20 Best Resource Management Software For Small Business In 2024
Best Resource Management Software for Small Business Shortlist
Here’s my pick of the 10 best software from the 20 tools reviewed.
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With the many resource management software options on the market, selecting the right one for your small business can be daunting. You're looking to streamline your resource allocation and improve project delivery, but the challenge lies in finding the tool that fits your unique needs.
I understand this struggle and am here to guide you through it! Drawing from my extensive experience with various digital project management tools, I'll simplify your decision-making process.
Here are my picks for the best resource management software for small businesses.
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We’ve been testing and reviewing project management software since 2012. As a project manager, I know how critical and difficult it is to make the right decision when selecting software.
We invest in deep research to help our audience make better software purchasing decisions. We’ve tested over 2,000 tools for different project management use cases and written over 1,000 comprehensive software reviews. Learn how we stay transparent and examine our resource management software for small business review methodology.
Best Resource Management Software For Small Business Summary
We’ve investigated the pricing and availability of free trials and demo versions so you can make a much easier side-by-side comparison.
| Tools | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Bonsai Agency Software | From $10/user/month | Website |
| Paymo | From $3.90/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| awork | From $8.50/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| ProWorkflow | From $20/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| Ravetree | From $29/user/month (billed annually, min 5 seats) | Website |
| Scoro | From $30/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| Resource Guru | From $4.16/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| ClickTime | From $12/user/month | Website |
| Celoxis | From $15/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| Saviom | Pricing upon request | Website |
Compare Software Specs Side by Side
Use our comparison chart to review and evaluate software specs side-by-side.
Compare SoftwareHow To Choose Resource Management Software for Small Business
Remember the following points as you work through the software selection process for your small business.
- Identify Specific Needs: Before exploring the options, outline your business's needs. This includes understanding the size of your team, the complexity of your projects, and the types of resources you need to manage. For instance, a small business that handles numerous projects simultaneously will benefit from software with solid scheduling and forecasting features.
- Ease of Use: The software should be user-friendly, with an interface that doesn't require extensive training. Small businesses often cannot afford the time and resources for complex training sessions. A straightforward tool that team members can quickly adapt to is essential.
- Integration Capabilities: Consider how well the software integrates with your existing tools. Easy data flow between systems can prevent the need for duplicate entries and reduce errors.
- Scalability: The chosen software should grow with your business. As your business expands, you may need to manage more resources or handle more complex projects. Software that offers scalable solutions, such as adding more users or advanced features, can be a wise investment for a small business looking to grow.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Small businesses often have a tight budget. Finding software that provides the necessary features within your budget is important. Consider the upfront costs and long-term expenses such as subscription fees, upgrades, and support.
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Hub Planner
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.2 -
ClickUp
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.7 -
Miro
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.8
Best Resource Management Software For Small Business Reviews
Discover insightful summaries of top resource management software tailored for small businesses. Each review will detail the advantages, drawbacks, features, and use cases.
Bonsai is a complete business management solution that's built for the needs of professional services businesses like agencies and consultancies. It combines resource management with project, financial, and client management capabilities.
Why I picked Bonsai:
This software earned its spot on my list because of how it uniquely caters to the needs of agencies. Users benefit from tracking billable and non-billable team hours, managing staff capacities, and assigning tasks in the same system they use to manage their clients, projects, and budgets.
The software's project and resource management features integrate directly with its tools for drafting proposals, managing contracts, and processing client payments. Because it offers a fully integrated solution, Bonsai facilitates more efficiency and fewer errors in agency management.
Bonsai Standout Features & Integrations
Features include multiple currency and tax settings, time tracking with billable and non-billable hours, reporting with financial tracking and forecasting, payment processing, multiple project views including Kanban, integrated CRM with scheduling and forms, and proposal and contract creation.
Integrations include Gmail, Google Calendar, Zapier, Slack, QuickBooks Online, Calendly, ClickUp, Trello, Google Drive, Google Sheets, Xero, HubSpot, and more.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Client portals available
- Automations to streamline repetitive tasks
- Designed specifically for agencies
Cons:
- Somewhat limited in scalability
- Some integrations are locked to higher pricing tiers
Paymo is a project management tool that simplifies tasks, time tracking, and invoicing for companies, including Saas-based businesses. It is best for productivity and payment due to its suite of features for project tracking, team collaboration, and financial processes.
Why I Picked Paymo:
I chose Paymo for this list because it offers a combination of project management, time tracking, and invoicing capabilities, all within a single platform.
I believe Paymo is best for productivity and payment because it helps teams stay on top of their tasks and projects. It also ensures that all billable hours are accurately recorded and invoiced, leading to timely payments.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include automatic time tracking, task management with multiple views (Kanban, list, spreadsheet, and Gantt), team collaboration tools, and invoicing with online payment integration.
Integrations include Google Apps, Slack, QuickBooks, Xero, Zapier, Adobe Creative Cloud, and Shift.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- User-friendly interface with various task views
- Integrated invoicing and online payment processing
- Comprehensive project management and time-tracking features
Cons:
- Advanced features are only available in higher-priced tiers
- The free plan has limited features compared to paid plans
awork is a work management tool that combines project management, team scheduling, and time tracking in one platform.
Why I Picked awork:
I chose awork for its project and team management approach. Its ability to integrate with various tools and platforms makes it a versatile choice for managing resources at startups and more established businesses. I believe awork is best for project and team management due to its user-friendly interface and solid feature set.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include unlimited projects, a personal planner, and time tracking.
Integrations include Slack, Microsoft Teams, and desktop apps, and templates.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Positive user feedback and trusted by over 3,000 project teams
- Wide range of integrations with popular tools
- Comprehensive project management, team scheduling tools, and time tracking
Cons:
- Interface could be more user-friendly
- Some features such as milestone planning could use improvement
ProWorkflow is a centralized project management tool designed to support team collaboration.
Why I Picked ProWorkflow:
I chose ProWorkflow because it provides a platform for managing projects and tasks, which is essential for small businesses that rely on collaboration. ProWorkflow is distinguished by its focus on team interaction, making it a good choice for businesses prioritizing group work.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include project tracking, resource management, time tracking, invoicing, and real-time project visibility.
Integrations include Zapier, Box, Xero, Google Workspace, and Microsoft OneDrive.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Integrates with a variety of applications
- Real-time visibility into project progress
- Centralized communication and task management.
Cons:
- Some users say its difficult to enter time sheets
- The layout can be confusing
Ravetree is an all-in-one operations platform that centralizes various business functions to maintain efficiency.
Why I Picked Ravetree:
I selected Ravetree for its ability to consolidate project management, resource planning, and customer relations into one platform. As it simplifies workflow and resource management, it is best for organizational efficiency.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include project management, resource planning, time and expense tracking, CRM, client portals, file management, and billing.
Integrations include Google Drive, Slack, Dropbox, One Drive, Github, and Facebook.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Aids in centralizing business operations
- Offers a wide range of features
- Integrates with popular tools
Cons:
- May have a learning curve for new users
- Limited customization features
Scoro is a work management software designed to simplify operations for professional services. It is best for integrated business management because it can consolidate multiple business functions into a single platform.
Why I Picked Scoro:
I chose Scoro for this list because it stands out as a unified solution for various business management needs. Its integrated approach differentiates it from other resource management tools that may only focus on specific aspects of business operations.
Scoro is best for integrated business management because it combines a system of project management, sales, CRM, and financials, providing real-time visibility and control.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include project management, quoting and budgeting, sales and CRM, resource planning, retainers, time tracking, reporting, and a dashboard.
Integrations include Google Calendar, MS Exchange, Xero, QuickBooks, Sage Intacct, Exact Online, Expensify, Stripe, and Jira.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Positive customer feedback on efficiency and productivity improvements
- Offers a wide range of features for comprehensive management
- Integrates various business functions into one platform
Cons:
- Can be pricey for companies with many users
- May have a learning curve due to the breadth of features
Resource Guru is designed to help teams efficiently manage their resources and schedules. This resource planning software is recognized as the best for resource scheduling because it provides a user-friendly interface and quick scheduling features, which are essential for managing resources and avoiding conflicts.
Why I Picked Resource Guru:
I selected Resource Guru for its straightforward approach to resource scheduling. It delivers a transparent overview of resource allocation, which is vital for adequately balancing projects on time and resources.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include a drag-and-drop scheduling calendar, visibility into team availability, leave management, and reports.
Integrations include Slack, Google Calendar, and Outlook.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Leave management and insightful reporting capabilities
- Clear visibility into team availability and overallocation
- Intuitive drag-and-drop scheduling calendar
Cons:
- Limited phone support options
- Essential features only available in higher-priced plans
ClickTime simplifies the process of tracking time and expenses for businesses.
Why I Picked ClickTime:
I chose ClickTime for the list because it offers a solution for time and expense tracking that stands out from other resource management software. Its focus on ease of use and detailed reporting capabilities make it a good tool for small businesses looking to simplify time-tracking processes.
I believe ClickTime is best for time and expense tracking because it provides a clear and straightforward way for employees to record their hours and expenses.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include customizable timesheets, a mobile app, reporting tools, over 70 pre-built reports, and a business intelligence & analytics tool.
Integrations include QuickBooks Online, BambooHR, Slack, and ClickTime API.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Over 70 prebuilt reports and a business intelligence & analytics tool
- Mobile app for tracking time and expenses on the go
- Customizable timesheets for various project details
Cons:
- May have a learning curve for new users unfamiliar with time-tracking software
- Interface could be more user-friendly
Celoxis is an all-in-one platform for project management and work collaboration. It is recognized as the best for business management because it offers a full suite of business management tools.
Why I Picked Celoxis:
I selected Celoxis because it provides a single source of truth for all project-related information, which is vital for maintaining a comprehensive overview of business operations. I believe Celoxis is best as it enables users to track and manage every detail of their projects, from resources to finances, within one integrated system.
Standout features & integrations:
Celoxis is notable for its advanced project scheduling, time and expense tracking, resource management, and project portfolio management. It also boasts a customizable dashboard and reporting system that can be tailored to specific needs.
The software integrates with Microsoft Project, Excel, Salesforce, QuickBooks, and more applications.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Wide range of integrations with other business tools
- Customizable dashboards and reports
- Advanced scheduling and resource management capabilities
Cons:
- The extensive features might be overwhelming for new users
- May be more complex than necessary for very small projects
Saviom is designed to help businesses manage and allocate their workforce effectively. It stands out for its ability to improve workforce utilization and project portfolio management.
Why I Picked Saviom:
I selected Saviom for its ability to manage and optimize workforce allocation, which is important for small businesses looking to maximize productivity. Its focus on workforce optimization is evident through its strategic decision-making and resource-planning features.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include resource management, advanced forecasting, real-time visibility into resource utilization, and strategic planning capabilities.
Integrations include Microsoft Excel, JavaScript, GitHub, Python, and jQuery.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Strategic planning tools
- Real-time visibility into resource utilization
- Advanced forecasting capabilities
Cons:
- Could be complex to implement for smaller teams
- Interface could be more modern
Other Resource Management Software For Small Business to Consider
Below is a list of additional resource management software for small businesses that we shortlisted, but did not make it to the top list. It’s worth checking them out!
Resource Management Software for Small Business Selection Criteria
Choosing resource management software for small businesses requires carefully considering functionality that addresses common use cases and specific needs. The perfect solution should provide essential features while being adaptable to your business's unique operations.
Drawing from personal experience and thorough research, I have established criteria for selecting this type of software.
Core Resource Management Software For Small Business Functionality: 25% of total weighting score
- Ability to create, assign, and track tasks and projects.
- Tools to log time spent on tasks and generate reports for analysis.
- Features to manage and predict the use of resources effectively.
- Capabilities to track financial resources and manage budgets.
- Integrated platforms for team members to communicate and collaborate in real-time.
Additional Standout Features: 25% of total weighting score
- Look for interactive, drag-and-drop scheduling interfaces that stand out from basic calendars.
- Evaluate resource planning tools that offer deeper insights through more sophisticated data analysis capabilities.
- Identify software that allows extensive customization to fit unique business processes.
- Assess the ability to integrate with existing systems and software used by the business.
- Ensure the software provides a robust mobile version for on-the-go management.
Usability: 10% of total weighting score
- Prioritize software with a clear, user-friendly interface that simplifies complex tasks.
- Consider the balance between powerful features and the time users need to become proficient.
- Evaluate the aesthetic aspects of the interface, which contribute to user satisfaction and adoption.
Onboarding: 10% of total weighting score
- Look for the availability of comprehensive training materials, such as videos and tutorials.
- Assess the level of support provided for initial setup and customization.
- Interactive guidance: Value the presence of interactive tours or walkthroughs that help new users navigate the software.
- Check for active user communities or forums for peer support and knowledge sharing.
Customer Support: 10% of total weighting score
- Evaluate the speed and effectiveness of the support team's responses to inquiries.
- Look for support available through various channels, such as email, chat, and phone.
- Assess the quality and comprehensiveness of self-help resources like FAQs and articles.
- Consider whether the support team offers proactive tips and best practices for using the software.
Value For Money: 10% of total weighting score
- Analyze the transparency and flexibility of the pricing options available.
- Compare the range and quality of features provided relative to the cost.
- Consider whether the pricing model accommodates the growth of the business.
- Check for the availability of a free trial or demo to evaluate the software before purchase.
Customer Reviews: 10% of total weighting score
- Look at the general sentiment expressed in customer reviews.
- Pay attention to recurring comments on particular features or aspects of the software.
- Note how the software provider addresses any problems or criticisms mentioned in reviews.
- Consider reviews that reflect the software's performance over an extended period.
Trends In Resource Management Software For Small Business
Resource management software is constantly changing. Small businesses can expect to see numerous new developments, including the following.
- Integration with Remote Work Platforms: This integration allows for real-time tracking of remote teams' resource allocation, which is important as it supports the growing remote workforce.
- AI-Powered Forecasting: Artificial intelligence analyzes past data to forecast future project requirements. This trend is interesting because it can potentially reduce waste and increase efficiency.
- User-Friendly Mobile Access: Simplified mobile interfaces allow small businesses to manage resources on the go, which is important for real-time decision-making.
- Real-Time Collaboration Features: Teams can update and manage resources simultaneously, which is crucial for maintaining project momentum.
- Customizable Reporting Dashboards: These types allow businesses to see the data that matters most. This is important for informed decision-making.
These trends influence how small businesses manage their resources, both presently and in the future.
What Is Resource Management Software For Small Business?
Resource management software for small businesses is a digital tool designed to help them manage and allocate their resources effectively. It is used by business owners, project managers, and team leaders to ensure that resources such as personnel, equipment, and materials are available when needed to meet project demands and deadlines.
The software typically includes features for scheduling, tracking, and reporting on resource utilization. It allows users to see resource availability and constraints, make informed decisions, and adjust allocations to maintain project timelines and budgets.
Features Of Resource Management Software For Small Businesses
Choosing the right resource management software is important for small businesses looking to allocate their limited resources. Here are some of the most important features to consider.
- User-Friendly Interface: A straightforward interface saves time and reduces the learning curve, allowing team members to focus on their tasks rather than how to use the tool.
- Resource Scheduling: This feature ensures that the right resources work on the right tasks, preventing overallocation and burnout.
- Time Tracking: Accurate tracking is essential for billing and productivity analysis as it helps understand how much time is spent on specific tasks and projects.
- Project Forecasting: Businesses can plan by predicting future project requirements and avoid last-minute scrambles for resources.
- Real-Time Reporting: Real-time reports provide up-to-date information, allowing for quick adjustments to resource allocation.
- Budget Management: This feature helps ensure that projects stay within budget, which is particularly important for small businesses with tighter financial constraints.
- Collaboration Tools: By enabling team members to collaborate smoothly, collaboration tools help maintain project cohesion and momentum.
- Integration Capabilities: Integration with existing systems and software reduces the need for duplicate data entry and maintains consistency across platforms.
- Customization Options: Customization allows the tool to adapt to the business's unique processes and requirements.
- Mobile Accessibility: Mobile accessibility ensures team members can update and check on resources anytime, anywhere, keeping everyone in sync.
Choosing the right resource management software is a strategic decision that can significantly affect a small business. The features listed above are essential to ensure that resources are used effectively and projects are delivered on time.
By carefully considering these features, small businesses can find a software solution that supports their growth and helps them manage their most valuable assets.
Benefits Of Resource Management Software For Small Business
Resource management software can be a game-changer for small businesses looking to improve efficiency and productivity. Here are five primary benefits that resource management software can provide to users and organizations.
- Improved Project Visibility: Resource management software gives businesses a clear overview of their projects, enabling them to track progress and resource allocation in real-time.
- Enhanced Team Collaboration: The software centralizes communication and project details, fostering better teamwork and helping prevent misunderstandings and delays.
- Efficient Resource Allocation: The software effectively distributes tasks and resources, ensuring that no team member is overburdened while others are underutilized.
- Cost Savings: With better resource management, businesses can reduce waste and ensure that every dollar is spent where it's most needed, leading to potential cost reductions.
- Data-Driven Decision Making: The software provides valuable insights and data analytics, empowering businesses to make informed decisions about projects and resource distribution.
Resource management software for small businesses can provide the necessary tools to manage projects more effectively. It ensures that resources are used efficiently and projects are completed on time and within budget.
Costs and Pricing of Resource Management Software for Small Business
Below is a table summarizing the plan options pricing for resource management software tailored for small businesses, along with common features included in each plan.
Plan Comparison Table of Resource Management Software for Small Business Software
| Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
| Free | $0 | Basic resource scheduling, Limited projects, Basic reporting |
| Basic | $10 - $20/user/month | Enhanced scheduling, Time tracking, Basic analytics |
| Professional | $20 - $40/user/month | Advanced resource planning, Real-time collaboration, Full project management suite |
| Enterprise | Custom Pricing | Custom integrations, Advanced security features, Personalized onboarding and support |
When considering a resource management software plan, small business software buyers should evaluate the features against their business needs. It is also advisable to look for options that offer a free trial to test the software before purchasing.
Resource Management Software For Small Business FAQs
Here are some commonly asked questions about resource management software for small businesses.
Are there affordable resource management tools suitable for small businesses?
Yes, there are affordable resource management tools designed for small businesses. Many offer scalable pricing models based on the number of users or resources, allowing businesses to pay for only what they need. Some even provide free versions with basic features.
Can resource management software be integrated with other business systems?
Many resource management software solutions offer integration capabilities with other business systems such as accounting software, customer relationship management (CRM) systems, and project management tools. This allows for a more cohesive approach to managing business operations.
Is it difficult to implement resource management software in a small business?
The difficulty of implementing resource management software can vary, but many providers aim to make the process as straightforward as possible. To ease the transition, look for software with intuitive interfaces, good customer support, and resources like tutorials and training.
How does resource management software improve project delivery?
Resource management software improves project delivery by providing a clear overview of resource allocation, identifying potential bottlenecks, and enabling proactively made adjustments. This leads to better project timelines, budget management, and overall project success.
What kind of support can I expect from resource management software providers?
Support offerings can vary by provider, but typically you can expect a range of support options including online documentation, email support, live chat, and phone support. Some providers may also offer dedicated account managers or personalized training sessions.
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