Project management tools help small businesses keep track of simple and complex projects.
Growing businesses can organize projects better and improve production when all the needed information is in one place.
The right project management software can ensure you and your team don’t waste more time planning than necessary. Instead, small teams can get to work right away and deliver projects to clients.
I have worked with project management software for over a decade, and it has revolutionized how I manage my time and business. I have tested a variety of small business project management software solutions and narrowed my list down to the best of the best.
These are some of my top picks for project management software programs for small businesses:
- Monday
- Asana
- Trello
- Paymo
- ClickUp
- GoodDay
- Nifty
- Wrike
This blog post will cover project management features, pricing, advantages, and disadvantages.
That way, you can choose the best project management software for your small business!
Monday.com
Monday is the best project management app if you desire a cloud-based platform.
With Monday, you can create your own work management tools and applications.
Additionally, you can create collaboration tools for various workflows, like project management, software development, customer relationship management (CRM), human resources, marketing, and more.
Monday also includes pre-made templates that you can customize.
Or you can create your own templates for your business’s needs.
Lastly, Monday is an excellent option if you start with a team of two to five people and envision it growing rapidly.
The pricing differences between each of Monday’s plans aren’t drastic, so you can expand your plan as your team continues growing.
Key Features
- Pipeline management
- Analytics tools
- Third-party integrations
- Desktop and mobile apps
- Document Library
- Custom dashboards
- Email marketing
- Supports multiple currencies
- Easy to understand
Pricing
Monday is affordable and offers a free trial, making it a more attractive option for small companies.
That said, let’s take a look at the pricing options that Monday offers:
- Individual (up to two users): $0 forever
- Basic (unlimited free viewers): $8 per user per month
- Standard (includes Gantt charts and advanced features): $10 per user per month
- Pro (private boards and automations): $16 per user per month
- Enterprise: Customizable pricing plans
Pros
- Over 200 customizable project templates
- Modern and intuitive dashboard
- The free plan allows up to two users (perfect for small teams)
Cons
- There is only a 14-day free trial for paid plans.
- The pricing plans can be confusing because they're built on a per-user basis.
- Minimum team size of three people per paid plan
Asana
Asana is the best project management software in terms of project flexibility.
That said, Asana is the perfect task management tool if your team has multiple projects going on at one time.
Although Asana is designed with flexibility, the company still offers practical tools for smaller businesses to grow.
With Asana, you have complete control over how you visualize and manage tasks.
What’s even better about Asana is that it is a simple project management tool that is affordable, no matter your budget.
Key Features
- Easy to conduct marketing strategies
- Create forms
- Timelines make it simple to keep track of plans
- Assign workloads for each team member
- Automate processes
- Provide feedback
- Project templates
- Gantt charts
- Easy to plan and manage team objectives
Pricing
Asana’s plans vary in price, and there is a rather significant jump in price between the different programs.
The pricing options at Asana are as follows:
- Basic: $0 a month (free forever)
- Premium: $10.99 a month (for the annual plan)
- Business: $24.99 a month (for the yearly plan)
- Enterprise: Customizable plans
It’s best to pay annually for your Asana plan because you save money each month.
Also, Asana’s free plan is quite inclusive and includes unlimited tasks, projects, messages, file storage, and more.
Pros
- The free version has a lot of helpful features and automation
- Several software integrations, including Zoom and GitHub
- Project status reports are comprehensive and easy to understand
Cons
- Some project management solutions cost less.
- Several customers report problems with customer service responses.
Trello
Trello is one of the best project management software options available.
Even with Trello’s free version, you can get advanced features to help your business operations.
Also, Trello has Kanban boards that are visually appealing and easy to read, regardless of your team’s experience with collaboration tools.
One factor that customers love most about Trello is how visually appealing the platform is.
The visual appeal makes the user interface more friendly and easy to understand.
Trello is perfect for a big or small team looking for professional services that make project scheduling easier than expected!
Key Features
- Several plug-ins
- Workspace commands make automatic changes for you
- Unlimited file uploads
- Intuitive
- Security features
- Easy to integrate advanced calendars, timelines, and maps
- Create customizable templates
- Deadline tracking
Pricing
Let’s take a look at the different monthly plans available through Trello:
- Free: $0
- Standard: $5 a month (or $6 a month annually)
- Premium: $10 a month (or $12.50 a month annually)
- Enterprise: $17.50 a month for 50 users (or $210 per user annually)
If your business has more than 50 users, Trello can create a customizable plan for your team!
Pros
- The drag-and-drop functionality to available for all team members
- Calendars and project timelines make for easier tracking
- Easy to understand
Cons
- Relies heavily on Kanban boards, which aren't ideal for all project managers
- The free plan only allows files of up to 10 MB or less to be uploaded
- It isn't easy to track multiple projects at one time
Paymo
Paymo is the best project management software for managing various client projects.
So, if your business primarily charges customers and needs to manage payments, Paymo is the best software option for your company.
Paymo makes it easier to bill clients, manage invoices, and organize project planning.
Because Paymo runs on a billing-centric format, where the projects are organized per client.
By organizing projects based on the client, you can ensure no payments slip through the cracks and that customers are paying invoices on time.
Further, you can charge clients per hour, a flat rate, or however else you like.
Overall, Paymo is excellent if you have a long list of clients paying various invoices.
Key Features
- Built-in timer to track how long you spend on each task
- Automatic invoice creation
- Kanban boards
- Gantt charts
- Integration with QuickBooks and Xero
Pricing
- Free (maximum of one user): $0
- Starter (maximum of one user): $4.95 per month
- Small Office: $9.95 per user per month
- Business: $20.79 per user per month
Pros
- Compatible with Web, macOS, Windows, Linux, iOS, and Android
- Invoicing, expenses, and billing are some of the core features
- Customizable user permissions
Cons
- Dashboards focus more on invoicing than on simple project management
- Web task timer does not track idle time or automatically shut off
- Not as intuitive as other project management methodologies
ClickUp
ClickUp is a cloud-based platform with several import options, an intuitive interface, and advanced capabilities that help organize tasks.
Further, ClickUp has customizable workspaces and other tools that track details and progress.
Also, ClickUp has a project management app that is compatible with several kinds of devices.
Key Features
- Embed projects with design tools like Figma
- Annotate files
- Templates for web pages, clothing, graphic design, and more
- Easy-to-use user interface
- A/B testing
- Content calendar templates
- Campaign tracking
Pricing
- Free (forever free plan): $0
- Unlimited: $5 per member per month
- Business: $12 per member per month
- Business Plus: $19 per member per month
- Enterprise: Customizable plans that are designed for large teams
Pros
- Over 1,000 integration are available (for storage, business suites, and developers)
- Extensive import options
- Several options to view, modify and analyze project progress.
Cons
- Kanban boards can be challenging to move
- Limited free trials
- Onboarding and training are required to maximize business plans.
GoodDay
GoodDay is the best project management software for larger teams that have to consider a lot of departments.
Also, there are several different views available, like Scrum and Agile.
After launching a project, you can switch between methodologies to stay better organized.
Lastly, GoodDay provides several different onboarding modules tailored to various departments, so each field learns precisely what they need to.
Key Features
- Customizable modules and features
- Automated work processes
- Support for all project management methodologies
- Automated daily actions
- Productivity Suite apps
- Key integrations with programs like Slack and email accounts
Pricing
- Free (for one to 15 users): $0 forever
- Professional (for five to 250 users): $4 per user per month
- Enterprise (25 to unlimited users): Custom prices based on the business’s needs
Pros
- Easy to collaborate with people inside and outside your team
- Seamless user experience
- Out-of-the-box support
Cons
- Customer support isn't as responsive as customers wish
- Folders could be more customizable
- Steeper learning curve
Nifty
Nifty is the best simple project management software.
Still, even though Nifty is a simple project management app, the basic features are everything your business needs to stay organized.
Further, Nifty has many customizable options, time tracking, user permissions, and more, making it an excellent project management solution.
Nifty is the best project management platform for businesses that want to keep things straightforward.
Key Features
- Numerous templates
- Easy to set up and get running
- Import projects from other project management tools
- Streamlined project dashboard
- Roadmap (details on project milestones, completion rates, and scheduling)
- Multiple views (Kanban, List, Calendar, Swimlane, Roadmap, and Timeline)
Pricing
- Free: $0
- Starter: $9 per member per month
- Pro: $16 per member per month
- Business: $25 per member per month
- Enterprise: Customizable rates based on your business’s needs
Also, Nifty offers annual plans up to 45% off and free project management software for small companies that won’t cost you a thing and includes unlimited members.
Pros
- Communication and collaboration features
- Connects to Zapier
- You can see project milestones in the Gantt charts.
Cons
- No custom automation
- No dashboard for visual insights
- Lack of PDF annotation capabilities
Wrike
Wrike is one of the best project management apps and a collaborative work management tool.
Growing businesses love Wrike because the company offers customizable packages for marketing, product development, creative tasks, and more.
Also, Wrike supports eight languages, which is perfect for teams with global members who need collaboration features for everyone.
Lastly, Wrike is ideal if you are working on a single project or an ongoing task that demands time tracking.
Key Features
- Tons of storage space
- Affordable rates
- Kanban boards
- Advanced analytics (specific plans)
- Security controls
- Comprehensive navigation bar
- Assignable tasks
Pricing
- Free: $0
- Team: $9.80 per user per month
- Business: $24.80 per user per month
- Enterprise: Custom pricing for larger teams
- Pinnacle: For teams with more advanced needs
As you can see, Wrike is perfect for teams of all sizes, whether your team only consists of two people, or if you want unlimited users.
Pros
- There are unlimited projects with a free account.
- Tons of customizing options for teams and professional services
- Easy to use
Cons
- Gantt charts are only available in the paid plans.
- The in-app timer is only available on the Business plan or higher.
Best Free Project Management Tool
Although most project management software for small businesses will cost you a monthly fee, some free options are available.
So, if you are looking for a project management solution but don’t have the budget to pay for one, there are a few excellent tools!
Project management apps such as Trello, Asana, and ClickUp make it easy to manage projects for free.
Trello
Trello describes its free project management tool as best suited for individuals and teams needing to organize any project.
In addition to unlimited cards, Power-Ups per board, activity log, and storage, Trello’s free plan includes several other tools.
For example, this software for small teams includes the following features:
- Custom backgrounds and stickers
- Assignee and due dates
- iOS and Android project management apps
- Two-factor authentication
Trello’s project management platform allows for more Workspace commands, advanced features, and collaborative features when you switch to a paid plan.
Still, managing projects for free is simple with Trello.
Asana
Asana is one of the best project management apps that won’t cost you a thing with the company’s most basic plan.
Also, you do not have to worry about price increases after a specific time because Asana’s Basic plan is free.
Some of the unlimited features you will get with Asana’s project management tool include the following:
- Tasks
- Project
- Messages
- Activity log
- File storage
There are also file-sharing features, time-tracking integrations, task lists, and project overviews and briefs.
Asana’s intuitive interface allows over 100 free integrations, making complex tasks more manageable.
ClickUp
ClickUp is another of the best project management apps offering a free plan.
With 100 MB of storage, your small team will have plenty of room for resource planning, and portfolio management.
Also, ClickUp’s free plan allows for better collaboration between software developers, managers, and other team members.
Native time tracking and two-factor authentication are two additional features ClickUp includes.
Managing projects is intuitive with ClickUp, and the basic features provide plenty of desirable organization and communication tools.
What is Project Management Software?
Project management is a tool that helps teams and individuals streamline their daily processes and organize big projects.
The best project management apps for small businesses make it easier to organize projects, create tasks, check task status, control costs, assign resources, and much more.
This type of software aids in the efficient execution of all stages of a project and ensures that everyone involved is working towards the same goal.
How We Choose a Project Management Software
Collaboration for Teams
Collaboration abilities are among the most important factors to consider when choosing a project management app.
With tools such as file sharing, conversations, task assignments, time tracking, and notifications, it’s easy for teams to work together efficiently.
The best project management apps let you collaborate with clients and team members in real time and provide an interactive platform for effective communication.
Collaboration ensures that each team member is aware of progress and can contribute to the final outcome.
By selecting a project management platform with excellent collaboration abilities, your small team will be able to manage projects more effectively and ensure everyone on the team is on the same page.
Collaboration for Clients
In addition to collaboration for teams, the best project management software for small teams should also include collaboration abilities for clients.
The best project management apps provide an easy way to keep clients in the loop and get their feedback quickly and easily.
Having a platform where clients can view progress, comment on tasks, and be updated on any changes makes it easier to build strong relationships and keep them engaged in the process.
This is especially important when working with international clients, as remote collaboration can be challenging.
Therefore, it’s best to find resource management that works for multiple languages if you have international clients.
By selecting a project management app that offers easy collaboration for clients, you can communicate effectively and deliver projects on time and within budget, even if you do not have a dedicated project manager.
Integrations
Integrations are also necessary when choosing the best project management software for small teams.
The best project management software will integrate with other business tools such as CRM, accounting software, customer support systems, and more.
The integration allows teams to access the data they need in one place, eliminating the need for manual work or switching between multiple tools.
Integrations in PM software also enable teams to automate mundane tasks, making it easier to focus on more important things such as project planning and execution.
By selecting a project management software for small business teams with robust integrations, managing projects is efficient and straightforward to streamline processes.
Customizable Views
Another essential factor to consider when choosing project management software is customizable views.
The best project management app provides an easy way to create custom views of tasks and projects, allowing teams to prioritize their work more effectively.
With customizable views, you can see the progress of individual tasks or milestones, get an overview of all projects, and filter tasks by category or person.
Therefore, small teams and their members can only focus on their tasks and not anything else happening within unlimited client accounts.
Customizable views make it easier to manage the entire project, ensuring that each team member is aware of their progress and helping to keep everyone on track.
By selecting PM software with customizable views, your small business will be able to stay organized and increase productivity.
Team Roles and Permissions
An essential factor for management software for small teams is to consider team roles and permissions.
By setting up roles and permissions, you can ensure that everyone involved in the project has access to the resources they need without compromising security or data integrity.
Team roles and permission levels should be customized for each user, as different members of your team will require different levels of access.
For example, a project manager might need complete control over the project, while a junior member should only have access to specific tasks and resources.
Sometimes this resource management tool isn’t available with a free plan, but this feature is worth paying for if you have an account with unlimited users.
By setting up roles and permissions in your project management software, you will be able to ensure that each team member has the access they need to do their job efficiently.
In conclusion, team roles and permissions are essential factors when choosing project management software.
Notifications
Notifications are also important factors for project management software.
Notifications can help keep everyone on task and ensure no deadlines are missed.
They can also alert clients to changes so small teams stay informed about the progress of their projects.
Also, notification software for small business organizations can remind people about long-term tasks and ensure the team is on track to complete the project.
By selecting a project management software with customizable notifications, your small business can keep projects running smoothly and get the most out of their time.
Wrap Up
Project management software can be a powerful tool for any small business.
With the right features and integrations, your team can collaborate effectively and complete projects on time and within budget.
By selecting the best project management software for your company, you will be able to manage projects efficiently and keep everyone on the same page.
Now that you know the key features to look for in project management software, you can start looking for the perfect solution for your business!
Best Project Management Software FAQ
The best software to use for project management depends on the needs of your team. Standard features to look for include robust integrations, customizable views, team roles and permissions, and notifications. Two of the most popular software for small business organizations are ClickUp and Monday because the programs include Gantt charts, customizable plans, and more.
The best software to manage a small business depends on your specific needs. Standard features to look for include robust integrations, customizable views, team roles, permissions, and notifications. Additionally, you should look for software that is easy to use and can help automate processes. Selecting the most suitable project management software for your business allows you to keep projects running smoothly and get the most out of your time.
The easiest-to-use project management software has a user-friendly interface, customizable views, and automated processes. One of the most straightforward tools is Trello because the dashboard is intuitive, and the plans are customizable.
Yes, Google has a project management tool called G Suite. It offers similar features to Microsoft Project, including assigning tasks, creating plans and timelines, tracking progress, setting up roles and permissions, and customizing views. G Suite also offers robust integrations with other Google tools such as Gmail and Calendar. With the most suitable project management software in place, your small business can organize projects efficiently and keep everyone on the same page.
Yes, there are several good project management software options for small businesses that won’t cost you a penny. Standard features to look for include Gantt charts, customizable views, time tracking, team roles and permissions, and notifications. You should also look for software that is easy to use and can help automate processes. Selecting the right project management software for your business allows you to keep projects running smoothly and get the most out of your time. With so many great options available, you are sure to find the perfect project management software for your small business.