10 Best Project Management Software For Nonprofits Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 20 tools reviewed.
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Finding the right project management software for your nonprofit can be daunting. You're looking for a way to effectively manage limited resources, tight budgets, and dispersed teams. However, with all the available options, it's hard to know where to start.
I understand your struggle and am here to guide you through the selection process. Drawing from my extensive experience with various digital productivity tools, I've sifted through the options to present you with the best project management software tailored for nonprofits.
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Project Management Software For Nonprofits Summary
We’ve investigated the pricing and availability of free trials and demo versions so you can make a much simpler side-by-side comparison.
Tools | Price | |
---|---|---|
Miro | From $8/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
ClickUp | From $7/user/month | Website |
Nifty | From $5/user/month (billed annually) + free plan available | Website |
Freedcamp | From $1.49/user/month (billed annually) + free plan available | Website |
Box | From $16/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
ProofHub | From $45/month (billed annually) | Website |
Podio | From $11.20/user/month (billed annually) + free plan available | Website |
nTask Manager | From $3/user/month | Website |
Lucidchart | From $7.95/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
Smartsheet | From $9/user/month (billed annually) | 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 Nonprofits
As you work through your unique software selection process, keep the following points in mind:
- Flexibility and Customization: Nonprofits have distinct operational needs that set them apart from for-profit entities. It is important to choose project management software tailored to these specific requirements. For instance, some software can adjust project views to accommodate various project types and preferences.
- Integration with Other Tools: Nonprofits often rely on multiple tools for donor management, volunteer scheduling, and communication. Selecting software that can integrate with these tools is vital to maintaining a cohesive system.
- Cost-Effectiveness and Nonprofit Discounts: Given nonprofits' budgetary limitations, the affordability of project management software is a significant factor. Many providers offer special pricing or discounts for nonprofits, so it's important to investigate these options.
- Ease of Use and Training: The diverse technical skill levels among nonprofit staff and volunteers necessitate software that requires minimal training. The ease of use is complemented by the vendor's training and support offerings, which are vital for smooth software adoption.
- Reporting and Analytics: For nonprofits, the ability to monitor project progress and report results to stakeholders is imperative. Software with solid reporting and analytics features enables organizations to evaluate success, make data-driven decisions, and uphold transparency.
By considering these key factors, nonprofits can identify a project management software that aligns with their unique needs.
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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 -
Hub Planner
This is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.2 -
Miro
This is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.8
Best Project Management Software For Nonprofits Reviews
Discover the strengths and weaknesses of top project management tools tailored for nonprofit organizations. Each review provides a detailed look at features, benefits, and specific use cases.
Miro is a collaborative online workspace designed to facilitate brainstorming, project management, diagramming, process mapping, and content visualization. It provides a suite of tools that enable teams to move from ideation to execution within a single platform.
Why I Picked Miro: Miro is a visual project management software that offers a variety of tools for nonprofits, including diagramming, process mapping, content and data visualization, and asynchronous collaboration tools. It provides an enterprise-grade workspace with a focus on security and accessibility, allowing teams to brainstorm and execute tasks in one place.
Miro is a popular choice for nonprofits, offering capabilities for strategizing and planning, designing customer-centric solutions, and developing products and services. It also allows for faster feedback cycles and automation for tedious tasks. Nonprofits can also benefit from a 30% discount on any paid plan, making it a cost-effective solution for managing projects and collaborating in real-time on an infinite canvas.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include visual project management tools, dynamic visual aids such as Miro Cards, Kanbans, and Flow Chart, product development workflows, and Miro Assist, an AI assistant that helps automate tasks and expand thinking during ideation and creation.
Integrations include Zoom, Google Workspace, Asana, Trello, Confluence, Jira, Adobe Creative Cloud, Dropbox, Microsoft Teams, and Slack.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Useful for distributed teams
- Offers a variety of built-in templates
- Users can create interactive presentations
Cons:
- Wide variety of features can be overwhelming
- Limited user controls and moderation
ClickUp is a comprehensive project management tool that offers a wide range of features to enhance work processes and improve collaboration among teams.
Why I Picked ClickUp: One of the most significant advantages of ClickUp is its ability to track funding goals and manage budgets effectively. Nonprofits often operate on tight budgets and need to account for every dollar spent. ClickUp's custom fields and formula features allow organizations to calculate donations, track hours spent on various tasks, and generate detailed reports for donors.
Another key feature that makes ClickUp ideal for nonprofits is its robust task and resource management capabilities. ClickUp simplifies processes with its drag-and-drop calendar view, which allows organizations to schedule volunteer tasks easily and share these schedules publicly.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include document management, reporting and analytics, collaboration tools, automation capabilities, time tracking, and task and resource management.
Integrations include Slack, GitHub, GitLab, Webhooks, HubSpot, Everhour, Toggl, Harvest, Google Drive, OneDrive, Dropbox, Outlook, Google Calendar, and Figma.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Good time tracking capabilities
- Wide range of collaboration tools
- Customizable workflows
Cons:
- Platform can be hard to navigate at first
- Extensive features may be overwhelming for new users
Nifty simplifies project management for cross-functional teams, integrating tasks, timelines, and communication in one place.
Why I Picked Nifty: I selected Nifty because it uniquely combines various project management tools into one cohesive platform, which is particularly beneficial for cross-functional teams. This integration of features distinguishes it from other software that may not offer such a complete solution.
Nifty is best for cross-functional teams due to its centralized approach. It facilitates effective collaboration and maintains project visibility for team members from different departments.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include task management, milestones, discussions, docs and files, and time tracking, all designed to enhance team collaboration and project oversight.
Integrations include Google Drive, Zoom, Slack, Dropbox, Trello, Asana, GitHub, GitLab, and Bitbucket.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Intuitive user interface
- Multiple views for project tracking
- Centralized platform for various project aspects
Cons:
- Limited number of templates
- Lack of full integrations
Freedcamp is a versatile project management tool that caters to personal and professional needs. Freedcamp stands out as the best for personal because of its free plan. It includes unlimited projects, tasks, and storage, making it accessible for individual users managing personal projects or small teams.
Why I Picked Freedcamp: I chose Freedcamp for this list because it offers a large set of features without a hefty price tag. Its ability to handle unlimited users and projects at no cost differentiates it from other tools that often limit these aspects in their free versions. Additionally, Freedcamp's user-friendly interface and flexibility make it an excellent choice for individuals looking to organize tasks and projects efficiently.
Freedcamp is best for personal use because it provides a no-cost solution for individuals and small teams to manage their work. The platform's scalability and the inclusion of essential project management features in the free plan make it ideal for personal projects, freelancers, and small non-profit organizations.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include task management, time tracking, milestone setting, and file storage, all essential for effective project management. The platform also offers discussion boards for team communication, a calendar for scheduling, and an issue tracker to manage and prioritize issues effectively.
Integrations include Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive, Zapier, Google Calendar, Outlook, and Slack.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Unlimited projects, tasks, and storage even in the free plan
- User-friendly interface suitable for personal and small team use
- Wide range of integrations with popular tools and services
Cons:
- The free plan has a file size limit of 10MB, which may be restrictive for some users
- Some users may require additional training to fully utilize all features
Box is a cloud content management and file-sharing service for businesses. It's best for cloud storage because it offers a secure and scalable solution.
Why I Picked Box: I chose Box for this list due to its security features and ability to scale with the needs of nonprofit organizations. Its cloud storage capabilities also provide a centralized location for files.
Box is the best cloud storage option because it ensures the safety of sensitive data and enhances accessibility and collaboration across teams.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include secure file sharing, collaboration tools, workflow automation with Box Relay, and native e-signature capabilities with Box Sign. It also provides security measures such as data loss protection and compliance with industry regulations.
Integrations include Microsoft Office and Teams, Salesforce, Google Workspace, and Slack.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Extensive integration capabilities with popular business tools
- Scalable storage solutions for various file types
- Robust security and compliance features
Cons:
- Some users report performance issues
- Poor user interface
ProofHub is a project management and team collaboration tool designed to centralize projects and simplify workflows. It is best for centralized projects because it offers features that allow teams to plan, collaborate, organize, and deliver projects efficiently in one unified space.
Why I Picked ProofHub: I chose ProofHub for the list because of its complete set of project management tools and flat pricing model, which is beneficial for teams wanting a centralized solution.
I believe ProofHub is best for centralized projects because it can combine various aspects of project management and collaboration in one place, reducing the need for multiple tools and platforms.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include task management, Gantt charts, board view, table view, calendar, time tracking, discussions, proofing, and chat.
Integrations include Slack, Box, Dropbox, Google Calendar, Google Drive, One Drive, FreshBooks, and QuickBooks.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Flat pricing with no per-user fee, making it cost-effective for teams of all sizes
- A comprehensive set of features for project management and team collaboration
- Wide range of integrations with popular tools to streamline workflows
Cons:
- The platform may have a learning curve for new users
- Some users may require more storage than the provided 15GB on the Essential plan
Podio is a versatile platform that simplifies project management by integrating content, conversations, and processes. It offers workflow automation, enabling teams to automate repetitive tasks.
Why I Picked Podio: I selected Podio for its distinctive capability to automate workflows, which is particularly beneficial for organizations looking to maximize efficiency. Podio's strength lies in its customizable workflows tailored to a team's needs.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include custom workspaces, task management, and data visualization tools.
Integrations include Google Drive, Dropbox, Evernote, Box, Zendesk, FreshBooks, Campaign Monitor, GoToMeeting, Harvest, and Google Calendar.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Customizable to fit unique workflow needs
- Integrates with a wide range of other tools
- Offers a free version for small teams
Cons:
- Some users report occasional downtime
- Can be complex for beginners
nTask Manager is a project management tool designed to facilitate efficient task management.
Why I Picked nTask Manager: I chose nTask Manager for the list because of its task management capabilities, which stand out among other project management tools. Its ability to streamline task assignment, tracking, and prioritization makes it a valuable asset for any team.
nTask Manager provides a centralized platform for managing tasks. It also maintains productivity and ensures project success.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include project management, task management, Kanban boards, Gantt charts, team management, time tracking, meeting management, and risk management.
Integrations include Slack, Zoom, Google/Outlook calendar, and over 1,000+ apps accessible via Zapier.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Free plan available for small teams.
- Over 1000+ app integrations.
- Comprehensive task management features.
Cons:
- Some users say it is difficult to use
- No refund policy
Lucidchart is a cloud-based solution that allows teams to collaborate to create diagrams and visualize processes in real time. It is best for diagramming needs because it offers a range of features specifically designed for creating detailed and interactive graphs, flowcharts, and other visual representations.
Why I Picked Lucidchart: I chose Lucidchart for this list because of its intuitive interface and ability to encourage collaboration on visual projects. Its specialized features for diagramming set it apart from other project management tools. Lucidchart is best for diagramming needs because it can create and share complex diagrams, which is essential for visualizing project workflows.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include workflow diagrams, timelines, Gantt charts, scrum boards, and Kanban boards using custom templates. It centralizes project management processes, allowing for precise identification of tasks, roles, and responsibilities.
Integrations include G Suite, Microsoft Office, Confluence, Jira, Slack, GitHub, BambooHR, and Zapier.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Over 20 powerful integrations with industry-leading applications
- Extensive range of diagramming tools and templates
- Real-time collaboration capabilities
Cons:
- Free plan offers limited functionality
- Limited number of templates
Smartsheet enables project management and workflow automation, which is ideal for those familiar with spreadsheets.
Why I Picked Smartsheet: I selected Smartsheet because of its distinctive blend of familiarity with spreadsheets and advanced project management features. It stands out as the best for spreadsheet users due to its user-friendly interface, which many users find comfortable and easy to adopt.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include a user-friendly spreadsheet interface, real-time collaboration tools, and powerful automation capabilities. It also provides various project views, including grid, Gantt, calendar, and card views.
Integrations include Google Drive, OneDrive, Dropbox, Box, Evernote, Microsoft Project, Excel, and Trello.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Intuitive interface similar to spreadsheets
- Enables real-time collaboration and workflow automation
- Offers multiple views and integrates with a range of tools
Cons:
- Limited number of templates
- Potential learning curve for non-spreadsheet users
Other Project Management Software For Nonprofits
Below is a list of additional project management software for nonprofits I shortlisted but did not reach the top list. It’s worth checking out!
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Project Management Software For Nonprofits Selection Criteria
Choosing project management software for nonprofits involves addressing unique needs, such as limited budgets, volunteer management, and fundraising activities. Having personally tried and researched various project management tools, I created the following criteria.
Core Project Management Software Functionalities: (25% of total score)
- Ensuring task responsibilities are clearly defined and progress is monitored.
- Tools for tracking expenditures and managing financial resources effectively.
- Generating insights into project performance and outcomes.
- Enabling team communication and document sharing within the platform.
- Monitoring time spent on projects for better resource allocation.
Additional Standout Features: (25% of total score)
- Identifying tools that offer unique fundraising capabilities.
- Tools that provide exceptional management of volunteer resources.
- Platforms that allow personalization to reflect the nonprofit's priorities.
- Software that includes features for managing social media campaigns.
- Ensuring the platform is fully functional on various mobile devices for on-the-go management.
Usability: (10% of total score)
- Prioritizing platforms with clear, user-friendly design.
- Selecting platforms that new users can quickly adapt to.
- Choosing software that allows personalization without complexity.
- Tools that offer interactive Gantt charts or Kanban boards for scheduling.
Onboarding: (10% of total score)
- Availability of in-depth guides and tutorials.
- Platforms that offer step-by-step walkthroughs for new users.
- Access to pre-built project templates to accelerate setup.
- Ensuring help is available during the initial setup phase.
Customer Support: (10% of total score)
- Evaluating the availability of email, chat, and phone support.
- Assessing how quickly support teams respond to inquiries and issues.
- Looking for extensive documentation and FAQs for self-service troubleshooting.
- Platforms that offer user communities for peer-to-peer support and advice.
Value for Price: (10% of total score)
- Ensuring a clear understanding of costs without hidden fees.
- Considering whether the pricing model accommodates the nonprofit's growth.
- Identifying platforms that offer special pricing for nonprofits.
- Evaluating whether the cost is justified by the features offered.
Customer Reviews: (10% of total score)
- Gauging user contentment with the platform.
- Assessing user feedback on the software's performance and uptime.
- Evaluating testimonials on how the platform has aided in achieving mission goals.
- Considering the likelihood of users recommending the platform to other nonprofits.
Trends In Project Management Software For Nonprofits
Project management tools for nonprofits are advancing. Discover the key trends shaping their use.
- Integration with Fundraising Platforms: Nonprofit project management software increasingly integrates with fundraising platforms. This allows for real-time tracking of fundraising efforts against project budgets and timelines. It's important as it bridges the gap between finance and project teams.
- Emphasis on Volunteer Management Features: Software now often includes volunteer management features. These tools help nonprofits schedule, track, and communicate with volunteers efficiently. This trend is vital for organizations that rely heavily on volunteer workforces.
- Advanced Reporting for Grant Applications: Enhanced reporting features are tailored for grant applications. Nonprofits can now generate detailed reports to support their funding requests. This is interesting as it directly aids in securing resources for mission-critical projects.
- Mobile Accessibility Improvements: Improvements in mobile accessibility are a notable trend. Nonprofit teams can access project data and collaborate from anywhere. This is important for organizations with field-based projects or remote teams.
- Customization and Scalability: Customization and scalability are becoming more sophisticated. Nonprofits can tailor the software to their needs and scale as they grow. This trend is progressive as it allows for flexibility and long-term usability.
These trends reflect project management software's growing adaptability and strategic importance in the nonprofit sector.
What Is Project Management Software For Nonprofits?
Project management software for nonprofits is a specialized tool designed to support the unique needs of charitable organizations in planning, executing, and tracking their projects. It is used by nonprofit staff and volunteers to manage events, fundraising campaigns, and other mission-driven initiatives. This software helps users focus on their goals, manage limited resources effectively, and achieve desired outcomes for their causes.
Components of this software include task management, scheduling, resource allocation, and reporting features. These elements work together to provide a clear overview of project progress, facilitate communication among team members, and ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget.
Features Of Project Management Software For Nonprofits
When selecting project management software for nonprofits, it's important to look for features that cater specifically to the unique needs of nonprofit organizations. Here are some key features to consider.
- Budget Tracking: This feature allows for monitoring financial resources. Nonprofits must maintain transparency and ensure funds are used effectively in alignment with their goals.
- Task Management: This feature provides a way to assign and follow up on tasks. It helps team members know their responsibilities and stay on track with their assignments.
- Collaboration Tools: These tools facilitate communication among team members. For nonprofits, where teamwork is often pivotal, collaborating easily is essential for success.
- Time Tracking: This feature enables the recording of time spent on projects. Nonprofits must report on time allocation, especially when accounting for grant-funded activities.
- Reporting and Analytics: This feature offers insights into project performance. Nonprofits can benefit from understanding their progress and making data-driven decisions to improve their impact.
- Donor Management: This feature assists in tracking and engaging with donors. Since funding is a nonprofit lifeline, managing donor relationships effectively is key to sustainability.
- Volunteer Management: This feature helps coordinate volunteer efforts. Nonprofits rely heavily on volunteers; managing their contributions efficiently is vital for operational success.
- Grant Tracking: This feature aids in managing grant applications and awards. Staying on top of deadlines and requirements is critical for nonprofits that depend on grants.
- File Sharing and Storage: This feature allows for easy access to documents. Having centralized document management helps nonprofits maintain consistency and organization.
- Customization: This feature lets nonprofits tailor the software to their needs. Every nonprofit is different, and having the ability to customize the software ensures it can adapt to specific organizational requirements.
These features can help a nonprofit maintain focus on its mission, foster collaboration, and manage resources effectively.
Benefits Of Project Management Software For Nonprofits
Project management software for nonprofit organizations is designed to address the unique challenges faced by nonprofits. Below are five primary benefits project management software can provide to users and organizations within the nonprofit sector.
- Enhanced Collaboration: Using project management software, nonprofit teams can collaborate more effectively and share real-time information.
- Improved Resource Allocation: Nonprofits can leverage project management software to track their resources and budget effectively. This ensures that every dollar is spent wisely.
- Increased Accountability: This software helps nonprofits to assign tasks, set deadlines, and monitor progress, which increases individual accountability and ensures that projects stay on track.
- Better Reporting and Analytics: Project management software can generate reports and analytics that help nonprofit leaders make informed decisions, understand the impact of their work, and communicate results to stakeholders.
- Streamlined Fundraising Efforts: Nonprofits can use project management tools to plan, execute, and monitor fundraising activities, making it easier to reach financial goals and sustain their operations.
By adopting these tools, nonprofits can improve their internal processes and amplify their impact on their communities.
Costs & Pricing Of Project Management Software For Nonprofits
Various software providers offer specialized plans and pricing options tailored to nonprofit organizations' needs. Below is a table summarizing the plan options and their pricing for project management software suitable for nonprofits.
Plan Comparison Table For Project Management Software For Nonprofits
Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
Free Option | $0 | Basic task management, limited users, essential integrations |
Basic/Starter | $5 - $10/ user/month | Task assignments, deadlines, file sharing, some integrations, limited storage |
Standard | $10 - $15/ user/month | Enhanced collaboration tools, reporting, additional integrations, more storage |
Premium | $15 - $25/ user/month | Advanced reporting, time tracking, budget management, increased storage |
Enterprise | Custom Quote | Custom features, complete integrations, dedicated support, unlimited storage |
When choosing project management software, nonprofits should assess team size, project complexity, and other needed features. Free plans may suit small teams and beginners, while larger organizations with complex needs may require more advanced plans.
Project Management Software For Nonprofits Frequently Asked Questions
Can charitable organizations afford project management software for nonprofits?
Yes, many project management software providers offer special pricing for nonprofit organizations. Some even provide free versions with essential features, while others may offer significant discounts on their regular pricing plans.
Is it difficult to implement project management software for nonprofits?
The complexity of implementation varies depending on the software chosen. However, many project management tools are user-friendly and come with support and training resources to assist nonprofits in the transition.
How can volunteers be managed using project management software for nonprofits?
Project management software can help manage volunteers by assigning tasks, tracking their hours, and facilitating communication. Some software also offers mobile access, making it easier for volunteers to stay connected and informed.
Does project management software for nonprofits help with reporting and compliance?
Yes, project management software can assist with reporting by providing tools to track project metrics and outcomes. This data can be used to generate reports for stakeholders and ensure compliance with funding requirements.
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