best project management software for research and development

Best Research and Development (R&D) Project Management Tools

Managing projects can get very complicated, very quickly. That’s something any project manager will attest to. Having the best tools in your arsenal makes things a lot easier, but unfortunately nothing is a one-size-fits-all. If you’re conducting research and development projects, your requirements can be very different to traditional project management.

This article breaks down exactly what the requirements are for research and development projects, and suggests what to look for in tools to address these. We’ll then suggest some examples of tools to look further into.

Portfolio-wide Approach

Taking a ‘portfolio-wide approach’ means considering R&D projects as a group, rather than as individually. It may seem obvious, but since R&D projects are by their nature unpredictable, focusing on each project individually can deliver unsustainable results. Taking a portfolio-wide approach avoids putting all your ‘eggs-in-one-basket’. Though it’s important to focus on those projects that deliver value, natural discrepancies can skew results. Evaluating your portfolio as a whole overcomes this, allowing you to understand the most significant trends in the data.

Since evaluation of a project portfolio as a whole is a data intensive activity, but with results that can offer valuable insight to your R&D department, we’d suggest investing in a tool for this. Project Portfolio Management tools are a good place to start in your journey to taking a portfolio-wide approach to R&D.

Stage-gates

One of the most important things to look for in research and development project management tools is stage-gates. Not all R&D projects are made equal. For this reason, we need a way to filter out the promising from the less-promising. Stage-gates is a tried and tested way of achieving this. By making each stage-gate a criteria that a project has to fill before passing through, we can prioritise the higher performing projects. This means your team is best allocating their resources to the projects with highest success outcomes. Over the long term, this will see a better return-on-investment for your R&D department.

For more information on the importance of stage-gates in a research and development process, we suggest reading more here .

Scoring Methods

The purpose of stage-gates is to continually assess the viability and success potential of your projects. Building upon this, we want to be consistently assessing potential and viability using metrics that are relevant for your organisation. We do this by devising scoring methods.

The goal of scoring methods is to objectively assess projects, reducing the personal biases that may otherwise come into the equation. Scoring should therefore include opinions from a wide range of stakeholders, so that metrics are balanced. You may even wish to use a ‘ balanced scorecard ’. This allows you to give each metric a weighting, signifying its importance and therefore its impact on the final score.

You can read more about devising effective scoring methods in this paper .

NPV stands for net-present value. It’s a way of looking at R&D projects by their expected future cash flow. Net-present value is particularly useful for comparing project finances against one another. It can be a significant decision making factor, so should be considered in your assessment of projects.

Net-present value is typically favoured due to the fact that it is fairly simple compared to other costing or valuation methods. It also considers the time-value of money and focuses on the bottomline. It’s easily understood by stakeholders and budget controllers outside the R&D department.

Net-present value may be one of the most widely used methods for costing R&D projects, but it's not the only one. One example of an alternative to NPV is ‘real options’. A fair amount of academic articles have evaluated the viability of real options, with mixed opinions . Ultimately, NPV is the most widely used, easily understood and favoured by most, so we’d suggest sticking to this.

Benefit Tracking

Benefit tracking refers to the continual measurement and evaluation of projects after completion. Specifically, we’re looking at the impact of R&D projects here. Benefit tracking can get very complicated, and will need measurement frameworks that fit each project type. It’s very important however, as missing this means the return-on-investment is never fully understood.

For effective benefit tracking to take place, we would suggest consulting with experts. Follow our contact form here , and one of our team would be happy to explain the intricacies of benefit tracking in more detail.

Data Visualisation

We know gathering, consolidating and analysing R&D project data is important. What needs to be considered next is how this data is going to be interpreted. For stakeholders who are not directly involved in the R&D process, raw data can be difficult to digest. This can cause a lack of understanding and in worse cases, miscommunication. To avoid this, the R&D department should ‘package’ the data in a digestible and familiar format.

The best way to achieve this is through dashboards . A solid dashboard will provide a good amount of flexibility to the data processor, while not being so complicated that it requires high technical skill to operate. For large and complex R&D departments, you may opt for a business intelligence tool such as Tableau or Sisense. For most however, the built-in dashboarding functions that come with R&D project management software should have you covered.

In this article, we’ve looked at a few of the key elements that should be considered when managing R&D projects. We’ve also suggested some of the key features that you should look for in project management tools. When settling on a project management tool, you need to be aware that each will have their own strengths and weaknesses in different situations. 

We’ve found that for very large organisations, whose R&D may be spread throughout their entire organisations. They may opt for something ready built on their existing ERP software. This can be software from providers such as Oracle , Microsoft , Salesforce and SAP .

For many R&D departments however, their requirements may not be met by their existing ERP provider. Likewise, organisations who do not have existing relationships with large software suppliers shouldn’t have to just for this purpose. Where this is the case, our team would be happy to point you in the right direction. Head over to our ‘ contact us ’ and one of our team will get back to you as soon as possible.

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10 of the Best Research Management Software in 2024

ClickUp Contributor

February 13, 2024

Juggling research projects and struggling to keep track of things? Don’t worry. With a spiffy new research management tool at the ready, you could be much more productive.

But what if you don’t have time to sift through dozens of tools and apps for research management to find the perfect fit? That’s where we come in!

We’ve narrowed it down to the top 10 research management software tools to use in 2024, so you can pick from the best of the best. 

It’s time to level up! 🙌 

What Should You Look for in Research Management Software?

3. ganttpro, 4. klipfolio, 5. whatagraph, 8. scispace (formerly typeset.io), 10. databox.

Whether you’re an individual researcher or leading a research team, research management software tools make everything better. Here are some of the features we prioritized when picking the 10 tools on our list:

• Intuitive UI: Most tools will have a learning curve, but a configurable user interface makes it easier to get comfortable
• Compatibility: The best tools offer downloadable software, mobile apps, and web-based apps so your team members can work in Android, iOS, Mac, Windows, Linux, and their favorite web browsers
• Integrations: If you and your team use things like project management software, look for research management tools that’ll integrate with all of them
• Automations: Business process automation takes care of everyday tasks and lets you focus on the good stuff
• Templates: Look for something that’ll streamline your workflow with pre-made templates for things like resource management , project management, process mapping , and research planning

The 10 Best Research Management Software to Use in 2024

OK, let’s stop wasting time and get to the good stuff. Here are our picks for the 10 best research management software tools in 2024.

ClickUp is a cloud-based powerhouse with tons of research and project management software features for your research projects. It’s our top pick for a few reasons.

For one, we’ve spent countless hours refining it to be one of the most helpful tools around. It’s highly rated and at the top of several other lists, including G2’s Best Project Management Software Products & Tools in 2024 .

ClickUp has real-time collaboration features, free Gantt charts , AI writing tools, project documentation tools , and so much more. It does almost anything you ask with customizable ClickUp Dashboards and dozens of handy templates, too.

For example, the ClickUp Research Project Plan Template breaks down complex tasks, organizes your resources, and communicates your progress using data visualization tools . And ClickUp Docs serve as a simple wiki software that lets you create beautiful Docs and wikis that are easy to connect to your workflows.

Did we mention that a lot of this stuff is available on the Free Forever plan? 🤩

ClickUp best features:

• Integration with 1,000+ other tools, including Google Docs, Google Scholar, Google Drive, Google Workspace, Microsoft Excel, Trello, Slack, Evernote, Dropbox, Chrome, GitHub, and Asana
• Customizable dashboards, notifications, spreadsheets, templates, time tracking, automations, and more
• ClickUp AI writing assistant summarizes metrics, compose emails, generate action items, draft metadata, and create social media posts in seconds
• Mobile app, web-based app, and desktop software works on all operating systems
• Task management features organize and automate your research process, whether you’re doing academic research for your thesis or managing your company’s research data
• Multiple views and tools allow you to organize large datasets with complex visualizations to manage references, research, and more

ClickUp limitations:

• Some new users report a learning curve (solved with simple, free tutorials)
• ClickUp AI isn’t available on the Free Forever plan (give it a spin with a free trial first)

ClickUp pricing:

• Free Forever
• Unlimited: $7/month per user paid annually
• Business: $12/month per user paid annually
• Enterprise: Contact for pricing

ClickUp ratings and reviews:

• G2: 4.7/5 (8,000+ reviews)
• Capterra: 4.7/5 (3,000+ reviews)

Tableau is a data visualization tool powered by Salesforce. It’s designed to connect data from different sources on a single analytics platform. The reference management software makes it easier to organize complex research data using a drag-and-drop interface and interactive dashboards.

Tableau makes your life easier with access to a range of data analysis and sharing options. And it’s designed for everyone from students and teachers to data scientists and business owners. 

Tableau best features:

• Tableau Cloud provides a cloud-based analytics platform that drives better business outcomes and provides integrated data management
• Tableau Prep is a modern tool that makes it faster and easier to merge, edit, and organize your research data for efficient analysis
• Integration with a wide variety of products to make collaboration, data storytelling, and decision-making easier
• Training modules for onboarding your team minimize the learning curve with Tableau’s many research management tools

Tableau limitations:

• Users report that large files sometimes require long loading times and may result in crashing
• Some reviews mention bugs in new versions of Tableau software

Tableau pricing:

• Tableau Viewer: $15/month per user paid annually
• Tableau Explorer: $42/month per user paid annually
• Tableau Creator: $70/month per user paid annually

Tableau ratings and reviews:

• G2: 4.3/5 (1,000+ reviews)
• Capterra: 4.5/5 (2,000+ reviews)

GanttPRO is a resource management system that uses Gantt charts for efficient project management. It’s also a research and reference management software that’s perfect for managing teams and organizing your workflow.

Import Excel spreadsheets and graphs or use pre-made templates to get your projects going pronto. Of all the research management tools in this list, GanttPRO helps you organize everything you need for thesis research, business data analysis, wiki pages, bibliographies, and more. 🛠️ 

GanttPRO best features:

• Multiple views allow you to create Kanban and scrum boards in addition to Gantt charts for better research and workspace visualization
• Integrations with Slack, OneDrive, Google Drive, and MS Teams collect all your work in one place
• Time logs let you track how much time you spend on each research task
• Collaboration tools make it easy for research teams to work together and communicate in real-time

GanttPRO limitations:

• Some views have limited customization options
• Reviews mention difficulty moving and converting tasks

GanttPRO pricing:

• Basic: $9.99/month per user
• Pro: $15.99/month per user
• Business: $24.99/month per user

GanttPRO ratings and reviews:

• G2: 4.8/5 (400+ reviews)
• Capterra: 4.8/5 (400+ reviews)

Klipfolio is a business dashboard tool that monitors your research data in real-time. It’s a metrics-focused platform that helps everyone make better decisions with access to the data they need when they need it. ✨

Individual users and data teams can use this powerful analytics tool to catalog data in a user-friendly platform that provides self-serve access to research information. Draft effective reports for team projects, organize citations for research papers and create useful dashboards for end-users. 

Klipfolio best features:

• Integrations with 100+ other tools and apps, from Ahrefs to Zapier, with dozens of options in between
• Compatibility with Android and iOS mobile devices and most popular web browsers
• Klip Annotations allows you to create, update, and delete annotations quickly and easily
• User-friendly interface helps reduce the learning curve for new users

Klipfolio limitations:

• Some reviews mention a lack of alerts and notifications
• Some users report issues with needing to restart the application after adding elements to their dashboard

Klipfolio pricing:

• Go: $125/month
• Pro: $300/month
• Business: $800/month

Klipfolio ratings and reviews:

• G2: 4.5/5 (200+ reviews)
• Capterra: 4.7/5 (100+ reviews)

Whatagraph is a reporting tool that helps manage and visualize research data with customizable templates for efficient marketing projects. Move data, share reports with stakeholders, and build stunning reports. 🦋

Whatagraph replaces multiple tools and collects your team’s work in an easy-to-use data platform with a user-friendly dashboard. This tool is designed with in-house data research and marketing teams in mind. 

Whatagraph best features:

• Integrations with 40+ tools and apps, including YouTube, Google BigQuery, LinkedIn, and BigCommerce
• Automates research data transfer to save your team members hours of work and streamline your workflow
• Generates quality reports in less time using data analytics software
• Analyze and manage web page performance data to give your marketing team the information they need to get results

Whatagraph limitations:

• Some reviews mention slow responses from customer service
• Some users report bugs that slow down their research process
• No real project management software features

Whatagraph pricing:

• Professional: $223/month paid annually
• Premium: $335/month paid annually
• Custom: Contact for pricing

Whatagraph ratings and reviews:

• Capterra: 4.4/5 (80+ reviews)

Looker (aka Google Looker Studio) is a browser-based data analytics platform that uses a unique modeling language to leverage, analyze, and visualize research data. Use it for governed and self-service business intelligence (BI), and to build the best apps for your organization’s metrics. 

Collaborate in real time and capitalize on the fastest analytic databases available. Looker’s lightweight architecture allows developers to create flexible data and researcher apps quickly. 👀

Looker best features:

• Intuitive user interface minimizes the learning curve for new users
• Integrations with multiple tools, including BigQuery Standard SQL and BigQuery Legacy SQL databases
• Customizable charts, tables, and reports allow you to share data insights with your team, classroom, or the world
• Report settings give database users and viewers the option to bookmark existing settings for future use

Looker limitations:

• Users report issues with the varied Google Cloud Pricing structure and the lack of a set monthly fee
• Some reviews report problems with the dynamic tables not displaying full text for headers
• Data focus means few project management software capabilities

Looker pricing:

• Google Cloud Pricing : Contact to request a quote

Looker ratings and reviews:

• G2: 4.4/5 (1,000+ reviews)
• Capterra: 4.5/5 (200+ reviews)

Bit.ai is a document collaboration platform designed for quick and easy note-taking, document creation, and research management. It builds dynamic knowledge bases, projects, and technical docs with various sharing and formatting options too. 

Users have access to advanced design options, robust search features, powerful document tracking, and real-time collaboration tools. And teams can work together using this tool from around the globe across multiple platforms and devices. 

Bit.ai best features:

• Collaboration tools allow you and your team to work together to create documents, wikis, notes, and web pages
• Integrations with dozens of other tools and platforms, including YouTube, Google Sheets, GitHub, Loom, and Typeform
• Intuitive collaboration and workflow design makes document creation simple for new users
• Automations allow you to complete research projects faster by taking care of small tasks

Bit.ai limitations:

• Some users mention issues with document creation
• Some reviews report trouble with the user interface and a need for a more user-friendly experience

Bit.ai pricing: 

• Pro: $12/month per user
• Business: $20/month per user

Bit.ai ratings and reviews: 

• G2: 4/5 (10+ reviews)
• Capterra: 5/5 (5+ reviews)

SciSpace, also known as Typeset.io, is a powerful researcher app designed to save you time using the power of AI. Discover and review a network of relevant papers and get simple answers from each one without spending hours deep-diving the content. 

Minimize time spent on menial tasks and let SciSpace do the research for you while you find your answers. And you’ll have access to millions of papers and PDFs to get the info you need. It’s also easy to use in tandem with applications like Zotero and Mendeley. 

SciSpace best features:

• Access to metadata of 200 million+ papers and 50 million+ Open Access full-text PDFs
• Workspace enables publishers, institutions, and researchers to collaborate and work efficiently on research projects
• Automations minimize time wasted with repetitive tasks so you discover information quickly
• Built-in plagiarism checker allows you to check your documents and identify issues that may be preventing you from getting published

SciSpace limitations:

• Some reviews mention issues with LaTeX templates
• Free plan does not include any major features
• Lack of reviews on major platforms

SciSpace pricing:

• Basic: Free
• Premium: $9.99/month
• Teams and Labs: $5.49/month per user

SciSpace ratings and reviews:

• Capterra: N/A

Businesses use EndNote to build bibliographies and access research articles. This specialized reference and research management software lets you manage and format citations. It also protects your workflow with efficient data restoration functions. 📁

Find, share, and use research within your EndNote libraries and work on your research from anywhere, on any device. The integrated document creation tools will make your writing more efficient. 

Endnote best features:

• License requires a one-time fee instead of monthly payments
• Integrations with popular tools like Microsoft Word, Google Docs, and Open Office Writer
• Compatibility with desktop, iPad, and most popular web browsers
• Useful organization and research management tools let researchers drafting and citing their theses or writing in-depth research papers get their work done faster

Endnote limitations:

• Some reviews mention limited integration with word processing software outside of Microsoft and Google products
• You may need to correct occasional citation formatting errors manually
• Document system lacks task and project management software capabilities

Endnote pricing:

• Full License: $274.95 one-time fee
• Student License: $149.95 one-time fee

Endnote ratings and reviews:

• G2: 4.1/5 (100+ reviews)
• Capterra: 4.3/5 (30+ reviews)

Databox is a business analytics tool that connects your data and tracks it from any device. Monitor your research data in real-time using a single dashboard to build and share reports, discover insights, and monitor trends. 📈

Get daily, weekly, and monthly performance updates viewable through email and Slack and automated alerts for changes in important metrics. Everything is done without the need for coding or spreadsheets.

Databox best features:

• Integrations with 100+ popular tools, including HubSpot Marketing, Google Analytics, Facebook Ads, and Google Ads
• Setup is easy to manage for non-technical users and data research teams
• Data reporting makes it easy to progress toward your goals and share research data with clients
• Custom metrics and conversion rates are calculated quickly and easily

Databox limitations:

• Reviews indicate that individual users may find the business-oriented prices too high
• Users mention a lack of customization and visual tools
• Free version does not include access to most features and metrics

Databox pricing:

• Starter: $59/month
• Professional: $169/month
• Growth: $399/month
• Premium: $999/month

Databox ratings and reviews:

Unleash the power of your research.

With such a wide variety of research management software options listed above, you’re sure to find an option that does what you need at a price that fits your budget. So get ready to streamline your workflow, collaborate more effectively, and fall back in love with research. 😍

If you want a tool that does it all at a price everyone can afford, try ClickUp . It’s free! You’ll have access to everything you need for research management, plus many other project management tools that’ll make your work and life more efficient.

Questions? Comments? Visit our Help Center for support.

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Best Project Management Software of 2024

Table of Contents

• Best Project Management Software
• Things To Consider When Buying
• How We Chose

Whether team capacity planning or delegating tasks remotely, the best project management software fits into your workflows seamlessly. It organizes documents and communications while allowing co-workers to collaborate in real time. Businesses of all sizes, from law firms and creative agencies to software development teams and enterprises, use project management tools to manage resources, portfolios, and more.

In addition to our first-person experiences with each system, we spoke with business users to learn how top-rated project management tools impact their processes. We explored user reviews and ratings while evaluating pricing, software features, capabilities, and integrations. Learn how the following project management apps stack up.

• Best Overall: Monday.com »
• Best Budget: Nifty »
• Best for Small Businesses: Trello »
• Best for Resource Management: Smartsheet »
• Best for Enterprise Projects: Microsoft Project »
• Best for Project Portfolio Management (PPM): ClickUp »
• Best for Agile Project Management: Jira Software »

Best Overall: Monday.com

Relatively quick deployment with a minimal learning curve

Native integrations with over 200 programs

14-day free trial, no credit card required

Paid plans require a minimum of three seats

Salesforce integration is limited to Enterprise users

Rivals offer more views at lower-priced tiers

Monday.com is a cloud-based work operating system (WorkOS). Its adaptability to different work environments and styles makes it our top pick as the best project management software overall. Businesses of all sizes can use the platform as a standalone project, resource, or portfolio management tool or leverage it to oversee their entire business operations.

Since Monday.com integrates with over 200 applications and has open application programming interfaces (APIs), connecting your existing tools is relatively easy. Like other project management systems, you must play with formatting and functions to configure your spaces. Fortunately, Monday.com has more than 200 ready-made templates to jumpstart your boards. These include industry-specific options like an event management dashboard and customer-centric project management templates.

Most employers and contractors (guest users) can tackle basic tasks with little to no learning curve. For instance, I connected to Google Drive, uploaded files, viewed assignments, and tagged editors on my first time using the software without onboarding or assistance. Additionally, we appreciate Monday.com’s code-free automations and the many options for viewing your boards. Aside from its WorkOS software, the company offers Monday dev, which adds sprint management, bug tracking, and roadmap planning.

• Price: Free for two users; $9 per month for the basic package; $12 per month for the standard; $19 per month for the pro. Custom pricing is available.
• Views: Table, Gantt, Chart, Calendar, Kanban, Files Gallery, Form, Map, Workload, Timeline, and Blank
• Features and Tools: 5 GB to 1,000 GB file storage, iOS and Android apps, over 200 templates, activity log, unlimited boards and items, private boards, automations, and dependencies
• Integrations: Over 200 integrations, including CRMs, Marketing, Project Management, Software Development, Team Management, Productivity and Efficiency, Collaboration, Reporting and Analytics, Design and Creative, HR, and Finance 
• Collaboration Capabilities: In-document collaboration, whiteboard, and @mention in updates
• Customer Support: Self-serve knowledge base and 24/7 customer support

Best Budget: Nifty

The free version displays milestone and task dependencies

Built-in direct messaging tools

Free 14-day trial, no credit card required

Limited customer service options

Fewer integrations than other project management tools

With a free forever plan for unlimited team members and tasks, Nifty is the best project management software for businesses on a budget. Its base plan’s per-user price (with annual billing) costs less than most rivals. Plus, Nifty offers a 50% discount to non-profits and educational institutions.

Nifty’s free version includes two active projects, 100 MB of storage space, and all core features. We appreciated its all-in-one workspace, showing task and milestone dependencies. Paid subscriptions provide advanced tools like time tracking, workflow automations, and budget tracking. As a central hub, Nifty supports group and one-on-one chats. Zoom and Webex integrations let teams launch video calls right from direct messages.

Users can create a task or document within project discussions and leverage multiple views to understand a project’s timeline or employee workload. Since your staff can customize their dashboard, every person can put the widgets they need front and center.

The software is flexible, allowing for multiple use cases, from legal case management to agile development. Nifty’s blog explains how to use the platform as a customer relationship management (CRM) program or for issue tracking and bug management.

• Price: Free for unlimited users; Monthly pricing starts at $9 per user; Annual pricing starts at $5 monthly per user
• Views: Kanban (Board view), Calendar, Timeline, Gantt Chart (Milestone Overview), Cross-Project, Team Workloads, Swimlane, Master Overview
• Features and Tools: 100 MB to unlimited storage space, two to unlimited active projects, iOS, Android, Mac, and Windows apps, task and milestone dependencies, workflow automation, task management, time tracking, and file proofing 
• Integrations: Harvest, Webex, Zoom, Slack, Github, Microsoft Suite, Google Drive and Calendar, Miro, Typeform, and Zapier 
• Collaboration Capabilities: Real-time chat, discussions, file and document sharing,  Zoom and Webex video meetings 
• Customer Support: Self-serve help center, priority support for Business users, and a dedicated success manager with Enterprise plans

Best for Small Businesses: Trello

Unlimited power-ups and integrations on the free plan

Visually appealing and user-friendly

14-day trial of Trello Premium

Lacks advanced reporting tools required for complex projects

Does not show interdependencies

Trello’s cloud-based platform resembles a modern whiteboard with sticky notes, except you can automate repetitive actions to streamline project workflows, attach files, and communicate with co-workers. Trello is our top pick for the best small business project management software due to its intuitive user interface, affordability, and time-saving features.

Its free version supports your entire team with unlimited workspaces (each with 10 boards and unlimited cards) and storage. You can set due dates and assign tasks or create a new card from an email. Paid subscriptions provide more views (dashboard, timeline, and map) and remove board limitations.

Trello connects to over 200 third-party tools like Slack, Salesforce, Zoho CRM, and Miro. These integrations work as power-ups, meaning you can, for example, embed a Miro whiteboard in a Trello card or view contact data from Zoho CRM without leaving Trello. Many of these integrations work with Trello’s no-code automation tools, allowing you to generate a new Jira ticket or post a Slack reminder.

I’ve used Trello for over five years to manage client projects and leads. Its intuitive interface has almost no learning curve. Yet, once you dig into the knowledge base, you’ll discover many ways to increase productivity and project oversight. Trello can serve as a resource hub, onboarding center, or editorial calendar.

• Price: Free for your whole team; Paid plans start at $6 per user monthly or $5 with annual billing 
• Views: Dashboard, Timeline, Calendar, Board, Table, Map, Workspace Calendar
• Features and Tools: Unlimited cards, no-code automation, iOS, Android, and desktop apps, activity logs, templates, task management, and checklists
• Integrations: Over 200 integrations, including analytics and reporting, automation, communication and collaboration, developer tools, file management, HR and operations, IT and project management, marketing and social media, product and design, sales and support
• Collaboration Capabilities: File sharing and @mention on cards
• Customer Support: Varies by plan. Free: Self-help and community support; Standard: Local business hours; Premium: 24/5 Premium support; Enterprise: 24/7 support

Best for Resource Management: Smartsheet

Customizable dashboard and reporting tools

Automated alerts for Slack and Microsoft Teams

Smartsheet Pro plan is limited to 10 users

Steeper learning curve than other PM software

Some resource management tools require a premium add-on

As the name suggests, Smartsheet has a spreadsheet-like interface. However, its dynamic resource planning capabilities help companies manage schedules, forecast availability, and stay on budget. Consequently, we chose Smartsheet as the best project management software for resource management.

Michelle Delker, CFO and CPA at the William Stanley Group, says Smartsheet “supports large scale and multi-faceted projects, providing extensive project management capabilities, including comprehensive Gantt charting.” The Gantt view displays cross-project dependencies, milestones, hierarchy, percentage complete, custom fields, and more. Moreover, Delker mentions, “The software’s robust analytics and real-time reporting capabilities provided invaluable insights that drive critical decision-making.”

With the Resource Management add-on, leaders can spot trends with utilization reports or forecast business growth with monthly or quarterly statements. Real-time analytics show key metrics (incurred hours, fees, or expenses) so project managers can adjust schedules (or expectations) accordingly.

While the spreadsheet is where the main work happens, the dashboards are also critical tools. When team members log in, the dashboard can display metrics, images, and charts. Or you can turn it into an information hub with real-time updates and resources. Additionally, we like that Smartsheet lets all users (even on the free version) log in via Microsoft, Google, or their Apple ID.

• Price: Free for one user and two editors; Paid plans start at $9 per user monthly or $7 monthly with annual billing
• Views: Grid, Gantt, Calendar, and Card
• Features and Tools: Task management, physical, human, and financial resource management, dependencies, file attachments, automations, spreadsheet formulas and functions, and Android and iOS apps 
• Integrations: More than 100 third-party integrations, including Slack, Google Workspace, Microsoft Teams, and PowerBI
• Collaboration Capabilities: File sharing and comments
• Customer Support: Online web and community, except for Enterprise, which has 24/7 phone support

Best for Enterprise Projects: Microsoft Project 

Straightforward integration with Microsoft Teams

Cloud and on-premise installation options

One-month free trial

Less affordable at higher tiers

Companies may need additional Microsoft subscriptions for full functionality

Microsoft Project debuted almost 30 years ago and is one of the few project management tools still offering on-premise installation, often preferred by large organizations. Its seamless integration with other Microsoft products means companies can leverage Microsoft Power BI for insights or jump into a Teams meeting without fussing around with APIs or integrations. For these reasons and others, we chose Microsoft Project as the best project management software for enterprise projects.

Indeed, José Moya, outreach manager at Capicua Full Stack Creative Hub, says that Microsoft Project “offers comprehensive project and portfolio management features, making it ideal for managing large-scale and complex projects.” It provides a central hub for portfolio, project, and resource management, supporting agile and waterfall methodologies.

Visual, interactive roadmaps help individuals and project managers understand workstream and summary tasks. In addition, easy-to-edit project planning templates mean you don’t have to start from scratch. We liked how users could link tasks to show dependencies and the advanced tools available for status tracking and costing. With web, on-premise, and desktop versions, enterprises can choose project management solutions based on how and where employees work.

• Price: Cloud-based solutions start at $10 per user monthly; On-premise software starts at $679.99
• Views: Grid, Board, and Timeline (Gantt)
• Features and Tools: Task assignment, templates, task dependencies, pre-built reports, interactive roadmaps, timesheets, resource management, portfolio optimization, demand management, and enterprise planning
• Integrations: Microsoft 365 
• Collaboration Capabilities: Microsoft Teams for file sharing, meetings, and chat and Co-authoring
• Customer Support: Self-help resources; customer service options vary by plan and products

Best for Project Portfolio Management (PPM): ClickUp

Customizable views, templates, and automations

Unlimited storage with all paid subscriptions

Analytics and portfolio templates to streamline management

Fewer native integrations than Monday.com

Users say it takes longer to personalize it for their business

ClickUp centralizes your tasks, projects, and goals, giving teams and leaders a unified view of the company’s portfolio. During interviews, experts almost unanimously mentioned ClickUp’s customization as a key reason for using the platform. Riva Jeane May Caburog, PR and Media Coordinator at Nadrich & Cohen personal injury law firm, says, “When it comes to handling projects with a flexible approach, ClickUp lets us set up things the way we like, which helps us stay quick and responsive to our clients.”

At the same time, ClickUP provides nearly all tools required to handle diverse portfolios, including time-tracking functions, portfolio management templates, and sprint burndown charts. Its vast feature set is why we chose ClickUp as the best project management software for project portfolio management.

Indeed, Allie Decker, co-founder of Omniscient Digital, mentions she chose ClickUp for its “ability to handle multiple project portfolios and offer all-encompassing views. We use it to manage dynamic tasks and subtasks, roll out our quarterly and biannual projects, track important client information and resources, capacity-plan for our team, and much, much more.”

• Price: Free for unlimited users; Paid plans start at $10 per user monthly or $7 with annual billing
• Views: List, Board, Calendar, Box, Gantt, Activity, Timeline, Workload, Table (spreadsheet), Map, and Mindmap
• Features and Tools: Unlimited tasks, automations, recurring tasks, dashboards, milestones, time tracking, sprints, templates, dependencies, and portfolios
• Integrations: Open APIs, Over 50 native integrations, including Slack, HubSpot, Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and Calendly, plus Zapier connections
• Collaboration Capabilities: Whiteboards, real-time chat, attachment annotation, and email in Click-up
• Customer Support: 24/7 support, live chat on paid plans, and priority support with Enterprise

Best for Agile Project Management: Jira Software

Over 3,000 apps and integrations

Free for up to 10 users

A sandbox environment (advanced roadmaps)

The extensive feature set can overwhelm less technical-savvy users

Some capabilities require paid plug-ins

Designed for agile teams, Jira offers a robust free version for 10 users (with unlimited automation rules for a single project) and paid plans suitable for up to 35,000 team members. It shows real-time visual data, and you can configure the software to your team’s workflow, organizational structure, or agile maturity level. Jira’s focus on agile methodologies is why we chose it as the best project management software for agile project management.

Dmitri Graf, a software engineering project leader, calls Jira the “De facto dominating standard tool in the world of software projects.” Abhishek Shah, founder of Testlify, says, “The customizable Kanban and Scrum boards, along with sprint planning and backlog management, enable efficient project execution and continuous improvement.” Users can view dependencies between tasks and see important information (like assigned tasks) on team dashboards.

Aside from agile project management, Jira Software enables leaders to capacity plan and use advanced roadmaps to visualize data or explore possible opportunities. Another standout feature is the Atlassian Marketplace. It features over 3,000 apps and integrations, allowing businesses to connect CRM, helpdesk, and design tools.

• Price: Free for 10 users; Paid plans start at $7.75 per user monthly or $790 annually
• Views: Timelines, Scrum, and Kanban
• Features and Tools: Unlimited automations, dependency management, customizable workflows, capacity management, templates, unlimited project boards, and advanced roadmaps
• Integrations: Over 3,000 apps and integrations, including GitLab, Microsoft Power BI, Figma, Salesforce, and HubSpot
• Collaboration Capabilities: @mentions and share buttons
• Customer Support: Ticketing system

The Bottom Line

Project management software solutions vary greatly in ease of use and functionality. In some cases, vendors lock must-have features behind pricier tiers. We preferred Monday.com because of its low technical barriers and two project management offerings (a general PM tool and an agile software development system). While we wish it had real-time messaging, the multiple views, integrations, and code-free automations won us over.

However, for more complex tasks or enterprise-level portfolios, Monday.com may not be appropriate. Invite your team to take advantage of free trials. Then, have an honest discussion to see which option will be the best project management software going forward.

Things To Consider When Looking for Project Management Software

• Compatibility with existing workflows and tools: Deploying new project management software is challenging. The last thing you want to do is overall your current processes, from brainstorming ideas to assigning tasks. The best solutions will fit into your workflows and not require your team to change them dramatically. Likewise, you won’t want to switch email, CRM, or video conferencing providers. Consult with your team to see which integrations would reduce task switching and improve productivity. Then, review project management solutions to see if any connect to your must-have programs. 
• User-friendly interface and ease of adoption: Always consider the technical and non-technical team members who will use the software. For successful deployment and implementation, you truly need everyone on board. Although some software with advanced features will have a steeper learning curve, you can plan for this by developing an onboarding and training program. But if you need simple project planning tools, look for an intuitive system that doesn’t require weeks of training. Most users can complete basic actions in tools like Trello or Monday.com. Gauge employee responses during free trials and demos. Ask for their feedback, follow up, and consider their opinions before making your final decision. 
• Project management methodology support: Software capabilities differ. Most offer Kanban views and support the basics of waterfall and agile methodologies. But, not all work for teams using scrum or adaptive project frameworks. Check out the vendor’s use cases (typically listed under “Solutions”). These will give you a good idea of what types of companies and teams use the software. Most providers mention features or tools that support these use cases. Also, look at the available templates. Although you can often build your own, starting with a ready-made design and customizing it to suit your process is more straightforward than starting from scratch. Lastly, review the knowledge base. The company should offer method-specific tutorials on how to get the most out of the software for your methodology.
• Collaboration and communication features: Project management software should unify your teams, and one way it does that is by ensuring seamless communication. However, the available methods differ. Some, like ClickUp and Nifty, offer in-app live chat. This messaging feature means remote teams don’t have to switch to your business phone system to resolve an issue. Others have built-in video integrations, allowing users to start a video call without leaving the application. These tools and others can enhance collaboration and productivity. More common among project management software are comments, where you can mention co-workers, and they receive notifications. Most support co-annotation file and document sharing, and some have whiteboards.
• Customization and flexibility options: Consider who will use your project management software and how applications support different roles. You want the system to be flexible enough to handle granule details of individual projects, which depends on your methodology and workflows. For instance, PM apps allow for different dependencies, automations, and task assignments. At the same time, project managers need to personalize their dashboards to view workloads and deadlines. Also, automated notifications and real-time metrics help managers monitor progress. At a high level, business owners and executives should be able to customize the software to see an overview of all projects. Look for apps with recurring, automated reports, portfolio options, and forecasting tools. Lastly, the software should facilitate communication and collaboration between on-site, remote, and hybrid teams with desktop and mobile apps.

How We Chose the Best Project Management Software

Our U.S. News 360 Reviews editors spoke with chief financial officers, founders, and software development engineers to develop this rating of the best project management software. Many experts, including our own editors and the author, used several PM tools before settling on their favorite. They often switched apps as their operations grew and their needs became complex. Therefore, the key takeaway is to ensure your software suits today's requirements and can scale to meet short-term growth.

We examined dozens of project management systems and narrowed our options after interviewing software users and reading reviews. Our evaluation considered supported methodologies, views, features, and ease of use. We also assessed templates, automations, and dependency management. 

While prices vary among solutions, we were pleased to find many free and low-cost versions. In addition, several offer free trials, giving companies an excellent opportunity to test out software before committing.

WHY SHOULD YOU TRUST US?

With decades of product testing and research experience, our editors and contributors are familiar with nearly all aspects of software. Jessica Elliott , the author of this article, has relied on project management software as an employee, business owner, and contractor. Like other experts we interviewed, she’s tested multiple applications over the past decade and uses at least two in her current role.

Most project management solutions offer a free trial of paid software versions, ranging from seven to 30 days. Many allow new users to sign up for the trial period without entering credit card information. Alternatively, you can try the free versions. However, these may not provide access to advanced features.

Many project management applications place the most limitations on free versions while allowing unlimited projects with paid subscriptions. Since paid plans incur a per-user fee, you are typically not restricted to a certain number of users. Other limitations may vary by package, including storage space, automations, boards, cards, dashboards, or tasks.

Always review the customer service information for project management software carefully. During our assessment, we found that most vendors do not offer phone support, and only a few have live chat options. Most provide self-help services and email or ticketing support. However, the response time may vary by subscription tier and issue priority.

Some project management applications offer one-click migration services for companies transferring from another system. For example, ClickUp can migrate data from Jira Software, Trello, and Monday.com. Alternatively, you can create a custom import for unsupported software programs.

Although vendors offer software comparisons on their websites, reviewing information from trusted third parties is a good idea. Look for fact-based guides that compare prices, features, and usability. Also, check out user feedback from project managers in similar industries. We suggest asking your professional network for recommendations as well. Colleagues can share insights and answer questions to help guide your decision.

U.S. News 360 Reviews takes an unbiased approach to our recommendations. When you use our links to buy products, we may earn a commission but that in no way affects our editorial independence.

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• Project management |
• Project management software and tools: ...

Project management software and tools: Your best picks for 2023

Project management software connects teams, enabling everyone in the organization to prioritize the work that matters most. Software that fosters this type of high-level collaboration is essential for most companies. But at a glance, many of the tools organizations use have seemingly similar features. Use our guide to narrow down your choices and understand which tools are best for different types of companies.

If you manage work, you’re a project manager. But that wasn’t always the case. For many years, the only people responsible for managing projects were (unsurprisingly) project managers. These highly specialized roles used legacy tools that required extensive training and knowledge to use. 

Now, almost everyone is expected to manage their own projects, and these outdated tools are no longer practical. And while project manager roles and legacy softwares still exist, modern project management software has adapted to fill the needs of a more dynamic, collaborative workforce.

Whether you’re a brand new business owner who just needs help with invoicing or you're operating a multi-national company, there’s a project management software that’s right for you. Read on to see which project management software fits your company's needs.

What is project management software?

Project management software is a tool that helps teams to organize, track, and execute work. In its simplest form, you can think of project management software as an interactive workspace, where you coordinate the way you work, collaborate, and communicate with others. But the best project management software goes far beyond that—connecting your most advanced workflows across the company and helping you achieve your biggest, boldest goals. 

It’s a broad category, and can be as simple as digital checklists or as advanced as a full work management platform. The type of project management software you choose—and the way you use it—will depend on the size, needs, and overarching goals of your organization.

Why use project management software?

These days, everyone manages projects, but they don’t always have the tools they need to manage projects effectively. This often leads to teams using a spreadsheet, which is great for organizing work but doesn't show real-time updates. Spreadsheets are extremely manual, and can actually impede cross-functional collaboration. In short, they lack the capabilities of project management software. 

That’s why project management software is so crucial to today’s working environment. Among its many benefits, project management software serves as the connector for work, teams, stakeholders, goals, and everything in between.

The benefits of project management software

Focus your work. You’ll get more done—but more importantly, you’ll get the right work done. With project management software, you’re less likely to duplicate work or waste time searching for materials.

Reduce busywork. With project management software, you can connect every single task to goals that support the company’s biggest, broadest vision—so everyone knows how they’re driving the success of the company with every project. When employees understand how their day-to-day tasks impact the company, they’re even more motivated to produce their best possible work.

Create a system of record. Project management software serves as a system of record for all your projects and their related tasks. As a result, you can simultaneously store information while also making it easier for stakeholders and teams to access and use that information.

Increase cross-functional collaboration . Project management software is, at its core, a team collaboration tool. By bringing together work, goals, and people across projects, teams, and departments, project management software helps you build an interconnected, thriving cross-functional organization.

Store work safely. Ever delete a cell by accident in your spreadsheet? Or forget where you saved your latest to-do list ? Keeping everything cloud-based both helps you stay organized and reduces the chance of you losing work—all while maintaining your privacy. 

The 11 best project management software & tools in 2023 

There’s a wide range of project management software available in today’s market—choosing just one can feel overwhelming. That’s why we compiled this list of the best products in the industry today, and the types of businesses they’re most likely to help. See how each one compares, and the different ways project management software can streamline and enhance your work.

1. Asana: Best for enterprise companies

Asana goes beyond traditional project management software to provide a full work management solution that supports the dynamic, changing needs of enterprise companies. Asana doesn't just help you manage your tasks (although you can do that too)—it connects all the work your company is doing to your highest-level goals and business strategy. With Asana, you get so much more than project management software, including:

Integrations to all your favorite tools and systems, so you can keep your work organized in one platform.

Goals that connect to everyone and every task across your company, so you can ensure the work that gets done is always the most important.

Automations for tasks, scheduling, assigning work, and much more—all designed to reduce the amount of time you spend on low-priority busywork.

Ready-made project templates so you can get to work on your most important tasks right away.

Reporting dashboards that automatically update stakeholders and eliminate status update meetings.

Security, privacy, and compliance features that keep your data safe.

Discover even more of what Asana can do.

2. Trello: Best for simple project management

Trello is a Kanban-board style project management software , owned by Atlassian. In Trello, you nest project tasks under boards labeled with an overarching theme. For example, you might have a board for “Not started,” “In Progress,” and “Complete.” The setup makes it easy to track project progress from board to board, which is helpful when you need a simple tool for small projects.

3. Smartsheet: Best for spreadsheet lovers

Think of Smartsheet as an advanced version of a spreadsheet, with more capabilities. This system can be intuitive for companies who traditionally used spreadsheets for project management, such as time tracking with timesheets. 

4. Jira: Best for Agile-specific project management

Designed specifically for software development, Jira comes ready to launch for teams that use the Agile methodology to do their work. Owned by parent company Atlassian, Jira is often used for common development projects like bug tracking, as well as projects that use the Scrum process .

5. Monday: Best for small businesses

Monday offers a broad spectrum of apps that make it easy to implement and get started right away. This works for small businesses who are new to project management software, though once you rev up your work, company size, or collaboration across teams, you might hit a threshold for what’s possible.

6. Clickup: Best for small teams or startups

Clickup’s intuitive and colorful interface makes it easy to understand and adopt. Clickup is a popular choice for startups with limited resources and smaller teams that may not need as many capabilities. 

7. Notion: Best for notetakers

Notion is an elevated system to create and store dynamic documents, sheets, and note taking. This works best for companies or individuals who just need a more organized space for thoughts and ideas, though Notion can feel limited in how you can work with others in the tool itself.

8. Airtable: Best for those who want to build it themselves

Airtable provides a flexible no- and low-code database you can use to build your own bespoke project management system (or other custom application). For those who prefer to oversee the backend development of their project management software, Airtable offers that option.

9. Wrike: Best for client management

Wrike offers stackable storage and security in an easy-to-use format, so both clients and internal teams can safely access information. This can be helpful when you’re working with external partners, such as clients, in addition to managing work as a company.

10. Workfront: Best for marketing-only teams

Workfront (owned by Adobe) is a project management software that was initially developed for marketers. They’ve built out their platform to be a tool for all teams, but because it’s so targeted, users may struggle to coordinate with other teams outside of the marketing department. 

11. Microsoft: Best for personal tools

Microsoft Office is often labeled as a project management tool, but that’s mostly because their products are a staple at any company. Because we already know and understand how to use them, Microsoft Office products are often the first tool managers turn to when they start experimenting with project management. But the reality is, Excel spreadsheets and docs weren’t built for collaboration, so you’re better off using them in conjunction with full-fledged project management software. 

Features to look for in your project management tool

Ready to buy? Each project management system will have different features and functionality, but we recommend you prioritize a platform with these features at a minimum:

Collaboration features that enable work between team members, departments, and across the company—including file sharing, project tracking, and resource management.

A platform that provides portfolio management capabilities and the ability to connect goals to actionable tasks, so the entire company can see how all work is connected.

A mobile app so you can send off approvals, receive timely notifications, and manage projects on the go.

Project and reporting dashboards that are easy to access and view.

Varying project view styles that support all your project types and operations, including Gantt charts , Kanban boards, Lists, and Calendars (so as your company grows, you know your software has the capability to grow with it).

Enhanced project scheduling to set due dates, create important milestones, and easily track time so everything stays on schedule.

Project management app integrations that fit your custom business needs.

Automations and dependencies that update you and stakeholders in real-time.

The best project management software is the one that grows with you

A lot of project management software claims similar features, and at a basic level, many of them are the same. But when you choose a project management solution, it shouldn’t just be another tool. It should be a full-fledged project management platform that enables you and your team to get their best work done, with less effort. 

This means you need a platform that continues to grow, expand, and adapt as your company does. The last thing you need is to hit a ceiling just when you’re getting into your ideal workflow. Asana is built for enterprise teams, which means it can support your project management work from the beginning—when you’re a one-person team with an idea—all the way through your Fortune 100 growth. In fact, more than 80% of Fortune 100 companies use Asana*.

With Asana, it’s not just about putting out more deliverables. Instead, Asana focuses on how you can connect and leverage every aspect of your company’s work, goals, and resources to produce the right work. 

Project management software FAQ 

Which software is best for project management.

The best project management software is the one with the features you need. Look for a tool like Asana , a full work management platform where you can integrate the apps you already use, connect goals to work tasks, break down silos between teams, and automate time-consuming busywork.

What type of software is project management software?

Project management software is a type of software used for every aspect of project management. Often, this includes everything from the project planning stages (resource allocation, setting due dates, and building and assigning work task lists) to project scheduling, tracking, and reporting. The best project management software will help you coordinate and automate work not just across projects, but also across portfolios, teams, and departments.

What’s the difference between project management software and task management software?

Task management software is used strictly to manage tasks and is focused on production. Often, this looks like a digital to-do list with more capabilities. Project management software goes beyond task management to the actual planning, coordination, and goals of a project. This incorporates the bigger-picture, high-impact work and the actionable tasks you need to get there. Good project management software will also have task management capabilities, but the reverse isn’t always true.

How does project management software work?

Project management software is a tool to help you coordinate everything you need for project management. Often, this includes capabilities to create and assign tasks, scheduling all aspects of a project, and coordinating with others in your project team. The best project management software will also enable you to work cross-functionally across all teams, departments, and projects within your organization.

Is project management software worth it?

The short answer: yes! Project management software has an almost endless list of benefits. Most people immediately think of productivity as the reason to purchase project management software, but the right project management software can do more than increase your output. If you invest in the best project management software, you can break down silos and connect your entire company to your largest visions and goals. This enables everyone to work better on the projects that matter most.

*Accurate as of September 7, 2022 . Asana makes no representations about updating this number.

Related resources

15 project management interview questions, answers, and tips

Critical path method: How to use CPM for project management

Unmanaged business goals don’t work. Here’s what does.

How Asana uses work management to drive product development

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Project management tools for researchers in 2022.

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Four tools that help researchers working in collaborations to see the big picture

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Research Project Management Software: A Case Study

• Post author: Maryliya M J
• Post published: January 29, 2024
• Reading time: 12 mins read

Research Project Management Software: A Case Study 

Table of contents.

Research projects often involve complex tasks, multiple collaborators, and strict deadlines. Effective project management is crucial to ensure smooth workflow, timely completion, and successful outcomes. In recent years, the use of research project management software has gained significant popularity due to its ability to streamline processes, enhance collaboration, and provide valuable insights.

Introduction to Research Project Management Software

Understanding the role of research project management software.

Research projects can be complex beasts with numerous tasks, deadlines, and team members to coordinate. This is where research project management software comes to the rescue. It’s like a superhero cape for your project, helping you stay organized and focused. Research project management software is designed to streamline and simplify the various aspects of managing a research project. It provides a centralized platform for tracking and coordinating tasks, timelines, resources, and team members. With this software, you can bid farewell to the chaos of spreadsheets and endless email threads and say hello to efficiency and collaboration.

The growing need for efficient project management in research

In today’s fast-paced research environment, the need for efficient project management is more pressing than ever. Research projects often involve multiple stakeholders, funding sources, and intricate workflows. Without proper management, projects can easily spiral out of control, delays can occur, and budgets can go haywire.

To avoid these pitfalls, researchers are turning to project management software. With its ability to streamline processes and keep everyone on the same page, it’s become an indispensable tool in the world of research. Plus, let’s face it, anything that helps us navigate the labyrinth of academia with a bit more grace and ease is a godsend. Now that we understand the importance of research project management software, let’s dive into a real-life case study to see it in action.

About the Client

Our client, a distinguished research institution, encountered challenges in coordinating research projects, managing data, and facilitating collaboration among research teams. Recognizing the need for an advanced solution, they sought a Research Project Management Software ( RPMS ) based on .NET. The primary goal was to develop a comprehensive RPMS that includes features for project planning, data management, and collaboration tools to optimize research workflows and improve project outcomes. 

Project Overview

The project aimed to develop a robust .NET-based Research Project Management Software to address the client’s challenges. The primary objectives included providing tools for project planning, data management, and collaboration to streamline research processes and enhance project outcomes. 

The Challenges

• Project Coordination: Inefficiencies in coordinating multiple research projects simultaneously. 
• Data Management Complexity: Difficulty in managing and organizing vast amounts of research data. 
• Collaboration Barriers: Challenges in facilitating seamless collaboration among research teams. 

The Solution

Our team of experienced developers and project managers collaborated to design and implement a comprehensive .NET-based Research Project Management Software. The solution included features for project planning, data management, and collaboration tools to streamline research processes and enhance project outcomes. 

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Key features of the rpms.

• Project Planning Tools: Intuitive tools for efficient planning and coordination of research projects. 
• Data Management System: Centralized system for organizing, storing, and managing research data. 
• Collaboration Platform: Seamless collaboration tools for effective communication among research teams. 
• Real-time Progress Tracking: Monitoring tools for tracking the progress of ongoing research projects. 

Technologies Utilized

Development Stack: .NET, ASP.NET MVC 

Database: SQL Server 

Integration: Web API, REST APIs 

Collaboration Tools: In-app messaging, document sharing, and real-time collaboration features. 

The Outcome

The Research Project Management Software was successfully deployed, resulting in significant improvements in research workflows. The project planning tools, data management system, collaboration platform, and real-time progress tracking contributed to more efficient research processes and improved project outcomes. 

Our team’s expertise in developing a tailored Research Project Management Software using .NET technologies effectively addressed the client’s challenges. The implementation of project planning features, a robust data management system, collaboration tools, and real-time progress tracking contributed to a successful transformation of the research institution’s project management practices. 

In conclusion, research project management software has emerged as a valuable tool in the field of research. Through this case study, we have explored its importance, benefits, and implementation process. We have witnessed a real-life success story showcasing the positive impact of utilizing such software. While challenges may arise during implementation, adopting best practices and staying up-to-date with future trends can help researchers and project managers make the most of this technology. By embracing research project management software, organizations can enhance collaboration, streamline processes, and ultimately achieve greater success in their research endeavors.

Is your research institution seeking to optimize project workflows and enhance collaboration? Contact us today to explore how our expertise in RPMS development can streamline your research processes and elevate project outcomes. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. what is research project management software.

Research project management software is a specialized tool designed to help researchers and project managers streamline and organize various aspects of research projects. It provides features such as task management, collaboration tools, data organization, and reporting capabilities to facilitate efficient project planning, execution, and monitoring.

2. How can rPMS benefit my organization?

Research project management software offers several benefits, including improved project planning and organization, enhanced collaboration among team members, efficient task management, centralized data storage, real-time progress tracking, and reporting functionalities. These benefits ultimately lead to increased productivity, better project outcomes, and effective resource utilization.

3. What challenges can arise during the implementation of research project management software?

Implementing research project management software can present challenges such as resistance to change from team members, integration with existing systems, data migration, training requirements, and ensuring user adoption. However, by addressing these challenges proactively and adopting best practices, organizations can overcome obstacles and successfully implement the software.

4. What are some future trends in research project management software?

Future trends in research project management software include the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) capabilities for automated data analysis and decision-making, enhanced data visualization tools, cloud-based solutions for remote collaboration, and increased customization options to cater to the unique needs of different research projects. These trends aim to further improve the efficiency and effectiveness of research project management processes.

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Project management software describes a range of solutions that allows individuals and teams to track the progress of projects, from conception to completion.

Currently, there are hundreds of these solutions on the market, ranging from basic free online task trackers to highly complex project management tools that allow users to manage every aspect of a project, from business case creation to final payment.

We’ve created a buyers guide to help improve your understanding of software features and buying decisions that need to be considered for project management software.

Here's what we'll cover:

What Is Project Management Software?

A comparison of top project management software, common features of project management software, what type of buyer are you, key considerations when purchasing project management software.

Project management software is a software tool designed to track the lifecycle of projects that take weeks, months, or years to complete, providing project managers and other team members a single platform for real-time updates on the project's status. Most software solutions available on the market include, but are not limited to, the following capabilities:

Inventory management

Gantt charts

Resource management

Task management  (including to-do lists, task lists, subtasks)

File sharing

Collaboration

The primary goal is to increase company efficiency by making the entire project lifecycle visible to all team members. Team members are each given a unique login, allowing them to customize their view, report progress, track time, and monitor the progress of others.

Most project teams find themselves to be more efficient in an intuitive and user-friendly project management platform. It allows people to identify problems before or as they arise, view due dates, and eliminate questions about the current status of any outstanding project tasks. It also provides team members with a collaboration tool to share task progress, set up Kanban boards, and manage to-do lists.

Project status view in Workfront

Industries that commonly use project management software include construction, large-scale manufacturing (e.g., aerospace), software development, high tech, marketing , research, and consulting or professional services. Help desk, quality control, and time tracking are additional uses for certain types of project management software.

There are many popular project management software solutions on the market, and it can be hard to know what distinguishes one product from another and which is right for you. To help you better understand how the top project management systems stack up against one another, we created a series of side-by-side product comparison pages that break down the details of what each solution offers in terms of pricing, applications, ease of use, customer support, and more:

Individuals. Since project management for an individual tends to be a far simpler endeavor, there are a number of low-cost solutions that provide basic project management capabilities such as scheduling , task management, Gantt charts, and file sharing.

Small businesses . Companies with more than a couple of employees will want a system that allows for team collaboration , but usually don’t want the added expense of advanced budgeting, invoicing, resource management, or advanced portfolio management features.

Development-oriented companies. This includes any business for which a single project, once complete, results in multiple sales (e.g., software) as distinct from single-project-single-sale businesses (e.g., construction). These companies will want strong collaborative capabilities—including robust document sharing, version control, and bug reports—possibly with resource allocation as well. These companies typically will not want invoicing, customer management, or other advanced features.

Large or specialty buyers . Construction is the best example of an industry that uses highly specialized project management systems, incorporating budgeting, inventory management, and many other features to manage the lifecycle of an entire project, from lead generation all the way through to final payment. Similar needs extend to other industries (e.g., custom IT solutions, large-scale manufacturing), each of which will have highly specialized solutions specific to that industry. Companies that manage concurrent, complex projects may want to explore project portfolio management (PPM) suites .

Project management software can be a useful tool for boosting team collaboration and tracking tasks effectively. However, its usefulness depends on how well it suits your business requirements. Below are some top considerations to keep in mind to avoid purchasing the wrong tool.

Collaboration for remote teams: The need for remote work is on the rise, and to effectively manage a remote workforce, you need a project management solution that supports remote team collaboration. Many project management tools come with built-in collaboration features, such as an interactive Kanban dashboard with task commenting and team chat channels with file sharing. Whether you have a small team managing a few projects remotely or a large team handling multiple projects, you need a project management tool that supports online team collaboration.

On-premise vs. cloud-based project management solution: A cloud-based project management tool typically comes with subscription-based pricing, and the vendor takes care of software maintenance and hosting. An on-premise solution, on the other hand, requires you to make a one-time software purchase. You then install the software on your computer and manage maintenance and updates on your own. If you have a low budget and few IT staff, a cloud-based tool could be your better choice. For an in-depth review of cloud-based systems, review our buyers guide for online project management software .

Availability of mobile applications: Many employees need access to their software in the field as well as the office. With a project management app, you can assign tasks to your team members, view the status of individual tasks, and track the overall project progress, even when you’re on the go.

Make sure to take your mobile needs and the availability of a mobile app into consideration when evaluating different systems. For information on products particularly suited to Mac devices, check out our Mac project management software guide .

Note: The application selected in this article is an example to show a feature in context and is not intended as an endorsement or recommendation. It was obtained from sources believed to be reliable at the time of publication.

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Software Development Project Management: Beginner’s Guide 2024

Cloudwards.net may earn a small commission from some purchases made through our site. However, any earnings do not affect how we review services. Learn more about our editorial integrity and research process .

This software development project management guide is going to give you the full rundown on the topic. We'll cover what goes into successful software project management and share some of the best project management software to help you do the job.

Last Updated: 21 Feb'24 2024-02-21T17:43:46+00:00

All our content is written fully by humans; we do not publish AI writing. Learn more here.

• Jira — The best project management tool specifically made for software developers.
• monday.com — The best overall project management tool
• ClickUp — An affordable and flexible project management tool

Facts & Expert Analysis

• Management: Managing a software project requires a high level of adaptability, especially when reacting to customer feedback.
• Development: The software development lifecycle will be the foundation of your whole project.
• The Right Tools: Having the best project management tools will make it much easier to achieve your goals.

Approaching software development project management correctly is essential to ensure that you get a product ready as smoothly as possible. If you’re a project manager who’s new to software development projects, here’s a crash course on what software project management is and how to nail it each and every time.

The best project management software can assist you with your goals. However, there’s no point in having the right tools for the job if you don’t know how to use them. Although this article isn’t a tutorial on using software, once you better understand the intricacies of software project management, you’ll be able to use these tools to maximize your success.

In this article, we’ll touch on the different software development types, the processes involved and some of the core responsibilities of project managers working in this field. Buckle up, as we’re about to take you from being a novice to having the confidence to successfully implement strong software project management.  

What Is Software Development Project Management?

When a client or internal stakeholder needs a software product, their first point of call will be to work with software development teams — aka experts who know how to build the software. As straightforward as that sounds, building a product involves several stages, and the path to the final goal is often complex.

This is where people use software development project management. It involves creating an environment where software project managers can plan, develop deadlines, communicate, perform resource and time management duties, and visualize how the team can meet its goal. 

A term you’ll often hear in this type of project management process is Agile development. It consists of several frameworks designed to help a project manager and the development team fulfill their project. We’ll touch on this more later, but for now, we encourage you to take a look at the best tools for Agile project management . 

Software Development Types

There are several types of software projects. Some are extremely long and complex, while others involve simple updates to existing software. If you’re entering the world of software project management, below are some common areas worth knowing about.

• Embedded systems development — This is the process of writing code and developing software that can run on a specific piece of hardware. 
• SaaS products — These involve software solutions that are offered as a continuous service rather than a one-time purchase, like cloud storage or Scrum management software.
• Mobile apps — All your favorite smartphone apps began as software projects that were driven by a software project manager.
• Desktop apps — Think Excel and Google Docs; these simple everyday tools all require a software development team.
• Updates — These involve new iterations and patch fixes of already existing software. 

Benefits of Software Development Project Management

Although all of this sounds legit, you may wonder how understanding and implementing certain project management methodologies can be beneficial, specifically for software development. We’ll break those benefits down.

Provides a Catalyst for Organization 

Due to the ever-changing nature of software development, it’s easy for things to get derailed. Agile project management practices let you implement project planning and pathways, enabling you to adjust as the project progresses. Project managers can use frameworks like Scrum, Kanban and XP to organize a software development project, leading to a smooth workflow.

Increases Productivity

Having no rhyme or reason for software development will result in a decrease in productivity. Establishing clear goals, implementing effective resource management and using the right software project management tools will allow your team to work more effectively. Less confusion and clear project objectives lead to better project performance and productivity. 

Improves Communication

Project managers ensure there’s cross-departmental communication. In Agile project management, specifically Scrum, they link the Scrum Master with stakeholders and the product owner with the development team. Effective communication ensures that nothing gets lost in the pipeline and that everyone understands the project’s direction and the end product.  

Helps Prevent Issues Before They Arise

By performing risk management before a project starts, project managers can identify potential problems and establish plans to deal with any issues that arise. Also, when developers track and log issues throughout a project, managers can react quickly as they pop up. Overall, risk management helps keep a project running smoothly.  

Helps You Stick To Deadlines

Arguably the most important element of project management is ensuring you deliver a working product to the end user at the agreed-upon time. Unless you’re lucky, just winging it won’t get you where you want to be when you need to be there. That’s why project management strategies and the right tools for software development projects are essential to your success.

Challenges of Project Management in Software Development

Due to its complexity, there are many challenges that arise during the project management process. Below are some key hurdles that managers should be mindful of when working on a project.

Changes in Demands

It’s common for clients to reconsider what they want from a product. Some changes will be minor, and some will be more complex. This means a project can take a swift change in direction that requires you to restructure the plan. That’s why Agile is useful, as it helps you be adaptable at every stage of the project.

Bugs and Errors

Just when you think a product is where it needs to be, the dev team realizes there are bugs and errors that need fixing. Not only does this take time, but it can also slow down the project — not ideal when you have deadlines. This is why constant testing and quality assurance are essential parts of project monitoring.

Communication Barriers

A software project involves lots of communication with many different people and departments. Whether it’s a confused software dev or an uncooperative stakeholder, a breakdown in effective communication can escalate into a world of issues. Having experienced project managers and product owners is necessary for communication between all users.

Software projects often cost a lot of money. As the product evolves, it’s usually necessary to invest more money into adapting it to meet the latest requirements. Work that takes longer than expected will also hike up a project’s expenditure. That’s why strong budget planning at the start is important because it can help you avoid the pitfalls of scope creep . 

Software Development Lifecycle Phases

A common term you’ll hear in this field is software development lifecycle phases (SDLP). It consists of seven different stages and serves as the anchor for the full project timeline. Without it, software devs couldn’t build and deliver the product that’s required of them. Let’s take a look at each stage. 

• Gather the business requirements
• Assess if the request is possible to build
• Complete the initial task prioritization
• Translate the plan into requirements for the dev team
• Create a use case document
• Share the “requirement traceability matrix” document
• Create the system design
• Select a programming language
• Agree on a platform to build on
• Ask what security measures are necessary for the product
• Divide the project into modules
• Turn requirements into code
• Set goals and milestones for the dev team
• Performance testing looks at the speed and reliability of the product
• Functionality testing assesses if the product matches the requirements
• Security testing helps ensure that the product is secure
• Usability testing looks at the user interface and assesses the user experience
• Acceptance testing is the final testing stage before the product goes to the end user
• The completed product is ready to go to the end user
• Make improvements to the final product
• Fix any bugs that were missed in the development cycle
• Adapt the product where necessary

It’s worth noting there isn’t just one SDLC model. In fact, there are five in total: Agile, Waterfall, Iterative, Spiral and the Big Bang model. Agile suits flexible projects, Waterfall is for clearly defined projects, Iterative works for projects that require high flexibility, Spiral is best for complex projects, and finally, Big Bang is great for academic projects with small dev teams. 

The Software Development Process Explained

Software project management requires a clear process. It’s similar to the software development lifecycle, but it’s more condensed and defined. Usually, the software project manager is responsible for creating this process. Below, we’ll go through the five stages involved.

1. Initiation

The initiation stage is where the software project manager learns about the request. It could be a brand-new system or an update to an established system. They’ll also learn what type of platform the end user needs the software for, such as mobile or desktop. During the initiation stage, the manager must create a project charter and identify key project stakeholders.

2. Planning

The project planning phase is where you start to create and assign tasks. The project manager will input specific project milestones, establish key performance indicators and separate groups of tasks into lists. It’s also a key stage for liaising with different departments (development, marketing, finance) so you can ensure everyone is on the same page as you begin the project.

3. Execution

In simple terms, execution means doing the work. This includes designing and building the product, as well as testing and performing quality assurance. It’s critical that project managers keep a high level of communication during this stage, as it’s likely the most sensitive and unpredictable part of the full process. 

4. Monitoring

The monitoring phase of a project is where the project manager pays close attention to what their team is working on. It’s here that they will monitor output and assess workloads. They’ll also use this stage to respond to and resolve any issues that may arise. 

At closing, the project managers ensure that all the tasks are complete. Once this is done, the software will be handed to the client. It’s a good opportunity to assess what parts of the project were most successful and which areas could be improved in the future. In Agile project management practices, it’s common to refer to this stage as “retrospectives.”

What Is Agile Project Management?

We wrote a detailed article answering what Agile project management is . However, for those who prefer the TL;DR version, we’ll briefly explain Agile project management here.

Agile is essentially a customer-focused approach to project management. This means working within a set of core values to meet customer needs and expectations. As per the Agile Manifesto , these values include focusing on individuals and interactions, prioritizing working software over documentation, responding to change and facilitating customer collaboration. 

It’s very much a reactionary approach to project management, which is also built on calculated anticipation of potential issues. The planning system may not be rigid, but having an adaptable mindset while developing software leads to better structure when using Agile project management and its frameworks, like Kanban , Scrum and Lean.  

What Are a Project Manager’s Responsibilities?

Project managers are responsible for ensuring project success. They’re the glue that keeps everyone together and the captain of the project’s ship. Responsibilities will vary depending on the project and your client, but below is a rundown of the kinds of responsibilities you can expect to have.

• Leading and planning the journey of the project
• Building different teams for specific parts of the project
• Creating and assigning tasks to team members
• Being a point of contact for external stakeholders and clients
• Tracking and managing budgets (usually with a financial officer)
• Ensuring each stage of the project is complete before delivering the product to the client

Simply put, the project manager is largely responsible for the project’s success (or lack thereof). That’s why reading guides like this and making sure you use the best project management platform will be essential to your performance.

Important Metrics for Software Development Project Management

Your project will consist of many individual goals and targets spread across multiple departments. You can use the following metrics to help you analyze how well a project went and determine what improvements you can make in future projects.

Stakeholder Satisfaction

Were your clients happy with the project’s execution and the software they received? Through a client survey, you can gather information to understand their level of satisfaction. 

This metric allows you to assess what percentage of tasks stayed on schedule. It also lets you understand how successful your team is at delivering products at the agreed deadline.

Your financial officer’s favorite metric tells you if you were able to stick to the budget throughout your project. Here you can confirm which areas led to overspending and plan how you can stay within budget for future projects.

Defects are your chance to monitor how many bugs and issues came up throughout the product creation process. You can also see the amount of issues that the software developers were able to repair. 

The Best Software Development Project Management Software

It’s time to look at some of the best tools for the trade. Below are three of the best project management software platforms for software development teams. 

• Made for software devs
• Solid pricing structure
• Very easy to use
• Not the most versatile

Software development teams will love Jira. From kanban to Scrum , it supports frameworks that will appeal to software development teams. Tools for your software project — such as version tracking, backlog refinement and sprint planning — are all available, as is the ability to add story points so the team can assess the depth of work that’s required.

If you’re familiar with the terminology used for software-related objectives, then you’ll have no issues using Jira. Epics, stories, and issues are all embedded into the solutions’ lingo. Both the kanban and Scrum boards come with a great design, and moving cards between each project stage is smooth. Jira is fairly priced too. Take a look at our Jira review to learn more. 

• Max. 10 users. unlimited boards, reports and insights; backlog; basic roadmaps; 2GB of storage; community support
• Annual price is for 10 users; with more than 10, annual pricing changes based on the number of users. Monthly pricing changes with teams over 100.

2. monday.com 

• Beautifully designed
• Free & basic plans are weak

monday.com is a project management tool that has all the features that a software development project manager needs. You can create a backlog, organize sprints, track bugs and develop a release plan. Project managers can also create roadmaps, add timelines, set priorities and add epics.

One thing we really like about monday.com is that it offers several visual customizations. You can color-code your data and the fonts you use. This functionality is embedded into a beautiful user interface, which helps users digest complex project data. Furthermore, it has excellent value on select plans . You can learn more by reading our monday.com review . 

• Maximum users: 2
• Minimum users: 3
• Enterprise-level features.

• Good for collaboration 
• Highly customizable
• Excellent value
• Navigation can be long-winded

ClickUp may not seem ready-made for software development teams. However, once you see the level of customizations available, you’ll soon realize it can do everything you need. The platform is also packed with a range of project templates, and there are several options that suit the software development process, including an Agile sprint planning template.

Beyond its project and task management tools, ClickUp is built for effective communication, a critical part of software development. The real-time chat tool is one of the best around. You can have group and private conversations alongside relevant tasks and projects. It’s also possible to embed videos and format messages into lists for more effective communication. 

ClickUp is affordable too, making it perfect for all budget types . You can learn more about the app and why it’s suitable for software and Agile teams by reading our ClickUp review .

• Basic functionality with some limitations
• All prices per user

Final Thoughts

Well, that’s it — your complete beginner’s guide to managing a software project. It’s a good idea to add this to your bookmarks for reference if you need to scrub up on some project management methodologies. Remember, if you need project management software, the three that we mentioned above are the best options.

Did you find this guide helpful? What are your favorite project management tools for software projects? Is there a project management platform you would like us to review? Let us know in the comments. Thanks for reading.

FAQ: Software Development Project Management Tools

This simply refers to how you manage the time and workload involved in developing a piece of software. Traditionally, Agile frameworks are used to manage software development projects.

PMP stands for Project Management Professional certification, which you can obtain through the Project Management Institute. It’s essentially an accreditation that says you understand project management and can implement it in software development. It’s not essential for project managers to have it, but some employers may prefer that you do.

Program development means designing and building software applications that meet specific needs. Project management is how you plan and manage the successful build of the software product.

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R&D Project Management: key elements and best practices

R&D project management is one of the most complex tasks you may encounter as a Project Manager. While in more ‘traditional’ projects, so to say, the objectives to be achieved and well-defined schedules, budgets and resources are clear from the initial stages of the project, this rarely happens with this type of project.

R&D projects rarely have such a rigid structure, but rather live in uncertainty throughout the project life cycle. Changing market needs, new opportunities to be exploited, constant adjustments in product development and resource allocation. There are so many changing circumstances in this type of projects and so many interests involved that in the end many of them fail because they end up losing focus on what is most important in this type of initiatives:

• Alignment with the organization’s strategic objectives.
• To meet users’ and customers’ needs .

Do you currently manage R&D projects? Would you like to know what are the key elements and best practices to take the management of this type of projects to the highest level? If so, read on.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

What is R&D project management?

• Understanding the R&D project environment.
• Customer involvement.
• Requirements Management.
• Resource Management across multiple projects.
• Communications Management.
• Work with business objectives always in mind.
• Manage your resources wisely.
• Use Phase Gates Process across the entire portfolio.
• Documentation of all the knowledge bases of the project.
• Keep stakeholders informed.
• Use a SaaS PPM software.
• Managing your R&D project portfolio with Triskell Software.
• Request a demo of Triskell Software.

Project management consists of a set of frameworks and processes for planning and managing the different phases of a project. This is, broadly speaking, a classic definition of what is nowadays understood as Project Management in which you, as Project Manager , plan, prioritize and supervise the different operations and tasks to be carried out to complete the project within the agreed deadlines and budgets, optimizing to the maximum issues such as resource management or project costs.

However, can this traditional view of project management be applied, for example, to the research and development of new products or services? Is it possible in this type of projects to work with well-defined objectives, requirements, deadlines and budgets from the beginning, as it is the case with the projects you normally manage in your organization?

If there is one thing that defines R&D projects is their high degree of uncertaintyr

The answer is NO. If there is one thing that defines R&D projects, it is their high degree of uncertainty. Think about it for a moment. Most of these projects consist of researching and developing entirely new products that address a specific user need for which there is nothing available on the market.</p<

These are projects that, if well-executed, can give companies a great competitive advantage. But its management is complex, as the definition of the following aspects may change throughout the project life cycle:

• Needs: in R&D projects, the research phase plays a fundamental role in identifying possible market opportunities and unmet customer needs. However, what happens if these needs change during the course of the project? How can you effectively manage new product development projects in an environment where customer demands change with such volatility?
• Requirements: while in more traditional projects the requirements are already fully defined in the planning phase, this is rarely the case with R&D projects. There are many factors, both internal and external, that can force these requirements to be reviewed and modified: changing customer needs, lack of resources or funds, lack of knowledge of certain technologies, etc.
• Objectives: R&D projects have the greatest importance for the companies, hence their prioritization is the highest possible. However, what happens if the strategic objectives change? What if the market opportunity disappears and the company focuses on new goals? This aspect plays a fundamental role in R&D project management.
• Delivery dates: giving realistic dates for completing a new product development project is practically a pipe dream. The outcomes of an R&D project are usually uncertain, hence the difficulty of establishing delivery dates for this type of initiative. On the other hand, the evolution of needs and requirements throughout the project life cycle may also cause changes in the agreed end-of-project dates.

Provide dates for completing a new product development project is a pipe dream

Key elements of R&D project management

Due to all these constraints, the research and development of a new product brings with it governance and management challenges that, although they may have similarities to those you have to deal with in your day-to-day project management, have their own peculiarities.

For efficient R&D project management, it is necessary to know which are its key elements. Understanding these differentiating elements will enable you to better manage all the issues you will encounter throughout the project life cycle, and will increase the success rate of the research and development projects you manage. These key aspects are as follows:

We will now analyze each of them.

1. Understanding the R&D project environment

It is important to know in detail the environment in which R&D projects are planned and developed, as it is one of the most turbulent and volatile environments that you will encounter as a project manager. You will face governance and management challenges that will be difficult to respond to immediately due to the complexity and uncertainty surrounding these new product development projects. Some outstanding examples:

• Set targets in new product development initiatives that require technology that, in most cases, has not yet been discovered.
• Develop a detailed project timeline, with milestones and key dates, when many of the R&D project requirements are yet to be verified once product development begins.
• Not having certain skills or roles in the organization to carry out the project while the organization’s executives require you to complete the project within certain deadlines.
• Coordinate with the Marketing department to introduce the product to the market at the right time before it ceases to be an opportunity for the business.

Knowing how to manage an environment in which executives, teams and external partners can influence the development of the project will be the biggest challenge you will face as an R&D project manager.

2. Customer involvement

Customer involvement in the development of new products is key. Their feedback will not only allow you to develop products that are easy to use and maintain, but also to identify improvements in aspects such as usability, product performance and satisfaction of consumer needs . Feedback that, if used wisely, will help to achieve greater market penetration of the products and, therefore, more profits for the company.

Customer feedback will allow identifying improvements in the usability of the product and the satisfaction of the consumer’s needs

It is recommended to involve the customer in several of the phases of the R&D project life cycle, such as:

• List of project requirements. A feedback with the client at this point will help to identify the pain points and problems that the client wants to solve, and from there do the relevant market research before project initiation.
• Testing and validation of the product prototype , in order to identify possible improvements and errors to be corrected for the final version of the product.
• Evaluations of the final product to establish whether the product has met the customer’s needs and possible improvements for future versions of the product.

3. Requirements Management

The active involvement of the client in the development of R&D projects means that the management of the requirements of this type of initiative has some peculiarities compared to other types of projects. While it is normal to have clear project requirements in the early stages of a project, this is not the case when it comes to new product development.

The requirements for this type of project tend to evolve over time. And the lack of agility and flexibility of organizations to adapt to this type of circumstances, very common in R&D projects, causes many of them to fail. An efficient management of these requirements and a clear communication of any changes in them will be critical to manage key aspects of these projects such as resource management, capacity planning or project budgets.

Project stakeholders should not lose focus on the strategic objectives

Therefore, when managing project requirements, it is essential that all project stakeholders (project managers, development teams, external partners, executives , etc.) never lose focus on the strategic objectives and overall purpose of the R&D project.

4. Resource Management across multiple projects

Most R&D projects are large-scale, involving the allocation of multiple organizational resources to perform the various tasks of the project throughout its life cycle.

If we add to this what we have already mentioned in the previous point regarding the complexity of managing the requirements of an R&D project, you will now understand the importance of resource management and capacity planning for this type of initiatives.

• Capacity planning will help you estimate the resources you will need to allocate to each of the project areas and tasks throughout the project life cycle, taking into account the evolution of the project requirements and the priority of the project for the organization.
• On the other hand, with efficient resource management , you will know at any time how many resources need to be allocated to the project and the efforts that need to be dedicated to it. Here it will be important to list the skills and competencies of each of the members of the company in order to detect strengths and weaknesses and, depending on the project requirements, to seek or not those resources outside the organization.

See the Triskell platform in action in a personal demo​

5. Communications Management

When managing R&D projects, it is essential to have a communications plan in place that establishes the following:

• The periodicity with which we will inform the different project stakeholders about the evolution of the project.
• Main communication channels (reports, alerts, email, discussion forums, etc.).
• How and where will be documented all information relating to all such communications.

You must put in place a project communications plan for efficient project management

Considering how quickly requirements can change and, above all, the uncertainty that always surrounds R&D projects, having a clear understanding of how all project changes will be communicated is essential for efficient project management.

Best Practices for R&D project management

Now that you know the key elements that differentiate R&D project management, it is important that you implement a series of best practices to increase the probability of success in the development of new products. Some of them will be familiar to you because you are probably already putting them into practice in other types of projects, but in R&D and new product development are especially relevant. They are the following:

1. Work with business objectives always in mind.

When managing R&D projects, it is essential that all parties involved never lose focus on the strategic objectives of the organization. Hence, if there are changes in factors such as priority, requirements, budget or project deadlines, you can make decisions aligned with the vision and mission of the organization.

Having processes and tools in place that allow you to plan What-if scenario simulations will be critical to managing budgets, costs and other factors will be key to the efficient management of your new product development projects.

2. Manage your resources wisely

Dealing with all the workload involved in new product development is one of the biggest challenges any project manager has to face, especially when it comes to resource management. If it is already complex to plan the allocation and management of resources in any type of project, program or portfolio, this becomes even more complicated when you enter the R&D field.

Again, the uncertainty surrounding these initiatives is the cause of this. Depending on the type of R&D project you may have tighter schedules, while in others you may not have any deadlines for each of the project milestones.

You should plan in advance the resources you will need for the project

What-if scenario simulations are essential to keep project objectives and requirements aligned at any time. But also, with the strategic vision of the organization, they become even more relevant for resource management. It is key to the process to be able to plan in advance the resources you will need for the project based on how the priority, requirements and deadlines of the project evolve.

3. Use Phase Gate Process across the entire portfolio

R&D project management requires the implementation of rigorous control processes to review the progress of the project and make the corresponding adjustments when necessary. There is no point in devoting resources, money and time to a new product that, once finished, does not meet the needs of customers and markets because we have not been exhaustive when it comes to periodically reviewing what has been done.

Therefore, the Phase-Gate methodology is best suited to the R&D project environment. This methodology mainly consists of implementing a review process for each of the phases of the project (ideation, scope, business case, development, testing and launch), in which, after having analyzed the progress made and identifying possible improvements to be implemented, one of the following decisions is taken:

• Move the project to the next phase.
• Stop it to carry out the pertinent improvements.
• Cancel it because it is no longer profitable for the organization.

You can learn more about the Phase-Gate Process in the following post.

A comprehensive guide of Phase Gate Process for R&D projects

4. documentation of all the knowledge bases of the project.

In an R&D project, the documentation process takes on special relevance, more than in any other type of project. Not only the progress made should be documented, but also any changes that may have occurred in the project (new requirements, budget and resources adjustments, updated deadlines, etc.) and the reasons why these changes have been made.

All communications with project stakeholders (minutes, e-mails, reports, presentations, etc.) shall also be recorded.

All changes to the project and the reasons behind them should be documented

All this documentation will serve as a knowledge base not only for the current project, but will also serve as a repository for future R&D projects to be managed and as a source of learning from past successes and mistakes.

5. Keep stakeholders informed

Due to the importance of R&D projects and new product development for organizations, communication with stakeholders must be regular and smooth.

From the initial stages of the project, you should establish a frequency with which to communicate with them. These are communications that will go beyond reporting on the progress of the project, since you must agree with them on aspects such as:

• Project requirements.
• Project objectives.
• Budgets and costs.
• Resource allocation and recruitment.
• Collaborations with external partners.
• Testing and validation of the prototype.
• Project cancellation.
• Changes in requirements or project delivery dates.

As indicated in the previous point, all communications with stakeholders must be documented for proper monitoring of the project’s progress.

6. Use a SaaS PPM software

If you think that by filling in spreadsheets you will be able to manage your R&D projects, get that idea out of your head because this type of project is much more complex than any other you manage in your organization. A traditional project management tool is also not enough to cover many of the governance and management challenges involved in new product development, as these tools do not efficiently cover issues such as planning and strategic alignment.

A PPM software is the best option to take R&D project management to the next level. With a PPM tool you will be able to:

• Prioritize your projects by aligning them with the organization’s strategic objectives.
• Plan capacity and resource management based on these strategic objectives.
• Perform What-if scenario analysis in advance.
• Keep all stakeholders informed with fully customizable alerts and notification systems.
• Create reports and dashboards to monitor the progress of the project and inform the organization’s executives about its status in real-time.

Managing your R&D project portfolio with Triskell Software

The Triskell platform is the PPM software with strategy execution management functionalities that will allow you to successfully address all the challenges and difficulties you will encounter when managing your R&D projects. Thanks to its flexibility and ability to integrate with different tools (e.g. ERP software, Jira or Microsoft Project) you will be able to plan, monitor and manage all aspects of your R&D projects.

Here are some of Triskell’s features that will help you to achieve excellence in R&D project management:

• Roadmaps with which to plan the project and to visualize the different tasks to be completed throughout its life cycle.
• Workflows to organize project activities.
• Stage reviews to decide whether to go ahead with the project or to make the appropriate modifications.
• Cost control to monitor all expenses derived from your R&D projects.
• Budget management to keep under control the budget allocated to your projects.
• Resource management to allocate resources and monitor their use in your organization for the R&D projects you manage.
• Ideas management to undertake on new R&D projects or improve the requirements of existing ones.
• What-if Scenario analysis to plan in advance the organization’s capacity for possible changes of course.
• Integration with ERP software and other project management and execution tools such as Microsoft Project or Jira .

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30+ Essential Software for Researchers

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Are you stuck with inefficient research tools? Discover the best essential software for researchers to revolutionize your work.

Academic research can often feel like a complex puzzle. Every researcher knows the struggles of data crunching, project coordination, document writing, and intensive note-taking. 

But here’s the good news: online tools for researchers can turn these challenges into manageable tasks.

Table of Contents

Academia has transformed from a domain dominated by a survival-of-the-fittest mentality into an inclusive sphere of shared knowledge, growth, and discovery.

This paradigm shift signifies the evolution of academia from a space where only the intellectually elite thrive, to a nurturing environment that promotes intellectual curiosity and learning for all.

We encourage researchers to try out the tools mentioned below to find the perfect research tool.

Essential Software for Researchers

#1. google scholar: best for scholarly literature search and keeping up-to-date with research in your field.

• One of the top academic search engines
• Enables users to keep up-to-date with the latest research in their respective fields
• Provides citation data for each article, contributing to the ease of referencing

In the quest for identifying pertinent research problems and gaps, Google Scholar acts as your invaluable companion. This search engine is your lens into the cutting-edge developments in your field. 

It helps you pinpoint where your investigation could contribute to the existing body of knowledge. Here are other academic journal discovery platforms that can help you at this stage of research .

How much does it cost?

Source: https://scholar.google.com

#2. NVivo: Best for Designing and Conducting Qualitative Research

• Provides robust tools for data organization and analysis
• Encourages meaningful insights from qualitative data
• Promotes efficient coding, making it easier to sift through mountains of data

NVivo stands as a beacon of hope for qualitative researchers in the data fog. Its unique features categorize, analyze, and draw connections like a seasoned detective, unearthing meaningful insights with ease. 

With an intuitive interface, NVivo transforms complexity into a rich tapestry of knowledge. It empowers researchers to capture nuances, emotions, and subtleties, illuminating the essence of their study. 

As a guiding light, NVivo enhances the rigor of research and reveals profound insights that resonate with human experiences, making the journey through the data fog an exhilarating quest for wisdom.

• Free trial available
• Academic version costs $849 yearly

Source: Lumivero

#3. Qualtrics: Best for Survey Design and Distribution

• Comes equipped with sophisticated features for survey creation and distribution
• Includes advanced data collection methods
• Simplifies analysis with powerful analytics tools

When it comes to creating and distributing surveys, Qualtrics stands as the gold standard. This essential software is akin to having a personal survey consultant, streamlining every step of the process, from crafting engaging questionnaires to collecting and analyzing meaningful data. 

With its user-friendly interface and robust features, Qualtrics empowers researchers to gather valuable insights effortlessly. This powerful tool ensures that the journey from survey creation to data interpretation becomes a seamless and rewarding experience.

In the world of survey research, Qualtrics is your steadfast ally. It not only simplifies the process but also empowers you to glean meaningful insights from the data, adding immense value to your research. You can also check out other survey tools.

• Free version available
• Premium starts from $2,500 per year

Source: https://www.qualtrics.com

#4. SPSS: Best for Statistical Analysis and Data Interpretation

• Provides comprehensive tools for statistical analysis
• Simplifies data interpretation with an intuitive interface
• Supports a wide range of statistical tests

If statistical analysis is your battleground, SPSS becomes your formidable armor. This software doesn’t merely crunch numbers; it possesses the alchemical ability to transform them into comprehensible insights, making data interpretation a breeze rather than a battle. 

With its robust toolkit and advanced analytics, SPSS empowers researchers to extract meaningful patterns and correlations from complex data sets. 

SPSS takes the intimidation out of data analysis. With this robust software, you’re not just analyzing data; you’re demystifying it and transforming it into actionable insights that can drive your research forward. Here are other top data analysis software for researchers.

• Starts at $99

Source: https://www.ibm.com

#5. Tableau: Best for Data Visualization and Reporting

• An industry-leading tool for creating interactive, insightful data visualizations
• Empowers users to turn complex data into easy-to-understand, actionable information
• Streamlines reporting with customizable dashboards and real-time updates

Tableau dominates the field of data visualization and reporting as a true titan. It serves as a personal data storyteller, adeptly converting intricate raw data into visually captivating and easily comprehensible narratives. 

With its powerful features and user-friendly interface, Tableau empowers users to unlock valuable insights and make informed decisions from data that might otherwise be overwhelming. 

From interactive dashboards to dynamic charts, its versatility and effectiveness make it a go-to tool for businesses, analysts, and anyone seeking to extract meaning from data in an engaging manner.

• Starts from $180 per user yearly to $840 per year

Source: https://www.tableau.com

#6. Overleaf: Best for Collaborative Writing and LaTeX Editing

• A powerful platform for creating and editing LaTeX documents
• Enables seamless collaboration with real-time syncing and shared access
• Simplifies LaTeX editing with a user-friendly interface and pre-made templates

As your LaTeX guru, Overleaf offers an efficient, collaborative workspace tailored to crafting and editing LaTeX documents. Whether you’re a researcher, engineer, or academic, this platform empowers you to produce polished and professional papers effortlessly.

Say goodbye to the complexities of document preparation and welcome a seamless, intuitive experience that enhances productivity and fosters collaboration among peers.

Overleaf facilitates collaboration and simplifying the editing process, making crafting complex documents less daunting and more productive. You can learn more about LaTeX tutorials here.

• Standard: $199 per year
• Professional: $399 per year

Source: https://www.overleaf.com

#7. Grammarly: Best for Checking Grammar and Improving Writing Clarity

• A sophisticated tool for real-time grammar and spelling checks
• Enhances writing clarity and eliminates errors
• Provides personalized suggestions to improve your writing style

Grammarly is more than a proofreader; it’s your personal writing coach. This software is designed to guide you towards impeccable grammar, clear writing, and a refined style, ensuring your academic work shines.

With Grammarly at your side, you’re not just writing; you’re crafting compelling narratives. This tool helps ensure that your ideas shine brightly, unmarred by grammatical errors or unclear writing.

• $25 per monthly

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org

#8. Turnitin: Best for Plagiarism Checking and Originality Reports

• A plagiarism checker tool
• Provides detailed feedback to maintain academic integrity
• Supports multiple languages and file formats for broader accessibility

Turnitin stands at the forefront of safeguarding academic integrity. As a vigilant watchdog, this software diligently ensures the authenticity of your work and detects any inadvertent plagiarism, guaranteeing its originality. 

With Turnitin’s cutting-edge technology, students and educators can have the confidence that their academic pursuits maintain the highest standards of integrity and authenticity. 

By continuously refining its capabilities, Turnitin remains a trusted ally in upholding academic excellence and promoting a culture of originality in educational institutions worldwide.

Here are the best academic writing that can help you in your research.

• $3 per student per year

Source: https://www.turnitin.com

#9. Mendeley: Best for Discovering New Research and Collaborative Work

• One of the best reference management tools available
• Provides a platform to organize, share, and annotate research papers
• Facilitates easy referencing with a built-in citation tool

When navigating the extensive realm of academic research, Mendeley serves as your reliable compass. With its centralized hub, this tool facilitates the discovery of cutting-edge research, fosters collaborations among researchers, and efficiently organizes your ever-expanding library of academic papers. 

By offering seamless access to a wealth of knowledge, this reference management software empowers scholars to delve deeper into their fields of interest, stay up-to-date with the latest findings, and engage in meaningful academic endeavors.

You can compare collaborative writing tools here .

• Starts from $4.99 to $14.99

Source: https://www.mendeley.com

#10. Zotero: Best for Collecting, Organizing, and Citing Research Sources

• A comprehensive tool for collecting and organizing research sources
• Supports a wide variety of citation styles
• Integrates with numerous browsers and word processors for seamless usability

In the bustling marketplace of academic resources, Zotero stands out as a first-rate organizer. It helps you collect, manage, and cite your research sources, transforming a haphazard collection into a well-organized library.

Zotero is your personal library architect, ensuring your wealth of sources is well-structured and easily accessible. It doesn’t just simplify source management; it elevates your research process to a new level of efficiency.

Source: https://www.zotero.org

#11. Trello: Best for Research Project Management and Task Organization

• A robust platform for managing research projects and organizing tasks
• Facilitates team collaboration with shared boards, lists, and cards
• Enables tracking progress and deadlines for efficient project management

Trello is one of the best project management tools. This platform boasts a visually appealing and intuitive interface, facilitating seamless organization of tasks, progress tracking, and team collaboration.

Trello optimizes efficiency, enabling researchers to focus on their work, not administrative hassles. With an array of intuitive features, it remains an indispensable tool for coordinating and executing successful research endeavors.

Learn more about task management tools here.

• Standard: $5 per month paid yearly

Source: https://trello.com

#12. ResearchGate: Best for Connecting with Fellow Researchers and Sharing Publications

• A dedicated platform for networking with global researchers
• Enables sharing and discovery of academic papers and publications
• Provides a space for discussions, questions, and collaborative problem-solving

ResearchGate, a haven for those yearning for a community of like-minded researchers, offers a platform that facilitates connections among scholars. 

By joining ResearchGate, you can share your work, connect with fellow researchers, and discover new research that aligns with your interests. 

This dynamic environment empowers you to stay at the forefront of knowledge and contribute to the scientific community.

Source: https://www.researchgate.net

#13. Notion: Best for Comprehensive Note-Taking and Project Management

• A versatile tool for both note-taking and managing research projects
• Provides customizable templates for a tailored user experience
• Facilitates real-time collaboration among research teams

Isn’t it just exhilarating when you find a tool that simplifies your academic life? Well, that’s exactly what Notion is all about: a revolutionary digital workspace designed to merge the realms of in-depth note-taking and sophisticated project management.

With Notion, the tedious becomes straightforward, the overwhelming becomes manageable, and the complex becomes clear. It’s about getting the most out of your A-level studies, fostering a sense of achievement while making the process enjoyable. So, buckle up and let Notion revolutionize the way you work.

• Plus: $8 per month paid yearly
• Business: $15 per month paid yearly
• Enterprise: Custom price

Source: https://www.notion.so

#14. Quillbot: Best for Paraphrasing and Improving Writing Clarity

• Assists with paraphrasing and enhancing writing clarity
• Offers various writing modes to cater to different styles and tones
• Supports the construction of coherent and concise sentences

Quillbot is your personal wordsmith, adept at paraphrasing your text and enhancing its clarity. Its variety of writing modes cater to different styles and tones, and it can help in crafting concise and coherent sentences, making it an invaluable assistant in your research writing process.

Quillbot is your digital co-author. It helps in expressing your research findings in a clear and engaging manner, thereby improving your writing’s readability and impact. This is an essential companion in the quest to make your research more accessible and understandable. 

Here are other academic writing tools you may need.

• Premium: $9.95 monthly

Source: https://quillbot.com

#15. Jasper AI: Best for AI-Powered Writing Assistance

• Provides AI-driven assistance to enhance your writing quality
• Suggests improvements for clarity, coherence, and grammar
• Supports various writing styles and contexts, including academic research

Ever dreamt of having a personal writing mentor, constantly at your beck and call, simplifying the intricacies of academic writing for you? Welcome Jasper AI into your world – an exemplary writing companion that surpasses the functionalities of a typical digital assistant. 

This state-of-the-art tool propels your writing to a higher level. Gone are the days of laboring over endless edits and revisions. With Jasper AI, your writing process is streamlined, facilitating the creation of clear, compelling, and high-quality research work.

Here is a deep Jasper AI Review. Read it to learn more about how you can use Jasper

• Creator: $49 monthly
• Teams: $125 monthly
• Business: Custom price

Source: https://www.jasper.ai

#16. GanttPRO: Best for Project Scheduling and Time Management

• Offers robust tools for project scheduling and time management
• Provides a visual representation of your project timeline
• Supports team collaboration and task assignment

GanttPRO illuminates your project path with its visually appealing timeline representation. It becomes your dependable ally in planning tasks, monitoring progress, and optimizing your time management strategies. 

No longer do you have to wrestle with disorderly schedules and haphazard task allocations. GanttPRO simplifies the chaos and brings order to your project management landscape.

GanttPRO is not just a tool that assists in project scheduling; it’s your personal steward of time. This tool does more than just manage your project; it ensures your research endeavor is a resounding success.

• Basic: $7.99 monthly
• PRO: $12.99 monthly
• Business: $19.99 monthly

Source: https://ganttpro.com

#17. Scholarcy: Best for Quick Summarization of Academic Papers

• An efficient tool for extracting quick summaries from academic papers
• Supports in-depth understanding by highlighting key points
• Provides a reference list for further exploration

Scholarcy is your dedicated summarizer, rapidly transforming complex academic papers into digestible summaries. This amazing tool supports your understanding and equips you with a reference list for further research.

Scholarcy is your academic digest. It ensures you efficiently comprehend complex research papers, and ultimately, saves your precious time.

• $9.99 monthly

Source: https://www.scholarcy.com

#18. R Discovery: Best for Statistical Analysis and Data Visualization

• A potent tool for comprehensive statistical analysis
• Offers a robust platform for data visualization
• Supports reproducible research with code sharing and reusability

R Discovery provides a platform for comprehensive statistical analysis. It also facilitates data visualization. This supports you in presenting your research findings convincingly.

Overall, R Discovery is your statistician, your illustrator, and your collaborator. It aids you in understanding data, presenting it effectively, and maintaining research integrity. This way, it contributes significantly to your research quality.

Source: https://discovery.researcher.life

#19. Scopus: Best for Comprehensive Literature Search and Citation Tracking

• An extensive database for literature search across various fields
• Supports citation tracking for managing your bibliographies
• Offers analytical tools to assess the impact of research

Scopus is your academic searchlight, illuminating a vast landscape of scholarly literature. With its extensive database, citation tracking, and analytical tools, it aids you in finding relevant research, managing your references, and assessing your work’s impact.

Scopus is your scholarly sleuth and your research analyst. It equips you with the tools you need to conduct impactful research.

• Paid ranges from $500 to $1000

Source: https://www.scopus.com

#20. Journal Finder: Best for Identifying the Right Journals for Publishing Your Research

• A dedicated platform for pinpointing suitable journals for research publication
• Analyzes research abstract and keywords to suggest optimal matches
• Helps researchers avoid unnecessary rejections and hasten publication process

Journal Finder serves as your publishing compass, steering you towards the right journals to publish your research. This tool saves you from the guesswork, maximizing the chances of your work reaching the right audience.

With Journal Finder, you’re not merely seeking publication – you’re targeting impact. By leading you to the most suitable journals, it increases the visibility and influence of your research.

Source: https://journalfinder.elsevier.com

#21. Global Journal Database: Best for Accessing Information about Various Journals

• A comprehensive database of various academic journals
• Provides detailed information about the journals including impact factor
• Assists researchers in finding the right publication platform

Global Journal Database is your encyclopedic companion in the quest for the right publication platform. It provides you with detailed information about various journals, helping you make informed decisions about where to submit your research for publication.

The Global Journal Database does not just offer information—it provides clarity. This tool empowers you to choose the best platform for your research, maximizing its impact.

Source: https://researcher.life

#22. Citation Gecko: Best for Literature Review and Citation Network Exploration

• A specialized tool for exploring citation networks
• Aids in the literature review process by identifying key papers and authors
• Supports academic networking by linking researchers with similar interests

Citation Gecko is your guide in the maze of academic citations. It helps you identify key papers and authors in your field. This way, the tool supports your literature review process, and fostering academic networking.

Citation Gecko is not just a citation tool—it’s your academic navigator. It not only aids in your literature review but also fosters academic networking, broadening the horizons of your research.

Source: https://www.citationgecko.com

#23. OpenRefine: Best for Cleaning and Transforming Messy Data

• A powerful tool for cleaning up and transforming data into a usable format
• Facilitates the exploration of large data sets with ease
• Allows for batch editing and scripting for advanced data manipulation

OpenRefine is your personal data janitor, turning messy and inconsistent data into a clean, usable format. It gives you the power to explore, tidy up and transform large datasets, thus providing a robust foundation for your data analysis.

OpenRefine is not just a data cleaning tool—it’s your foundation for reliable data analysis. It provides you with clean, consistent data, which is vital for accurate results and insights in your research.

Source: https://openrefine.org

#24. MATLAB: Best for Complex Mathematical Calculations and Data Analysis

• Offers an advanced platform for complex mathematical calculations
• Supports high-level data analysis, visualization, and algorithm development
• Provides an integrated environment for multidisciplinary research

MATLAB is your math whiz, providing a platform for handling complex mathematical calculations and data analysis. It offers a comprehensive environment for calculations, algorithm development and visualization. This makes MATLAB a one-stop shop for researchers in quantitative fields.

Overall, MATLAB is more than a calculator—it’s a complete computational environment. It allows you to perform complex calculations, analyze data, and visualize your results.

• Premium: $860 yearly or $2150 for the perpetual license

Source: https://www.mathworks.com

#25. Amazon Drive: Best for Storing and Sharing Research Files

• A reliable solution for storing and sharing research files
• Ensures data safety with secure cloud storage
• Supports collaboration by allowing file sharing among research team members

Amazon Drive is your digital locker, providing a secure home for your precious research files. Its cloud storage solutions ensure data safety and allow you to share files with your research team, promoting collaboration and efficiency.

Amazon Drive is a storage tool and a guardian of your research. It provides secure storage and facilitates collaboration, making sure your research work remains safe, organized, and accessible, wherever you are.

• Ranges from $6.99 per month to $11.99 per month

Source: https://www.amazon.com

#26. Otter.ai: Best for Transcription of Interviews and Meetings

• Efficiently transcribes audio content from interviews and meetings
• Supports multiple languages and speakers
• Provides keyword search in transcriptions for easy data navigation

Otter.ai is your personal scribe, tirelessly transcribing your interviews and meetings into clear, accessible text. It recognizes multiple languages and speakers, and allows keyword search in transcriptions. This makes your data more manageable and the research process more effective.

Otter.ai does more than transcription—it simplifies your qualitative data analysis. By transforming audio into searchable text, it saves time and enhances data accuracy, which can significantly boost the quality of your research.

• Basic: Free
• Pro: $8.33 per month paid yearly
• Business: $20 per month paid yearly

Source: https://otter.ai

#27. LabView: Best for Data Acquisition and Instrument Control in Lab Environments

• Offers a platform for data acquisition and instrument control
• Facilitates lab automation by integrating hardware and software
• Allows real-time visualization of data for immediate analysis

LabView is your laboratory maestro, orchestrating a smooth interplay between data acquisition and instrument control. Its robust integration of hardware and software allows for lab automation, while real-time data visualization ensures immediate analysis, saving you valuable time and energy.

LabView is not just a lab tool—it’s a catalyst for efficiency and precision. By facilitating data acquisition, instrument control, and real-time analysis, it turns your lab into a hub of productivity, taking your research a notch higher.

• Starts from $493 to $2771

Source: https://www.ni.com

#28. SAS: Best for Advanced Statistical Analysis and Predictive Modeling

• Provides a platform for advanced statistical analysis and predictive modeling
• Supports data management and decision-making processes
• Offers visualization capabilities for better data understanding

SAS is your statistical powerhouse, offering advanced statistical analysis and predictive modeling capabilities. Its data management, decision-making support, and visualization tools make it a comprehensive solution for researchers looking to derive deep insights from their data.

SAS is more than a statistical tool—it’s a comprehensive solution for data-driven research. By enabling advanced analysis, predictive modeling, and data visualization, it empowers you to make the most of your data, thereby enhancing the quality and impact of your research.

• Paid ranges from $1000 to $5000

Source: https://www.sas.com

#29. BioRender: Best for Creating Scientific Figures and Illustrations

• Facilitates the creation of high-quality scientific figures and illustrations
• Offers a vast library of pre-made templates and icons
• Enables sharing and collaboration with peers and colleagues

BioRender is your personal scientific illustrator, providing a platform to create high-quality figures and illustrations. With a large library of templates and icons at your disposal, and collaborative capabilities, it empowers you to communicate your research visually.

BioRender is not just a graphics tool—it’s a bridge between your research and your audience. It aids in communicating your findings more effectively, amplifying the impact of your work.

• Individual: $35 monthly
• Lab: $99 monthly
• Institution: Custom price

Source: https://www.biorender.com

#30. Slack: Best for Team Communication and Collaboration

• Enables smooth team communication and collaboration
• Allows for organized discussions through channels and threads
• Integrates with other productivity tools for a cohesive work experience

Slack is your team’s digital huddle, fostering effective communication and collaboration. Its organization of discussions into channels and threads, along with integration capabilities with other productivity tools, ensures a seamless, efficient research process.

Slack isn’t just a communication tool—it’s your team’s virtual meeting room. By enabling efficient communication and collaboration, it brings your research team closer, improving productivity and fostering a cohesive research process.

• Pro: $7.25 per month
• Business: $12.50 per month

Source: https://slack.com

#31. RStudio: Best for Statistical Computing and Graphics in R

• Offers a dedicated environment for statistical computing in R
• Facilitates the creation of high-quality graphics for data visualization
• Supports the use of markdown for creating reproducible reports

RStudio is your personal statistician, providing a comprehensive environment for R, a popular language for statistical computing. 

This tool aids in creating high-quality graphics and supports markdown for reproducible reports, making it an essential tool for researchers dealing with statistical analysis.

RStudio isn’t just a programming tool—it’s your guide in the world of statistical computing. It aids in data analysis, visualization, and reproducibility, ensuring your research findings are accurate, compelling, and repeatable.

Source: https://posit.co

Academic research isn’t just about the pursuit of knowledge; it’s about leveraging the right tools to streamline that pursuit. As we’ve explored, these essential research software applications aren’t merely aids. 

They’re game-changers. They’re here to tackle challenges head-on, from organizing sources to research data analysis, and transform them into opportunities for growth and learning. 

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Project management tools play a crucial role in the workflow of software development. These tools help streamline tasks, enhance collaboration, and ensure the successful completion of software development projects. 

Here are our top seven choices for software development project management tools.

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Jira Software: Best Specialized PM Tool for Software Development

Jira Software is a project management tool developed by Atlassian. It is widely used by software development teams to plan, track, and release their projects efficiently. Jira allows teams to create and organize tasks, assign them to team members, and track the progress of each task. It provides a collaborative platform where team members can communicate, share files, and provide updates on their work. 

Jira also offers a range of features like customizable workflows, kanban/scrum boards, detailed bug tracking, efficient integrations, and detailed reporting to help teams stay organized and meet their project goals.

Read our review of Jira Software

Key Features

Workflow templates for software development.

One of the standout features of Jira Software is the availability of workflow templates for different software development methodologies. Whether a team follows Scrum or Kanban, or if they prefer to use a list view to track bugs, Jira Software provides pre-built templates that can be easily customized to fit the team’s specific needs. The templates are specially formatted for software teams, which allows them to jump in and seamlessly integrate their workflow into the platform.

Robust Task Management & Collaboration

Another key feature of Jira Software is its robust task management and collaboration capabilities. The tool allows teams to create and assign tasks, set due dates, and track progress in a centralized location. This helps to streamline the development process and ensures that everyone on the team is on the same page. Teams can also organize tasks (known as issues in Jira) relating them to their respective epics and assign them to sprints for smooth Agile development.

Additionally, Jira Software enables easy collaboration by providing features such as comments, attachments, and mentions, allowing team members to communicate effectively and share relevant information.

Estimates and Time Tracking

Estimates and time tracking are essential aspects of any software development project, and Jira Software offers comprehensive tools for both. 

Teams can estimate the effort required for each task using story points or time-based estimates (in a field called original estimates ), allowing for better planning and resource allocation. Furthermore, Jira Software provides built-in time-tracking functionality, enabling teams to track the time spent on each task and gain insights into the overall progress of the project. The interface also indicates the amount of time remaining or the excess amount of time spent on an issue, along with work history notes for every logged work time.

Relevant Integrations

Finally, one of the key strengths of Jira Software is its extensive integrations with other popular tools in the software development ecosystem. It seamlessly integrates with platforms like GitHub, Bitbucket, and Wrike, enabling teams to connect their development workflows with these tools and leverage their functionalities in a seamless manner. This integration ensures that all relevant information is synchronized across different platforms, enhancing collaboration and eliminating the need for manual data entry.

Pros & Cons

Why we chose jira software.

Jira Software is a highly effective project management tool that is specifically designed for software teams. It offers a wide range of features and functionalities that cater to the specific needs of software development projects. 

One of the key advantages of Jira Software is its ability to track and manage tasks, issues, and bugs in a highly efficient manner. It allows teams to create and assign tasks, set priorities, and track progress in real time. 

Moreover, Jira Software also offers advanced reporting and analytics capabilities, allowing teams to gain valuable insights into their project performance.

ClickUp: Most Comprehensive Feature Set

ClickUp is a powerful project management tool that offers a centralized platform where developers can collaborate, communicate, and track their tasks and projects effectively. With ClickUp, developers can create and manage tasks, set priorities, and assign them to team members. It also allows for easy integration with popular development tools such as GitHub and GitLab, enabling seamless code collaboration and version control. Additionally, ClickUp provides customizable dashboards, kanban boards, and Gantt charts, allowing developers to visualize their progress and stay organized.

Read our review of ClickUp

Highly Customizable Fields

ClickUp allows software developers to tailor their project management workflow to their specific requirements through highly customizable custom fields. This helps ensure that they can track and manage tasks and projects in a way that makes sense for them. 

Whether it’s tracking bugs, assigning priorities, or categorizing tasks, ClickUp’s customizable fields provide the flexibility and control that software developers need to stay organized and efficient.

Gantt Charts and Timeline 

Gantt charts and a timeline view enable software developers to visualize project timelines, dependencies, and milestones in a clear and intuitive way. 

With Gantt Charts, developers can easily identify critical paths, manage resources, and ensure that projects are completed on time. The timeline feature allows for easy tracking of task progress and provides a visual representation of how different tasks are interconnected. This enhances collaboration and helps teams stay on track toward project goals.

Complete Features

ClickUp offers an all-in-one platform that provides software developers with everything they need for effective project management. From estimating project timelines and tracking time spent on tasks to resource planning and allocation, ClickUp has it all. This eliminates the need for multiple tools and platforms, streamlining the project management process and saving time and effort for software developers.

Seamless Integration of Docs and Tasks

ClickUp gives you the ability to efficiently take meeting notes using the Docs feature. This feature allows you to document important discussions and decisions made during a meeting, ensuring that all team members are on the same page. Additionally, ClickUp enables you to seamlessly create tasks directly from the meeting notes page. By doing so, these tasks are automatically added to your preferred task lists, making it easier to track and prioritize your work. This integration between meeting notes and task management enhances productivity and collaboration within your team, streamlining your workflow and ensuring that nothing falls through the cracks.

Why We Chose ClickUp

ClickUp is highly customizable project management software that caters specifically to the needs of software developers. With its extensive range of features and functionalities, ClickUp provides developers with a comprehensive platform to manage their projects efficiently. 

The software allows users to customize their workflows, task lists, and project boards according to their specific requirements. This level of customization ensures that developers can work in a way that aligns with their preferred methodologies and processes. Moreover, ClickUp offers seamless integration with various development tools and platforms, further enhancing its appeal for software developers. 

Overall, the flexibility and adaptability of ClickUp make it an excellent choice for software developers looking for a project management solution that caters to their unique needs.

Confluence: Best for Collaboration and Documentation

Confluence is a collaboration and documentation tool commonly used by software developers. It provides a central platform where developers can create, organize, and share their knowledge and information related to software development projects. 

One of the key features of Confluence is its wiki-like formatting, which allows for easy editing and updating of content. Additionally, Confluence can integrate with various other tools, such as task management software, to streamline project workflows. This makes it an invaluable resource for teams working on complex software development projects, as it helps to ensure that everyone is on the same page and has access to the most up-to-date information.

Furthermore, Confluence integrates with other software development tools like Jira, Bitbucket, and Trello, enabling seamless integration and workflow management.

Read our review of Confluence

Smooth Integrations for Consolidating Information

Confluence seamlessly integrates with various software development tools such as Jira, Trello, and more. These integration capabilities enable Confluence to consolidate and centralize the most crucial information in your project.  By integrating with tools such as Jira, Bitbucket, and Trello, Confluence ensures that all relevant project updates, tasks, and documentation are easily accessible in one place. This not only streamlines the development process but also enhances team collaboration and productivity and helps project managers get good overviews of their projects.

Clean Interface for Reports (Blog)

Confluence offers a clean and user-friendly interface that is ideal for creating and organizing blogs, which can be used to create reports for stakeholders.

With its intuitive design, project managers can easily consolidate reports and present information in a clear and organized manner. The platform allows for the inclusion of various media types, such as images, videos, and charts, making it even more versatile for reporting purposes. 

Additionally, Confluence enables users to share these reports with relevant stakeholders effortlessly.

Easy Document Organization for Wikis

Confluence is a powerful tool that enables software development teams to collaborate and create wikis that house important information. With Confluence, teams can easily document their processes, share knowledge, and keep track of project details. 

The ability to create wikis in Confluence makes it easy for team members to access and contribute to information, ensuring that everyone is on the same page and working towards a common goal. This not only enhances productivity but also promotes transparency and effective communication within the team.

Why We Chose Confluence

Confluence provides a platform that allows teammates to collaborate more seamlessly, leading to improved productivity and efficiency. By centralizing all project-related information and documentation in one place, Confluence ensures that everyone on the team has access to the latest updates and can easily contribute their ideas and insights. This helps to minimize miscommunication and confusion, leading to smoother workflows and better outcomes. 

Additionally, Confluence allows for the integration of various other tools and software, further enhancing collaboration and streamlining the project management process.

Favro: Best for Cross-Functional Team Transparency

Favro offers a wide range of features and functionalities that make project management and task organization a breeze. One of the standout features of Favro is its “collections,” which allow users to create pages that can display multiple task lists in a single view. This feature is incredibly useful for software developers who often have numerous tasks and projects to manage simultaneously. 

By having all the necessary task lists conveniently displayed on one page, developers can easily track progress, allocate resources, and prioritize tasks effectively. Favro’s collections provide a comprehensive overview of all ongoing projects, making it an invaluable tool for software development teams.

Collections: Multiple Task Lists in One Screen

Favro offers a valuable feature known as “collections,” which allows users to consolidate multiple task lists onto a single screen. Its collections feature is a powerful tool for organizations looking to increase efficiency and improve collaboration. This feature is particularly useful for organizations with multiple departments or teams that need to collaborate on various tasks. 

With Favro, each task list can be customized with different views (Kanban, Timeline, or Sheet), providing a comprehensive overview of all the important information relevant to each department. 

This consolidation of tasks and information streamlines communication and enhances productivity by ensuring that all team members have access to the necessary information in one centralized location. 

Highly Intuitive Interface

One of the standout features of Favro is the split view, which allows users to view multiple collections and task lists simultaneously. Additionally, Favro allows users to easily drag and drop tasks (which are called cards ) from one list to another. This functionality is particularly useful because it duplicates the task, allowing it to be present in more than one list. For example, an item in your Product Backlog can be dragged to your current sprint list when it’s ready to be worked on. Task relationships are also clearly indicated within each card, so nothing falls through the cracks.

Favro also offers a convenient feature called break down to board . This feature enables users to effortlessly convert a card into a task board. The functionality of this task board is similar to subtasks, but it provides an improved experience.

Work Tracking and Management With Card Limits

The Kanban methodology is a popular project management approach that emphasizes visualizing work and limiting work in progress (WIP). One of the key principles of Kanban is to limit the number of cards or tasks under the “in progress” category. This is done to ensure good quality and prevent team members from becoming overwhelmed with too many tasks at once. With Favro, project managers have the ability to set limits to the Kanban board categories. This allows teams to maintain focus on a manageable number of tasks, leading to improved quality and increased productivity.

Favro also offers a unique feature that allows project managers to track a card’s time on board and time in column . This feature proves to be extremely beneficial in identifying tasks that are not progressing as expected. 

By monitoring the time spent on each task and the time it takes to move from one project stage to another, project managers can easily spot bottlenecks or delays in the workflow. This valuable information enables them to take prompt action and address any issues that may be hindering the progress of a project.

Why We Chose Favro

Favro is a highly effective tool that software development teams (and companies) can rely on. It promotes transparency by allowing project managers to create collections that consolidate the most important information for each stakeholder group. It’s also highly customizable, so it can be useful for all departments and organizations. Its standout qualities for software development teams lie in the small yet impactful features it offers, such as its drag-and-drop split-view interface, card limits feature, and idle time monitoring.

Trello: Most Intuitive Project Management Tool

Trello is a popular choice among development teams and project managers when it comes to project management software. Its highly intuitive and user-friendly interface makes it easy for teams to collaborate and stay organized. With Trello, users can create boards and lists to track tasks, assign responsibilities, set deadlines, and monitor progress in real-time. The platform also allows for seamless communication and file sharing, ensuring that team members are always on the same page.

Read our review of Trello

Easy-To-Use Interface

Trello’s interface is incredibly user-friendly, making it a breeze to navigate and utilize. The platform’s design is intuitive and straightforward, allowing users to easily learn and understand its functionality. 

With Trello, there is no need for extensive training or hours spent trying to figure out how it works. Instead, users can jump right in and start maximizing their productivity. 

The simplicity of Trello’s interface is one of its standout features, enabling individuals and teams to collaborate seamlessly without any unnecessary complications. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced user, Trello’s interface ensures a smooth and efficient experience.

Highly Customizable

Trello, especially when you avail of the paid plan, offers a highly customizable platform that allows you to tailor it to fit your unique workflow. With its extensive range of features and functionalities, Trello enables users to create and organize boards, cards, and lists in a way that aligns with their specific needs and preferences.

The basic workflow, for example, would be To Do – In Progress – Complete . However, you can opt to adjust it if you’re using Agile Scrum to Backlog – Sprint – In Progress – Complete . Or, depending on your project, you can add steps for approvals, bugs, reopened bugs, and testing.

Whether you are managing projects, tracking tasks, or collaborating with a team, Trello’s flexibility allows you to customize the layout, labels, colors, and even automate certain actions. This level of customization ensures that Trello becomes an efficient tool that adapts to your workflow seamlessly, ultimately enhancing productivity and streamlining processes.

Power-Ups and Integrations

Trello, a popular project management tool, offers a range of power-ups that enhance its features and make it more powerful. These power-ups provide additional functionality and customization options to users, allowing them to tailor Trello to meet the specific needs of their software development teams. 

From integrations with popular tools like Jira and GitHub to time tracking and reporting capabilities, these power-ups can greatly improve productivity and collaboration within the team. 

While some power-ups are available for free, users on paid plans have access to a wider range of options, enabling them to fully leverage the potential of Trello for their software development projects.

Why We Chose Trello

Despite the emergence of new project management tools, Trello continues to be a top choice for its simplicity and effectiveness. Its versatility and adaptability make it suitable for a wide range of projects and industries. Whether you’re managing a small team or a large-scale project, Trello provides the necessary features and flexibility to help you streamline your workflow and achieve your goals.

Notion: Best for Customizability and Code Integration

Notion has emerged as a popular tool across various industries due to its high level of customizability. This versatile platform enables software developers to effectively manage tasks, as well as create wikis and databases all in one place. What sets Notion apart is its specialized functionalities that cater specifically to engineers. For instance, it offers seamless integrations with tools like GitLab, allowing developers to seamlessly collaborate and streamline their workflow. Additionally, its ability to embed code blocks and content from platforms like CodePen further enhances the productivity and efficiency of engineers.

Read our review of Notion

Task Management and Documentation in One Place

Notion offers a highly customizable interface that you can build out to be whatever you want it to be. A page in Notion is composed of “blocks,” which can contain different types of information, from regular text to timelines, Kanban boards, tables, or integrations from other applications. With Notion’s wide range of features and tools, developers can efficiently manage their projects and tasks and build out their wikis and documentation all in one place. 

Whether it’s organizing project timelines, tracking tasks, or documenting code snippets, Notion provides a centralized platform for developers to seamlessly manage their work and collaborate with team members. Its flexibility and adaptability make it an invaluable tool for software developers seeking a comprehensive solution for project management and documentation.

Notion is a powerful tool that offers seamless integration with various applications, making it a go-to platform for software developers. This integration allows developers to manage all their tasks, projects, and resources in one centralized location. 

With the ability to connect with tools like GitHub, Jira, and Trello, developers can easily track their code repositories, monitor project progress, and collaborate with their teams. Additionally, Notion’s integration with popular coding platforms like VS Code and Sublime Text enables developers to write code directly within the application. 

This comprehensive integration empowers software developers to streamline their workflows and stay organized, ultimately enhancing their productivity and efficiency.

Code Embed Functionality

Notion is a versatile productivity tool that offers a wide range of formatting features tailored specifically for software developers. One notable feature is the ability to embed code into your Notion pages, regardless of the programming language you are using. This allows developers to easily showcase their code snippets and share them with others. 

Additionally, Notion also supports integration with CodePen, a popular online code editor and community for front-end developers. By utilizing these formatting features, software developers can effectively document and collaborate on their projects within Notion.

Customizability and Collaboration

While we’re primarily talking about programmers, Notion can also be used by all teams involved in the software development process. Designers can leverage its capabilities to create and share design prototypes, while testers can utilize its task management features to track bugs and issues. Additionally, UX researchers can benefit from Notion’s collaborative environment to gather and analyze user feedback. 

By using Notion, teams from different disciplines can seamlessly collaborate, improving overall productivity and efficiency in software development projects.

Why We Chose Notion

Notion is a versatile tool that offers a wide range of functionalities, making it beneficial for individuals in various industries. However, software developers, in particular, can reap even more advantages from using Notion. 

With its customizable interface and powerful collaboration features, Notion provides software developers with a centralized platform to organize and manage their projects efficiently. It allows developers to create databases, track tasks, and collaborate with team members seamlessly. 

Furthermore, Notion’s integration with other development tools enhances the overall workflow and productivity of software developers. Whether it’s tracking bugs, documenting code, or planning sprints, Notion can be tailored to suit the specific needs of software developers, making it an indispensable tool for this industry.

Wrike: Best for End-To-End Project Management

Wrike is a project management tool that can cater specifically to the needs of software developers. With its user-friendly interface and robust features, Wrike enables developers to effectively manage their projects from start to finish. The platform offers a wide range of functionalities, including task management, team collaboration, and progress tracking. It also has a highly intuitive and customizable feature for Gantt charts, which can help teams map out dependencies and schedules more efficiently.

Additionally, Wrike allows for seamless integration with popular software development tools, such as Jira and GitHub, making it even more convenient for developers to streamline their workflow.

Read our review of Wrike

Resource Management Capabilities

Wrike is renowned as a powerful project management tool that offers a wide range of features to effectively plan, track, and collaborate on projects. However, what truly sets Wrike apart from other tools is its sophisticated resource management capabilities. 

With Wrike, teams can easily allocate and manage resources, ensuring that each member is assigned tasks based on their availability and workload. This feature enables project managers to optimize resource utilization, improve productivity, and deliver projects on time and within budget. Additionally, Wrike provides real-time visibility into resource allocation, allowing managers to make informed decisions and quickly address any potential bottlenecks.

Proofing for Assets

Another feature that distinguishes Wrike is its robust proofing feature. This feature enables teammates to easily collaborate and provide feedback on existing assets. 

Gone are the days of lengthy email chains and confusion over which version of a document is the most up-to-date. With Wrike’s proofing feature, all team members can access and comment directly on the asset, making it easy to track changes and ensure everyone is on the same page. This streamlined process improves communication and efficiency, allowing teams to work together seamlessly and produce high-quality work.

Everything In One Platform

Wrike can be customized to meet the needs of both day-to-day execution and long-term planning or portfolio management. Its flexible features allow teams to easily adapt the platform to their specific workflows and processes, ensuring efficient and effective project management. 

Additionally, by seamlessly connecting with tools such as Jira or GitHub, Wrike enables software developers to streamline their workflows and collaborate more effectively, resulting in improved productivity and project success.

Why We Chose Wrike

Wrike offers a range of features that make it a powerful tool for software developers. The collaboration features enable seamless communication and coordination among team members, facilitating the sharing of ideas and the resolution of issues. Additionally, Wrike’s resource management functionalities help developers allocate and manage their resources effectively, ensuring that tasks are assigned to the right people with the necessary skills and availability. 

From planning to reporting, Wrike offers a comprehensive solution for end-to-end project management, providing software developers with the tools they need to deliver high-quality products to their stakeholders.

Bottom Line: Our Best Overall Picks

When it comes to project management for software development teams, especially those that are large in scale, using Jira and Confluence together can be considered the best tandem. 

Jira is a powerful and widely used project management tool that allows teams to track and manage their tasks, issues, and workflows effectively. It provides features such as agile boards, customizable workflows, and extensive reporting capabilities, making it an ideal choice for software development teams. 

On the other hand, Confluence is a collaboration tool that enables teams to create, share, and organize their project documentation on a centralized platform. It provides a space for team members to collaborate, brainstorm ideas, and document important information. 

Integrating Jira with Confluence allows for seamless communication and knowledge sharing within the team. Developers can create Jira issues directly from Confluence pages, link relevant documentation to Jira issues, and access project information without having to switch between different tools.

However, for start-ups and small teams with limited resources and simpler workflows, Notion can be a good pick. 

Notion is a versatile all-in-one workspace that allows teams to manage projects, collaborate on documents, and organize their tasks. It offers features such as databases, boards, and templates, making it suitable for small teams with diverse needs. Its simplicity and user-friendly interface make it easy for teams to get started quickly without the need for extensive training or customization. 

Overall, the choice between using Jira and Confluence or Notion depends on the size of the team, complexity of projects, and specific requirements of the software development process.

Methodology

Software developers are known for their high level of collaboration, particularly in online forums such as Stack Overflow . These platforms have flourished due to the active participation and exchange of ideas among developers. Recognizing the value of social media and forums as reliable sources of user opinions, we decided to explore social channels to gather insights from experienced professionals in the field. We also asked software developers within our network for their favorites, and they often aligned with the ones mentioned online.

Subsequently, we thoroughly evaluated the identified tools ourselves to assess their compatibility with project management processes and Agile Scrum, a widely adopted methodology in software development projects. 

By combining the input from developers with our own analysis, we aimed to identify the most effective project management tools that align with industry best practices and facilitate efficient project execution.

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Faqs: what features should i look for a software development project management tool, task management.

Software development projects are complex and require careful planning and organization. Task management features allow developers to break down the project into smaller tasks, assign them to team members, and track their progress. This ensures that everyone is aware of their responsibilities and deadlines, promoting effective collaboration and timely delivery of the project. 

Additionally, task management features enable developers to prioritize tasks, set dependencies, and allocate resources efficiently, maximizing productivity and minimizing delays.

Multiple Views

When it comes to project management for software developers, having multiple views like Kanban and Gantt charts is essential. These different views offer different perspectives on the project, allowing developers to track progress, manage tasks, and allocate resources effectively. 

Kanban boards provide a visual representation of tasks, allowing developers to see what needs to be done, what is in progress, and what has been completed. On the other hand, Gantt charts provide a timeline view of the project, showing dependencies between tasks and allowing developers to plan their work accordingly. 

By having access to both Kanban and Gantt charts, software developers can have a comprehensive understanding of the project and make better-informed decisions to ensure successful completion.

Collaboration Features

Software development projects often involve multiple team members working on different aspects of the project simultaneously. Therefore, having collaboration features that allow for easy communication and sharing of files and ideas is crucial. These features can include real-time chat, task assignment and tracking, document sharing, and version control.

Integrations With Software Development Tools

By integrating with popular software development tools such as version control systems, IDEs, bug tracking tools, and continuous integration tools, project management tools can provide real-time updates and notifications, allowing developers to stay on top of their tasks and deadlines. Furthermore, integrations enable developers to access and share code repositories, track and resolve issues, and automate builds and deployments, greatly enhancing the productivity and efficiency of software development teams.

Estimates & Time Tracking

Estimates allow developers to anticipate the amount of time and resources needed to complete a task or project, ensuring realistic deadlines and efficient planning. Time tracking helps developers monitor their productivity and identify areas for improvement, enabling them to allocate their time and efforts more effectively.

By having a project management tool that offers estimates and time tracking capabilities, software developers can enhance their project planning, execution, and overall productivity.

Workload Management

Software development projects often involve multiple team members working on various tasks simultaneously. Without effective workload management, it becomes challenging to track progress, allocate resources, and ensure that no team member is overwhelmed with tasks. 

A project management tool with workload management capabilities allows managers to assign tasks, set deadlines, and monitor the workload of each team member in real-time. This ensures that work is distributed evenly and efficiently, leading to better project outcomes and increased productivity.

Agile Methodology Features

The Agile methodology is a popular approach in software development that emphasizes flexibility, collaboration, and iterative development. Therefore, the project management tool should have features that support these principles. 

Some essential features to look for include the ability to create and manage user stories, track progress through Kanban boards or Scrum boards, facilitate real-time collaboration among team members, and provide robust reporting and analytics capabilities. 

Additionally, a tool that integrates with popular Agile project management frameworks can further enhance the effectiveness of Agile practices within the development team.

Documentation Feature for Wikis

Documentation plays a crucial role in the development process, as it allows developers to easily collaborate, share knowledge, and keep track of project updates. 

Wikis provide a centralized platform where team members can create, edit, and organize documentation in a structured manner. This feature enables software developers to access important information anytime, anywhere, promoting efficient communication and reducing the risk of miscommunication. 

Additionally, wikis can be easily updated and maintained, ensuring that the documentation remains up-to-date throughout the project lifecycle.

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Project Management for Research

The tools you need to make your research project a success.

This toolkit includes a variety of tools for managing your research projects including recommendations for general project management software and tools to help you and your team manage activities from grant writing to implementation and project closeout.

Explore the toolkit below:

Grant Writing + Project Development

A Gantt Chart is a popular project management tool; it is a type of bar chart that illustrates a project’s schedule. The chart allows for organizing and viewing project activities and tasks against pre-established timeframes.

Gantt Chart Template Gantt Chart Instructions Gantt Chart Example

Graphic display of the flow or sequence of events that a product or service follows; it shows all activities, decision points, rework loops and handoffs.

Process maps allow the team to visualize the process and come to agreement on the steps of a process as well as examine which activities are duplicated. Process maps are used to:

• Capture current and new process information
• Identify the flow of a process
• Identify responsibility of different business functions
• Clearly show hand-off between functions
• Identify value added and non-value added activities
• Train team members in new process

Process Map Template Process Mapping Guide Process Map Example 1 Process Map Example 2

The Data Management Plan (DMP) defines the responsibilities related to the entry, ownership, sharing, validation, editing and storage of primary research data.

A data management plan must not only reflect the requirements of the protocol/project but also comply with applicable institutional, state and federal guidelines and regulations. The DMP Tool details your agencies expectations, has suggested language for REDCap and exports a properly formatted plan.

DMP Tool NIH Data Management & Sharing (DMS) Policy

The Project Charter's purpose is to define at a high level what the Project Team will deliver, what resources are needed and why it is justified.

The Project Charter also represents a commitment to dedicate the necessary time and resources to the project. It can be especially useful when organizing a multi-disciplinary, internally funded team. The document should be brief (up to three pages maximum).   

Project Charter Template Project Charter Instructions Project Charter Example

Milestones are an effective way to track major progress in your research project.

A Gantt Chart is an effective tool for setting and tracking milestones and deliverables. It is a type of bar chart that illustrates a project’s schedule.  

The proposal budget should be derived directly from the project description.

The proposal budget should follow the format specified by the sponsor. The Office of Sponsored Programs Budget Preparation webpages provide descriptions of the standard budget categories, lists of typical components of those categories, Ohio State rates where appropriate and other details to help ensure your budget is complete. Budget Preparation Resources from Office of Research The 398 grant form from the NIH is a template that includes standard categories required for an NIH grant (and many others) that you can use to develop a preliminary budget.

PHS 398 Forms PHS 398 Budget form for Initial Project Period Template PHS 398 Budget Form for Entire Proposal Project Template

The Risk Assessment and Mitigation Plan first assists the research team in anticipating risk that may occur during the research project before it happens.

The plan then specifies when to act to mitigate risk by defining thresholds and establishing action plans to follow. As a fundamental ethical requirement research risks are to be minimized to the greatest extent possible for all research endeavors. This includes not only prompt identification measures but also response, reporting and resolution. Risk Assessment and Mitigation Plan Template Risk Assessment and Mitigation Plan Example

The Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) organizes the research project work into manageable components.

It is represented in a hierarchical decomposition of the work to be executed by the research project team. It visually defines the scope into manageable chunks that the team can understand.  WBS Instructions and Template WBS Structure Example

Implementation

A Gantt Chart is a popular project management tool; it is a type of bar chart that illustrates a project’s schedule.

The chart allows for organizing and viewing project activities and tasks against pre-established timeframes. A Gantt Chart can also be used for tracking milestones and major progresses within your research project.

The purpose is to define at a high level what the Project Team will deliver, what resources are needed and why it is justified.   

It is represented in a hierarchical decomposition of the work to be executed by the research project team. It visually defines the scope into manageable chunks that the team can understand.  WBS Instructions + Template WBS Structure Example

A communications plan facilitates effective and efficient dissemination of information to the research team members and major stakeholders in the research project.

It describes how the communications will occur; the content, security, and privacy of those communications; along with the method of dissemination and frequency.

Communications Plan Template Communications Plan Example

The Data Management Plan (DMP) defines the responsibilities related to the entry, ownership, sharing, validation, editing, and storage of primary research data.

A data management plan must not only reflect the requirements of the protocol/project but also comply with applicable institutional, state, and federal guidelines and regulations. The DMP Tool details your agencies expectations, has suggested language for REDCap, and exports a properly formatted plan.

DMP Tool DMP Tool Instructions Ohio State Research Guide: Data

The chart allows for organizing and viewing project activities and tasks against pre-established timeframes. Gantt Chart Template Gantt Chart Instructions Gantt Chart Example

This tool helps you capture details of issues that arise so that the project team can quickly see the status and who is responsible for resolving it.

Further, the Issue Management Tool guides you through a management process that gives you a robust way to evaluate issues, assess their impact, and decide on a plan for resolution.

Issue Management Tool Template Issue Management Tool Instructions Issue Management Example

A Pareto Chart is a graphical tool that helps break down a problem into its parts so that managers can identify the most frequent, and thus most important, problems.

It depicts in descending order (from left to right) the frequency of events being studied. It is based on the Pareto Principle or “80/20 Rule”, which says that roughly 80% of problems are caused by 20% of contributors. With the Pareto Principle Project Managers solve problems by identifying and focusing on the “vital few” problems. Managers should avoid focusing on “people” problems. Problems are usually the result of processes, not people.

Pareto Chart Template Pareto Chart Instructions Pareto Chart Example

Closeout, Transfer + Application

Completing a project means more than finishing the research. 

There remain financial, personnel, reporting, and other responsibilities. These tasks typically need to be completed within a timeline that begins 60 to 90 days before the project end date and 90 days after. Specifics will vary depending on the project and the funding source. The Office of Sponsored Programs “Project Closeout” webpage provides a description closeout issues, a list of PI Responsibilities and other details to help ensure your project is in fact complete.  Project Closeout Checklist Project Closeout Resources from Office of Research

A communications plan facilitates effective and efficient dissemination of information to the research team members and major stakeholders in the research project. 

It describes how the communications will occur; the content, security and privacy of those communications; along with the method of dissemination and frequency.

Project Management Software

An open-source project management software similar to Microsoft Project.

OpenProject  has tools to create dashboards, Gantt Charts, budgets, and status reports. Activities can be assigned to team members and progress monitored. OpenProject also has a tool for Agile Project Management. While the software is free, OpenProject must be installed and maintained on a local server and there will probably be costs associated with this. Talk to your departmental or college IT staff.

A secure, web-based project management system.

Basecamp  offers an intuitive suite of tools at a minimal cost: ~$20/month or free for teachers. Basecamp facilitates collaboration between research team members with features such as to-do lists, messaging, file sharing, assignment of tasks, milestones, due dates and time tracking.  

A project management tool that organizes tasks, activities, responsibilities and people on projects.

Trello can help manage research projects by keeping everyone on time and on task. It uses a distinctive interface based on cards and lists and may be especially useful for smaller projects.

If you have a disability and experience difficulty accessing this content, please submit an email to [email protected] for assistance.

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Home Market Research

Research Management System: What it is & Why You Need It

Research is the backbone of progress, innovation, and discovery. Whether you are a seasoned researcher or just starting your academic journey, managing the various aspects of your research projects can be overwhelming. This is where a Research Management System (RMS) comes to your rescue. 

In this blog, we’ll explore what an RMS is and why incorporating it into your workflow can make a significant difference.

What is a Research Management System?

A Research Management System (RMS) is a software tool or platform designed to assist researchers, institutions, and organizations in managing various aspects of the research process. 

It provides a centralized and organized approach to handling tasks related to planning, conducting, and monitoring research activities. The system typically includes features such as proposal and grant management, project organization, compliance tracking, financial management, multiple tools for collaboration, document storage, and reporting capabilities. 

Essentially, an RMS helps streamline and optimize the workflow of research projects. It also makes it easier for researchers and administrators to coordinate and manage the different aspects of their work.

Key Features of a Research Management System?

The features and functionalities of a research management system can vary, but they typically include the following:

• Project Planning and Initiation: RMS helps researchers plan and initiate their projects by providing tools for project proposal submission, budgeting, and resource allocation.
• Collaboration and Communication: These systems often include collaboration features to facilitate communication and cooperation among researchers, teams, and stakeholders. This may involve document sharing, messaging, and collaboration spaces.
• Grant and Funding Management: Many Research Management Systems assist in managing grants and funding by tracking application processes, monitoring funding sources, and managing financial aspects of research projects.
• Data Management: RSM often provides tools for organizing, storing, and managing data created by numerous research. This can include data storage solutions, data sharing options, and data security features.
• Task and Deadline Tracking: RMS helps researchers and project managers keep track of tasks, deadlines, and milestones associated with the research project, promoting timely progress.
• Reporting and Analytics: These systems typically offer reporting and analytics features to generate insights into research projects’ progress, impact, and outcomes. This can be valuable for both internal assessments and external reporting.
• Integration with Other Systems: Many RMSs can integrate with other institutional systems, such as finance, human resources, or academic systems, to streamline administrative processes.

Why Should You Need a Research Management System?

Here, we will discuss the crucial reasons why incorporating an RSM is essential for maintaining a seamless and efficient research workflow within the broader research ecosystem. 

An RMS plays an important role in enhancing the investment research process, ensuring that every part of the research, from proposal and grant management to collaboration and compliance, operates smoothly.

Simplify Proposal and Grant Management

One of the primary functions of an RMS is to simplify the creation, submission, and tracking of research proposals and grant applications. With a dedicated system in place, researchers can save time and effort, ensuring that their proposals are organized and submitted in a timely manner. This streamlining of processes increases the chances of securing funding for valuable research endeavors.

Efficient Project Management

Just one research project involves numerous tasks, timelines, and collaborators. An RMS provides a centralized platform for project management, allowing researchers to plan, organize, and execute projects easily. Task allocation, timeline tracking, and resource management become more efficient, leading to improved project outcomes.

Ensuring Compliance and Ethics

Ethical considerations and compliance with regulations are paramount in research. An RMS helps manage Institutional Review Board (IRB) approvals, human subjects protocols, and other regulatory aspects. This ensures that research activities adhere to ethical standards and comply with institutional and industry regulations.

Financial Transparency and Accountability

Tracking budget allocations, expenses, and financial transactions associated with research projects is critical to successful research management. An RMS provides financial tools that offer transparency and accountability, allowing researchers and administrators to monitor and control expenditures effectively.

Increased Collaboration and Communication

Collaboration is key in research, and an RMS facilitates seamless communication and collaboration among researchers. Features such as project-specific forums, messaging systems, and document sharing enable efficient sharing of research information, resources, and updates, fostering a collaborative research environment.

Document and Data Management

Managing and organizing research-related documents, data sets, and other materials can be challenging without a dedicated system. An RMS provides a structured and accessible document and data management platform, ensuring that valuable research assets are organized for easy retrieval.

How Does a Modern Research Management System Work?

In a modern Research Management System (RMS), as a researcher or administrator, you experience a comprehensive software solution designed to streamline various research administration and management aspects. Here’s how the system generally works for you:

• Proposal and Grant Management: Create and submit research proposals using the system, with templates, guidance, and automated checks to meet institutional investors’ and funding agencies’ requirements. Manage the entire grant application and approval process efficiently.
• Funding and Budgeting: Utilize RMS to manage research budgets, track funding sources, and ensure compliance with financial regulations. Access tools for budget planning, financial forecasting, and monitoring project expenses.
• Communication: Collaborate with fellow researchers through the system, sharing documents, working on projects, and communicating effectively. Use features like discussion forums, messaging, and real-time collaboration tools.
• Document and Data Management: Centralize storage for all your research-related documents, data, and digital assets. Ensure version control, security, and access controls to protect sensitive information.
• Reporting and Analytics: Generate reports on various aspects of your research activities, funding, and compliance. Access analytics to make informed decisions and assess the impact of your research efforts.
• Integration with External Systems: Integrate the RMS with other institutional systems, such as finance, HR, and academic databases, to streamline information flow and avoid data silos. 
• Training and Professional Development: Take advantage of training modules and resources within the system to stay updated on compliance requirements, best practices, and professional development opportunities.
• Audit Trails and Accountability: Benefit from audit trails that track changes, approvals, and actions taken within the system. Enhance accountability and transparency in your research administration.

The modern Research Management System aims to enhance your efficiency, collaboration, and compliance throughout the research lifecycle, ultimately supporting the success of your research endeavors within your organization. Tailor the system to meet your specific needs and requirements for a seamless research experience.

Top 7 Research Management Software for Your Organization

In 2024, staying ahead of the competition means choosing the right research management software created for your needs. Here, we present the seven best options for your organization.

1. GanttPRO

GanttPRO is a resource management system that utilizes Gantt charts for efficient project management. It’s a versatile tool suitable for organizing teams and workflows, making it ideal for thesis research, business data analysis, and more.

Tableau, powered by Salesforce, is a data visualization tool designed to simplify research data organization. It provides a single analytics platform with a drag-and-drop interface, making it easier to connect and analyze data from various sources.

ClickUp earns the top spot on our list due to its extensive features and seamless integration capabilities. This cloud-based powerhouse is highly rated and recognized as one of the best project management tools in 2024. It offers real-time collaboration, free Gantt charts, AI writing tools, and customizable dashboards.

4. Klipfolio

Klipfolio is a business dashboard tool focused on real-time monitoring of research data. It’s a metrics-driven platform that aids in effective decision-making by providing self-serve access to information.

5. Whatagraph

Whatagraph is a reporting tool designed to manage and visualize research data efficiently, particularly for marketing projects. It streamlines data transfer, report generation, and analysis of web page performance data.

Looker, also known as Google Looker Studio, is a browser-based data analytics platform. It leverages a unique modeling language for analyzing and visualizing research data. It makes it suitable for business intelligence and app development.

Bit.ai is a document collaboration platform emphasizing real-time collaboration, note-taking, and research management. It offers advanced design options, robust search features, and powerful document tracking for effective teamwork.

How Can QuestionPro Help in The Research Management System?

QuestionPro contributes to the efficiency of the Research Management System by providing valuable tools for data collection, analysis, and participant engagement. In the context of the research ecosystem, including investment research, QuestionPro InsightHub significantly enhances specific aspects of the research process.

Survey Creation and Data Collection

QuestionPro InsightHub allows researchers to create customized surveys tailored to their investment research objectives. It facilitates the collection of targeted data by enabling the design and distribution of surveys to specific audiences. This functionality contributes to the overall data-gathering process within the research ecosystem.

Analytics and Reporting

The platform offers robust analytics tools that empower researchers to analyze the data collected during their investment research. By providing insights, identifying trends, and generating comprehensive reports, QuestionPro facilitates informed decision-making within the broader RSM.

Community Building and Engagement

QuestionPro InsightHub features capabilities for building and managing online communities. This functionality is valuable in the context of the research ecosystem, particularly investment research. Researchers can engage with participants, foster discussions, and gather qualitative insights, fostering a collaborative environment within the research community.

Panel Management

Maintaining a targeted pool of participants is crucial for investment research within the research ecosystem. QuestionPro InsightHub supports panel management, allowing researchers to streamline the process of reaching specific target groups. This enhances the efficiency of participant recruitment and engagement in the investment research process.

Integration with Other Systems

Depending on updates and additional features, QuestionPro InsightHub may offer integrations with other systems relevant to the research ecosystem. This potential integration enhances its compatibility with broader research management processes, contributing to a more cohesive and interconnected research environment.

A Research Management System is not just a tool; it’s your research companion. It empowers you to the journey of research with ease. It ensures that your focus remains on what matters most – advancing knowledge and making a meaningful impact. 

While QuestionPro InsightHub doesn’t fall under the traditional definition of comprehensive research management software, its features contribute significantly to specific aspects of the research process. So, embrace the power of an RMS and watch your research process soar to new heights!

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Virtual teams and software project management success in a developing country: an empirical study

• ORIGINAL ARTICLE
• Published: 26 March 2024

Cite this article

• Rutuparn Anil Pandey 1 ,
• Nidhi Shridhar Natrajan   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0001-8629-4799 2 ,
• Rinku Sanjeev 2 &

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The globalization of software development processes and outsourcing of software development projects worldwide has led to the creation of virtual teams. These teams are fraught with challenges due to the geographical dispersion of members, differences in time zones, and different cultures. Virtual teams have become an essential aspect of software development projects. Even after many advancements in this area and the challenges posed by virtual teams, the current rate of software project success generates the need to study this area. A quantitative approach is used to study the responses provided by team members working as a part of a virtual team and involved in software projects in the Indian IT industry. The responses received were analyzed using regression analysis to propose and evaluate the proposed research model. The finding of the research indicates that virtual team attributes, such as technological augmentation, team dynamics, diversity, and strategic decision-making, have a significant impact on software project outcomes. In a Virtual team setting, the model developed during this research will serve as a valuable resource for the project leaders to comprehend the factors that influence project success and assist in implementing policies towards successful software projects. The research findings substantiate the previous research done for Virtual teams in developed countries, and the dimensions are evaluated in a completely new environment for developing countries like India.

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Appendix 1: Data collection questionnaire

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‘ 1 ’ indicates ‘ Strongly Disagree ’‘ 2 ’ indicates ‘ Disagree ’.

‘ 3 ’ indicates ‘ Disagree Somewhat ’ ‘ 4 ’ indicates ‘ Undecided ’.

‘ 5 ’ indicates ‘ Agree Somewhat’ ‘ 6 ’ indicates ‘ Agree ’.

‘ 7 ’ indicates ‘ Strongly Agree.

Appendix 2: Construct validity

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10 Best Reporting Tools and Software of 2024

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• Best for comprehensive data integration: Zoho Analytics
• Best for task-based reporting: Asana
• Best for high-level project reporting: Hive
• Best for data-driven decision-making: Google Looker
• Best for customizable project reporting: Wrike
• Best for visual project tracking: monday.com
• Best for all-in-one project management: ClickUp
• Best for agile project management: Jira Software
• Best for data visualization: Tableau
• Best for Microsoft ecosystem integration: Power BI

Reporting tools and software are crucial to teams, especially in terms of project management as they provide a structured way to track progress, identify risks and make informed decisions. They offer a sweeping view of project health that helps managers to not only pinpoint areas of concern but also identify successes. With effective reporting, an organization gets transparency and ensures its stakeholders are aligned, which plays a part in making projects successful since everyone involved has access to the same information and insights. We’ve analyzed 10 top reporting tools and software worth your consideration.

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Top reporting software: Comparison table

Zoho analytics: best for comprehensive data integration.

Zoho Analytics is a reporting tool that excels at aggregating data from a wide array of sources as it connects with over 250 data sources, including files, feeds, databases and cloud services. Its comprehensive suite of reporting options includes charts, pivot tables, summary views, tabular views and more. Zoho Analytics also offers an intuitive drag-and-drop interface to further simplify the report creation process and make it accessible for users of varying skill levels.

Zoho Analytics offers plans starting at $22 per month for the Basic plan, while the Standard, Premium and Enterprise plans cost $45, $112 and $445 per month, respectively, when billed annually. There’s also a Custom plan for prospective users to share their requirements.

• Extensive data integration from over 250 sources.
• Data preparation and management tools for accurate analysis.
• A wide array of visualization options for insightful reporting ( Figure A ).
• AI and ML-powered augmented analytics for guided insights.

Integrations

Zoho Analytics’s integrations include Zoho CRM, Salesforce CRM, Microsoft Dynamics CRM, HubSpot CRM and Zoho Bigin.

• Comprehensive data integration capabilities.
• Wide range of visualization tools.
• Advanced augmented analytics features.
• May be complex for beginners.
• Customization can require a learning curve.

Why we chose Zoho Analytics

We selected Zoho Analytics for its broad range of reporting capabilities and user-friendly design. Its ability to present data in various visual formats makes analysis flexible and insightful and caters to diverse reporting needs as well as a wide variety of users.

Learn more about other Zoho products, like Zoho Projects and Zoho Vault .

Asana: Best for task-based reporting

Asana simplifies project management with its Universal Reporting feature, which provides teams with a clear overview of task progress and project health. Its visual reporting format is designed for easy interpretation, meaning that users at all levels within an organization can easily access and use Asana.

Asana’s paid plans include the Premium plan at $10.99 per user per month, billed annually, and the Business plan at $24.99 per user per month. Its Enterprise plan’s pricing hasn’t been listed publicly.

• Visual and intuitive reporting tools for task and project tracking ( Figure B ).
• Goal tracking to align daily tasks with strategic objectives.
• Real-time updates to keep teams informed on project progress.
• A variety of highly customizable charts.

Asana’s top integrations include Microsoft Teams, Slack, the Asana for Gmail add-on, Asana for Adobe Creative Cloud and Google Calendar.

• User-friendly reporting and task management.
• Effective goal alignment features.
• Wide range of integrations.
• Limited depth in analytical features.
• Real-time analytics are somewhat restricted.

Why we chose Asana

We simply selected Asana for its user-friendly approach to task-based reporting. Asana is also highly effective when it comes to aligning tasks with organizational goals.

For more information, check out our full Asana review .

Hive: Best for high-level project reporting

Hive is recognized for its high-level reporting capabilities, offering a suite of options for a variety of project management use cases. With features like goals, analytics dashboards and timesheet reporting, Hive provides a comprehensive tool for gaining visibility and gathering insights into projects.

Hive has two premium plans atop a free plan. Teams at $12 per user per month when billed annually and $18 when billed monthly, and Enterprise, whose prices aren’t publicly listed.

• Goals for setting, tracking and monitoring goals across teams.
• Analytics dashboards to showcase project status, project breakdowns and more.
• Timesheets reporting to analyze data across timesheets.
• Multiple views like Portfolio, Summary, Table, Kanban and more ( Figure C ).

Hive’s top integrations include Google Calendar, Gmail, Google Sheets, Google Drive and Slack.

• Customizable high-level reporting options.
• Variety of views for different reporting needs.
• Efficient project and action management features.
• May require initial setup time to customize views.
• Some advanced features might be available only on higher-tier plans.

Why we chose Hive

We selected Hive for its versatile high-level reporting options and customizable views. They bring a flexible and comprehensive overview to projects.

For more information, check out our full Hive review .

Google Looker: Best for data-driven decision-making

A rather different entry from most tools on this list, Google Looker stands as a unified business intelligence platform that excels at turning data into actionable insights. It offers self-service BI that allows users to access, analyze and act on up-to-date, trusted data. As a reporting tool, Looker offers reliable data experiences at scale and empowers users with real-time insights.

Looker has a 30-day free trial, and its Standard plan costs $5,000 per month. For an annual quote, as well as quotes for the Enterprise and Embed plans, contact Google sales.

• Embedded analytics and applications for enhanced data experiences.
• Data modeling to unify business metrics across teams and applications.
• Real-time insights to empower users with up-to-date information.
• An extensive template gallery for templates on many of Google’s applications ( Figure D ).

Looker offers extensive integration capabilities, including BigQuery, Spanner, Cloud SQL and Cloud Storage.

• Unified platform for all BI needs.
• Real-time insights for up-to-date decision-making.
• Extensive integration capabilities with data sources.
• Pricing transparency could be improved.
• May require a learning curve to fully utilize advanced features.

Why we chose Google Looker

Google Looker’s reporting capabilities can be seen particularly through its embedded analytics and real-time insights. It easily unifies business metrics across teams and applications. It’s also a great tool for users predominantly using applications in the Google ecosystem.

Wrike: Best for customizable project reporting

Wrike stands out for its highly customizable reporting features. This flexibility, combined with Wrike’s thorough resource management and advanced analytics, makes Wrike competent enough to provide detailed insights into project performance and resource allocation and flexible enough to adapt to various workflows.

Wrike has five plans: the ones with prices listed are the Free plan, Team plan at $9.80 per user per month and Business plan at $24.80 per user per month. The Enterprise and Pinnacle plans’ pricing plans aren’t publicly listed.

• Customizable reports for tailored project insights ( Figure E ).
• Resource management to monitor progress and identify risks.
• Advanced analytics for deep visibility into project performance.

Wrike’s top integrations include Jira, GitHub, Google Sheets, Azure DevOps and HubSpot.

• Highly customizable reporting options.
• Comprehensive project and resource monitoring.
• Advanced analytics capabilities.
• Customization options may require time to master.
• Extensive features can be overwhelming for newcomers.

Why we chose Wrike

Wrike has robust reporting capabilities and customizable features, which give users the flexibility and depth needed to gain extensive insights into their projects and resources.

For more information, check out our full Wrike review .

monday.com: Best for visual project tracking

monday.com is a favorite among teams that love visual task management and prioritize ease of use as it offers a visually intuitive platform for project tracking. Its advanced reporting features, such as stacked charts and workload views, provide a thorough overview of project progress and team capacity. monday.com’s dashboard customization is very flexible; this enables teams to mold their reporting to meet their project needs.

monday has a free plan and a handful of premium plans, namely, Basic at $9 per seat per month, billed annually, or $12 per seat billed monthly; Standard at $12 per seat per month, billed annually, or $14 per seat billed monthly; Pro at $19 per seat per month, billed annually, or $24 per seat billed monthly; and Enterprise, which offers customized pricing.

• Stacked charts for multi-dimensional data analysis.
• Workload views for balanced resource allocation.
• Pivot tables for detailed data breakdowns.
• Customizable dashboards for tailored project insights ( Figure F ).

Some of the best monday.com integrations include GitLab, OneDrive, Todoist, Slack and Microsoft Teams.

• Highly visual and intuitive interface.
• Advanced reporting for comprehensive project insights.
• Flexible dashboard customization.
• Can be overwhelming for new users due to numerous features.
• Some advanced features require higher-tier plans.

Why we chose monday.com

monday.com is a visually intuitive platform and has advanced reporting capabilities. It delivers a balance between visual project tracking and in-depth reporting.

For more information, check out our full monday.com review .

ClickUp: Best for all-in-one project management

ClickUp is recognized for its all-in-one approach to project management, offering a wide range of features from task management to time tracking and goal setting. Its reporting features are designed to provide teams with insights into productivity and project progress, supporting data-driven decision-making. ClickUp’s customizable dashboards and reporting tools allow teams to monitor key metrics and track performance effectively.

ClickUp offers a generous free forever plan alongside three premium tiers: Unlimited at $7 per user per month when billed annually, or $10 per user per month when billed monthly; Business at $12 per user per month when billed annually, or $19 per user per month when billed monthly; and Enterprise that needs prospective users to contact ClickUp for a custom quote.

• Comprehensive dashboards for project overview ( Figure G ).
• Customizable reporting for tailored insights.
• Goal tracking to align efforts with objectives.
• Time tracking to monitor task durations and productivity.

Some of ClickUp’s top integrations include Gmail, Zoom, HubSpot, Make and Google Calendar.

• Versatile all-in-one project management solution.
• Extensive customization options for dashboards and reporting.
• Generous free plan with substantial features.
• Steep learning curve due to feature richness.
• Customization can be time-consuming.

Why we chose ClickUp

We included ClickUp because of its comprehensive feature set and flexibility, offering teams an all-in-one solution for project management and reporting. It proves suitable for a wide range of project types and sizes.

For more information, check out our full ClickUp review .

Jira Software: Best for agile project management

Jira Software is tailored for agile project management with specialized reporting features like sprint reports, burndown charts and velocity charts. These agile-centric reports give teams critical insights into their agile processes to help them optimize workflows and improve sprint planning. It’s worth considering for software development teams and those that follow scrum or kanban frameworks.

Jira offers a free plan for 10 users max. Its premium plans are the Standard plan at about $8.15 per user per month and the Premium plan at about $16 per user per month. It also offers an Enterprise plan that’s billed annually. However, you need to contact Jira for a quote.

• Sprint reports for tracking sprint progress ( Figure H ).
• Burndown charts for visualizing task completion.
• Velocity charts for assessing team performance over sprints.
• Cumulative flow diagrams for Kanban teams.

Jira has extensive integrations with development tools like Bitbucket, Confluence, GitHub, Opsgenie, Jenkins and Dynatrace.

• Tailored for agile project management.
• Comprehensive reporting for scrum and kanban teams.
• Wide range of integrations with development tools.
• Primarily focused on software development teams.
• Can be complex for non-technical users.

Why we chose Jira Software

Jira Software has robust agile reporting features and is capable of providing deep insights into agile project management processes, especially for teams practicing scrum or kanban methodologies.

For more information, check out our full Jira Software review .

Tableau: Best for data visualization

Tableau sets the standard for data visualization, offering a wide range of chart types and interactive dashboards that make complex data understandable at a glance. As reporting software, it offers a user-friendly interface and powerful data handling capabilities for users to create detailed and insightful visual reports.

Tableau’s pricing starts at $15 per user per month, with its highest tier costing $75 per user per month, both billed annually.

• Wide range of visualization options.
• User-friendly interface for non-technical users ( Figure I ).
• Powerful data handling and processing capabilities.

Tableau’s top integrations include Salesforce, Google Analytics, Microsoft Excel, Amazon Redshift and Snowflake.

• Leading data visualization capabilities.
• Intuitive interface for easy use.
• Strong data connectivity options.
• Higher price point compared to some competitors.
• Can require significant resources for large datasets.

Why we chose Tableau

We considered Tableau because of its unparalleled data visualization capabilities and user-friendly interface. It should make it to your shortlist if your teams value both data accessibility and detailed reporting.

For more information, check out our full Tableau review .

Power BI: Best for Microsoft ecosystem integration

Power BI is a key player in the reporting and analytics space, especially for those deeply embedded in the Microsoft ecosystem. Its seamless integration with other Microsoft products, like Excel and Azure, makes it a no-brainer for teams that want compatibility and ease of use with their reporting tools. What makes it a great reporting and analytics tool is its ability to handle large datasets and provide advanced analytics, including AI capabilities and custom visualizations.

Power BI offers a free version, with premium plans starting at $10 per user per month for the Pro plan and $20 per user per month for the Premium plan.

• Seamless integration with Microsoft products.
• Advanced analytics with AI capabilities.
• Custom visualizations for personalized reporting ( Figure J ).

Aside from a variety of tools in the Microsoft ecosystem like Microsoft Office 365, Power BI’s top integrations include Asana, HubSpot, Google Sheets and Salesforce Pardot.

• Strong Microsoft integration.
• Comprehensive analytics and AI features.
• Flexible pricing with a robust free version.
• Can be complex for new users.
• Limited integration outside the Microsoft ecosystem.

Why we chose Power BI

We chose Power BI due to its strong analytics capabilities combined with its seamless integration with tools in the Microsoft ecosystem. It’s a particularly fitting choice for teams that already use Microsoft products.

For more information, check out our full Power BI review .

Key features of reporting software

Real-time analytics.

Real-time analytics allows users to view, assess and analyze data as it flows into the business, which can be displayed on dashboards or reports. With this, users get to make decisions faster since they get instant, descriptive insights from the most current data.

Custom reports

Custom reports save time as they automate the data gathering and report generation processes. After the initial setup, reporting processes can be entirely streamlined, with live data feeds ensuring that any additional requests can be quickly addressed by making changes to existing reports.

Dashboard customization

Dashboard customization is crucial in reporting software as it allows users to set up their reporting environment based on their needs. Custom dashboards can provide in-depth data on various aspects of business operations, illustrating potential revenue and areas where improvements are needed. Businesses can mix and match data sources for a comprehensive view of their digital environment.

Automated reporting

This kind of reporting streamlines the process of generating regular reports and reduces the manual effort required while making sure that stakeholders receive timely updates. Users can schedule report generation and ensure that reports are always current and reflect the latest data.

Data visualization

Data visualization transforms complex datasets into graphical representations, making it easier to understand trends, patterns and outliers. This feature helps to make data more accessible and actionable, which enables users to quickly grasp the insights presented in the data.

How do I choose the best reporting software for my business?

First things first, when it comes to choosing the best reporting software for you, you must match a tool’s capabilities to your needs. For small to medium-sized businesses, tools like Zoho Analytics and ClickUp offer a vast feature set at a more accessible price point, which makes them great options when seeking value without compromising on functionality. Larger enterprises or those with more complex reporting and data analysis needs might lean towards Power BI or Tableau, known for their advanced analytics and integration within larger ecosystems.

Consider the types of reports you need, the data you’re working with and who will be using the tool. For teams that prioritize real-time data and collaboration, monday.com and Asana provide user-friendly interfaces and seamless integration with other productivity tools. On the other hand, if your focus is on in-depth data analysis and visualization, Tableau’s extensive customization options and Power BI’s deep Microsoft integration stand out.

In essence, the best reporting tool is one that not only fits your budget and technical requirements but also grows with your business, adapting to changing needs and helping you make informed decisions based on accurate, up-to-date data.

Methodology

Our approach to identifying the top reporting tools for 2024 involved a detailed examination of each tool’s core features, ease of use, use cases and pricing. This allowed us to provide popular tools that cut across industries, use cases and team sizes. Additionally, we tested the tools where possible to understand how they approached reporting and compared our findings to verified reviews by real users. From this, we got to understand the pros and cons of each tool.

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Webinar recap: Best practices for managing (and supercharging) your software supply chain

October 28, 2022 By Sonatype

1 minute read time

"Everyone is responsible for delivering reliable, secure, high-quality software and you need to do it in a way that you can release frequently and with confidence." - Janet Worthington, Senior Analyst, Forrester

There's a bit of a divide on whose responsibility software supply chain management should be. Some would say it should fall to maintainers, others would argue that it's for enterprise consumers to optimize. But one thing remains true regardless of your position on the matter – there has been a 650% increase in software supply chain attacks over the past year. And as threats continue to ramp up, the most critical question to answer isn't whose responsibility it definitively is, it's whether or not your organization can properly address the risks they're facing. Sonatype and Forrester's recent webinar presented the latest research related to software supply chain management and provided insights on best practices from some of the leaders on the front line of DevSecOps .

You can enjoy the full webinar here .

Topics of conversation include:

• How peer organizations are already addressing the challenge of software supply chain management.
• Strategies for balancing the needs of functional stakeholders like development, security, operations, and legal. 
• The metrics used to measure and demonstrate success to leadership.

Who you'll be hearing from:

• Brian Fox , CTO, Sonatype
• Janet Worthington , Senior Analyst, Forrester
• Jonathan Meadows , Head of Cloud Cybersecurity Engineering and Software Supply Chain Security, Citibank and Tech Fellow, Citi

Written by Sonatype

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Related resources.

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How DevOps evolved into DevSecOps: Embracing security in software development

Mastering SBOMs: Best practices