20 Best Project Management Software for Individuals Reviewed in 2024
Best Project Management Software for Individuals Shortlist
Here’s my pick of the 10 best software from the 24 tools reviewed.
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Picking the best project management software for individuals can be daunting. You're looking for a way to streamline your workflow, enhance productivity, and tackle projects with finesse, but the myriad of options can be overwhelming. I can help! Drawing from my extensive experience in digital project management—where I've used and tested a variety of productivity tools—I can confidently point you towards the most effective solutions.
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I’ve been testing and reviewing project management software for individuals since 2012. As project managers ourselves, I know how critical and difficult it is to make the right decision when selecting software.
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How to Choose Project Management Software for Individuals
As you work through your own unique software selection process, keep the following points in mind:
- Ease of Use: The software should have an intuitive interface that doesn't require extensive training to navigate. For individuals, especially those who are self-employed or freelancers, time is a precious commodity. A project management tool that is easy to use can minimize the learning curve and help manage projects more efficiently from the get-go.
- Flexibility and Customization: Individual users often wear multiple hats and need software that can adapt to a variety of tasks and projects. Look for software that allows customization of workflows, task views, and reports. This is particularly relevant for those who manage projects across different industries or with varying scopes.
- Integration Capabilities: The ability to integrate with other tools and software is crucial for a seamless workflow. For individuals who rely on various digital tools for email, file storage, time tracking, or communication, finding project management software that integrates well with these services can streamline processes and reduce the need for manual data entry.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Budget constraints are a significant consideration for individuals. The project management software chosen should offer a good balance between features and cost. Some software solutions offer free versions with basic features, which can be particularly relevant for freelancers or solo entrepreneurs who are just starting out.
- Mobile Accessibility: In today's fast-paced environment, being able to manage projects on the go is essential. A mobile-friendly project management application allows individuals to stay updated with their projects anytime, anywhere, which is crucial for those who travel frequently or work from different locations.
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Wrike
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.2 -
Hub Planner
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.2 -
Miro
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.8
Overviews of the 10 Best Project Management Software for Individuals Reviews
Here are my detailed thoughts on each software on this list, including what they do best and where they struggle.
Zoho Projects is a versatile project management tool suitable for various business needs. It is best for versatility in management due to its wide range of customizable features that accommodate different project types and management styles.
Why I Picked Zoho Projects:
I selected Zoho Projects for its exceptional adaptability across different project management scenarios. Its comprehensive feature set and customization options make it stand out from other project management tools. I believe it is best for versatility because it allows teams to manage their work with a high degree of flexibility, adapting to the unique demands of each project with ease.
Standout features & integrations:
Zoho Projects is known for its task automation, time tracking, and advanced reporting capabilities. It also offers issue tracking, which is essential for identifying and resolving problems quickly. The platform supports Gantt charts for visual project planning and tracking, and it provides a range of task views, including Kanban boards, for different organizational preferences.
Zoho Projects integrates natively with Zoho CRM, Zoho Desk, Zoho Analytics, Zoho Cliq, Zoho Books, Zoho Invoice, Zoho People, Google Drive, Google Calendar, Microsoft Office 365, Slack, and more, facilitating a connected and streamlined workflow.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Wide array of integrations with Zoho and third-party applications
- Comprehensive reporting and time tracking tools
- Robust customization and automation options
Cons:
- Some advanced features locked behind higher-tier plans
- Limited functionality on the free plan
- May have a steep learning curve for new users
Nifty streamlines project management and enhances team collaboration in a single digital hub. It's best for unifying teams and workflows, offering tools that foster communication and centralize project tracking.
Why I Picked Nifty:
I selected Nifty for its robust approach to project management, which distinguishes it from other platforms. Its ability to integrate various dimensions of project work—tasks, timelines, documents, and communication—into one cohesive environment is why I judge it to be best for unifying teams and workflows. This integration ensures that team members are aligned and can work efficiently towards common objectives.
Standout features & integrations:
Nifty excels with features like milestone-based project planning, collaborative document editing, and a built-in calendar that syncs with Google. Its progress tracking and reporting capabilities provide transparency and foster accountability within teams.
Nifty integrates natively with Google Drive, Slack, Zoom, Dropbox, Trello, Asana, GitHub, GitLab, Bitbucket, and Jira, among others.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Diverse native integrations streamline workflow
- Milestone tracking aligns team efforts with project goals
- Centralized platform for all project-related activities
Cons:
- Free plan may be too limited for some teams
- Some advanced features only in higher-priced plans
- Initial setup may require time investment
Trello is a project management application designed to help individuals and teams track their projects visually. It is best for visual project tracking due to its intuitive board and card system that allows users to see the progress of tasks at a glance.
Why I Picked Trello:
I chose Trello for this list because it offers a unique visual system that stands out from other project management tools. Its simplicity and clarity in displaying tasks make it easy to manage projects without getting overwhelmed. I believe Trello is best for visual project tracking because it provides an immediate visual overview of your projects, which is essential for maintaining organization and ensuring that nothing slips through the cracks.
Standout features & integrations:
Trello's standout features include its board and card system, which can be customized with labels, checklists, and due dates. The drag-and-drop functionality makes it easy to move tasks through different stages of completion. Additionally, Trello's Power-Up options allow users to enhance their boards with additional features and integrations.
Trello integrates natively with Slack, Google Drive, Dropbox, Box, OneDrive, Salesforce, Evernote, Mailchimp, GitHub, Google Hangouts, and more, providing a versatile platform that can fit into various workflows.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Wide range of native integrations
- Customizable with labels, checklists, and Power-Ups
- Visual card and board system for easy tracking
Cons:
- Some advanced features locked behind paid plans
- Can become cluttered with too many cards or boards
- Limited features on the free plan
Teamwork is a comprehensive project management platform tailored for client work. It stands out as the best for client work management due to its robust set of features designed to handle all aspects of client projects, from planning and execution to tracking and reporting.
Why I Picked Teamwork:
I chose Teamwork for the list because it provides a unique combination of project management tools and features that are specifically designed for teams handling client work. I believe Teamwork is best for client work management because it offers specialized features such as client users, resource and workload management, and time tracking, which are essential for managing client-related projects and ensuring client satisfaction.
Standout features & integrations:
Teamwork's most important features include time tracking, resource management, project planning templates, and various project views such as Lists, Kanban Boards, Tables, and Gantt Charts. It also excels in managing the client review and approval process, providing comprehensive reports on project health, and offering advanced security options.
Teamwork integrates natively with Slack, Zapier, MS Teams, Google Drive, Microsoft Office apps, QuickBooks, HubSpot, OneDrive, SharePoint, and more, ensuring that users can work seamlessly with the tools they already use.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Integrates with a wide range of popular tools
- Multiple project views for efficient management
- Tailored for client work with specialized features
Cons:
- Limited storage space on the free plan
- Annual billing may not be suitable for all budgets
- Minimum user requirement for paid plans
Podio is a customizable project management tool that lets you build and tailor your workflows to fit your team's specific needs. By creating personalized apps and workspaces, you can manage projects, tasks, and communications all in one place.
Why I Picked Podio:
It offers the ability to create custom apps without any coding knowledge. You can design apps that match your project's requirements, allowing for a personalized approach to task and project management. This means you can set up your workflows exactly how you want them, making your processes more efficient. Another benefit is Podio's advanced workflow automation. You can automate repetitive tasks, set up triggers, and create actions that keep your projects moving smoothly.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include personal dashboards, connected CRM, project management, integrated chat, full customization, web and mobile access, data visualization, social collaboration, task management, and granular access.
Integrations include Salesforce, HubSpot, Slack, Google Sheets, Mailchimp, Trello, Gmail, Facebook Lead Ads, Typeform, MojoCRM, Gravity Forms, and ActiveCampaign.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Offers workflow automation
- Highly customizable
- Integrated chat and activity streams
Cons:
- Many workflow features are limited to higher-tier plans
- Initial setup may take time
Notion simplifies project management by integrating notes, tasks, and wikis in one tool. It excels as an all-in-one workspace, offering extensive customization to fit any team's workflow.
Why I Picked Notion:
I selected Notion for its comprehensive approach to project management, standing out with its ability to consolidate various tools into one platform. I believe Notion is best for an all-in-one workspace because it enables users to create, collaborate, and manage all their work in a single, unified space.
Standout features & integrations:
Notion's key features include a modular page-building system, collaborative workspaces, and integrated databases.
It natively integrates with tools such as Slack, Google Drive, Trello, GitHub, Figma, Asana, Jira, Evernote, Zoom, and Twitter.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Supports real-time collaboration and sharing
- Highly customizable interface and templates
- Combines notes, tasks, databases, and wikis in one platform
Cons:
- Some users may find the pricing model expensive as teams grow
- Mobile app experience may not be as smooth as the desktop version
- Can be overwhelming for new users due to its vast array of features
Microsoft To Do is a task management tool that simplifies task organization across all your devices. It stands out as the best for task syncing across devices due to its seamless integration with Microsoft 365 and Outlook, allowing tasks to be synchronized and managed from anywhere.
Why I Picked Microsoft To Do:
I chose Microsoft To Do for the list because of its straightforward design and its powerful integration with the Microsoft ecosystem, which differentiates it from other task management tools. I believe it is best for task syncing across devices because it offers consistent and reliable updates across all platforms, ensuring that your tasks are always up to date, whether you're on your phone, tablet, or computer.
Standout features & integrations:
Microsoft To Do's most important features include list customization, task assignment within shared lists, and integration with Outlook for managing flagged emails as tasks. It also supports file attachments to tasks, making it easier to keep all relevant information in one place.
Microsoft To Do integrates natively with Microsoft 365, Outlook, Planner, OneNote, Microsoft Teams, and other Microsoft services, providing a cohesive experience for users deeply invested in the Microsoft ecosystem.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Ability to assign tasks within shared lists
- Customizable list backgrounds and groupings for better organization
- Seamless integration with Microsoft 365 and Outlook
Cons:
- May not offer as many features as dedicated project management tools
- Some features, like file support for shared lists, are pending future updates
- Limited to 25 MB per file attachment
OmniPlan is a project management tool designed to handle complex projects with ease. It is best for professional project planning due to its comprehensive features that cater to detailed project scheduling and resource management.
Why I Picked OmniPlan:
I chose OmniPlan for this list because it excels in providing detailed project planning capabilities that are essential for professionals. Its standout ability to facilitate intricate project timelines and resource allocation distinguishes it from other project management software. I think OmniPlan is best for professional project planning because it offers sophisticated planning tools that are crucial for managing large-scale projects effectively.
Standout features & integrations:
OmniPlan's most important features include its interactive Gantt charts, Monte Carlo simulation for risk assessment, and earned value analysis for project performance tracking. The tool also provides comprehensive resource management, allowing for detailed control over work schedules and allocation.
OmniPlan integrations with other tools are limited, but it does offer syncing across Apple devices, can integrate with calendar applications, and others including Apple Calendar, Apple Reminders, iCloud, OmniFocus, Microsoft Excel, Google Calendar, Zapier, Dropbox, Google Drive, and Microsoft Project.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Performance tracking with earned value analysis
- Risk assessment with Monte Carlo simulation
- Advanced project scheduling and resource management
Cons:
- Primarily optimized for users within the Apple ecosystem
- Limited integrations with third-party tools
KanbanFlow is a lean project management tool that utilizes Kanban boards to boost personal and team productivity by visually managing work tasks.
Why I Picked KanbanFlow:
Its customizable Kanban board allows users to visualize tasks and workflows clearly, enabling better management of work-in-progress limits and organization of tasks into subtasks. The use of swimlanes for categorization helps maintain a focused approach to project management, reducing task overload and ensuring a clear overview of project statuses.
Standout features & integrations:
Other features include the ability to track completed tasks by date, attach documents, and apply filters for easier navigation. Additionally, features like recurring tasks and task relations aid in automating routine processes and clarifying task dependencies.
Integrations include Dropbox, Google Drive, OneDrive, Box, Outlook, and Gmail.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Accessible on mobile
- Integrated time tracking
- Good visual task management
Cons:
- User interface looks a bit outdated
- Lacks advanced project management features
Hive is a project management tool that streamlines team collaboration and workflow. This tool is best for democratized project management as it incorporates user feedback into its design, ensuring it meets the needs of its community.
Why I Picked Hive:
I selected Hive for the list due to its commitment to user-driven development, which differentiates it from other project management tools. I regard Hive as best for democratized project management because it values user input, which is critical in creating a tool that adapts to the needs of its users and enhances their project management experience.
Standout features & integrations:
Hive shines with its robust feature set, including flexible project views, time tracking, and actionable analytics. It also offers automation tools to help teams work more efficiently and a suite of collaboration features to keep everyone on the same page.
The tool natively integrates with a variety of popular applications, including Slack, Zoom, Dropbox, Box, Google Drive, OneDrive, Salesforce, Jira, GitHub, GitLab, and QuickBooks, among others.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Wide range of native integrations
- Extensive feature set for project management
- User-centric development approach
Cons:
- Additional costs for premium features
- The extensive features may have a learning curve for new users
- Annual billing may not be preferred by all users
Other Project Management Software for Individuals To Consider
Below is a list of additional project management software for individuals that I shortlisted, but did not make it to the top list. Definitely worth checking them out.
Project Management Software For Individual Selection Criteria
Selecting project management software for individuals hinges on identifying functionality that aligns with specific use cases and buyer needs. Pain points such as task management, collaboration, and time tracking are common, and the chosen software must address these effectively. As an expert who has personally tried and researched these tools, I have developed criteria that reflect the essential features and user experience necessary for individual project management.
Core Functionality: 25% of total weighting score
- Task assignment and tracking
- Calendar and deadline management
- Collaboration and communication tools
- File sharing and document management
- Time tracking and reporting
Additional Standout Features: 25% of total weighting score
- Innovative task prioritization systems
- Integration with other productivity apps
- Real-time project analytics
- Customizable workflow automation
- Unique security features for data protection
Usability: 10% of total weighting score
- Intuitive navigation and interface
- Clear visual hierarchy in design
- Responsive design for mobile and tablet use
- Minimal learning curve for new users
- Balance between feature richness and simplicity
Onboarding: 10% of total weighting score
- Step-by-step interactive tutorials
- Accessible and comprehensive user guides
- Pre-designed project templates
- Responsive customer service for onboarding help
- Community forums for peer support
Customer Support: 10% of total weighting score
- 24/7 availability through multiple channels
- Knowledgeable and helpful support staff
- Regular updates and maintenance communication
- User feedback mechanisms for continuous improvement
- Comprehensive FAQ and troubleshooting resources
Value For Money: 10% of total weighting score
- Transparent pricing models
- Tiered options for different needs
- Free trials or money-back guarantees
- Inclusion of essential features in base price
- Comparison with similar tools in the market
Customer Reviews: 10% of total weighting score
- Consistency in positive feedback
- Resolution of common complaints
- User testimonials on ease of use and efficiency
- Feedback on software reliability and uptime
- Reviews on customer service responsiveness and helpfulness
Each of these criteria carries a specific weighting score, reflecting their importance in the overall evaluation of project management software for individuals, and ensuring a well-rounded assessment of the software's overall performance and user satisfaction.
Trends for Project Management Software in 2024
Here are some current and interesting trends I'm noticing in project management app technology.
- Integration with AI and Machine Learning: Artificial intelligence is reshaping project management software. It offers predictive analytics and automated task prioritization, enhancing productivity. This trend is pivotal as it personalizes user experience and optimizes project outcomes.
- Rise of Mobile-First Solutions: Mobile-first project management applications are becoming the norm. They cater to the growing need for on-the-go project tracking and collaboration. This shift is crucial for the increasingly mobile workforce.
- Enhanced Data Security Measures: With cyber threats on the rise, project management tools are bolstering their security features. Encryption and multi-factor authentication are becoming standard. This trend is significant for safeguarding sensitive project data.
- Adoption of Virtual and Augmented Reality: Virtual and Augmented Reality are being integrated for immersive project planning and visualization. This allows for a more interactive approach to project management. The trend is noteworthy for its potential to revolutionize traditional planning methods.
- Focus on User-Centric Design: User experience is taking center stage in project management software development. Tools are becoming more intuitive and customizable. This trend is important as it ensures software adoption and user satisfaction.
In 2024, these trends are shaping a more efficient, secure, and user-friendly project management landscape.
What Is Project Management Software for Individuals?
A project management solution for individuals is a digital tool designed to assist a single user in organizing and managing projects. It is utilized by freelancers, consultants, and solo entrepreneurs to streamline their workflow and enhance productivity. The software serves as a centralized platform for planning, tracking, and executing project tasks, enabling users to manage their projects efficiently without the need for a team.
Features Of Project Management Software for Individuals
Project and task management software can be a powerful ally for individuals looking to streamline their workflow and enhance productivity. Here are some key features to consider when choosing project management software that suits your individual needs.
- Task Management: This feature allows you to create, assign, and track tasks. It's essential for keeping on top of daily responsibilities and ensuring nothing falls through the cracks.
- Scheduling and Planning: With this, you can visualize project timelines and deadlines. It helps maintain a clear overview of your project's progress and upcoming obligations.
- Time Tracking: This feature enables you to record the time spent on tasks. It's crucial for billing clients accurately and understand where your time is going, which can lead to better time management.
- File Sharing and Collaboration: Even as an individual, you may need to share documents or collaborate with others. This feature facilitates easy sharing and feedback, keeping all stakeholders in the loop.
- Reporting and Analytics: Access to project data and analytics helps you measure success and identify areas for improvement. It's important for personal growth and optimizing your workflow.
- Integration Capabilities: The ability to integrate with other tools and services streamlines your process. It's vital for a seamless workflow and reducing the need to switch between multiple platforms.
- Mobile Access: Having mobile access to your project management software ensures you can stay updated and productive no matter where you are. It's important for flexibility and responsiveness.
- Customization: This allows you to tailor the software to your specific needs. It's key to creating a personalized system that works the way you do.
- Security: Robust security features protect your data and privacy. It's critical in a digital age where information breaches can have serious consequences.
- User-Friendly Interface: A straightforward and intuitive interface makes it easier to use the software effectively. It's important for reducing the learning curve and helping you focus on the work itself.
- Notifications: Alerts or updates are automatically sent to keep team members informed about project changes or deadlines.
- Custom Fields: User-defined fields that allow teams to customize data entry forms according to their specific project needs.
- Tasks & Subtasks: Components of a project that are broken down into main objectives (tasks) and finer, more detailed steps (subtasks).
- Calendar View: A visual representation of project timelines, deadlines, and events laid out in a calendar format.
- Roadmaps: Strategic visual outlines that display the key milestones and deliverables of a project over time, helping guide long-term planning and progress tracking.
Selecting the right project management software is a personal decision that can have a profound impact on your productivity and success. Remember, the goal is to find software that feels like an extension of your own capabilities, enhancing your workflow rather than complicating it.
Benefits Of Project Management Software for Individuals
Project management software offers a multitude of benefits for individuals and organizations, streamlining the planning, coordination, and execution of projects. Here are five primary benefits of project management software:
- Improved Planning and Scheduling: Project management software provides comprehensive solutions that help streamline the project planning and scheduling process. It allows users to identify and track critical tasks, assign them to individuals, set deadlines, create timelines, and follow up on progress. This level of organization ensures that projects are completed on time and within scope.
- Better Communication and Team Collaboration: Having all project-related data in one place facilitates clear communication among team members. Project management systems provide real-time updates and prevent conversations from getting lost in email threads or instant messaging chats. This centralized communication reduces confusion, encourages timely completion of tasks, and enhances overall team collaboration.
- Organized and Centralized Project Data: With project management software, all project data is centralized, promoting transparency and adding collaboration tools. A single source of truth means every team member can work on the right documents, make updates in real-time, and ensure that everyone else is informed about changes. This organization of information prevents data loss and miscommunication.
- Simpler Project Reporting and Analytics: Project management tools not only house data but also provide insights into various aspects of projects. They come with customizable dashboards for reporting-at-a-glance and in-depth business intelligence solutions. This enables project managers to strategize based on actionable insights, improve processes to reduce waste and communicate information clearly to stakeholders.
- Improved Resource Management: Resource management is a critical aspect of project management. Project management software helps identify and allocate resources such as labor, schedules, budgets, and equipment efficiently. It provides views and reports to track resource usage, helping to identify bottlenecks and ensure resources are used effectively.
Project management software is a powerful tool that enhances productivity, efficiency, and organization for users and organizations. It streamlines project processes, improves communication, and provides essential features for successful project management.
Cost & Pricing for Human Resource Apps
For individuals looking to manage their projects effectively, project management software offers a range of pricing options to suit various needs and budgets. Plans range from free tiers for basic task management to premium tiers for comprehensive project planning and tracking. This guide provides an overview of common plans and their key features to help you choose the one that best fits your needs.
| Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
| Free | $0 | Basic task management, limited project views, and entry-level tools. |
| Standard | $7/user/month | Gantt charts, task dependencies, project templates, and limited integrations. |
| Professional | $12/user/month | All standard features plus automation options, additional integrations, and progress tracking. |
| Premium | $20/user/month | All professional features plus custom workflows, advanced analytics, and multi-project management. |
The free plan provides basic management tools for simple projects, while paid plans offer progressively more comprehensive features. Consider your specific project needs and budget when selecting a plan, balancing features against costs.
Project Management Software for Individuals FAQs
Can project management software for individuals be used for team collaboration?
While project management software for individuals is primarily designed for solo use, many offer features that allow for basic team collaboration. This can include sharing tasks, assigning roles, and sometimes even communication tools like chat functions. However, for more complex team collaboration needs, a dedicated team-based project management tool might be more suitable.
Are there free project management tools available for individuals?
There are several free project management tools available for individuals, which often include basic features that are sufficient for managing personal projects and tasks. Trello, Asana, and Todoist all offer free versions with core functionalities. However, more advanced features might require a subscription to a premium plan.
How secure is project management software for individuals?
Project management software for individuals typically includes security measures such as data encryption, secure data centers, and regular security audits. However, the level of security can vary between providers. It’s important for individuals to review the security policies of the software they choose to ensure that their data is adequately protected.
Can project management software for individuals be accessed on mobile devices?
Most project management software for individuals offer mobile applications for iOS and Android devices, allowing users to manage their tasks and projects on the go. These mobile apps usually provide a majority of the features available on the desktop versions, ensuring that individuals can stay productive even when away from their main workstation.
What Next?
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