10 Best Project Management Software With Time Tracking Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 20 tools reviewed.
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Project management software with time tracking can be a game-changer, but with the myriad of options out there, choosing the right one can be challenging. The right software should enable you to monitor project progress and track time with precision in one integrated platform.
With years of experience managing digital projects and using a variety of project management tools, I've seen firsthand what works and what doesn't. Here's my selection of the top project management software that includes time tracking features.
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Best Project Management Software with Time Tracking Summary
Tools | Price | |
---|---|---|
Wrike | From $9.80/user/month (min of 2 seats) | Website |
Productive | From $9/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
Accelo | From $20/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
Zoho Projects | From $4/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
TimeCamp | From $2.99/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
Nifty | From $5/user/month (billed annually) + free plan available | Website |
Freedcamp | From $1.49/user/month (billed annually) + free plan available | Website |
Hubstaff | From $4.99/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
Teamwork.com | From $11/user/month (billed annually) + free plan available | Website |
Quickbase | From $35/user/month (billed annually, min 20 users) | Website |
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Compare SoftwareHow to Choose Project Management Software with Time Tracking
As you work through your unique software selection process, keep the following points in mind:
- Integration Capabilities: Ensure the software can integrate with your existing systems. This is crucial for maintaining data consistency and reducing the need for manual data entry. For instance, if your team uses a specific CRM or accounting software, the project management tool should be able to connect with these systems to streamline workflows.
- User-Friendly Interface: Select software that is intuitive and easy to navigate. A complex system can lead to a steep learning curve and resistance from team members. Consider a tool that offers a clear view of time tracking and project progress to keep everyone on the same page without extensive training.
- Customization and Scalability: Look for software that can be tailored to your business's evolving needs. As your company grows, your project management tool should adapt, offering features like custom fields for time entries or adjustable permissions for different team members.
- Reporting and Analytics: Choose a tool that provides comprehensive reporting features. Effective time tracking is not just about recording hours; it's about analyzing that data to make informed decisions. For example, a marketing agency might need detailed reports to understand time spent on different client projects for billing purposes.
- Support and Training: Consider the level of support and training the software provider offers. Even with an intuitive tool, questions, and technical issues can arise. A provider that offers responsive support and comprehensive training materials can be invaluable, especially when deploying the tool across large teams or departments.
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Hub Planner
This is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.2 -
ClickUp
This is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.7 -
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 with Time Tracking Reviews
Choosing the right project management software that includes time tracking capabilities can significantly enhance productivity and project oversight. These software options vary in functionality, user interface, and pricing, but all are designed to provide a comprehensive solution for managing projects and tracking time simultaneously.
Wrike is a versatile cloud-based project management tool aimed at improving collaboration and efficiency for teams of any scale. It provides a suite of features such as task management, resource allocation, and workflow automation, accessible through web, desktop, and mobile applications.
Why I picked Wrike: Wrike offers the ability to log hours using a live timer or by manually adding entries. This flexibility allows team members to track their time in a way that best suits their workflow, whether they are working on a single task or juggling multiple projects. Wrike also provides real-time project visibility, approval workflows, and resource management, which simplifies task assignments and enhances team collaboration. The software's adaptability also allows teams to customize workflows and templates to fit their specific needs.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include dashboards, AI and automation, Gantt charts, Kanban boards, proofing, capacity planning, dynamic request forms, workspace configuration, effort management, and robust reporting and analytics.
Integrations include Google Sheets, Trello, Slack, Zendesk, Jotform, Todoist, HubSpot, Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Adobe Creative Cloud, Salesforce, Marketo, NetSuite, ServiceNow, and Workday.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Good time and resource tracking features
- Flexible project templates
- Enhanced visibility with robust reporting tools
Cons:
- Can be complex to customize the platform
- No built-in chat option
Productive is a versatile project management software tailored for agencies and professional services. It provides a comprehensive suite of tools to manage projects, track time, allocate resources, and handle financials.
Why I picked Productive: The platform offers robust time-tracking capabilities, allowing teams to log hours and use the data for accurate billing and resource allocation. This ensures that projects stay on budget and deadlines are met. Additionally, Productive’s project management tools, such as dynamic Gantt charts and workload management, enable managers to plan, track, and adjust projects in real-time.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include budget management, profitability tracking, invoicing, forecasting, purchase orders, revenue recognition, sales CRM, document management, and automations.
Integrations include Jira, Slack, QuickBooks, Xero, Trello, Zapier, Google Drive, Sage, BambooHR, Gusto, and HubSpot.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- User-friendly interface
- Comprehensive overview of resources
- Provides profitability reporting and insights
Cons:
- Initial setup can be time-consuming
- Could benefit from more integrations
Accelo is a professional services automation platform that encompasses a wide range of features such as client management, project management, financial management, and resource management, built to help your business maximize profitability.
Why I picked Accelo: Accelo's time tracking features include built-in timers, automated timesheets, and email and meeting time capture. These tools ensure that all time spent on tasks, meetings, and emails is automatically recorded, reducing manual entry and minimizing human error. This accurate time data provides a reliable record of team productivity, helps in monitoring team capacity for new work, and offers profitability insights, including billable versus non-billable time.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include business intelligence, billing, budgeting, a client portal, forecasting, Gantt charts, process automation, task management, quotes, retainers, scheduling, templates, and work management.
Integrations include Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, Microsoft Exchange & Microsoft Outlook, Xero, QuickBooks Online, HubSpot, Mailchimp, Salesforce, Zapier, Stripe, PayPal, Jira, Continuum, Zendesk, Microsoft Power BI, Expensify, Gusto, HubSpot Partner Portal, Practice Ignition, Google Analytics, and others.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Real-time reporting capabilities
- Good automation features for repetitive tasks
- Integrated project, client, and financial management
Cons:
- Extensive features may come with a learning curve for new users
- Could offer more integrations
Zoho Projects is an online project management platform that provides a wide range of tools for planning, tracking, and collaborating on projects. It is suitable for businesses of all sizes, freelancers, and consultants.
Why I picked Zoho Projects: I like that users can log billable and non-billable hours manually or with timers. Timesheets can then be used to generate invoices through integration with Zoho Invoice. Additionally, this time-tracking ability provides detailed insights into costs associated with a project and overall productivity, allowing project managers to make more informed decisions about resource allocations.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include task creation and assignment, drag-and-drop task automation, forums, chats, feeds, document management, Gantt charts, utilization reports, issue tracking, resource allocation, budget management, and email and in-platform notifications.
Integrations include Slack, Microsoft Teams, Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive, GitHub, Bitbucket, Zapier, Basecamp, Evernote, Microsoft Outlook, Google Calendar, Microsoft Project, Trello, Jira, Asana, Zendesk, Mailchimp, and other Zoho apps.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Good project management and communication features
- Dashboards for workflow visualization
- Platform is highly customizable
Cons:
- Time tracking is not available on the free version
- Mobile app could be more robust
TimeCamp is best for automated time tracking due to its ability to capture time spent on tasks without manual input, ensuring accurate and effortless time recording.
Why I picked TimeCamp: I chose TimeCamp for this list because of its emphasis on automation, which sets it apart from other project management tools. Its automated time-tracking feature minimizes the need for manual timesheet entries, making it a standout choice for efficiency.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include automatic time tracking, detailed reporting, invoicing, budgeting, and productivity tracking. It also boasts timesheet approvals, billing rates, expense tracking, pivot tables, screenshots, and unlimited integrations.
Integrations include Trello, Asana, Jira, QuickBooks, Xero, Google Calendar, Outlook Calendar, Slack, Microsoft Teams, and Monday.com.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Wide range of integrations with popular tools
- Comprehensive reporting and invoicing capabilities
- Automated time tracking reduces manual effort
Cons:
- Lacks detailed task dependencies, resource management, and project planning stages
- Outdated interface and navigation
Nifty is a project management tool that centralizes project communication, planning, and tracking. It is acclaimed for its ability to automate project updates and workflows.
Why I picked Nifty: I chose Nifty for the list because it excels in automating project updates and workflows, which is a game-changer for project management efficiency. Its robust automation features reduce the need for manual updates and streamline project progress.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include task automation, milestone tracking, and progress reporting, which collectively contribute to a more efficient project management experience. It also offers document collaboration, which simplifies team time and interactions.
Integrations include Google Drive, Slack, Zoom, and more.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Provides milestone tracking and progress reporting
- Offers document collaboration
- Automates project updates and workflows
Cons:
- Mobile app limitations
- May be costly for small businesses
Freedcamp is a project management tool that facilitates organization across various project types.
Why I picked Freedcamp: Freedcamp has a comprehensive approach to project management, which allows for effective organization across diverse project types. Its versatility is unmatched, providing a range of tools that are essential for managing complex projects.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include task management, project templates, time tracking, issue tracking, calendar and milestone tools, discussion boards, file management, invoicing and billing capabilities, CRM, wiki, mobile access, third-party integrations, and customizable dashboards.
Integrations include Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive, Zapier, and more, which supports efficient workflows and data sharing.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Wide range of native integrations
- Direct time tracking on tasks and issues
- Comprehensive set of project management tools
Cons:
- Limited advanced features
- May become less responsive when handling larger projects
Hubstaff is a project management and time-tracking solution. It excels in comprehensive workforce management due to its robust feature set.
Why I picked Hubstaff: Hubstaff stands out for its comprehensive approach to workforce management. It offers a unique combination of time tracking, productivity monitoring, and detailed reporting. Its capabilities are particularly beneficial for businesses looking to maintain visibility and control over their operations.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include time tracking with screenshots, activity levels, and automated payroll, which are essential for managing teams effectively. Additionally, it offers GPS tracking, budgeting, and invoicing tools.
Integrations include Asana, Trello, QuickBooks, Slack, GitHub, Salesforce, Basecamp, Jira, Zapier, and Google Calendar.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Budgeting and invoicing tools integrated into the platform
- GPS tracking for location-based workforce management
- Automated time tracking with screenshots and activity levels
Cons:
- Complex setup and use
- Minimum of two users required for the paid plan
Teamwork is recognized as the best for managing client work due to its comprehensive set of features tailored for client services businesses, including employee time tracking, resource management, and project planning.
Why I picked Teamwork: Teamwork offers a unique combination of project management tools and time tracking specifically designed for teams handling client work. Its focus on client services businesses makes it stand out from other project management software.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include time tracking, which allows for a detailed understanding of where the team's hours are spent, and resource management, which helps track capacity and reassign tasks to avoid bottlenecks. The software also offers project planning capabilities and a variety of templates to streamline the setup process.
Integrations include Slack, Zapier, Microsfot Teams, Google Drive, QuickBooks, and HubSpot.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Centralized platform for all client work management needs Variety of templates and integrations with popular tools
- Centralized platform for all client work management needs
- Comprehensive time tracking and resource management
Cons:
- Limited mobile functionalities
- Minimum user requirement for paid plans
QuickBase is recognized as the best for custom app development due to its powerful no-code platform that allows users to create custom applications that fit their specific project management needs.
Why I picked QuickBase: I selected QuickBase for its exceptional ability to enable users to build custom applications without requiring programming skills. This unique feature sets it apart from other project management software and is the primary reason I consider it the best for custom app development. It provides the flexibility needed to design applications that align perfectly with the specific processes and workflows of a business.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include no-code application development, real-time data tracking, automated workflows, and comprehensive reporting tools. These features are crucial for businesses looking to maintain agility and adaptability in their project management practices.
Integrations include Salesforce, NetSuite, Zendesk, QuickBooks, Gmail, Box, and Dropbox.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Extensive integration options
- Real-time data tracking and reporting
- No-code application development
Cons:
- Requires a minimum of 20 users for the starting plan
- Annual billing cycle
Other Project Management Software with Time Tracking To Consider
Below is a list of additional project management software with time tracking that I shortlisted, but may still be of value to you.
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Project Management Software with Time Tracking Selection Criteria
When selecting project management software with time tracking, it's crucial to consider functionality and how well it aligns with specific use cases that are most relevant to buyers. The criteria should reflect the needs and pain points of users, as well as the primary purposes for which project management software with time tracking is utilized.
As an expert who has personally tried and researched these tools, I have developed a set of criteria that are essential for evaluating and choosing the right software.
Core Functionality: 25% of Total Weighting Score
- Task assignment and progress tracking
- Time tracking for individual tasks and projects
- Reporting tools for time spent and project status
- Integration with calendars and scheduling
- Collaboration features for team communication and file sharing
Additional Standout Features: 25% of Total Weighting Score
- Innovative dashboards that provide a comprehensive view of project timelines and resources
- Unique automation features that reduce manual entry and increase efficiency
- Advanced analytics that offers insights beyond basic time tracking
- Customizable workflows that cater to specific project management methodologies
- Integration capabilities with other business systems for a cohesive workflow
Usability: 10% of Total Weighting Score
- Intuitive interface design that simplifies navigation and task management
- The balance between powerful features and user-friendly operation
- Visual project timelines, such as Gantt charts, that are easy to adjust with drag-and-drop functionality
- Clear and concise layout of time tracking data for quick comprehension
Onboarding: 10% of Total Weighting Score
- Availability of comprehensive training materials, such as videos and templates
- Interactive product tours that guide new users through the software's features
- Support channels like chatbots and webinars that assist with initial setup and use
- A streamlined process for importing data and integrating with existing workflows
Customer Support: 10% of Total Weighting Score
- Responsive and knowledgeable support team accessible through multiple channels
- Extensive knowledge base with answers to common questions and issues
- Proactive outreach and follow-up to ensure customer satisfaction and resolve problems
- Community forums where users can share experiences and solutions
Value For Money: 10% of Total Weighting Score
- Transparent pricing models that align with the features and benefits provided
- Comparison of cost versus the range and quality of features offered
- Assessment of scalability to ensure the software grows with the user's needs
- Evaluation of free trials or demos to test the software before committing financially
Customer Reviews: 10% of Total Weighting Score
- Analysis of feedback on user experience and software performance
- Consideration of testimonials regarding the impact on project efficiency and time management
- Attention to recurring themes in reviews that indicate strengths or areas for improvement
- Assessment of overall satisfaction rates and how they compare to competitors
Trends for Project Management Software with Time Tracking in 2024
Project management software is evolving rapidly and time-tracking features are becoming more sophisticated. Here’s a look at the trends I’ve noticed for project management software with time tracking in 2024:
- Integration with AI and Machine Learning: Artificial intelligence and machine learning are being integrated into project management software, enabling predictive analytics for time tracking. This trend allows for more accurate forecasting of project timelines. It is important because it helps in proactive project adjustments.
- Enhanced Mobile Accessibility: Mobile accessibility for project management tools is improving, allowing users to track time and manage tasks on the go. This trend is significant as it supports remote and flexible work environments. It is interesting because it caters to the increasingly mobile workforce.
- Real-Time Collaboration Features: Real-time collaboration capabilities are being incorporated within time-tracking functionalities. This enables teams to synchronize their efforts more effectively. The importance lies in its ability to improve team coordination and productivity.
- Focus on User Experience: There is a growing trend towards user-friendly interfaces in project management software with time tracking. Simplified data entry and intuitive navigation are becoming standard. This is important as it encourages wider adoption across various user skill levels.
- Customization and Personalization: Customization options are expanding, allowing users to tailor time tracking to their specific project needs. Personalization of dashboards and reports is becoming more common. This trend is interesting for its potential to increase user engagement and data relevance.
These trends indicate a move towards more intelligent, accessible, and user-centric project management tools.
What is Project Management Software with Time Tracking?
Project management software with time tracking is a digital tool designed to assist teams in managing work and measuring the time spent on project tasks. It is utilized by project managers, team members, and stakeholders to plan, execute, and monitor project progress. The software serves to track the duration of tasks, ensuring projects stay on schedule and within budget.
Features of Project Management Software with Time Tracking
When selecting project management software that includes time tracking, it's crucial to consider the array of features that can significantly impact the success of your projects. Here, I'll discuss the most important features to look for in such software.
- Integrated Time Tracking: This feature allows users to record the time spent on tasks directly within the project management tool. It's vital to ensure that all time spent on project work is captured and can be analyzed for productivity and billing purposes.
- Task Management: Task management is the backbone of project management, enabling teams to stay on top of their workloads and deadlines.
- Resource Allocation: Knowing who is working on what and whether resources are over or underutilized helps in balancing workloads and planning future projects.
- Gantt Charts: Gantt charts provide a clear overview of the project schedule and progress, which is essential for planning and tracking.
- Collaboration Tools: Collaboration tools such as message boards, file sharing, and real-time chat are crucial for keeping team members aligned and informed.
- Reporting and Analytics: Reporting features allow you to create detailed reports on time spent, project progress, and resource utilization, which are critical for making informed decisions.
- Customizable Dashboards: Dashboards that can be customized ensure that you have quick access to the information that matters most to you and your team.
- Mobile Access: With mobile access, team members can update tasks and track time from anywhere, ensuring that project information is always up-to-date.
- Billing and Invoicing: For projects that require billing clients based on time spent, having integrated billing and invoicing features streamlines the process.
- User Permissions: Setting user permissions ensures that team members have access to the appropriate level of information for their role.
These features form the core of robust project management software with time tracking, each playing a pivotal role in the successful delivery of projects. By ensuring that the software you choose excels in these areas, you equip your team with the tools necessary to track time effectively, manage workloads, and collaborate efficiently, ultimately leading to better project outcomes.
Benefits of Project Management Software with Time Tracking
Project management software with time-tracking capabilities offers a multitude of advantages that can significantly improve the efficiency and productivity of both individual users and organizations. These tools are designed to assist in managing workloads, deadlines, and resources more effectively.
Here are some of the primary benefits that potential buyers should consider when evaluating such software:
- Improved Project Planning and Scheduling Project: Management software with time tracking allows for accurate planning and scheduling by providing visibility into how much time tasks take, enabling better estimation for future projects.
- Enhanced Accountability and Transparency: These features promote accountability as team members log their hours, which fosters a transparent work environment where everyone's contributions are visible and measurable.
- Increased Productivity and Efficiency: By identifying where time is spent, these tools help users focus on high-priority tasks and reduce time spent on less critical activities, thereby increasing overall productivity.
- Better Budget Management: Tracking time against tasks provides insights into labor costs, helping businesses manage project budgets more effectively and make informed financial decisions.
- Data-Driven Decision Making: The software generates data on time expenditure, which can be analyzed to make informed decisions about resource allocation, project timelines, and process improvements.
For organizations looking to gain a competitive edge, project management software with time tracking is an invaluable asset. It not only streamlines the management process but also provides critical insights that drive smarter business decisions. As the business landscape becomes increasingly complex, the ability to accurately track and manage time is essential for staying on schedule and within budget.
Costs and Pricing for Project Management Software with Time Tracking
The cost and subscription models for project management software with time tracking can differ significantly, based on the capabilities they provide and the number of users.
Here is a table that outlines the plan types, average prices, and common features for project management software with time tracking:
Plan Comparison Table for Project Management Software with Time Tracking
Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
Free | $0 | Basic task management, limited projects, time tracking, and collaboration tools |
Basic/Individual | $7 - $10/user/month | Task management, time tracking, file sharing, basic Gantt charts, and limited automation |
Standard | $10 - $12/user/month | Advanced task management, time tracking, file sharing, Gantt charts, and some automation and integration |
Professional | $20 - $30/user/month | Full project planning, time tracking, budgeting, resource management, and advanced reporting |
Enterprise | Quote-based | Customizable features, advanced security, unlimited projects, comprehensive analytics, and priority support |
In selecting a project management software with time tracking, buyers must evaluate the scale of their team, the intricacy of their projects, and the specific functionalities they require for efficient management. Software buyers should carefully consider their project management needs and select a plan that not only fits their budget but also includes the features necessary for their operations.
Project Management Software with Time Tracking FAQs
How does time tracking in project management software improve productivity?
Time tracking within project management software can improve productivity by providing insights into how much time is spent on specific tasks and projects. It allows for better planning and resource allocation, as managers can identify which tasks take longer than expected and adjust deadlines or workflows accordingly. Additionally, it can help in pinpointing areas where processes may be improved to save time in the future.
Can I generate reports based on time-tracking data?
Yes, most project management software with time-tracking capabilities allows users to generate reports based on the time-tracking data. These reports can include detailed breakdowns of time spent on each project or task, summaries for individual team members, and overviews of time allocation across different projects. These reports are valuable for analyzing productivity, planning future projects, and billing clients accurately.
Is it possible to integrate project management software with other tools?
Many project management software solutions with time-tracking features offer integration with other tools such as calendars, communication platforms, and accounting software. This integration helps maintain a unified workflow and ensures that all aspects of project management and time tracking are connected, reducing the need for manual data entry and potential errors.
How secure is my data in project management software with time tracking?
Security varies by software, but reputable project management tools with time tracking prioritize data security. Look for software that offers encryption, regular backups, and compliance with industry-standard security protocols. It’s also important to review the software provider’s privacy policy to understand how your data will be handled.
Can project management software with time tracking support remote teams?
Yes, project management software with time tracking is particularly beneficial for remote teams. It allows team members to log their hours from anywhere, provides managers with visibility into remote work, and helps ensure that everyone is aligned on project objectives and deadlines, regardless of their location.
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