to grow with you? Assessing Integration and Customization Capabilities Reflect on how the project management software integrates with other software solutions used in your organization. Look for software that can integrate with other tools, such as accounting software, communication tools, and CRM software. Also, consider software that allows for customization to meet your specific business needs. If your organization uses Salesforce as its CRM software, consider project management software that can integrate with Salesforce. On the other hand, if your organization has specific workflows or processes, prioritize software that can be customized to meet those needs. Implementing Project Management Software for Telecommunications Projects Implementing project management software can be a significant undertaking, but it's essential when aiming for a successful project outcome. Here are three vital steps to follow: Establish a Project Management Office (PMO) Establishing a PMO can help ensure that project management is standardized across the organization. The PMO should have clear roles and responsibilities, processes, procedures for project management, and standard templates for project documentation. Remember to staff your PMO with experienced project managers who have a deep understanding of the telecommunications industry. These professionals should be able to provide guidance on best practices for project management and make sure that the project management software is being used effectively. The PMO should have a clear understanding of the organization's goals so that the staff uses the software to support rather than hinder the company's objectives. Train and Onboard Team Members Properly running training and onboarding sessions will keep all employees up-to-speed on the software's features and functionality and ensure they are using it effectively. Consider providing access to online training materials, offering one-on-one coaching, and giving opportunities for team members to ask questions and provide feedback. If employees understand the benefits of using project management software, they can work more efficiently. Set Up Project Templates and Workflows Setting up project templates and workflows involves including specific project milestones, timelines, and deliverables. Also, confirm that the project management software is integrated with things such as customer relationship management (CRM) systems, billing systems, and network monitoring tools. The goal is to make sure that each project follows a standardized process and procedure while utilizing the software's full functionality. Leveraging Project Management Software for Improved Collaboration and Communication A must-have tool for businesses across all industries, project management software has revolutionized the way teams collaborate and communicate. It is now easier than ever to streamline communication, enhance remote collaboration, and manage stakeholder engagement. Streamlining Team Communication with Centralized Platforms Project management software provides a centralized platform for team members to communicate about project needs. It eliminates the need for numerous emails, phone calls, and messages and ensures that everyone is informed and up-to-date regarding tasks and deadlines. This feature is particularly useful for large teams that are spread across different geographic locations and time zones. With a centralized platform, team members can easily share ideas, discuss issues, and provide feedback in real time. This helps to avoid miscommunication, delays, and misunderstandings that can negatively impact the project's progress. Enhancing Remote Collaboration with Real-Time Tools Effective collaboration among remote team members is crucial in project management software, and real-time tools play a vital role in enabling this. These tools encompass various features such as messaging, video conferencing, and document sharing. Messaging allows team members to communicate asynchronously, ask questions, and provide feedback. Meanwhile, video conferencing enables face-to-face communication, which is essential for building trust and rapport among team members. As for document sharing, this feature allows team members to access project-related documents from anywhere, at any time, simultaneously. Tracking and Managing Stakeholder Engagement Stakeholders, such as clients, customers, investors, and other parties with an interest in the project's outcome, must stay informed and engaged throughout the project's lifecycle. With project management software, stakeholders can access real-time project-related information anytime, anywhere. This helps to keep them updated on the project's progress and ensures that they are involved in the decision-making process. Project management software also enables teams to manage stakeholder expectations effectively, which is crucial for ensuring project success. Conclusion Telecommunications professionals require effective project management software to manage their complex projects successfully. By following the steps outlined above, telecommunications companies can evaluate, select, and implement the right project management software solution. Leveraging the software's collaboration and communication tools will ensure improved team performance, better project outcomes, and satisfied stakeholders. Enhance your telecommunications enterprise with Wrike's powerful work management platform. Start your free trial today and unlock the benefits of seamless collaboration and effective project execution. Try Wrike for free Note: This article was created with the assistance of an AI engine. It has been reviewed and revised by our team of experts to ensure accuracy and quality.
How Enterprise Logistics Professionals Use Project Management Software To Succeed
In the world of enterprise logistics, success often hinges on a company's ability to manage complex projects efficiently and effectively. This is where project management software comes into play. By providing structured workflows and real-time data visibility, project management software allows logistics professionals to streamline their operations, improve collaboration, and reduce risks. Try Wrike for free Understanding the Importance of Project Management Software in Enterprise Logistics Project management software plays a crucial role in enterprise logistics, as it simplifies complex processes and fosters seamless collaboration, ultimately driving efficiency and success in your operations. Project management software becomes important to logistics companies in a few key areas, like efficiency, collaboration, and risk management. Streamlining Operations and Improving Efficiency In enterprise logistics, time is money. By using project management software to optimize workflows and automate routine tasks, logistics professionals can reduce the time and effort required to manage complex projects. This not only improves efficiency but also helps to minimize errors and delays. Project management software allows logistics professionals to identify bottlenecks and inefficiencies in their workflows, as well as identify areas for improvement. Enhancing Collaboration and Communication In the logistics industry, successful project management requires close collaboration between team members, partners, and suppliers. By providing centralized communication and project management features, project management software makes it easier to keep everyone in the loop, even if they work from different departments. It also ensures that all stakeholders are working towards the same goals. Reducing Risks and Managing Uncertainties The logistics industry is inherently risky, with many factors beyond a company's control (e.g., weather, traffic, customs regulations). Project management software can help mitigate these risks by providing real-time data, analytics, and alerts, enabling logistics professionals to adjust plans and make informed decisions in response to changing circumstances. In addition, project management software promotes immediate problem solving by giving logistics professionals access to real-time visibility into inventory levels and shipment statuses. Key Features of Project Management Software for Logistics Professionals When looking for project management software for your logistics company, be sure to look out for a few key features you will want to make sure to have. Task Management and Scheduling Effective project management requires clear task assignments, deadlines, and progress tracking. Project management software typically includes features such as task lists, Gantt charts, and scheduling tools that help logistics professionals manage their workload and allocate resources efficiently. A logistics company may use project management software to schedule the delivery of goods to multiple destinations and expect the software to assist the team in creating a task list for each delivery, assigning tasks to team members, and setting deadlines for completion. This guarantees that deliveries are made on time and that the team is working efficiently. Resource Allocation and Tracking In the logistics industry, resource allocation is crucial. Project management software can help companies track resources such as personnel, equipment, and inventory, to monitor if they are being used in the most optimal sense. A logistics company may use project management software to track the availability of their vehicles and drivers and expect the software to give real-time updates on the location and status of each vehicle, allowing the organization to allocate resources more effectively and avoid delays. Real-time Data and Analytics Real-time data and analytics are critical to effective project management in enterprise logistics. Project management software can provide insights into key performance indicators such as delivery times, costs, and quality, enabling logistics professionals to make data-driven decisions and optimize their processes. Project management software tracks the delivery times of shipments and provides real-time updates on the status of each shipment. This then allows organizations to identify bottlenecks and improve their delivery times. Integration with Existing Systems Enterprise logistics often involves multiple systems and platforms (e.g., ERP, TMS, CRM). Project management software that integrates with these systems can help logistics professionals streamline workflows and reduce duplication of effort. A logistics company may use project management software that integrates with their inventory management system and expect the software to allow the team to track inventory levels in real time and ensure that they have enough stock to fulfill orders. Also, the software possesses the ability to automatically update inventory levels as shipments are received and processed, reducing the risk of errors and delays. Try Wrike for free Selecting the Right Project Management Software for Your Enterprise With so many options on the market, it can be difficult to determine which software solution is the best fit for your organization's needs. Here are some key factors to consider when selecting project management software for your enterprise. Assessing Your Organization's Needs Assess the specific needs of your organization and take into account factors such as project complexity, team size, and existing software systems. If your company frequently works on complex, multi-phase projects, you may require software that offers robust project planning and tracking capabilities. Similarly, if your team is distributed across multiple locations, you may need software that supports remote collaboration and communication. Comparing Different Software Solutions Compare different options and evaluate factors such as ease of use, pricing, and customer support. It's also important to consider the software's compatibility with other tools and systems your organization uses. If your team relies heavily on Microsoft Office, you may want to look for project management software that integrates seamlessly with Word, Excel, and other Office applications. Evaluating Scalability and Customization Options As an enterprise logistics company grows and evolves, its project management needs may change. Project management software that offers scalability and customization options can help you adapt to changing circumstances and ensure that processes remain optimized. Look for software that allows you to add or remove users, adjust project workflows, and customize reporting and analytics to meet your organization's specific needs. Ensuring Data Security and Compliance With sensitive data such as customer information, financial data, and trade secrets at stake, project management software must meet rigorous security and compliance standards. Carefully assess each software solution's security protocols and compliance certifications to verify that your company's data will be protected. One suggestion is to look for software that offers features such as two-factor authentication, data encryption, and regular security audits. Implementing Project Management Software in Your Logistics Workflow Implementing new software requires careful planning and execution. In this section, we will discuss the key steps that logistics professionals should follow when implementing project management software. Training and Onboarding Employees Implementing new software requires a careful training and onboarding process. Work with your software provider to establish a comprehensive training and onboarding program that will confirm all employees are proficient in using the new software. Include items such as hands-on training, online resources, and ongoing support for your team members, and be sure to communicate the new software’s benefits to motivate them to learn how to use it. Establishing Best Practices and Standard Operating Procedures Establish best practices and standard operating procedures to make sure that the software is being used uniformly across the company. Defining workflows, assigning tasks, and establishing timelines and clear communication channels and protocols all fall under this category. The overall purpose is to keep everybody on the same page and avoid any confusion surrounding the software. Monitoring Progress and Adjusting as Needed Ongoing monitoring and adjustment via tracking key performance indicators (KPIs), and adjusting workflows as needed, is necessary to reach optimal efficiency and success. Consider scheduling regular team meetings and status updates to also keep everybody on track and address all issues in a timely manner. Measuring Success and ROI Measuring KPIs and calculating their return on investment allows you to identify areas for improvement and achieve greater success. You will be able to determine whether the investment in project management software was ultimately worth it. Conclusion Project management software is an essential tool for enterprise logistics professionals seeking to manage complex projects efficiently and effectively. By understanding the importance of project management software in logistics, evaluating different software solutions, and implementing best practices, logistics companies can optimize their workflows, enhance collaboration, and reduce risks. The right project management software will allow logistics professionals to achieve greater success and deliver better results for their customers. Streamline your logistics management processes with Wrike's flexible project management software. Begin your free trial now and enhance operational efficiency, boost teamwork, and drive customer satisfaction. Try Wrike for free Note: This article was created with the assistance of an AI engine. It has been reviewed and revised by our team of experts to ensure accuracy and quality.
How Enterprise Accounting Professionals Use Project Management Software To Succeed
Modern times have seen the rise of project management software, as it has become a key requirement for enterprises in all industries. More than ever before, accounting professionals need access to reliable project management software to manage financial projects, collaborate with team members, and meet clients' needs. Try Wrike for free The Growing Importance of Project Management in Enterprise Accounting In recent years, the field of enterprise accounting has experienced significant changes. The increasing complexity of financial projects has made it necessary for accounting professionals to develop new skills and strategies to manage these challenges effectively. One of the key challenges facing accounting professionals today is the need to manage multiple projects simultaneously. With shifting deadlines and limited resources, it can be difficult to keep track of all the moving parts and ensure that everything stays on schedule. Moreover, accounting professionals must not only manage financial resources but also non-financial resources, such as personnel and equipment. This requires a high level of organization and attention to detail. In addition, accounting professionals must have a strong command of the company’s finances and be able to offer recommendations that drive business growth and profitability. This is in addition to the number crunching that accountants typically engage in. The Shift Towards a More Collaborative Approach Rather than working in silos, accountants function more as part of a larger team of internal and external stakeholders. Collaboration is key to success in the modern business world, and project management software is an essential tool for facilitating effective collaboration among team members. Using this software, accounting professionals can easily share information and files with team members, assign tasks, and track progress in real-time. This keeps all employees on the same page and helps ensure that deadlines are being met. Meeting the Challenges of Complex Financial Projects By providing real-time data on budgets, resources, and timelines, project management software enables accounting professionals to identify potential issues before they become major problems. They can also use the software to analyze data and make informed decisions that help the company achieve its financial goals. With project management software, accounting professionals can work more efficiently and effectively, delivering better results for their organization. Key Features of Project Management Software for Accounting Professionals When selecting project management software, accounting professionals should prioritize tools that provide a comprehensive suite of features to support their unique needs. Time Tracking and Resource Allocation Good project management software enables accounting professionals to track time spent on different tasks, monitor resource allocation, and ensure that projects are completed on time within set budgets. With time tracking features, accountants can easily monitor how much time is being spent on each task. This helps them flag areas where they can improve efficiency and make adjustments to their project plans as needed. As for resource allocation, this feature lets them assign tasks to team members based on their availability and expertise. Budgeting and Financial Forecasting Given the high stakes involved in financial projects, accounting professionals need to be able to manage and forecast budgets accurately and make informed business decisions. Project management software can help them track expenses, monitor cash flows, and compare actual budgets against forecasts. The features are conducive to being able to create detailed budgets for each project, track expenses as they occur, and compare actual expenses against forecasted amounts. This helps them identify areas where they may be overspending and make adjustments to their budgets as needed. Try Wrike for free Task Management and Workflow Automation Project management software helps accounting professionals prioritize tasks, manage deliverables, and automate repetitive tasks, freeing up more time to focus on higher-value activities. With task management features, accountants can craft detailed task lists for each project and assign tasks to team members. In regards to workflow automation, the features allow automation of repetitive tasks, such as sending reminders or updating project status, freeing up more time to focus on higher-priority work. Document Management and Version Control Accounting professionals deal with sensitive financial data that must be stored securely and shared only with authorized personnel. Project management software helps them streamline document storage and version control, ensure that team members can access the right information at the right times, and maintain data security and integrity in one centralized location. In addition, the version control features let all team members work with the most up-to-date version of each document, reducing the risk of errors and inconsistencies. Reporting and Analytics The ability to generate real-time, comprehensive reports that provide insights into project performance is critical for any financial project. Project management software provides accounting professionals with customized dashboards, graphs, and charts to monitor project progress, track KPIs, and make data-driven decisions. With reporting and analytics features, accounting professionals can quickly generate reports that provide insights into project performance, such as budget versus actuals, task completion rates, and resource utilization. Benefits of Implementing Project Management Software in Accounting The benefits of using project management software are numerous and impactful across all areas of enterprise accounting. 1. Improved Efficiency and Productivity Streamlining work processes, automating repetitive tasks, and reducing the risk of manual errors translates into faster project completion times and fewer delays. Automation of the process of data entry will reduce the time and effort required to input data manually. This frees up accounting professionals to focus on higher-level tasks, such as analyzing financial data and making strategic decisions. 2. Enhanced Collaboration and Communication Sharing information and files with other team members easily, communicating effectively, and keeping everyone on the same page will minimize confusion, misunderstandings, and duplication of effort. For instance, working together in a centralized platform allows for real-time collaboration on projects, regardless of their location or time zone. 3. Greater Financial Control and Visibility Being able to monitor budgets, resources, and timelines in real time, identify potential issues early, and take corrective action proactively allows greater financial control and visibility. For example, tracking expenses and revenue in real time will give accounting professionals a clear picture of their financial status at any given time. This allows them to make informed decisions about resource allocation and budget management. 4. Reduced Risk of Errors and Compliance Issues Manual processes are prone to human errors and have the potential to cause compliance issues. Project management software helps accounting professionals reduce the risk of these errors and compliance issues through automated workflows, streamlined processes, and data security protocols. Consider the automation of compliance checks, which will reduce the risk of errors, costly fines, and penalties. 5. Scalability and Flexibility for Future Growth Good project management software provides accounting professionals with the scalability and flexibility they need to manage their growing project portfolios as their businesses expand. The software can easily be scaled to accommodate more users, projects, and workflows, ensuring continuity and efficacy as companies grow and evolve. Think of how the software can be utilized to create templates for common workflows, making it easy to onboard new team members or scale up existing projects. This helps accounting professionals manage their workload more effectively and efficiently, even as their businesses grow and change. It’s Not a ‘Nice-to-Have’ With the growing importance of project management in enterprise accounting, accounting professionals need access to reliable project management software that assists them in managing their projects, improving efficiency, enhancing collaboration, and ensuring compliance with regulations. By prioritizing features like time tracking, budgeting and financial forecasting, task management, document management, and reporting, accountants can streamline work processes, reduce risks, and improve project outcomes. Ultimately, the use of project management software is not just a nice-to-have for accounting professionals; it’s a must-have for ensuring success in the highly competitive and complex field of enterprise accounting. Improve teamwork and streamline processes by using Wrike's intuitive project management solution. Test the efficiency with a free trial. Try Wrike for free Note: This article was created with the assistance of an AI engine. It has been reviewed and revised by our team of experts to ensure accuracy and quality.
How Enterprise Insurance Professionals Use Project Management Software To Succeed
The insurance industry has been evolving rapidly over the past few years, with market conditions and customer preferences driving significant changes. As a result, insurance professionals are constantly under pressure to deliver better results in less time. One way to do this is by using project management software. Let’s take a closer look at how enterprise insurance professionals can use project management software to succeed. Try Wrike for free The role of project management in insurance operations Project management is critical to the insurance industry because it enables professionals to coordinate and manage complex workflows and processes. With project management software, insurers can track tasks, manage deadlines, and allocate resources efficiently, directly resulting in increased productivity, better quality of work, and timely delivery of projects. Project management plays a key role in risk management for insurance companies, as it allows insurers to identify potential risks and develop strategies to mitigate them. This is particularly important in the insurance industry, where risk assessment is a core function. Project management also aids insurance companies in staying competitive in a rapidly changing market. By streamlining processes and improving efficiency, insurers can reduce costs and offer more competitive pricing to customers. Key challenges faced by insurance professionals Insurance professionals face numerous challenges, including a complex regulatory environment, pressure from competition, and an abundance of data that needs to be analyzed. The regulatory environment in the insurance industry is constantly changing, and compliance is a top priority for insurers. Project management software ensures that all projects are in compliance with regulatory requirements and that any changes to regulations are quickly and efficiently implemented. Because competition in the insurance industry is fierce, insurers need to be able to quickly respond to market changes and customer demands. By utilizing project management software, they can stay agile and responsive, using real-time data and analytics on project progress and market trends to their benefit. Evaluating the Best Project Management Software for Insurance Professionals When evaluating project management software for the insurance industry, it is important to consider the following essential features that will enable insurance professionals to manage their work effectively: Task Management: Easily assign tasks and deadlines to team members. Resource Allocation: Quickly allocate resources such as time, budget, and manpower to specific tasks and projects. Project Visualization: Be able to visualize the progress of a project through Gantt charts, calendars, and timelines. Collaboration Tools: Communicate with team members and stakeholders effectively through chat, comments, and fire sharing. Reporting Functionality: Efficiently generate reports on project progress, team performance, and resource utilization. Top project management software options for insurance professionals There are many project management software options available in the market, each with its unique features and specifications. Here are some of the top project management software options for insurance professionals: Wrike: Streamline work processes for maximum efficiency, empowering teams across all departments to collaborate, manage projects, drive strategic initiatives, and achieve goals. Asana: Manage tasks, track progress, and collaborate with team members effectively. It has a user-friendly interface and offers a wide range of integrations with other software. Trello: Organize tasks and projects into boards using a simple interface and features such as checklists, due dates, and labels. Jira: Widely used in the software development industry, Jira offers features such as agile boards, issue tracking, and release management. Streamlining Insurance Processes with Project Management Software Insurance companies can streamline a number of processes with project management software, starting with enhancing communication, automating repetitive work, and ensuring regulatory compliance. Enhancing communication and collaboration Improve communication and collaboration between team members with project management software. It is now easy to share files, updates, and feedback in real time, enhancing the decision-making process and ensuring everyone is on the same page. Automating repetitive tasks and reducing manual work Save time and reduce manual work by automating repetitive tasks with project management software. Tasks such as data entry, document management, and report generation no longer need to be completed by you, reducing the risk of errors and inefficiencies. Managing risks and ensuring compliance Use tools provided by project management software to track compliance metrics, manage document approvals, and automate the reporting process. This allows you to adhere to all compliance policies and avoid any regulatory penalties. Try Wrike for free Measuring the Success of Project Management Software Implementation Simply implementing project management software is not enough to guarantee success. It is important to track key performance indicators (KPIs) and assess the return on investment (ROI) to ensure that the software is delivering tangible benefits. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to Track Tracking KPIs is essential to measure the success of project management software implementation, specifically project completion times, resource utilization, and cost savings. Monitoring project completion times before and after implementation will provide valuable insight into the efficiency of the project management process. It will be easier to identify areas where the software has improved efficiency and areas where there is still room for improvement. Also, monitoring resource utilization will optimize resource allocation and improve overall efficiency. This monitoring will give you insight into where resources are being underutilized and overutilized. As for cost savings, monitoring these will highlight the financial benefits of project management software. When addressing stakeholders, you will be able to demonstrate the tangible benefits of project management software and justify the investment in it. Assessing the Return on Investment (ROI) Project management software can be a significant investment for insurance companies. Therefore, it is essential to assess the ROI of implementing project management software. Be sure to analyze metrics such as increased project completions, improved efficiency, and cost savings, as these are indicators of successful project management software implementation. It’s important to track the following ROI metrics: The number of projects completed before and after implementing the software to see if there is an increase in the number of projects completed. Resource utilization, projection completion times, and error rates to determine if overall efficiency has improved. Labor costs, material costs, and error rates to see if there are reduced rates that justify the financial investment in the software. Conclusion As the insurance industry continues to evolve, project management software has become increasingly important for insurance professionals to succeed. By streamlining processes, enhancing communication and collaboration, automating repetitive tasks, and improving compliance, project management software can drive operational excellence and improve customer satisfaction. With the right project management software in place, insurance professionals can manage their work more efficiently, meet compliance requirements, and achieve their goals. Interested in leveraging more data in your project management practices? Learn how integrating data analytics can improve decision-making, efficiency, and results. Experience the power of Wrike with a free trial and unlock your project's potential using data-driven insights. Try Wrike for free Note: This article was created with the assistance of an AI engine. It has been reviewed and revised by our team of experts to ensure accuracy and quality.
20 Best Free & Paid Gantt Chart Software Systems for 2022
These days, we need all the work management help we can get. We’re juggling remote teams, hybrid work, diverse projects, and fast-changing environments. One of the top tools for effective project management in 2022 is the Gantt chart. It’s a great way to keep track of multiple projects, teams, and goals. But what Gantt chart software is best for you, your team, and your organization? To figure this out, you’ll need to understand the top benefits, features, pros, and cons of all the options available. Ready? Let’s dive in! What is Gantt chart software? We’ll start with the basics. Gantt charts have been around for a while — they were first introduced more than a century ago — but they’ve evolved a lot over the years, going from pencil drawings to elaborate digital designs. In a nutshell, all Gantt charts illustrate a plan, usually for projects or other big undertakings. They do this by visualizing tasks on a timeline. All relevant information is represented on a horizontal bar graph, illustrating at a glance any tasks, dependencies, and milestones. Key to this is the ability to visualize progress, so that viewers can ascertain quickly if delivery will happen on time. Modern Gantt chart software takes this idea much further, by combining the simplicity of the original chart with advanced digital features. This helps project managers to break down complex projects into achievable phases and short-term sprints. They can then assign tasks to owners and track progress on an individual, team, and company level. By viewing all this information on a Gantt chart, they can monitor the project’s development easily, spotting bottlenecks or roadblocks before they turn into delays. It’s a great tool to keep things moving, assuring on-time delivery every time. Benefits of Gantt chart software in project management So now that we’re clear on what it is, it’s time to look at the many benefits of Gantt chart software systems in the modern workplace. Improved focus The best Gantt chart software offers the ability to see a project’s priorities at a glance. Teams will be able to log in any time to get a complete picture of what tasks are required, and when. This helps to keep everyones’ eyes on the prize, minimizing distractions that might impede a smooth delivery. Easier collaboration By using Gantt chart software online, teams can make sure they’re all on the same page, no matter where they are in the world. They can simply log in to view developments, complete tasks, and add comments, links, and resources. It’s all updated in real time, ensuring that collaboration is fast, effective, and secure. Elimination of silos Gantt chart software helps teams to keep working together towards shared goals, rather than fragmenting into disconnected silos. When colleagues can see each other’s efforts and contributions, it keeps momentum moving, helping to achieve smoother delivery with fewer roadblocks. Faster delivery Efficiency is something we all strive for, in every company or organization. By visualizing goals and monitoring progress, queries or questions can be resolved quickly before they become delays. Sluggish phases can be accelerated with extra support or redistributed resources as needed. Enhanced communication Robust work management software with Gantt charts reduces the need for email check-ins and catch-up calls by offering complete visibility to stakeholders. They can access the chart any time from anywhere, and scroll through the timeline, tasks, and comments to get a clear understanding of the status quo. More transparency Modern teams are often based in a variety of on-site, remote, or hybrid environments. This means that transparency is more important than ever, to foster a better sense of trust and teamwork. Gantt charts make workloads and due dates visible to everyone, so everyone knows they’re all in the same boat. Better time management It’s amazing how fast due dates seem to come along, even when they were set weeks or months ago. Gantt chart software helps to avoid last-minute panic by keeping deadlines front and center during a project’s planning and implementation. That means that time can be allocated and used to make sure delivery happens when it’s supposed to. Reduced risk of burnout Project management can be stressful, particularly during complex or time-pressured phases. The best Gantt chart software can help reduce the risk of burnout by increasing visibility and communication between team members and stakeholders. That way, resources can be redistributed or support applied quickly if needed. Top features to look for in Gantt chart software Whether you choose free Gantt chart software or a paid version, there are a couple of key features you should try to include. For example, you will want to be able to: Visualize every step Gantt charts are renowned for their ability to convert complex situations into easy-to-follow diagrams. However, not all Gantt charts are created equal. You need to be able to visualize each step of the process, not just the start- and end-date. Establish milestones Most project managers seek to break large and unwieldy projects into smaller phases or sprints that are easier to manage. Teams can use Gantt chart software online to visualize each stage or milestone as part of the overall journey to delivery. Drag-and-drop tasks The ability to drag and drop tasks means that project managers can keep balancing workloads, pushing progression forward, and maintaining momentum. It’s a simple but very important feature you’ll need for effective delivery. Update in real time Things change, priorities shift, and deadlines move. The best Gantt chart software allows you to make updates any time, anywhere, with the changes appearing instantly. That way, stakeholders can see at a glance the up-to-date status of the project. Create dependencies Most projects are just a series of actions that combine to an overall result, right? Dependencies can make sure your tasks stay connected, so that one doesn’t happen without the other — keeping your overall project on track. Import data easily Any Gantt chart software comparison should include a review of its integrations. We’re surrounded by data, but it’s only useful if we can deploy it in our work. Make sure your work management platform allows you to import data easily, quickly, and securely. Is it worth considering free online Gantt chart software? In the world of project management, like everything in life, you get what you pay for. That means that, while there are free online Gantt chart software providers, they’re not always the right choice for you. That’s because Gantt charts are good on their own, but only really great when they’re part of a bigger project management platform. This means they can integrate with shared calendars, collaboration tools, time trackers, real-time insights, and much more. By using Gantt charts as part of a full toolbox, they become far more powerful, allowing you to streamline processes, enhance collaboration and speed up delivery. Which is the best Gantt chart software in 2022? Forbes ranked Wrike highest in a recent review of Gantt chart software, at 4.7 out of 5 stars. “Overall, it checks all the boxes when it comes to desirable features while being a good value for the money,” the reviewers said, adding that they loved the “numerous integrations that you can use, making task management and collaboration easier.” This demonstrates that there’s a lot to consider when trying to conduct a Gantt chart software comparison. Let’s look at all the major providers of online Gantt chart software, to see the pros, cons, and prices of the different options. 1: Wrike Wrike is the most powerful work management software available. Its dynamic platform includes Gantt charts, which are continually top-rated by users in every industry. These are packed full of features that integrate seamlessly with other software, allowing you to move cleanly between favorite work tools. Wrike Gantt chart software features Built to offer serious functionality as well as eye-catching design, Wrike provides the best Gantt chart software on the market. Dynamic timelines Wrike’s online Gantt charts are much more than just interactive timelines — they give you a complete view of your work, including scope, assignees, and dependencies. They’re also fully adjustable, with real-time updates. Intelligent analysis Wrike’s online Gantt chart software includes intelligent critical path analysis that helps you spot potential bottlenecks that can cause operational inefficiencies. Drag-and-drop functionality One of the most valuable features of Wrike Gantt charts is the ability to drag and drop tasks and slide dates. This helps to overcome potential bottlenecks fast. Multiple project management tools Wrike allows you to control multiple projects from one single platform. Update project timelines with a simple drag-and-drop action and collaborate among teams in real time. Easy integration Wrike’s Gantt chart software seamlessly connects with your favorite apps, tools, and platforms like Microsoft Project Management. Import key data in seconds. Smooth reporting Cut out endless email chains and time-consuming calls by sharing updated Gantt charts across multiple teams or stakeholders with the click of a button in Wrike. Smart dependencies Most projects involve a series of tasks that build towards overall completion. Wrike’s Gantt chart software makes this easy to visualize by creating dependencies. Secure storage Wrike offers secure, cloud-based storage for all users, ensuring that a team or organization’s Gantt charts are safe, but also easily accessible for future reference. Key benefits of Wrike Gantt chart software Wrike customers range from personal accounts all the way to enterprises with thousands of users. Wrike’s pricing is designed to suit all budgets. Wrike offers some of the best work management automation on the market, with request forms that can automate entire projects and workflows, not just tasks. Users can tag each other into tasks, projects, and spaces, making silos, duplicate requests, and crossed wires a thing of the past. Other features and considerations Wrike’s Gantt charts are just one element of powerful project management software that will benefit the entire organization. Wrike offers the best of both worlds, with a fast, simple set-up, as well as advanced customization capabilities. A library of ready-built templates and training resources will help first-time users hit the ground running, while enhanced configuration options allow growing users to adapt Gantt chart tools to suit their organization’s processes, language, and way of working. Pricing plans Wrike offers a free plan for individuals and teams. For users seeking to create Gantt charts, advanced optionality is available at Team ($9.80 per month), Business ($24.80), and Enterprise (bespoke pricing) level. Customer ratings and reviews Wrike was top-rated by TrustRadius in 2022, as well as winning awards of 4.3/5 by Capterra, and 4.2/5 by G2.com. 2: Zoho Zoho Gantt chart software features Zoho Projects software includes Gantt charts with chronological, milestone, and project timeline views to help you better plan, track, and deliver projects. Key benefits of Zoho Gantt chart software Zoho Projects offers three affordable plans, from free to $10 a month It includes dependencies that allow you to connect tasks and manage dates Its drag-and-drop functionality makes their Gantt charts more interactive Other features and considerations Zoho Projects is a great resource for cost-conscious organizations that only require Gantt charts. Users seeking Gantt charts and project management together will need to purchase two different sets of software though — unlike Wrike, which offers everything in one convenient place, with a two-week free trial too. Pricing plans Customers who choose Zoho Projects can sign up for a free plan, or pay $5 monthly for premium access and $10 a month for enterprise-level functionality (as of August 22). 3: Toggl Plan Toggl Plan Gantt chart software features Visually engaging and simple to use, Toggle Plan Gantt chart software features attractive timelines with color coding, built-in filters, and drag-and-drop functionality. Key benefits of Toggl Plan Gantt chart software Real-time collaboration means that Gantt charts are updated instantly from anywhere in the world Connects with strong time tracking tools to view and manage resources well A visually attractive interface makes the Gantt charts fun to use and share Other features and considerations Toggl Plan’s Gantt chart software online grew from Toggle Track, which was designed to offer time tracking tools. This means that it is particularly strong on the time-related factors within project and work management, although advanced features are only available on paid plans. While Toggl Plan regularly adds third-party integrations, users should check to see if easy sync with their favorite tool is available before signing up. Pricing plans Individual users can select the free ‘Solo’ plan, while team members can choose between the ‘Team’ plan for $8 per user per month, or the ‘Business’ option, at $13.35 per user per month (as of August ‘22). 4: Agantty Agantty Gantt chart software features The clue is in the name with Agantty, which is a free project management solution featuring dashboards, templates, and — you guessed it — Gantt charts. Key benefits of Agantty Gantt chart software Agantty makes it easy to manage tasks, projects, and users through Gantt chart templates It includes a rights management system, offering adjustable permissions Tasks can be exported by PDF, and reminders can be sent by email Other features and considerations Because it offers an easy-to-use free online Gantt chart, Agantty appeals to many non-business users, including creatives, educators, and families. However, teams and users managing multiple projects or groups looking for advanced time tracking tools will require a paid plan. Pricing plans Free for many years, Agantty has recently introduced a Premium model offering unlimited projects, unlimited teams, and unlimited tasks for €4.90 per user, per month (as of August 2022). 5: TeamGantt TeamGantt software features While built around Gantt charts, TeamGantt software includes other great features, such as resource management, drag-and-drop functionality, and time tracking tools. Key benefits of TeamGantt software It includes the ability to create dependencies, subgroups, and nest tasks Users can toggle between different views, including Gantt, calendar and lists The option of comparing planned and actual timelines is very useful Other features and considerations One of the big attractions to TeamGantt is its easy reporting. While the free plan is limited to just one project, with no guests, the paid plans allow sharing without log-in, which is great for keeping stakeholders up to date without having to create additional users. Time tracking tools are only currently available on the Advanced plan. Pricing plans TeamGantt offers free Gantt chart software for single projects, a Standard plan at $19.90 per user per month, and an Advanced plan at $24.45 per user per month (as of August 2022). 6: OpenProject OpenProject Gantt chart software features Offering open source project management software, OpenProject features Gantt charts, Kanban boards, and list views, as well as time tracking tools and customizable templates. Key benefits of OpenProject Gantt chart software OpenProject’s Gantt charts include work packages and dependencies The ability to leverage open source software offers additional capabilities Data security and sovereignty are a high priority, with enhanced safeguards Other features and considerations OpenProject is proud to host a community of open-source enthusiasts, developers, and businesses who can work together to customize, adapt, and improve work management software. This means that while the interface is highly functional, it is limited to web-based use (a mobile app isn’t currently available). Pricing plans OpenProject offers free Gantt chart software online with its Community plan. Alternatively, users can get higher functionality on its paid plans, ranging from Basic ($7.25) to Premium ($19.50) and Corporate (on request). There are a minimum number of users for these accounts, however. (Information from August 2022). 7: GanttPRO GanttPRO software features Designed to visualize project management through Gantt charts, Gantt Pro features include the ability to prioritize projects, set dependencies, and drag and drop tasks across timelines. Key benefits of GanttPRO software The interface looks great, with colorful visuals and simple layouts The software includes ready-built (and customizable) Gantt chart templates Users can generate a public URL, so stakeholders can view charts easily Other features and considerations The provision of professionally-designed Gantt chart templates is a great bonus. GanttPro have created dozens of templates specifically for industries, including software development, marketing, construction, manufacturing, retail, and event planning. That said, there is no free plan available, and those availing of the 14-day trial should note that unless they upgrade, their work won’t be saved after the two-week period expires. Pricing plans GanttPRO doesn’t offer free Gantt chart software — prices start at $7.99 per month, going up to $19.99 for a Business Plan. Like most alternatives, it has an Enterprise option too, with bespoke pricing (as of August 2022). 8: ClickUp ClickUp software features The Gantt chart software from ClickUp includes features like the ability to track time, automate workflows, and facilitate any style of project management, including Agile and Waterfall methodologies. Key benefits of ClickUp software Users can reschedule projects easily with its drag-and-drop interface The Gantt view offers the ability to view multiple projects at once The platform includes integrations with many popular tools like Outlook, Slack, or Google Drive Other features and considerations The ClickUp Free Forever plan does include Gantt charts (limited to 100 uses) which is a great benefit for personal users or small groups. While reports of buggy integrations and templates persist, ClickUp’s site confirms that it is now experiencing its highest uptime in 12 months. Customer support is also on hand — although in English only. Pricing plans ClickUp’s paid plans range from $5, $12, and $19 per user per month, all the way to a custom Enterprise package (as of August 2022). They also have a Free Forever plan, which offers a number of benefits. 9: Monday.com Monday.com software features One of the more popular work management platforms, Monday.com’s Gantt chart software includes features such as dependencies, drag-and-drop functionality, multiple assignees, and automated tasks. Key benefits of Monday software Monday.com allows for extensive customization and adaptability There are a number of templates available, including Gantt charts Its colorful, vibrant interface is enjoyable to work with Other features and considerations For regular collaborators, Monday.com’s limited cross-functional collaboration and lack of native proofing features could create challenges for certain teams. Like most big work management platforms, there is a learning curve for users, who report that it can take some time to understand Monday.com’s functionality. Although 24/7 customer support is available across all plans, it’s email only, which can result in a slower path to resolution. Pricing plans Monday.com has five pricing options in total, including the Free version, and paid plans ranging from €8 up to €16 per seat per month (as of August ‘22). Users at an Enterprise level can negotiate a bespoke price plan. 10: RedBooth RedBooth software features Redbooth offers free Gantt chart software, called ‘Timeline View’. Its features allow users to easily add tasks, drag and drop to change dates, create task dependencies, and set filters to visualize and prioritize what matters most. Key benefits of RedBooth software Gantt charts are available on their free plan Users can start HD video meetings from within the platform in two clicks AI-powered Redbooth Predict uses historical data points to improve and accelerate project management Other features and considerations While Redbooth does provide a free online Gantt chart, it doesn’t include task dependencies. In addition, it doesn’t currently offer sector-specific Gantt chart templates. The simplicity and ease-of-use of the Redbooth platform are attractive, but users who intend to scale quickly might find they need a more advanced level of complexity, customization, and analytics. Pricing plans Redbooth offers a robust free plan, while their paid plans are positioned at $9 and $15 per user per month (as of August 2022). Custom pricing is available for Enterprise-level users. 11: Smartsheet Smartsheet software features Many of us have traditionally used sheets in Excel or Google Sheets to manage our schedules and projects. Smartsheet has built on this idea, offering Gantt chart software that includes dashboards, templates, and the ability to automate some functions. Key benefits of Smartsheet software The platform allows customizable, exportable reporting It includes a range of templates that can help teams get started faster New integration with OnePager helps to enhance visualization of Gantt charts Other features and considerations As it’s designed around spreadsheets, Smartsheets will feel particularly comfortable for those familiar with managing their projects via Excel-type layouts. However, users also find that this spreadsheet layout offers the same limitations as traditional spreadsheets, but at an additional cost. Although a free trial is available, there is no permanent free plan available, which might not appeal to small teams or personal users. Pricing plans While Smartsheet offers a free trial, users must upgrade to a paid plan after 30 days. These are priced at $7 (Pro) and $25 (Business) per user per month — the difference is mainly related to permitted editors, storage levels, and automation limits (as of August 2022). At Enterprise level, customers can negotiate an agreed price. 12: Tom’s Planner Tom’s Planner software features Unlike other Gantt chart software providers, Tom’s Planner is dedicated entirely to Gantt charts, offering visualization features like color time blocks, traffic lights, and filters. Users can also drag and drop tasks and create dependencies. Key benefits of Tom’s Planner software Tom’s Planner is very easy to use, with a short learning curve It includes a wide range of ready-to-use templates to get you started Dynamic project overviews help you keep track of progress, your way Other features and considerations Tom’s Planner was designed to strip away some of the complexity of major work management platforms. Its UI is also somewhat basic, with only a select number of integrations with third-party apps. While this makes it simpler to use, it does limit teams or organizations who could benefit from extra tools like time tracking or proofing available in leading work management platforms like Wrike. Pricing plans Tom’s Planner has three pricing plans: free, $9.95 per user per month, and $19.95 per user per month, with a discount for yearly subscriptions (as of August 2022). 13: StudioBinder StudioBinder Planner software features Built specifically for creative industries, StudioBinder is a video, TV, and film production management platform with Gantt chart software that features a drag-and-drop interface, custom templates, and the ability to combine files, comments, and tasks in the chart. Key benefits of StudioBinder software It has an attractive, engaging user experience that’s easy to navigate It allows users to securely store and access a combination of file types Specially designed Gantt chart templates help users manage production better Other features and considerations StudioBinder does include a ‘Free Forever’ plan, although it’s limited to one project only, without Gantt charts. Users who specialize in producing content will benefit from industry-specific features like call sheets, script breakdowns, and shooting schedules, but they may be too niche (and somewhat expensive) for those outside of the entertainment or production sectors. Pricing plans StudioBinder’s paid plans start at $25 per user per month, going up to $85 per user per month for the ‘Studio’ package (as of August 2022). There is no free trial, but it does offer a ‘Free Forever’ plan with limited functionality, to give new customers a taste of what’s to come. 14. Bitrix24 Bitrix24 Planner software features Bitrix24 is an online work management platform that includes free Gantt chart software with four dependency types, as well as resource planning and workflow automation tools for better team collaboration. Key benefits of Bitrix24 software Bitrix24 is a multifaceted tool, offering additional business management benefits Its free plan includes unlimited Gantt charts and 5GB of storage Collaboration is enhanced by features that mimic social media interactions Other features and considerations Bitrix24 is often mentioned as a good option for organizations or companies who are seeking to scale. This is because it offers a number of business management tools, all packaged in a single online platform that integrates well with other software providers. That very complexity can make the learning curve a little steep though, and the mobile app is still somewhat buggy for regular users. Pricing plans While its free plan is stronger than many other competitor options, Bitrix24’s paid plans can be expensive for small teams, running from $43 per month for five users, going up to $350 per month for 250 users (as of August 2022). 15. Backlog Backlog software features Originally created with software developers in mind, Backlog is a project management and collaboration tool which includes Gantt charts. Features include the ability to drag and drop, adjust tasks in bulk, and assign role-based controls. Key benefits of Backlog software The platform features a simple, clutter-free user interface Gantt charts are customizable in terms of colors and dependencies Additional guest roles available for stakeholder review Other features and considerations Backlog is part of a suite of other Nulab-operated applications and tools dedicated to managing work, communications, and system security. This means there are added benefits to explore for growing teams, although limited third-party integrations are available. Gantt charts are only available on the paid plans, though. Pricing plans While it doesn’t include a free online Gantt chart, Backlog’s $0 plan does include up to 10 users, so it’s useful for teams to try. Paid plans range from $35 per month (30 users) to $175 (unlimited users) and into the bespoke Enterprise category (as of August 2022). 16. InstaGantt for Asana InstaGantt for Asana features InstaGantt for Asana Gantt chart software plugin features help users visually plan projects and schedule tasks by creating start dates, progress percentages, connected tasks, and dependencies. Key benefits of using InstaGantt for Asana It is backed by Asana, so syncs seamlessly with this platform The interface is attractive, with simple export and reporting features Users can drag and drop tasks and create dependencies, assignees, and comments easily Other features and considerations InstaGantt is specifically designed as a Gantt chart software online provider. Users who want to access a wider range of business supports such as resource management, time tracking tools, and proofing functionality will need to sign up to a broader work management platform. Pricing plans Asana subscribers can access InstaGantt for free, but for independent users, paid plans are available starting from $5 per user per month (as of August 2022). There is also a seven-day trial period for customers who want to sample its capabilities first. 17. ProofHub ProofHub software features Proofhub’s Gantt chart software offers features including task dependencies, milestones, progress tracking, drag-and-drop functionality, and the ability to export or print Gantt charts. Key benefits of ProofHub software Users can highlight a critical path on Gantt charts to see key milestones A chat feature offers opportunities for fast and easy collaboration The ability to email in tasks rather than logging on directly is handy Other features and considerations While it sounds like it’s focused on proofing only, ProofHub is in fact a full-service collaboration software platform. That means it includes a range of additional features, such as collaboration, time tracking, and document storage tools. However, its entry-level pricing might be high for individual users or small teams, and users seeking advanced customization capabilities may not find all they need. Pricing plans ProofHub’s pricing is a little different to other competitors, as it charges a flat-rate fee of either $45 per month (40 projects) or $89 per month (unlimited projects) (as of August 2022). This means that there isn’t a pay-per-seat charge, but it is relatively high for smaller teams. 18. Microsoft Project Microsoft Project software features As the name indicates, Microsoft Project is the technology behemoth’s project management platform. Users regularly cite Gantt charts as a big plus for the platform, with features such as milestones, critical paths, and customizable views. Key benefits of Microsoft Project software It will be easily accessible to those trained as project managers It integrates easily with other MS products like Teams, and Outlook The built-in Gantt chart generator is intuitive Other features and considerations Project is part of the Microsoft 365 family, which means that, although it’s more complex to use, it does connect seamlessly to familiar apps and platforms like Microsoft Office. However, it doesn’t come free with a 365 subscription; it has to be purchased or added separately. It also doesn’t currently include the type of advanced cross-functional collaboration available in platforms such as Wrike. Pricing plans While there is no free Gantt chart software plan with Microsoft Project, the paid plans start at €8.40 per user per month and go up to €46.40 per user per month (as of August 2022). A free 30-day trial is also available. 19. Office Timeline Office Timeline software features For many people, Gantt charts are a key part of presentations — to colleagues, stakeholders, or clients. Office Timeline works well to this effect, helping to create visually rich Gantt charts with roadmaps, swimlanes, and templates that work seamlessly with PowerPoint presentations. Key benefits of Office Timeline The Gantt chart software includes 24 specially-designed templates Its ‘Wizard’ function helps to guide new users with easy-to-follow instructions It’s easy to import data from multiple sources for inclusion in your Gantt chart Other features and considerations Another branch of Microsoft’s tree of work management software, Office Timeline was built primarily to help enrich diagrams, schedules, and timelines for presentations. While it works well alongside project management software, it doesn’t include any advanced tools like time tracking or resource allocation. As an add-on tool, it could be seen as expensive for small teams or individual users. Pricing plans Purchasers of Office Timeline have to choose either a Powerpoint/Windows-based add-in (starting at $59 for a one-year Basic license), or a browser-based online tool ($99 for a one-year license) (as of August 2022). 20. Microsoft Excel Excel software features Part of the ubiquitous Office suite for many years now, Microsoft Excel doesn’t offer Gantt chart software per se. However, some people still use the platform to convert data into simple Gantt charts, with the ability to view projects by phases, progress, tasks, due dates, and assignees. Key benefits of using Excel for Gantt charts It will feel familiar and relatively easy for existing Excel users There are many free online Gantt chart templates available for Excel It’s compatible with many other file formats, allowing simpler export Other features and considerations While using Excel for Gantt chart can seem like an easy choice initially, any attempt to scale in terms of complexity will run into challenges, or the need for sister software like Microsoft Project. Real-time collaboration is also limited, particularly if users are operating different versions. For overall project or work management, a full-service platform might be a better option. Pricing plans Excel is part of Office 365, which starts at €7 per month. Alternatively, it can be bought on a standalone basis for €149 annually (as of August 2022). How to choose the best Gantt chart software for your business With so many options available, it can be tricky to decide what’s the best Gantt chart software for you or your team. Hopefully, the above list of this year’s most popular options will help to guide you during your research. For an extra helping hand, we’ve outlined three additional steps to make the decision process a little easier. Look internally first Start by reviewing your own needs. Are you looking for a very basic way to visualize your work, or will you need additional interface functionality, like drag-and-drop or task dependencies? Do you work on your own, or as part of a team? Do you have a budget to allocate to a paid plan, or will you need a freemium option instead? All of these questions will help to narrow down your search. Compare like for like When you’re conducting a Gantt chart software comparison, you’ll want to make sure you’re viewing similar products side by side. For example, a free plan will usually have less functionality than a paid version, and a Gantt chart tool will probably cost less than a work management platform. Make sure your narrowed-down options have similar offerings so you can get a clear picture of what’s best for you. Take a free trial The best Gantt chart software providers will offer a free trial, so you can see what’s available before you commit. When you sign up with Wrike, you can take a full two weeks to explore all that’s on offer, from dynamic Gantt charts to colorful Kanban boards, all the way to real-time collaboration and AI-driven automation. That way, you can be sure you’ve made the right decision when it comes time to confirm your choice of Gantt chart software for your business. How to get started with Wrike’s Gantt chart software As the world’s most powerful work management platform, Wrike offers the best Gantt chart software available. Wrike Gantt charts help you visualize your project, reschedule tasks (if necessary), and keep an eye on scheduled milestones. You can even go a step further and use dependencies to schedule tasks in relation to other tasks. Ready to see for yourself how game-changing Gantt charts can be? Click here to get started today.
Collaborative Work Management Stands for Productivity
When it comes to managing work, there are a lot of different solutions out there. You may have heard acronyms like Collaborative Work Management (CWM), Adaptive Project Management and Reporting (APMR), and Portfolio and Project Management (PPM) thrown around, but what do they all really mean? And how do you choose the right one that fits the needs of your team in a digital work environment? You need a solution that is intuitive, powerful, and can easily flex to meet the varying needs of your organization, and we’ll explain why a CWM solution can do just that. First up, what is CWM? Collaborative Work Management is a market term that represents a category of work platforms where teams, departments, and even entire businesses can manage their work in one place. If you’ve ever felt frustrated or disappointed after managing a complex project (or multiple projects) using a mix of spreadsheets, email, Slack, and other apps, you’re not alone. 70% of knowledge workers feel stressed having to juggle multiple apps and systems every day, according to our Dark Matter of Work research. Most common tools are only designed for very limited use, or simple data analysis and basic work plans, and don’t meet the needs of today’s workers. Much of our daily work is complex, involving processes, people, technology, timelines, and budgets that require alignment to strategic initiatives, reporting to executives, and constant cross-functional collaboration. When you consider the complexity of all of this — a reality that is costing organizations 60M dollars each year — choosing a CWM platform to manage all of your work is a no-brainer. CWM solutions have been used by companies of all sizes since the 2000s, but they really took off in the 2010s. They are affordable (even for very large deployments), can evolve and update quickly to meet customer needs, and they represent significant cost savings for organizations that want to maximize productivity and run more efficiently. The best CWM tools can connect work in a myriad of ways across people and initiatives; they have smart features like AI to automate workflow processes, as well as robust mobile apps designed to keep work moving when you’re away from your desk. Understanding the categories: CWM vs. PPM CWM sits in the sweet spot of workplace productivity between ad-hoc collaboration tools and more niche offerings like PPM. It can be thought of as the connective tissue that streamlines work happening in disparate tools like your Microsoft Office or Google suite and email and messaging apps, and it provides a single source of truth for internal and external teams to create, plan, manage, collaborate, and report on work and processes. Portfolio and Project Management, on the other hand, represents a category of work platforms that are function-specific, and intended for planners to align programs and projects into portfolios. PPMs are designed primarily for project management offices (PMOs) with dedicated portfolio, program, or project managers, and they are much more cost-prohibitive. If you’re familiar with PPM, it means you're serious about organizing and reporting on your work, but it also means that you recognize one major deficiency of these technologies: very few people actually use them, and even fewer can use them for their actual work. This is due to limitations such as: Outdated UI (versus work platforms designed to balance planning and delivery) Complex feature sets that most of us will never use Rigid structures and hierarchies that don’t represent the workflows we use daily The need for both technical integrations (some PPMs even require integrations from their product into their own product) and long deployments with ongoing oversight CWM has actually subsumed a significant portion of PPM capabilities over the years in order to provide a universal solution to host all work at a lower cost. Understanding the categories: CWM vs APMR In another niche corner, you will find Adaptive Project Management & Reporting (APMR) — a market term for a category of technology that represents how project managers, citizen developers, and individual contributors can execute detailed project plans more seamlessly than by using point technology, like a spreadsheet, or traditional portfolio and project management technology. APMR is a subcategory of CWM technology and represents the evolution away from planning-centric technologies. If you’re a project manager or lead an outcomes-focused PMO, you’ll recognize that you sit in the middle of an imperfect Venn diagram between planning and execution. On one hand, you need the work to get done (ideally on time or even ahead of schedule) and on the other hand, you need to report progress to your executives to show how that work is helping the company achieve its goals and objectives. Companies often try to manage project timelines and progress reporting with APMR, but when you take a closer look at what makes a good work management technology, you probably need to consider collaborative work management tools instead. CWM software works for every team and every business because it’s quick to get started, speaks the language of different departments, is easy to use, scales work – no matter how complex – and brings teams together across entire organizations, all in one place. Bottom line: it’s the only work management solution your team will ever need. Why is a CWM, and Wrike specifically, the most powerful choice? Regardless of the new names and claims out there, we have been in the game for more than 15 years and understand that more technology isn't always better. Today's modern workers need a single platform — not disparate applications — that allows them to manage a multitude of workflows to streamline all work, while also having visibility into what‘s happening across the organization. This need to “work as one” is further magnified as companies are forced to take a closer look at the bottom line in this uncertain economic climate. We can confidently say that Wrike has the tools to get the job done. Wrike’s platform includes some of the most commonly-requested capabilities from our customers, and the tradeoffs customers have made with other solutions – in our category and in others – prior to selecting Wrike as the best CWM platform for their business. With Wrike, there are no tradeoffs. Top features the Global 500 demand today Custom Item Types to go beyond standard tasks and projects and enable users to create their own work item types tailored to their team’s specific culture and style; Wrike is able to define different types of work to support any team’s workflows and keep cross-functional work connected within a single source of truth Detailed project and work demand intake using dynamic request forms Basic demand prioritization and selection using either financial terms or strategic inputs Resource capacity planning and modeling across different project teams Detailed project and work planning and management Resource assignment and allocation to ensure work is assigned appropriately Task management with multiple view types like table, Kanban, calendar, and lists, that includes time-tracking and status reporting Project and work risk management Project and work change management Features, including commenting, live editors, and built-in approvals, that allow for real-time collaboration Analytics that support decision-making and help form business strategy across multiple dimensions, not just at the highest portfolio level Rich analytics, either natively within the platform or exported directly into your business intelligence and analytics stack to help guide progress on goals and objectives Artificial intelligence (AI) that supports work creation, allocation, and risk Mobile access and support across all major mobile platforms Advanced integration strategy including integrations to popular applications like Microsoft, Google, Zoom, and Slack; workflow specific integrations like Hubspot, Salesforce, and Quickbooks; data syncs between technologies like Wrike and Jira, an integration platform that connects and automates technologies across an enterprise or even an advanced API for teams that really need that configurability What to do next? We understand how important it is to have the right tools to mitigate both the financial and human costs of work complexities. If any of the above features resonate with you, it’s time to consider implementing collaborative work management. If you want to learn more, I encourage you to take a tour of Wrike or hear it straight from our customers at Wrike Collaborate, our free work management conference. If you want to get started right away, begin a free trial now! Authored by John Notman, Senior Director, Product Marketing at Wrike