Best Engineering Resource Management Software Shortlist
Here’s my pick of the 10 best software from the 20 tools reviewed.
Get free help from our project management software advisors to find your match.
Choosing the right engineering resource management software can be challenging, given the numerous options available. The goal is to streamline engineering projects, allocate resources effectively, and enhance productivity, but figuring out the best tool can be difficult.
However, there's no need to worry. Drawing from my extensive experience with various digital project management tools, I can help you select the best tool for your needs. Here are my picks for the best engineering resource management software.
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Best Engineering Resource Management Software Summary
We’ve researched the pricing and availability of free trials and demo versions so you can make a much simpler side-by-side comparison.
Tool | Best For | Trial Info | Price | ||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Scoro Scoro's resource planning feature allows users to plan work, book resources based on need, and evaluate utilization. | Best for advanced resource booking | 14-day free trial + free demo available | From $26/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
2 | Hubstaff Tasks Hubstaff Tasks enables effective project planning, tracking, and team collaboration. | Best for remote team management | 14-day free trial | From $5/user/month | Website |
3 | Silverbucket Silverbucket is engineering resource management software that enables project planning, allocation, and tracking. | Best for project-driven firm resourcing | 30-day free trial | From $9.50/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
4 | Accelo Accelo is an engineering resource management software that helps with project planning, tracking, and collaboration. | Best for service operations automation | 7-day free trial + free live demo | From $20/user/month | Website |
5 | Resource Guru Resource Guru is an engineering resource management software for scheduling, allocating and tracking project resources for teams. | Best for team scheduling and availability | 30-day free trial | From $4.16/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
6 | Celoxis Celoxis is an engineering resource management software that offers project planning, tracking, and collaboration tools for teams. | Best for advanced project analytics | 14-day free trial + free demo available | From $25/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
7 | Productive Productive optimizes project planning, tracking, and collaboration for engineering firms. | Best for agency profitability tracking | 14-day free trial | From $9/month (billed annually) | Website |
8 | Hub Planner Hub Planner's resource management feature helps you visualize and allocate resources for various projects. | Best for balancing multiple engineering projects | 14-day free trial + free demo available | From $7/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
9 | Runn Runn is an engineering resource management software that offers project planning, resource allocation, and team collaboration. | Best for real-time resource planning | 14-day free trial + free plan available | From $10/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
10 | Saviom Saviom is analytics-rich engineering resource management software that tracks utilization and budgets, and forecasts workforce availability with detailed analytics. | Best for enterprise resource optimization | 60-day free trial | Pricing upon request | Website |
How To Choose Engineering Resource Management Software
Remember the following points as you work through your unique software selection process.
- Scalability: Engineering projects can vary greatly in size and complexity, as should your resource management software. Choose a solution that can grow with your business and handle increasing projects and resources.
- Integration Capabilities: The software should work well with your existing tools. Integration with existing systems like ERP, CRM, or CAD tools ensures that data flows smoothly between different areas of your business.
- Real-Time Data: Access to up-to-date information is important for making informed decisions. The right software will offer real-time insights into resource allocation, availability, and utilization. This is particularly important in engineering, where project timelines and resource needs can change rapidly.
- Customization: Every engineering firm has unique processes and needs. Your chosen software should be customizable to fit your specific workflows and reporting requirements.
- User-Friendly Interface: The software should be easy for all team members, regardless of their technical expertise. A user-friendly interface ensures team members can quickly learn and use the software, which is essential for maintaining productivity.
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Wrike
This is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.2 -
actiTIME
This is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.4 -
monday.com
This is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.6
Best Engineering Resource Management Software Reviews
Discover detailed evaluations and summaries of the top engineering resource management software available today.
Scoro is an all-in-one business management solution that consolidates essential functions like project, resource, financial, and client management.
Why I Picked Scoro:
One of the key strengths of Scoro is its real-time overview of team availability and workload, which allows for the efficient allocation of engineering tasks and projects. This feature is essential in ensuring that engineering teams are neither overburdened nor underutilized. Additionally, Scoro’s resource booking feature supports advanced filters and tags, enabling managers to assign tasks based on specific engineering skills and availability.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include its project management tool, which offers comprehensive project planning and tracking capabilities, ensuring that engineering projects stay on schedule and within budget. The time tracking feature allows engineers to log their hours accurately while its financial management tools enable budgeting and expense tracking.
Integrations include Google Calendar, Xero, QuickBooks, Sage Intacct, Exact Online, Expensify, Stripe, Jira, HubSpot, Salesforce, Google Drive, Dropbox, Okta, Azure AD, and Zapier.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Features a customizable real-time dashboard
- Offers extensive project and financial management tools
- Integrates multiple business processes into one platform
Cons:
- Mobile app offers less functionality than web version
- Complexity of customization options
Hubstaff Tasks maximizes workflows using automated procedures and agile approaches, making it a good choice for teams across several locations.
Why I Picked Hubstaff Tasks:
I chose Hubstaff Tasks for its suite of features tailored for managing remote teams. It can simplify task management and communication, which is essential for maintaining productivity in dispersed teams. Hubstaff Tasks is best for remote team management because it integrates time tracking with task management, enabling managers to monitor and optimize team efficiency remotely.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include Agile project management tools, including Kanban boards and Sprints, vital for iterative and flexible planning in remote settings. The platform also includes built-in time tracking that syncs with tasks. Its automated stand-up feature keeps team members aligned and informed about daily and weekly priorities.
Integrations include Hubstaff time tracking, Jira, Trello, Asana, QuickBooks, Slack, GitHub, GitLab, Salesforce, and Zendesk.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Automated stand-ups feature enhances daily team coordination
- Tools like Kanban boards make the platform ideal for remote teams
- Integrated time tracking with project management tasks
Cons:
- May require additional tools for complete business management solutions
- Primarily focused on Agile methodologies, which might not suit all project management styles
Silverbucket enables the precise tracking of resource availability and competencies, which helps to optimize job distribution and project planning.
Why I Picked Silverbucket:
I selected Silverbucket for its specialized focus on project-driven resource management. It stands out as its interface simplifies complex resource planning and forecasting. Silverbucket is best for project-driven firm resourcing because it allows for a clear visualization of resource utilization.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include its graphical resource planning tool, which provides a clear overview of resource allocations and availability. The tool offers forecasting capabilities, which help managers plan for future projects. Additionally, Silverbucket supports customizable data fields and reports, allowing firms to tailor the system to specific needs.
Integrations include Microsoft Project, Jira, SAP, Oracle, Salesforce, Excel, Trello, Slack, Google Calendar, and Outlook.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Graphic resource planning and forecasting tools
- Customizable to meet specific firm needs
- Supports a view of resource utilization across projects
Cons:
- Pricing information is not transparent
- May require integration with additional tools for complete project management
Accelo is an engineering resource management software that automates and integrates sales, project management, and client services. It simplifies service delivery and aims to improve engineering firms' operational efficiency.
Why I Picked Accelo:
I chose Accelo because it automates complex processes to cater to the needs of service-driven businesses. What makes it stand out is its integration of various service operations into a single platform, making it easier to manage workflows. Accelo is best for service operations automation, offering tailored solutions that increase productivity and client satisfaction.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include automated project management tools that track real-time progress. The platform also features CRM functionalities that maintain all client interactions and history in one place. Additionally, its reporting capabilities provide detailed insights into business performance.
Integrations include Google Workspace, Office 365, Salesforce, HubSpot, Xero, QuickBooks, Slack, Jira, Zapier, and Stripe.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Integration of service operations
- Real-time project tracking and budget management
- Centralized CRM and enhanced client relationship management
Cons:
- Higher cost per user compared to some alternatives
- Primarily beneficial for service-oriented companies, less so for others
Resource Guru is an engineering resource management software that provides a straightforward, color-coded calendar interface for scheduling, managing, and optimizing team member assignments.
Why I Picked Resource Guru:
I chose Resource Guru because its user-friendly calendar interface and management features distinguish it from other scheduling tools. It is best for team scheduling and availability because it simplifies and provides clear views of resource allocations.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include a drag-and-drop scheduling calendar, leave management features, and reporting tools that provide insights into resource utilization and project status.
Integrations include Google Calendar, Outlook Calendar, iCal, Slack, Zapier, API access, Asana, Trello, and Microsoft Teams.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Intuitive drag-and-drop calendar interface
- Effective leave management system
- Detailed reporting features
Cons:
- No mobile app at present
- Some features are confusing for some users
Celoxis is engineering resource management software that provides a workload and resource allocation grid. It can show optimal, under-allocated, and over-allocated periods for team members across several engineering projects.
Why I Picked Celoxis:
I chose Celoxis because of its analytics capabilities, essential for projects requiring detailed oversight and data-driven decision-making. It stands out from other project management tools because it can handle complex scenarios and deliver insights into project performance. Celoxis is best for advanced project analytics because it allows managers to forecast project outcomes, track KPIs, and adjust strategies based on real-time data.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include project scheduling, which includes interactive and customizable Gantt charts. Its risk management module helps identify potential project risks, enabling proactive interventions. The financial management tools are also noteworthy, offering detailed budgeting, cost tracking, and profitability analysis.
Integrations include Salesforce, QuickBooks, Excel, Microsoft Project, Jira, Slack, Google Drive, Box, and Zapier.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Strong integration capabilities with other enterprise tools
- Risk and financial management features
- Advanced analytical tools and customizable dashboards
Cons:
- It can be overkill for smaller projects or teams
- Steeper learning curve due to complex features
Productive is an engineering resource management software that offers a scheduling interface for detailed planning.
Why I Picked Productive:
I chose Productive because it meets the needs of engineering agencies looking to track and improve profitability. Its focus on agency workflows, including budget tracking, profitability analysis, and resource allocation, sets it apart from other business management tools. Productive is best for agency profitability tracking because it integrates financial and project data into a single platform, offering a clear financial health view.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include budgeting tools and scheduling features that integrate with resource management. It also offers detailed profitability reports, breaking down profitability by project, client, or team member.
Integrations include Slack, QuickBooks, Xero, Zapier, Google Calendar, Outlook, Trello, and Asana.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Tailored specifically for agency workflows
- Budgeting and profitability tracking
- Integrates well with popular tools and services
Cons:
- Project management features are limited
- May require a learning curve for some users
Hub Planner is a resource management tool designed to help teams plan, schedule, and track resources effectively. It provides a clear view of who is working on what and when, making it easy to manage team availability and project workloads.
Why I Picked Hub Planner:
For engineering teams, Hub Planner makes it simple to manage workloads, especially when balancing multiple projects and tight deadlines. Its real-time visibility into resource availability allows you to allocate engineers based on their skills and current workload. The tool also helps you ensure your engineers aren’t overbooked by providing detailed capacity planning and forecasting features.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include time tracking, which allows your team to log billable hours and compare them against planned hours. The project budgeting feature helps keep costs under control by tracking actual vs. projected spending. Additionally, Hub Planner’s drag-and-drop interface makes it easy to adjust schedules and assignments on the go.
Integrations include Slack, Google Calendar, Outlook, Microsoft Teams, Okta, Basecamp, Azure, and Power Automate.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Easy-to-use drag-and-drop scheduler
- Detailed capacity planning tools
- Skill-based task assignments
Cons:
- Could offer more native integrations
- Interface can feel cluttered with complex projects
Runn is a project and resource management tool designed to help businesses forecast and track project progress in real time. It aims to balance capacity planning with project tracking to optimize team performance and project delivery.
Why I Picked Runn:
I choose Runn as a standout tool in resource management because of its real-time capabilities, which are critical for timely decision-making. Unlike other tools offering delayed reports, Runn provides up-to-the-minute updates on resource allocation and project budgets. I consider it best for real-time resource planning because it lets managers make informed adjustments quickly.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include forecasting tools that help predict project needs and manage workforce allocation effectively. The platform's interface includes interactive charts and reporting tools that give insights into profitability and utilization rates. Additionally, the platform allows team members to update their timesheets and project managers to adjust schedules in real time.
Integrations include Asana, Trello, Jira, Clockify, QuickBooks, Xero, Google Calendar, Microsoft Outlook, Slack, and Zapier.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- User-friendly interface for scheduling and adjustments
- Forecasting capabilities
- Real-time updates on resource and project tracking
Cons:
- Limited customization options for reports and dashboards
- Might be complex for small teams or simpler projects
Saviom is a resource management solution for large enterprises looking to optimize workforce and project allocations. It provides resource utilization tools for strategic planning, forecasting, and real-time visibility.
Why I Picked Saviom:
I chose Saviom because it can handle complex, large-scale resource management challenges that enterprises often face. It stands out from other resource management tools due to its focus on strategic planning and its ability to handle the dynamics of a global workforce. Saviom is best for enterprise resource optimization because it offers analytics and scenario planning tools that help businesses maximize resource efficiency and project profitability.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include real-time availability tracking, which helps deploy resources effectively. Its scenario planning feature allows managers to simulate various resource allocation strategies before implementing them. Further, Saviom's reporting capabilities provide insights into key performance indicators.
Saviom integrates natively with Microsoft Project, Microsoft Excel, SAP, Oracle, Salesforce, Google Workspace, Jira, ServiceNow, QuickBooks, and Xero.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Solid integrations with enterprise-level software
- Real-time visibility into resource utilization
- Resource forecasting and strategic planning tools
Cons:
- May be overly complex for smaller organizations
- Pricing transparency is limited
Other Engineering Resource Management Software Reviews
Below is a list of additional engineering resource management software that we shortlisted, but did not make it to the top list.
- eResource Scheduler
For centralized resource management
- Paymo
For small business productivity
- Forecast
For AI-driven project insights
- monday.com
Good for workflow customization
- Smartsheet
Good for spreadsheet users
- Kantata
Good for resource forecasting
- ClickTime
Good for time tracking
- Tempo Portfolio Manager
Good for dynamic scheduling
- MRPeasy
Good for small manufacturers
Related Project Management Software Reviews
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Engineering Resource Management Software Selection Criteria
Selecting the correct engineering resource management software involves evaluating each tool's core features, onboarding processes, customer support, and customer feedback to ensure it meets the needs of engineering projects.
As an expert who has personally tried and researched these tools, I use the following requirements when evaluating software.
Core Functionality (25% of total weighting score):
- Resource allocation and scheduling
- Capacity planning
- Time tracking
- Budget management
- Reporting and analytics
Additional Standout Features (25% of total weighting score):
- Advanced automation
- Customization options
- Innovative integration capabilities
- Mobile accessibility and functionality
- Real-time collaboration features
Usability (10% of total weighting score):
- User-friendly interface
- Responsive design
- A balance between power and simplicity
Onboarding (10% of total weighting score):
- Interactive tutorials and product tours
- Documentation and online resources
- Support during setup
Customer Support - 10% of total weighting score:
- Accessibility of support
- Quality of support
- Proactive support
Value For Money (10% of total weighting score):
- Pricing transparency
- Cost-effectiveness
- Scalability
Customer Reviews (10% of total weighting score):
- Consistency in positive feedback
- Handling of negative reviews
- Long-term user satisfaction
Trends In Engineering Resource Management Software
Here are some trends I’ve noticed in engineering resource management software technology. I sourced product updates, press releases, and release logs to extract the most important insights.
- Integration of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: AI and machine learning are increasingly integrated into engineering resource management software. This trend transforms project forecasting, optimizes resource allocation, and even predicts project risks before they become evident.
- Enhanced Real-Time Collaboration Features: As remote work continues to rise, there's a growing demand for features that support real-time collaboration across geographical locations. Engineering resource management software increasingly focuses on improving chat functions, document sharing, and real-time updates within project timelines.
- Focus on Mobile Optimization: With the workforce becoming more mobile, there's an uptrend in the development of mobile-optimized solutions that manage resources on the go. This trend addresses the need for constant accessibility without compromising the functionality available on desktop versions.
- Sustainability and Cost-Reduction Features: There's an increasing emphasis on features that promote sustainability and cost management, which directly responds to the global push towards more eco-friendly business practices. This includes functionalities for better resource utilization tracking, waste reduction in project processes, and tools for more efficient budget management.
- Decline in Single-Function Solutions: The trend is moving away from single-function tools toward more integrated solutions. As digital project management becomes more complex, the demand for tools that only offer one functionality is decreasing.
Advancements in engineering resource management software are driving improvements in project efficiency, collaboration, sustainability, and tool integration.
What Is Engineering Resource Management Software?
Engineering resource management software is designed to help engineering teams and project managers efficiently allocate personnel, equipment, and materials. This ensures projects are completed on time and within budget, thereby enhancing overall productivity and cost-effectiveness. The resource management software includes features such as scheduling, resource allocation, and utilization tracking. It provides visibility over resource availability and project demands, supporting informed decision-making and effective project execution.
Additionally, the software often integrates with other project management tools, allowing for project oversight. By offering real-time updates and analytics, it enables teams to anticipate potential bottlenecks and adjust plans accordingly, ensuring smoother project workflows and optimal resource use.
Features Of Engineering Resource Management Software
When selecting engineering resource management software, consider the features that will support project success and efficient resource allocation. The right software can make a difference in project outcomes, so look for the following features.
- Resource Scheduling: This feature allows for the planning and allocation of resources to various projects.
- Time Tracking: Accurate tracking is vital for billing and understanding the time spent on specific tasks.
- Skill Tracking: Observing the workforce's skills and competencies allows better matching to project needs.
- Capacity Planning: This feature helps to forecast resource needs based on current and future projects.
- Project Management Integration: Integrating with project management tools is necessary for a holistic view of projects and resources.
- Real-Time Analytics: Access to real-time resource utilization and data availability improves decision-making.
- Financial Management: This feature provides insights into the economic aspects of resource management, such as cost tracking and budgeting.
- Collaboration Tools: Effective communication is key in engineering projects, and collaboration tools facilitate this.
- Customizable Reports: The ability to generate tailored reports helps present data relevant to stakeholders.
- User-Friendly Interface: A straightforward interface reduces the learning curve and increases adoption rates.
- Forecasting: Predicting future trends or demands based on current and historical data.
- Dashboards: Interfaces that display key performance indicators and metrics in a consolidated view simplify processes.
- Automation: Using technology to perform tasks without human intervention speeds up workflows.
- Resource Scheduling: Planning when and how resources will be used over time makes processes efficient.
- Gantt Charts: Visual representations of project schedules showing elements' start and finish dates aid with planning.
- Timesheets: Records of the time each team member spends on various tasks help with employee time management.
- Notifications: Alerts that inform users about important events or updates keep stakeholders updated.
- Portfolio Management: Managing projects or investments to achieve strategic objectives helps with organization.
- Project Scheduling: Planning the sequence of tasks and their timelines in a project helps keep tasks on track.
- Templates: Pre-designed structures or formats that can be used as a starting point for new documents or projects can save time.
- Invoicing: Creating and sending client bills for services rendered helps with cash flow.
- Mobile Apps: Software designed for mobile devices like smartphones and tablets helps you complete business transactions on the go.
- Team Collaboration: Features that enable team members to work together more effectively make employees more productive.
Benefits Of Engineering Resource Management Software
Engineering resource management software helps improve resource allocation, project tracking, and productivity. Here are five key benefits these software solutions provide to users and organizations.
- Improved Resource Allocation: Engineering resource management software enables precise tracking and allocation of resources. This leads to more efficient resource use and reduced downtime.
- Enhanced Visibility and Control: Users gain an overview of all resources and projects, which allows for better decision-making and control over the engineering process. This visibility helps identify potential bottlenecks and address them proactively.
- Better Collaboration and Communication: The project management software improves team members' communication by providing a centralized information-sharing platform. This ensures that everyone is on the same page.
- Accurate Forecasting and Planning: The software provides detailed data on resource usage and project timelines. This helps organizations anticipate needs and prepare accordingly, avoiding last-minute scrambles for resources.
- Increased Productivity and Efficiency: By automating many of the routine tasks associated with resource management, the software allows teams to focus on the core aspects of their projects. This can lead to increased productivity and efficiency within the organization.
Adopting engineering resource management software can boost productivity and profitability, making it a potentially good investment.
Costs & Pricing Of Engineering Resource Management Software
When choosing engineering resource management software, evaluate the available plans and their associated costs. Below is a detailed overview of common plan options, average pricing, and key features to help you find a solution that fits your needs and budget.
Plan Comparison Table for Engineering Resource Management Software
Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
Free | $0 | Access to basic features, limited users, community support, basic resource scheduling |
Basic | $5 - $15/ user/month | Basic resource management, some reporting capabilities, email support, user limits |
Professional | $20 - $50/ user/month | Advanced resource scheduling, real-time collaboration, full reporting, priority support |
Enterprise | Custom pricing | Create customizable features, unlimited users, dedicated support, advanced security, in-depth analytics |
Each plan caters to different team sizes and project complexities. Choose a plan that provides the necessary features without extra costs.
Engineering Resource Management Software FAQs
Here are some of the frequently asked questions I get asked about engineering resource management software.
How does engineering resource management software improve project delivery?
Engineering resource management software simplifies project planning and execution by providing tools for resource allocation, scheduling, and capacity planning. It ensures that the right resources are available at the right times, reducing delays and increasing efficiency in project delivery.
Can engineering resource management software integrate with other business systems?
Yes, most modern engineering resource management software can integrate with various business systems such as ERP, CRM, accounting software, and other project management tools. Integration allows for data flow and enhances visibility across all business operations.
Is engineering resource management software suitable for small firms?
Absolutely. While it’s beneficial for large organizations managing multiple large-scale projects, small firms can also leverage it to optimize their resource use, improve project tracking, and enhance client reporting, making them more competitive. How does engineering resource management software handle resource conflicts?
Most software includes conflict detection algorithms that alert managers when resources are double-booked or when there are scheduling conflicts. This allows for timely adjustments to resource allocations and ensures smooth project execution.
What kind of reporting capabilities does engineering resource management software provide?
It typically offers a range of reporting capabilities, from basic resource utilization and project status reports to advanced financial and performance analytics. Customizable dashboards allow managers to focus on metrics that matter most to their specific projects and business goals.
How is ROI calculated when implementing engineering resource management software?
ROI can be calculated by comparing the costs saved through more efficient resource management, reduced downtime, and streamlined operations against the software cost. Improvements in project delivery times and reduction in cost overruns also contribute to the ROI.
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