18 Best Project Management Software For Education Reviewed In 2024
Best Project Management Software for Education Shortlist
Here’s my pick of the 10 best software from the 18 tools reviewed.
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A project management software tailored for education can help you streamline your educational projects, manage coursework, and enhance collaboration among students and educators. However, with the variety of software options on the market, selecting the right one can be daunting. I understand this struggle, and I'm here to guide you through it.
Based on my extensive experience in digital project management and having utilized a variety of productivity tools across educational settings, I’ll share my recommendations for the best project management software for education.
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Best Project Management Software for Education Summary
This comparison table summarizes basic details about each of my selections of the top project management software for education. You can view pricing details and the availability of free trials or demos side-by-side to help you find the best project management software for your budget and business needs.
| Tools | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Trello | From $5/user/month (billed annually) + free plan available | Website |
| ProofHub | From $79/month (billed annually) | Website |
| Podio | From $11.20/user/month (billed annually) + free plan available | Website |
| Adobe Workfront | Pricing upon request | Website |
| OpenProject | From $8.50/user/month (min of 5 seats) | Website |
| Blackboard | From $9,500.00/year | Website |
| Canvas | From $760/year/500 users | Website |
| nTask | From $3/user/month (min 5 seats) | Website |
| Smartsheet | From $26/user/month (billed annually) + free plan available. | Website |
| Zoho Projects | From $4/user/month (billed annually) + free plan available | Website |
Compare Software Specs Side by Side
Use our comparison chart to review and evaluate software specs side-by-side.
Compare SoftwareHow To Choose Project Management Software For Education
As you work through your unique software selection process, keep the following points in mind:
- User-Friendly Interface: The software should be intuitive and easy to navigate for educators who may not be tech-savvy. A user-friendly interface ensures that teachers and administrators can quickly adapt to the software, minimizing training time and allowing them to focus on educational outcomes. For instance, a straightforward dashboard where educators can track assignments and deadlines can significantly reduce the learning curve.
- Collaboration Features: Look for tools that enhance collaboration among students, teachers, and staff. The software should support file sharing, group discussions, and real-time updates to facilitate teamwork on projects and assignments. For example, a project management tool that allows students to work together on group projects remotely can be invaluable for fostering collaboration.
- Customization and Scalability: The software must be able to accommodate the changing needs of an educational institution. Customization allows the software to be tailored to specific educational processes, while scalability ensures it can handle an increasing number of users or projects without performance issues. An example is the ability to customize workflows for different types of educational projects, such as research, event planning, or curriculum development.
- Integration Capabilities: Ensure the software can integrate with other tools and systems already in use, such as learning management systems (LMS) or student information systems (SIS). This integration is crucial for maintaining data consistency and streamlining processes. For instance, integrating project management software with an LMS can allow for automatic updates on student progress and assignment completion.
- Budget and Cost Effectiveness: Educational institutions often operate within tight budgets, so the software must provide good value for money. Consider both upfront costs and long-term expenses, including maintenance and upgrades. For example, a project management tool with a flexible pricing plan can be more cost-effective for schools that only need certain features or have a fluctuating number of users.
Best Project Management Software for Education Reviews
Here are my detailed thoughts on each software on this list, including what they do best and where they struggle.
Trello simplifies project management through its highly visual, card-based layout. It excels in visual project tracking due to its intuitive board and card system that allows users to see progress at a glance.
Why I Picked Trello: I chose Trello for its user-friendly interface and visual appeal, which are crucial for effective project tracking and management. Its visual nature allows for easy status updates and task prioritization, distinguishing it from less visual tools. I believe Trello is best for visual project tracking because it transforms project management into a clear and easily navigable visual space, enhancing team coordination and workflow visibility.
Standout features and integrations:
Features include customizable boards for project organization, lists for workflow stages, cards for task details, Butler for automation, Power-Ups for integrations, calendar and timeline views for tracking deadline.
Integrations include Slack, Google Drive, Dropbox, Microsoft Teams, Jira, Confluence, Salesforce, GitHub, Evernote, and Mailchimp.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Broad integration with other tools
- Extensive customization options
- Intuitive drag-and-drop interface
Cons:
- Relies on internet connectivity for updates
- Limited reporting features
ProofHub is a versatile project management tool that centralizes tasks, discussions, and documents for streamlined team collaboration.
Why I Picked ProofHub: I selected ProofHub for its comprehensive approach to project management and team collaboration, which distinguishes it from other tools in the market. I judge ProofHub to be the best for all-in-one team collaboration because it effectively combines task assignments, file sharing, time tracking, and communication tools in one place, facilitating better teamwork and project oversight.
Standout features and integrations:
Features include Kanban boards for task management, Gantt charts for planning, custom roles for team organization, and document collaboration tools. It also provides time-tracking and reporting capabilities.
Integrations include Google Drive, OneDrive, Dropbox, Box, Google Calendar, iCal, Slack, QuickBooks, FreshBooks, and Zapier.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Flat-rate pricing model
- Comprehensive set of project management and collaboration features
- Unlimited users and projects
Cons:
- Some integrations may incur extra costs
- Additional storage beyond the allocated amount requires upgrading
Podio is a versatile platform that simplifies project management. It excels at providing low-code solutions for business processes and workflows.
Why I Picked Podio: I selected Podio for its distinctive low-code platform that facilitates customization and flexibility, setting it apart from other project management tools. I judge Podio to be the best for low-code business solutions because it enables users, particularly in the education sector, to develop tailored applications and workflows with minimal coding expertise.
Standout features and integrations:
Features include custom applications, automated workflows, and collaborative workspaces. It also offers task management and data visualization tools.
Integrations include Google Drive, Dropbox, Evernote, Zendesk, FreshBooks, Campaign Monitor, GoToMeeting, Gmail, Google Calendar, and Excel.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Robust data visualization and reporting tools
- Comprehensive task management features
- Customizable applications and workflows
Cons:
- Annual billing may not be flexible for all institutions
- Limited information on educational-specific pricing
Workfront is an enterprise work management solution that helps teams prioritize and execute projects at scale. Its comprehensive set of tools streamlines project progression and enhances visibility across tasks.
Why I Picked Workfront: I chose Workfront for its ability to address the challenges of missed deadlines, duplication of effort, and employee burnout in a fast-paced work environment. Its central dashboard and real-time updates make it stand out from other project management software. I believe Workfront is the best for marketing and project workflows because it provides a proactive platform for managing every step of projects, ensuring alignment with company strategy, and prioritizing work that drives desired outcomes.
Standout features and integrations:
Features include work automation, goal alignment, scenario planning, budget and expense management, workflow management, proofing and approvals, agile work management, and reporting dashboards.
Integrations include Adobe Creative Cloud, Microsoft Teams, Slack, Jira, Salesforce, Box, Google Drive, Dropbox, Oracle, and SAP.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Centralized dashboard for strategic prioritization and execution
- Real-time visibility into project status and resource utilization
- Comprehensive feature set for project management
Cons:
- Customization and advanced features require higher-tier plans
- Pricing information is not readily available
OpenProject is a comprehensive project management solution that facilitates collaboration and communication throughout the entire project lifecycle.
Why I Picked OpenProject: I chose OpenProject for this list due to its versatility and adaptability to various project management styles. Its open-source nature allows for extensive customization, making it a standout choice for teams that require flexibility in their project management tools. I believe OpenProject is the best for open-source project management because it provides a secure and transparent environment for teams to collaborate, with the added benefit of being able to modify the source code to suit specific project needs.
Standout features and integrations:
Features include project portfolio management, task management, Gantt charts for project planning, agile boards for Scrum and Kanban methodologies, time tracking, cost reporting, and budgeting. It also emphasizes team collaboration with tools like forums, wikis, and meeting management.
Integrations include Nextcloud, OneDrive/SharePoint, GitHub, GitLab, SVN, and GIT repositories, and offers a powerful REST API for further integrations.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Open-source platform allows for customization and flexibility
- Supports various project management methodologies
- Comprehensive set of features for project planning, tracking, and collaboration
Cons:
- The interface and user experience might be less modern compared to some proprietary solutions
- The open-source version may lack some advanced features available in paid plans
Blackboard is a comprehensive Learning Management System (LMS) for educational institutions.
Why I Picked Blackboard: I chose Blackboard for this list because of its strong reputation in the education sector and its comprehensive suite of tools that cater specifically to the needs of educational institutions. Blackboard stands out from other LMS platforms with its focus on enhancing the learning experience through advanced collaboration tools and analytics. I believe Blackboard is the best for educational institutions because it provides a dynamic learning environment that can be tailored to the diverse needs of students and educators, fostering engagement and improving outcomes.
Standout features and integrations:
Features include virtual classrooms, content creation tools, assessment and grading, learning analytics, and mobile learning support.
Integrations include Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Google Classroom, Turnitin, Panopto, SafeAssign, VoiceThread, Collaborate Ultra, Kaltura, and Respondus.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Offers a virtual classroom environment that supports real-time collaboration and engagement
- Provides robust assessment and grading tools for various types of evaluations
- Features comprehensive reporting and analytics to track student progress and improve learning outcomes
Cons:
- Some features may fall short compared to the market standards
- The content authoring tools may not be as advanced as some users desire
Canvas is a learning management system that supports educational development. It excels in fostering equitable edtech ecosystems through its inclusive design.
Why I Picked Canvas: I selected Canvas for its ability to adapt to a range of educational environments and its commitment to equity in education technology. It distinguishes itself by offering an environment where all learners have equal access to educational tools. I judge Canvas to be the best for equitable edtech ecosystems because it ensures that every student benefits from the same high-quality educational technology, regardless of their background or learning style.
Standout features and integrations:
Features include Canvas LMS and Canvas Studio. It also includes analytics and assessment features.
Integrations include G Suite, Microsoft Teams, and Adobe.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Extensive integration capabilities with educational services
- Robust course creation, assessment, and management features
- Comprehensive suite of educational tools
Cons:
- Complexity of features may be daunting for new users
- Potential need for educator training to leverage the full feature set
nTask is a comprehensive project management tool that streamlines tasks, projects, issues, risks, meetings, and time tracking.
Why I Picked nTask: I chose nTask for this list because it provides a robust and integrated platform for managing all aspects of a project in one place. Its ability to handle a wide range of project management tasks makes it stand out from other tools. I believe nTask is the best for all-in-one project management due to its comprehensive feature set that caters to various project needs, making it a versatile choice for teams looking to centralize their project management processes.
Standout features and integrations:
Features include project management, task management, Kanban boards, Gantt charts, team management, time tracking, and meeting management. It also boasts issue-tracking and risk-management capabilities.
Integrations include Google Calendar, Outlook Calendar, Apple iCal, Zapier, Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Slack.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Offers a free plan for small teams
- Integrates with over 1000+ apps
- Comprehensive all-in-one project management solution
Cons:
- Complex setup for integrations
- Limited mobile functionality
Smartsheet is a platform for work management and automation. It is best for enterprise work management due to its ability to scale from small projects to large-scale processes and entire portfolios.
Why I Picked Smartsheet: I chose Smartsheet for the list because of its comprehensive set of features that cater to a wide range of business needs, from project management to strategic transformation. Its flexibility and security make it stand out from other project management tools. I believe Smartsheet is the best for enterprise work management because it empowers users to plan, track, automate, and report on work at scale, providing the necessary tools for enterprises to manage their work efficiently.
Standout features and integrations:
Features include automated workflows, team collaboration, dashboards and reporting, Gantt charts, Kanban boards, and resource management.
Integrations include Slack, Microsoft Teams, Google Workspace, Salesforce, Adobe Creative Cloud, Jira, Power BI, Tableau, ServiceNow, Okta, Microsoft Entra ID, and Zapier.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Comprehensive set of features for enterprise work management
- Multiple views for project management
- Scalable from small projects to large-scale processes
Cons:
- May require training to fully utilize all features
- Pricing may be on the higher end for some users
Zoho Projects is a versatile project management tool that streamlines planning and collaboration for educational projects.
Why I Picked Zoho Projects: I selected Zoho Projects for its robust set of features that specifically address the complexities of managing educational projects. What makes it distinct is its ability to integrate with various other tools, which is crucial for educational settings. I believe Zoho Projects is the best for comprehensive project management because it provides an all-encompassing solution for educators and students to manage their projects efficiently, with tools that support every stage of the project lifecycle.
Standout features and integrations:
Features include detailed task management, interactive Gantt charts, and in-depth reporting capabilities. It also offers issue tracking, document management, and forums for team collaboration.
Integrations include Google Workspace, Microsoft Office 365, Slack, and GitHub.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Affordable pricing with a free plan available
- Wide range of integrations with other tools
- Comprehensive set of project management features
Cons:
- Annual billing may not be suitable for all budgets or preferences
- The free plan may be too limited for larger or more complex projects
Other Project Management Software for Education
Below is a list of additional project management software for education that I shortlisted, but did not make it to the top list. It’s worth checking them out.
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Selection Criteria for Project Management Software for Education
Selecting project management software for education involves a careful analysis of functionality and the ability to meet specific use cases that are crucial for educational institutions. The criteria for selection are directly tied to the unique needs and challenges faced by educators and administrators, ensuring that the chosen platform addresses common pain points and is tailored to the educational context.
As an expert who has personally tried and researched these tools, I have therefore developed a set of criteria that reflect the most important aspects of project management software for education.
Core Project Management Software For Education Functionality: 25% of Total Weighting Score
- Task assignment and tracking
- Collaborative workspaces
- Document management
- Scheduling and calendar integration
- Progress monitoring:
Additional Standout Features: 25% of Total Weighting Score
- Innovative communication tools
- Advanced analytics
- Customization options
- Integration capabilities
- Mobile accessibility
Usability: 10% of Total Weighting Score
- Intuitive interface design
- Learning curve
- Accessibility features
- Customizability of views
Onboarding: 10% of Total Weighting Score
- Training resources
- Setup Simplicity
- Interactive guides
- Community support
Customer Support: 10% of Total Weighting Score
- Responsiveness
- Knowledge base
- Support channels
- Service quality
Value For Money: 10% of Total Weighting Score
- Pricing transparency
- Tiered options
- Free trial availability
- Return on investment
Customer Reviews: 10% of Total Weighting Score
- Satisfaction
- Reliability
- Feature relevance
- User experience
Trends in Project Management Software for Education in 2024
The project management software landscape in the education sector continues to evolve to meet the changing needs of educational institutions and incorporate technological advancements. Here are several emerging trends that are currently impacting project management software development for education:
- Increased Focus on Automation: Automation is becoming a cornerstone in project management software for education. By automating routine tasks, educators and administrators can dedicate more time to strategic planning and student engagement. This trend is interesting because it promises to streamline workflows and reduce the administrative burden on educational institutions.
- Integration of Artificial Intelligence: Artificial intelligence (AI) is being increasingly integrated into project management tools, offering predictive analytics and decision-making support. This trend is significant as it can provide personalized learning experiences and optimize resource allocation, making educational project management more effective and data-driven.
- Emphasis on Collaborative Tools: Collaborative tools are being embedded within project management software, facilitating better communication among students, educators, and stakeholders. This trend is important as it fosters a more interactive and inclusive educational environment, promoting teamwork and shared learning experiences.
- Strategic Resource Planning: Resource planning is gaining prominence in educational project management. With a focus on aligning resources with institutional goals, this trend underscores the importance of strategic planning in achieving educational outcomes and optimizing the use of available resources.
- Adoption of Hybrid Project Management Approaches: Hybrid project management approaches that blend traditional and agile methodologies are on the rise. This trend is progressive as it allows educational institutions to be more adaptive and responsive to changes, ensuring that projects are completed efficiently and effectively.
Project management software for education is characterized by a blend of technological advancements and strategic approaches aimed at enhancing the educational experience.
What is Project Management Software for Education?
Project management software for education is a specialized tool designed to support the unique needs of educational institutions and professionals. It is utilized by educators, administrators, and students to plan, execute, and track educational projects and initiatives. The software serves as a central platform for managing coursework, research projects, and administrative tasks, facilitating collaboration, and ensuring that educational objectives are met efficiently.
Components of this software include task assignment features, scheduling capabilities, resource allocation, and progress tracking. These elements work together to provide a comprehensive overview of project timelines and resource management, enabling users to maintain focus on educational goals and deadlines.
Features of Project Management Software for Education
Project management software for education is a vital tool that helps educators and administrators plan, execute, and track educational projects effectively. The right software can make a significant difference in the success of educational initiatives. Here are the most important features to look for:
- Task Assignment and Scheduling: Assign and schedule tasks with ease. This feature allows educators to delegate responsibilities clearly and ensure that all tasks are completed on time.
- Collaborative Workspaces: Foster teamwork among students and staff. Collaborative workspaces are essential for enabling real-time communication and cooperation on projects.
- Resource Management: Keep track of resources and their allocation. Efficient resource management ensures that every project has the necessary materials and human resources to proceed without delays.
- Progress Tracking: Monitor the advancement of projects. This feature provides educators with the ability to quickly assess the status of a project and make informed decisions.
- File Sharing and Document Management: Share and manage documents centrally. Having a central location for documents prevents data loss and confusion, making information retrieval straightforward.
- Calendar Integration: Sync with academic calendars. Calendar integration helps in aligning project timelines with the academic year and important school events.
- Customizable Workflows: Tailor processes to fit educational needs. Customizable workflows allow for the adaptation of the software to the unique processes of educational institutions.
- User Permissions and Access Control: Manage who can view or edit project elements. This feature is crucial for maintaining data integrity and ensuring that sensitive information is protected.
- Reporting and Analytics: Gain insights into project performance. Reporting and analytics tools help educators understand the impact of their projects and identify areas for improvement.
- Mobile Accessibility: Access projects from anywhere. Mobile accessibility is important for educators and students who need to stay connected to their projects outside of the classroom.
Project management software for education should cater to the specific needs of the educational environment. The features listed above are designed to support educators in managing their projects with greater control and visibility.
Benefits Of Project Management Software For Education
Project management software for education offers a multitude of benefits that can transform the way educational institutions operate, manage projects, and collaborate. Here are five primary benefits that project management software can provide to users and organizations within the education sector:
- Improved Organization and Time Management: Project management software enhances the ability to organize tasks and manage time effectively. It allows educators and administrators to create detailed project plans, set deadlines, and track progress in real-time, ensuring that projects stay on schedule and resources are utilized efficiently.
- Enhanced Communication and Collaboration: These tools foster better communication and collaboration among all stakeholders, including teachers, students, administrators, and parents. Features such as real-time document editing, integrated chat, and discussion boards enable a seamless exchange of ideas and information, promoting teamwork and a sense of community.
- Streamlined Project Planning and Tracking: The software simplifies the planning and tracking of educational projects. Users can break down complex initiatives into manageable tasks, assign them to specific individuals or teams, and monitor the entire project lifecycle from inception to completion.
- Increased Accountability and Transparency: With project management software, every task and assignment is visible to all team members, which increases accountability and transparency. This visibility ensures that everyone is aware of their responsibilities and contributes to the project's success.
- Robust Document and File Management: Managing a vast array of educational documents and files becomes effortless with project management software. Users can upload, store, organize, and search for files with ease, ensuring that critical documents are accessible when needed and reducing the risk of information being lost or misplaced.
Project management software for education is not just a tool; it's a comprehensive solution that addresses the multifaceted challenges faced by educational institutions. By implementing such software, schools can enhance efficiency, improve resource allocation, and ultimately create a more organized and effective learning environment.
Costs and Pricing of Project Management Software for Education
For many educational institutions, pricing is a major factor in choosing project management software. While prices can vary, pricing plans usually fall into similar categories, making it much easier to understand the balance of features and costs you need even before selecting a tool.
Furthermore, having a clear understanding of project management software pricing across the market can save your institution money. By staying aware of pricing trends, you can ensure you're not overpaying for common features or features you won't use.
Here is a summary of typical plan options for project management software for education:
Plan Comparison Table for Project Management Software for Education
| Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
| Free Option | $0 | Basic task management, Limited collaboration tools, Basic reporting |
| Standard | $10 - $15 per user/month | Task management, Collaboration tools, Reporting and project tracking, Some integration capabilities |
| Premium | $20 - $30 per user/month | Advanced task management, Enhanced collaboration tools, Comprehensive reporting, Additional integrations |
| Enterprise | Custom pricing | Customizable features, Advanced security options, Personalized support, Extensive integrations |
When selecting project management software for education, it is advisable to weigh factors such as the number of projects supported, the variety of project views available, integration capabilities, and access control measures. Understanding these elements can help you make a more informed decision.
Project Management Software for Education FAQs
Here are a few frequently asked questions I wanted to cover for you.
Can project management software be used for classroom management?
Yes, project management software can be effectively utilized for classroom management. It can help teachers organize lesson plans, track student progress, and manage classroom activities. The software can also be used to communicate with students and parents, share educational resources, and collect student work, making it a versatile tool for educators.
Is project management software suitable for all education levels?
Project management software is adaptable and can be tailored to suit various education levels, from elementary schools to higher education institutions. The complexity of the software and its features can be matched to the needs of the students and educators at each level, ensuring that it provides appropriate support for managing educational projects and tasks.
How does project management software support remote or hybrid learning environments?
Project management software is particularly beneficial in remote or hybrid learning environments as it enables students and teachers to stay connected and organized regardless of their physical location. It provides a centralized platform for assigning work, sharing documents, and facilitating communication, which is essential for maintaining the continuity of education in these settings.
What should educators look for in project management software?
Educators should look for project management software that is user-friendly and offers features such as task assignment, scheduling, file sharing, and communication tools. It’s also important to choose software that allows for customization to fit the specific needs of their classroom or institution. Additionally, considering software that integrates with other educational tools and platforms can be beneficial.
Are there free project management tools suitable for educational purposes?
There are indeed free project management tools available that are suitable for educational purposes. These tools often provide basic features that can meet the needs of educators and students without the financial investment. However, the functionality may be limited compared to paid versions, and there might be restrictions on the number of users or projects.
How does project management software facilitate team-based learning?
Project management software facilitates team-based learning by providing a platform for students to collaborate on projects in real-time. It allows team members to assign tasks, share resources, and communicate effectively, which is essential for group work. The software also helps track individual contributions and ensures that everyone is accountable for their part in the project.
Can project management software help with grading and assessment?
While project management software is not primarily designed for grading and assessment, it can assist in these areas by tracking the completion of tasks and the quality of work submitted. Some software may offer integrations with grading tools or allow educators to provide feedback on assignments directly within the platform. This can help streamline the assessment process and provide a clear record of student performance.
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