As you shop around, you’ll find that task management software varies widely. That’s why it’s a good idea to compare all the options and weigh the pros and cons of each one. Here are some factors you should consider as you search for the right solution for your unique needs.
Key features
- Creation of the task: This is an essential tool that any task management software must have. You should be able to create and assign tasks. Ideally, you could add photos, videos, documents and links to them.
- Collaboration tools: Built-in collaboration tools are essential to keep everyone on the same page. Some of these tools may include commenting, instant messaging, and discussion boards.
- Visualization: Many individuals and teams find it easier to visualize tasks, which is why visualization tools are essential. Kanban boards and Gantt charts are two examples of common visualization features.
- Reporting: Creating reports can be tedious and time-consuming. Therefore, software with reporting features can be very useful. Some software will allow you to create your own reports by inserting and copying different data, while other types of software offer templates and automated reports.
- Notifications: Also known as alerts, notifications can keep everyone in the loop. They can remind all stakeholders of upcoming tasks and responsibilities.
- Time tracking: Depending on the nature of your work, it may be important to track the amount of time spent on certain tasks. Time tracking is especially useful if you have diverse clients or have an agency business model.
- Integrations: There’s a good chance you’re relying on other types of software to run smoothly. Ideally, the task management tool you choose will integrate with it and allow for a streamlined workflow.
The views
Task management software should come with different views that you can use to keep track of your tasks. Different views will support different project needs and methodologies. Some examples of common views include timeline views, table views, calendar views, card views, Kanban board views, and Gantt chart views.
If you use an Agile project management methodology, for example, Kanban board views are probably the most important because they can allow you to understand the relationships between them. On the other hand, if you tend to work with numbers or update a lot of information while completing tasks, table views are your best bet.
Ease of use
At the end of the day, the goal of task management software is to help you and your team complete tasks efficiently. If you find a great tool, but it’s only designed for developers or other technical users, it might become useless. The key is to make sure the software you choose is easy to use for everyone on your team. If it requires a steep learning curve, team members may be discouraged and avoid using it. Fortunately, many solutions come with free trials so you can find out how easy the software is to use before committing to it.
User support
Task management software is a long-term investment, even if you choose the free version. At some point, you’re bound to have questions or concerns about the tool you choose. For this reason, excellent customer support is essential. Read reviews from current and former customers to get a better idea of how the software handles user queries and complaints.
Also, find out how you can reach the company if necessary. Depending on the software, you may be able to contact them via email, phone or live chat. Some solutions also have guides, robust FAQ pages, and self-service resource libraries to help you.
Prominent partners
Free version available
That
starting price
From $8 per month per user
Integrations
Zoom, LinkedIn, Adobe, Salesforce and more
Free version available
Yes, for one user and two editors
starting price
$7 per user per month
Integrations
Google Drive, Slack, Tableau, Miro, Zapier and more
Free version available
Yes, for an unlimited number of members
starting price
7 dollars a month
Integrations
Slack, Microsoft Outlook, HubSpot, Salesforce, Timely, Google Drive and more
