Project management is vital for every successful business, but manually tracking tasks, timelines, and collaboration can be slow and error-prone.
The best project management tools help new business owners stay organised, boost productivity, ensure accountability, and track progress in real time.
In this guide, we will explore the top tools for startups and small businesses offering solutions that can make the difference between chaos and smooth growth.
See also: 25+ Best Collaboration Tools for Entrepreneurs and Teams
Key Takeaways
- The best project management tools organise workflows, streamline communication, and keep deadlines on track with ease.
- Many offer free plans with features perfect for small teams, ideal for budget-conscious entrepreneurs.
- Choosing software that integrates with Google Workspace, Slack, and Zoom saves time and avoids duplicate work.
- From real-time updates to shared boards, the right tools boost teamwork for remote and hybrid teams.
25 Best Project Management Tools for New Business Owners
Starting a business comes with endless tasks, tight deadlines, and the need for smooth teamwork. The right project management tools help you stay organised, save time, and keep your team aligned from day one.
Below are 25 of the best project management tools to get your team up to speed quickly.
1. Trello
Trello is a flexible, user-friendly project management tool that uses boards, lists, and cards to organise tasks and visualise workflows.
Its drag-and-drop interface makes it easy to track progress, assign responsibilities, and collaborate in real time, making it ideal for startups and small teams looking for a simple yet powerful way to stay organised.
Key Features of Trello
Key Feature | Description |
Drag-and-Drop Interface | Intuitive way to move tasks across stages |
Boards, Lists, and Cards | Visual project management using Kanban methodology |
Power-Ups | Integrations with tools like Slack, Google Drive, and Jira |
Automation (Butler) | Rule-based triggers to automate repetitive tasks |
Mobile Apps | Full functionality on iOS and Android |
Trello Pricing
Plan | Price |
Free | $0 |
Standard | $5 |
Premium | $10 |
Enterprise | $17.50 |
Pros and Cons of Trello
Pros | Cons |
User-friendly interface | Limited advanced reporting |
Highly customisable with Power-Ups | Some features are locked behind paid tiers |
Excellent for visual thinkers | Less suited for large enterprise needs |
The free plan is generous | Can become cluttered with too many cards |
Great mobile app experience | Not ideal for complex project dependencies |
2. Asana
Asana is a versatile project management platform designed to help teams plan, organise, and track work with ease. It offers multiple views, such as lists, boards, and timelines, allowing users to manage tasks in the style that suits them best.
With features like task dependencies, automated workflows, and real-time collaboration, Asana helps small business owners streamline operations, hit deadlines, and maintain clear communication across the team.
Key Features of Asana
Key Feature | Description |
Multiple Project Views | List, board, and timeline formats |
Task Management | Assign, prioritise, and set deadlines |
Workflow Automation | Custom rules to automate tasks |
Integration Library | Connects with 100+ apps |
Reporting Tools | Track progress and productivity |
Asana Pricing
Plan | Price |
Personal | $0 |
Starter | $10.99 |
Advanced | $24.99 |
Enterprise | Custom |
Enterprise+ | Custom |
Pros and Cons of Asana
Pros | Cons |
Highly customisable | It can feel overwhelming for beginners |
Excellent integration options | No built-in time tracking |
Multiple views to suit workflows | Steeper learning curve for complex setups |
Reliable performance | Mobile experience is less fluid than desktop |
Free plan supports larger teams | Some features are locked in higher tiers |
3. ClickUp
ClickUp is an all-in-one project management platform that combines task management, goal tracking, document sharing, and time tracking in a single workspace.
It offers customisable views, such as lists, boards, calendars, and Gantt charts, so teams can work in the way that fits their style.
With built-in automation, integrations with popular tools, and advanced reporting, ClickUp helps new business owners boost productivity, stay organised, and manage every aspect of their projects without juggling multiple apps.
Key Features of ClickUp
Key Feature | Description |
Multiple Views | List, board, Gantt chart, and more |
Custom Fields | Tailor task data to project needs |
Time Tracking | Built-in time logging |
Goals & OKRs | Set and monitor performance targets |
Chat & Docs | In-app communication and document sharing |
ClickUp Pricing
Plan | Price |
Free | $0 |
Unlimited | $10 |
Business | $19 |
Enterprise | Custom |
Pros and Cons of ClickUp
Pros | Cons |
Extremely versatile | Can feel feature-heavy for simple needs |
Built-in time tracking | Learning curve for advanced features |
Strong automation | The interface can feel cluttered |
Consolidates multiple tools in one | The mobile version is less intuitive |
Excellent free plan | Some views have slower load times |
4. Monday.com
Monday.com is a highly visual project management and work collaboration tool that helps teams plan, track, and deliver projects efficiently. Its customisable boards and templates make it easy to manage everything from daily tasks to long-term goals.
With automation, time tracking, and integrations with tools like Slack, Google Workspace, and Zoom, Monday.com gives new business owners a central hub to streamline workflows, enhance team communication, and keep projects on schedule.
Key Features of Monday.com
Key Feature | Description |
Customisable Boards | Build workflows to suit your needs |
Multiple Data Views | Kanban, Gantt, calendar, and more |
Automations | Reduce repetitive work |
Integration Library | Connects with major tools |
Mobile Access | Manage work on the go |
Monday.com Pricing
Plan | Price |
Free | $0 |
Basic | $9 |
Standard | $12 |
Pro | $19 |
Enterprise | Custom |
Pros and Cons of Monday.com
Pros | Cons |
Highly customisable | The free plan is limited |
Visually appealing interface | Steeper learning curve for some users |
Good integration options | Can be costly at scale |
Strong automation | Some reporting tools are limited in lower plans |
Excellent mobile support | The templates are overwhelming |
5. Notion
Notion is an all-in-one workspace that combines project management, note-taking, databases, and collaboration tools in a highly customisable interface.
It allows teams to create tailored dashboards, organise tasks, track progress, and store important documents all in one place.
With features like real-time collaboration, powerful templates, and integrations with tools such as Slack and Google Drive, Notion helps new business owners centralise their operations, improve organisation, and work more efficiently.
Key Features of Notion
Key Feature | Description |
Custom Databases | Build task lists, calendars, and Kanban boards |
Rich Media Support | Embed images, videos, and links |
Real-Time Collaboration | Work with team members instantly |
Multi-Platform Access | Web, desktop, and mobile apps |
Templates | Use community or built-in templates |
Notion Pricing
Plan | Price |
Free | $0 |
Plus | $8 |
Business | $15 |
Enterprise | Custom |
Pros and Cons of Notion
Pros | Cons |
Extremely flexible | Requires setup for full functionality |
All-in-one workspace | The offline mode is less robust |
Rich content embedding | Lacks advanced reporting |
Huge template community | Performance slows with very large databases |
Great free plan | It can be overwhelming initially |
6. Wrike
Wrike is a robust project management and collaboration platform designed to give teams full visibility and control over their work. It offers customisable dashboards, Gantt charts, and real-time updates to help manage tasks, track progress, and meet deadlines.
With advanced features like workload management, proofing tools, and integrations with popular apps, Wrike enables new business owners to streamline workflows, enhance communication, and keep projects moving efficiently from start to finish.
Key Features of Wrike
Key Feature | Description |
Custom Workflows | Tailor processes for different teams |
Multiple Views | List, board, table, and Gantt charts |
Resource Management | Track workload and availability |
Advanced Analytics | Visualise progress with dashboards |
400+ Integrations | Connect to tools like Slack, Google Drive, and Zoom |
Wrike Pricing
Plan | Price |
Free | $0 |
Team | $9.80 |
Business | $24.80 |
Enterprise | Custom |
Pros and Cons of Wrike
Pros | Cons |
Highly customisable | It can be overwhelming for beginners |
Strong reporting tools | Some features are locked in higher tiers |
Great integration library | Learning curve for full capabilities |
Scales well for larger teams | The free plan is limited in views |
Excellent resource tracking | The interface can feel crowded |
7. Smartsheet
Smartsheet is a dynamic work management platform that blends the familiarity of spreadsheets with powerful project management features.
It allows teams to plan, track, automate, and report on work in real time, using tools like Gantt charts, dashboards, and automated workflows.
With its strong collaboration features and integrations with apps such as Microsoft Teams, Slack, and Google Workspace, Smartsheet helps new business owners organise projects, improve visibility, and boost productivity across their teams.
Key Features of Smartsheet
Key Feature | Description |
Spreadsheet Interface | Familiar format for easy onboarding |
Gantt Chart View | Visual project timelines |
Workflow Automation | Automate repetitive actions |
Collaboration Tools | Share and comment in real time |
Integration Options | Connect to popular business apps |
Smartsheet Pricing
Plan | Price |
Free | $0 |
Pro | $7 |
Business | $25 |
Enterprise | Custom |
Pros and Cons of Smartsheet
Pros | Cons |
Easy transition from spreadsheets | The interface can look basic |
Strong collaboration features | Higher learning curve for non-spreadsheet users |
Robust automation | Can get expensive at scale |
Flexible project views | Limited free plan |
Good integration support | Some advanced features require training |
8. Basecamp
Basecamp is a project management and team collaboration tool designed to simplify communication and organisation. It brings together to-do lists, message boards, schedules, file storage, and real-time group chat in one platform.
With its clean, intuitive interface and focus on reducing clutter, Basecamp helps new business owners keep everyone aligned, manage tasks efficiently, and ensure projects progress smoothly without endless meetings or email chains.
Key Features of Basecamp
Key Feature | Description |
Centralised Workspace | Combines tasks, chat, and file storage |
Hill Charts | Visualise project progress uniquely |
Scheduling | Built-in calendar for deadlines |
Client Access | Collaborate with external partners |
Notifications Control | Customise alerts for focus time |
Basecamp Pricing
Plan | Price |
Free | $0 |
Plus | $15 |
Pro | $299 |
Pros and Cons of Basecamp
Pros | Cons |
Flat pricing for large teams | Lacks advanced reporting |
Very easy to use | Limited task dependencies |
Combines communication and tasks | No native time tracking |
Great for remote work | Not ideal for complex workflows |
Strong client collaboration | Few integrations compared to competitors |
9. Airtable
Airtable is a flexible project management tool that combines the simplicity of a spreadsheet with the power of a relational database.
It allows teams to organise tasks, track projects, and manage data visually through grid, calendar, kanban, and gallery views.
With customisable fields, automation, and integrations with tools like Slack, Google Workspace, and Zapier, Airtable helps new business owners streamline workflows, centralise information, and collaborate effectively in one organised platform.
Key Features of Airtable
Key Feature | Description |
Multiple Views | Grid, calendar, Kanban, gallery |
Relational Databases | Link related records easily |
Templates | Pre-built layouts for various industries |
Automation | Trigger-based actions |
Integration Support | Works with Zapier, Slack, and more |
Airtable Pricing
Plan | Price |
Free | $0 |
Plus | $10 |
Pro | $20 |
Enterprise | Custom |
Pros and Cons of Airtable
Pros | Cons |
Flexible database structure | It can be complex for new users |
Highly visual | Advanced features require training |
Strong automation | Limited offline mode |
Great free plan | Storage limits in the free tier |
Wide range of templates | Pricing increases with scale |
10. ProofHub
ProofHub is an all-in-one project management and team collaboration software designed to simplify planning, organising, and delivering projects.
It offers tools like task lists, Gantt charts, discussions, file sharing, and proofing in a single platform, eliminating the need for multiple apps.
With features for time tracking, custom workflows, and real-time chat, ProofHub helps new business owners improve coordination, maintain clear communication, and ensure projects are completed on time and within budget.
Key Features of ProofHub
Key Feature | Description |
Task Management | Assign, track, and prioritise tasks |
Proofing Tools | Review and approve creative files |
Gantt Charts | Visual project planning |
Discussions | Team communication threads |
Flat Pricing | One price for unlimited users |
ProofHub Pricing
Plan | Price |
Free | $0 |
Essential | $45 |
Ultimate Control | $89 |
Pros and Cons of ProofHub
Pros | Cons |
Good mix of features | Limited mobile app features |
Unlimited users in paid plans | Less suited for highly complex projects |
Built-in proofing | Limited integrations |
Easy to use | Fewer automation features |
Flat pricing | No free plan |
11. Zoho Projects
Zoho Projects is a cloud-based project management tool that helps teams plan, track, and deliver work efficiently. It offers features like task scheduling, Gantt charts, time tracking, and automated workflows to streamline project execution.
With built-in communication tools, detailed reports, and integrations with apps like Zoho CRM, Slack, and Google Workspace, Zoho Projects enables new business owners to manage resources effectively, enhance collaboration, and keep projects on schedule.
Key Features of Zoho Projects
Key Feature | Description |
Gantt Charts | Visual project planning |
Time Tracking | Log billable and non-billable hours |
Task Management | Assign, prioritise, and track work |
Integrations | Connect with Zoho and third-party apps |
Automation | Streamline repetitive tasks |
Zoho Projects Pricing
Plan | Price |
Free | $0 |
Premium | $5 |
Enterprise | $10 |
Pros and Cons of Zoho Projects
Pros | Cons |
Integrates with the Zoho ecosystem | It can feel basic for complex needs |
Unlimited users in paid plans | Less suited for highly complex projects |
Clean interface | Learning curve for advanced automation |
Mobile app support | Limited storage on lower plans |
Good for small businesses | Not ideal for very large teams |
12. Teamwork
Teamwork is a comprehensive project management platform built to help teams plan, collaborate, and deliver projects on time.
It offers features like task lists, time tracking, Gantt charts, and workload management, making it easy to balance resources and deadlines.
With built-in chat, file sharing, and integrations with tools such as Slack, Google Drive, and HubSpot, Teamwork enables new business owners to streamline workflows, improve communication, and manage client work more efficiently.
Key Features of Teamwork
Key Feature | Description |
Time Tracking | Log and bill hours worked |
Task Management | Assign and prioritise tasks |
Invoicing | Generate invoices from tracked time |
Collaboration | Chat, comments, and file sharing |
Project Templates | Speed up setup for recurring work |
Teamwork Pricing
Plan | Price |
Free | $0 |
Deliver | $10.99 |
Grow | $19.99 |
Enterprise | Custom |
Scale | Custom |
Pros and Cons of Teamwork
Pros | Cons |
Ideal for service businesses | Limited free plan |
Integrated time tracking | Can be complex for non-client work |
Strong reporting tools | Limited offline functionality |
Flexible project templates | The interface can feel busy |
Client portal | Advanced features cost more |
13. Microsoft Project
Microsoft Project is a powerful project management software designed for detailed planning, scheduling, and tracking of complex projects.
It offers tools like Gantt charts, resource management, and advanced reporting to help teams stay organised and meet deadlines.
With integration into Microsoft 365 and collaboration features via Microsoft Teams, it enables new business owners to manage tasks, allocate resources, and monitor progress with precision, making it ideal for projects that require in-depth oversight.
Key Features of Microsoft Project
Key Feature | Description |
Advanced Scheduling | Plan and manage project timelines |
Resource Management | Allocate staff and resources effectively |
Integration with Microsoft 365 | Seamless with Outlook, Teams, etc. |
Reporting Tools | Detailed analytics and dashboards |
Multiple Project Views | Gantt, board, and grid options |
Microsoft Project Pricing
Plan | Price |
Project Plan 1 | $10 |
Project Plan 3 | $30 |
Project Plan 5 | $55 |
Pros and Cons of Microsoft Project
Pros | Cons |
Powerful planning tools | Expensive compared to competitors |
Deep integration with Microsoft 365 | Steep learning curve |
Handles complex workflows | No free plan |
Reliable for large-scale projects | The interface can feel outdated |
Excellent reporting | Overkill for small projects |
14. Jira
Jira is a project management and issue-tracking tool popular among software development teams for its agile-friendly features.
It supports Scrum and Kanban boards, sprint planning, backlog management, and real-time reporting to keep projects on track.
With custom workflows, automation, and integrations with tools like Confluence, Slack, and GitHub, Jira helps new business owners, especially in tech, streamline processes, improve collaboration, and deliver high-quality results faster.
Key Features of Jira
Key Feature | Description |
Agile Boards | Scrum and Kanban support |
Sprint Planning | Plan and manage iterations |
Backlog Management | Organise and prioritise tasks |
Reporting | Agile-specific charts and analytics |
Integrations | Works with 3,000+ apps |
Jira Pricing
Plan | Price |
Free | $0 |
Standard | $7.75 |
Premium | $15.25 |
Enterprise | Custom |
Pros and Cons of Jira
Pros | Cons |
Ideal for agile workflows | It can be overwhelming for non-tech teams |
Strong reporting | Steep learning curve |
Highly customisable | Interface can feel complex |
Free plan for small teams | Requires setup for optimal use |
Extensive integrations | Pricing scales with team size |
15. Podio
Podio is a flexible project management and collaboration platform that lets teams create customised workspaces tailored to their processes.
It combines task management, file sharing, workflows, and communication tools in one place, making it easy to keep projects organised.
With powerful automation, reporting features, and integrations with apps like Google Drive, Dropbox, and Microsoft services, Podio helps new business owners centralise operations, boost productivity, and improve team coordination.
Key Features of Podio
Key Feature | Description |
Custom Apps | Build workflows for specific processes |
Proofing Tools | Review and approve creative files |
Automation | Streamline repetitive actions |
CRM Integration | Manage customer relationships |
Flat Pricing | Assign and track progress |
Podio Pricing
Plan | Price |
Free | $0 |
Plus | $11.20 |
Premium | $19.20 |
Pros and Cons of Podio
Pros | Cons |
Highly customisable | The interface can feel outdated |
Great for unique workflows | Limited out-of-the-box templates |
Includes CRM capabilities | Fewer integrations than competitors |
Easy to use | Fewer automation features |
Good free plan | Some features require training |
16. Freedcamp
Freedcamp is an easy-to-use project management tool that offers a full suite of features, including task lists, calendars, time tracking, and file sharing, all in one platform.
It supports both simple to-do lists and more complex project planning with Gantt charts and milestones.
With its affordability, collaboration tools, and integrations with Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive, Freedcamp helps new business owners organise work, improve communication, and keep projects moving efficiently.
Key Features of Freedcamp
Key Feature | Description |
File Management | Store and share files directly within the platform |
Proofing Tools | Review and approve creative files |
Time Tracking | Log time spent on projects for better planning |
Discussions | Host threaded discussions to keep communication in one place |
Task Lists | Create and assign detailed tasks with priorities and deadlines |
Pricing for Freedcamp
Plan | Price |
Free | $0 |
Pro | $1.49 |
Business | $7.49 |
Enterprise | $16.99 |
Pros and Cons of Freedcamp
Pros | Cons |
Generous free plan | Limited advanced reporting tools |
Simple, clean interface | Fewer integrations than some competitors |
Suitable for remote teams | Free plan storage cap |
Good value paid plans | Customisation options limited |
Easy onboarding process | It may feel too basic for large enterprises |
17. Paymo
Paymo is a project management and work management tool designed to help teams handle projects from start to finish.
It combines task management, time tracking, invoicing, and resource scheduling in a single platform, making it ideal for service-based businesses.
With features like Gantt charts, Kanban boards, and real-time collaboration, plus integrations with tools like Slack and Google Workspace, Paymo enables new business owners to streamline operations, track billable hours, and deliver projects on time.
Key Features of Paymo
Key Feature | Description |
Task Management | Organise and prioritise tasks with lists and boards |
Time Tracking | Log billable and non-billable hours automatically |
Invoicing | Create and send invoices directly from the platform |
File Sharing | Upload documents and share them securely |
Resource Scheduling | Assign resources to tasks with a clear calendar view |
Pricing for Paymo
Plan | Price |
Free | $0 |
Starter | $5.95 |
Small Office | $11.95 |
Business | $24.95 |
Pros and Cons of Paymo
Pros | Cons |
Integrated invoicing and billing | Limited third-party integrations |
Easy to use interface | Steeper learning curve for advanced features |
Excellent mobile app | Free plan limited to one user |
Strong time tracking tools | Pricing may be high for very small teams |
Good for client-based work | Reports could be more detailed |
18. Backlog
Backlog is an all-in-one project management and collaboration tool tailored for developers and non-technical teams alike.
It combines task tracking, version control, bug tracking, and wikis in a single platform, making it easy to manage projects from planning to delivery.
With features like Gantt charts, Kanban boards, and Git integration, Backlog helps new business owners streamline workflows, improve communication, and keep both technical and business teams aligned.
Key Features of Backlog
Key Feature | Description |
Issue Tracking | Log, assign, and resolve bugs or tasks |
Kanban Boards | Manage tasks visually with drag-and-drop ease |
Gantt Charts | Plan timelines with visual dependencies |
Git & SVN Repositories | Built-in version control for developers |
Mobile Apps | iOS and Android apps for on-the-go access |
Pricing for Backlog
Plan | Price |
Free | $0 |
Starter | $35 |
Standard | $100 |
Premium | $175 |
Pros and Cons of Backlog
Pros | Cons |
Combines PM with version control | Limited non-development-specific features |
Competitive free plan | Slightly higher price tiers |
Good mobile experience | Reporting options could be richer |
Suitable for technical and non-technical teams | Learning curve for new devs |
Easy-to-use Kanban interface | The interface is less modern than some competitors |
19. Scoro
Scoro is an end-to-end work management software that combines project management, CRM, billing, and reporting in one platform.
It offers tools for planning, task tracking, time management, and budgeting, giving businesses full visibility over their operations.
With customisable dashboards, automated workflows, and integrations with apps like Xero, QuickBooks, and Google Workspace, Scoro helps new business owners streamline processes, improve efficiency, and manage projects and finances from a single hub.
Key Features of Scoro
Key Feature | Description |
Task & Project Management | Plan and execute projects with clear milestones |
CRM Integration | Manage client relationships in the same system |
Billing & Invoicing | Generate and track invoices |
Financial Reporting | Monitor project profitability and budgets |
Time Tracking | Log hours and track billable time |
Pricing for Scoro
Plan | Price |
Core | $23.90 |
Growth | $38.90 |
Performance | $59.90 |
Enterprise | Custom |
Pros and Cons of Scoro
Pros | Cons |
Good for service businesses | Limited free plan |
Strong financial tools | Steeper learning curve |
Highly customisable | Can be feature-heavy for very small teams |
Integrates CRM with PM | The mobile app is less comprehensive |
All-in-one platform | Higher price point |
20. MeisterTask
MeisterTask is a visually appealing, Kanban-style project management tool that helps teams organise tasks, track progress, and collaborate in real time.
It offers customisable project boards, automation, and task relationships to streamline workflows.
With integrations to tools like Slack, Google Drive, and Microsoft Teams, MeisterTask enables new business owners to manage projects efficiently, boost team productivity, and maintain a clear overview of ongoing work.
Key Features of MeisterTask
Key Feature | Description |
Kanban Boards | Visual boards for easy workflow management |
Automation | Custom automation for recurring tasks |
Integrations | Connects with Slack, Google Workspace, etc |
Time Tracking | Built-in time tracking for each task |
Checklists | Subtasks and checklists within each card |
Pricing for MeisterTask
Plan | Price |
Free | $0 |
Pro | $7 |
Business | $12.50 |
Enterprise | Custom |
Pros and Cons of MeisterTask
Pros | Cons |
Easy-to-use interface | Limited advanced reporting |
Good free plan for startups | The mobile app can feel basic |
Strong integrations | No native Gantt charts |
Easy to use | Fewer automation features |
Attractive design | Automation is limited in the free plan |
21. nTask
nTask is a versatile project management platform designed to help teams plan, collaborate, and execute projects efficiently.
It offers features like task management, meeting scheduling, time tracking, and risk management in one central workspace.
With Gantt charts, Kanban boards, and integrations with tools such as Slack, Google Calendar, and Zoom, nTask enables new business owners to streamline workflows, enhance communication, and keep projects on schedule from start to finish.
Key Features of nTask
Key Feature | Description |
Task Management | List and board views |
Meeting Scheduling | Built-in meeting planner |
Risk Management | Identify and track potential risks |
Issue Tracking | Monitor bugs and problems |
Integrations | Zapier, Slack, Google Calendar |
Pricing for nTask
Plan | Price |
Basic | $0 |
Premium | $4 |
Business | $12 |
Enterprise | Custom |
Pros and Cons of nTask
Pros | Cons |
Easy to use | Limited integrations |
Risk management tools | Some features are available in the paid plans only |
Affordable pricing | Limited reporting features |
Good free plan | Smaller user community |
It offers an all-in-one solution | The mobile app needs improvement |
22. Zenkit
Zenkit is a flexible project management and collaboration tool that adapts to different workflows, offering views like Kanban, to-do lists, calendars, and mind maps.
It supports task tracking, file sharing, and real-time collaboration, making it easy to manage projects of any size.
With integrations to tools like Google Drive, Slack, and Zapier, Zenkit helps new business owners organise work, boost productivity, and keep teams aligned in one intuitive platform.
Key Features of Zenkit
Key Feature | Description |
Multiple view modes | Switch between list, Kanban, table, and mind map |
Offline access | Continue working without an internet connection |
Custom templates | Design and reuse project setups |
Time Tracking | Built-in time tracking for each task |
Cross-platform sync | Seamless access from desktop, web, and mobile |
Pricing for Zenkit
Plan | Price |
Personal | $0 |
Plus | $9 |
Business | $25 |
Pros and Cons of Zenkit
Pros | Cons |
Highly customisable interface | Limited integrations compared to top-tier tools |
Offline mode for uninterrupted work | Learning curve for advanced features |
Flexible view modes | Higher tiers are relatively expensive |
Good cross-platform compatibility | No built-in time tracking |
Attractive, minimalist design | The free plan limits the number of team members and collections you can create. |
23. ProofHub
ProofHub is an all-in-one project management and collaboration tool that simplifies planning, organising, and delivering projects.
It combines task management, Gantt charts, discussions, file sharing, and proofing tools in a single platform, removing the need for multiple apps.
With features like time tracking, custom workflows, and real-time chat, ProofHub helps new business owners coordinate teams, maintain clear communication, and complete projects on time and within budget.
Key Features of ProofHub
Key Feature | Description |
Centralised project management | All projects, tasks, and discussions are stored in one place for easy access |
Gantt charts | Visual timelines to track project progress and dependencies |
Custom workflows | Adaptable task stages to match any business process |
Time Tracking | Built-in tools for logging billable and non-billable hours |
File sharing & proofing | Upload, share, and review files with markup and comments |
Pricing for ProofHub
Plan | Price |
Essential | $45 |
Ultimate Control | $89 |
Pros and Cons of ProofHub
Pros | Cons |
Unlimited users on all plans make it cost-effective for growing teams | Limited third-party integrations compared to some competitors |
Intuitive interface suitable for beginners | Lacks a free forever plan |
Strong reporting and time tracking features | The mobile app can feel less responsive than the desktop version |
Built-in proofing tool useful for creative teams | Advanced features require the higher-tier plan |
Custom workflows help tailor processes to the business | Automation is limited in the free plan |
24. Redbooth
Redbooth is a simple yet powerful project management tool that helps teams organise tasks, collaborate, and meet deadlines with ease.
It offers features like task lists, timelines, Gantt charts, and HD video conferencing to keep everyone connected.
With integrations to tools like Slack, Google Drive, and Dropbox, Redbooth enables new business owners to streamline workflows, improve communication, and manage projects efficiently from one central platform.
Key Features of Redbooth
Key Feature | Description |
Multiple project views | Switch between list, Kanban board, and Gantt chart views |
Task and subtask management | Break down complex projects into manageable actions |
HD video meetings | Native video conferencing for up to 100 participants |
Workload reports | Visualise team capacity and avoid over-allocation |
File storage & sharing | Attach documents directly to tasks |
Pricing for Redbooth
Plan | Price |
Free | $0 |
Pro | $9 |
Business | $15 |
Pros and Cons of Redbooth
Pros | Cons |
Easy to switch between different task views | The free plan is limited to only two users |
Built-in video conferencing saves on additional tools | Limited integrations compared to larger platforms |
Strong workload reporting for resource planning | Lacks advanced automation features |
Clean, user-friendly design | No offline mode |
Good balance of price and features for startups | Less suited for very complex project needs |
25. Adobe Workfront
Adobe Workfront is an enterprise-grade project management platform designed to help teams plan, execute, and deliver work at scale.
It offers advanced tools for task management, resource allocation, budgeting, and real-time reporting, ensuring complete visibility across projects.
With custom workflows, automation, and integrations with Adobe Creative Cloud, Microsoft Teams, and Slack, Adobe Workfront enables new business owners to streamline processes, improve collaboration, and deliver projects efficiently from concept to completion.
Key Features of Adobe Workfront
Key Feature | Description |
Adobe Creative Cloud Integration | Seamless connection with Adobe apps for asset sharing and feedback |
Custom Workflows | Fully customisable workflows to fit unique business processes |
Advanced Reporting | Detailed analytics for project performance and resource allocation |
Automated Approvals | Streamlined asset review and approval processes |
Portfolio Management | Manage multiple projects and align them with business objectives |
Adobe Workfront Pricing
Plan | Price |
Select | Custom quote |
Prime | Custom quote |
Ultimate | Custom quote |
Pros and Cons of Adobe Workfront
Pros | Cons |
Seamless Adobe Creative Cloud integration | Higher cost than entry-level tools |
Excellent for creative and marketing teams | Steeper learning curve for beginners |
Powerful reporting and analytics | May be too complex for small teams |
Customisable workflows and automation | Requires onboarding time |
Scalable for medium to large businesses | Primarily suited to creative-heavy industries |
See also: 30 Best Sales Management Tools to Boost Sales and Team Productivity
How to Choose the Right Project Management Tool
With so many project management tools available, finding the one that is right for your business can feel overwhelming. The key is to focus on features, usability, and value that align with your team’s needs and goals.
Below is a quick comparison table to help you narrow down your options.
Criteria | What to Look For | Why It is Important |
---|---|---|
Ease of Use | Intuitive interface, minimal learning curve | Saves time and ensures quick adoption by your team. |
Core Features | Task management, timelines, collaboration tools | Covers essential needs for organising and delivering projects. |
Integrations | Compatibility with Google Workspace, Slack, Zoom, etc. | Reduces duplication of work and keeps tools connected. |
Collaboration | Real-time updates, file sharing, chat options | Improves communication and teamwork, especially for remote teams. |
Customisation | Ability to tailor workflows, dashboards, and fields | Allows the tool to adapt to your unique processes. |
Scalability | Plans and features that grow with your business | Avoids having to switch tools as your team expands. |
Pricing | Transparent costs, free plan or trial | Ensures you get the best value within your budget. |
Support | Responsive customer service, tutorials, community forums | Helps resolve issues quickly and improves user experience. |
Conclusion
The right project management tool can transform how you run your business, streamlining workflows, improving collaboration, and ensuring projects are delivered on time.
Choose one that fits your team’s needs and watch productivity soar.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the best project management tools for new business owners?
The best project management tools for new business owners include options like Trello, Asana, ClickUp, Monday.com, and Basecamp. These tools help streamline workflows, manage deadlines, and improve team collaboration for startups and small businesses.
Why do new business owners need project management software?
New business owners need project management software to keep projects organised, track progress, assign tasks, and manage resources efficiently. It reduces the risk of missed deadlines and ensures everyone stays aligned.
What features should I look for in project management solutions?
When choosing project management solutions, look for features like task management, time tracking, file sharing, integrations, reporting, and mobile accessibility. These features improve productivity and ensure smooth operations.
Are free project management tools good enough for startups?
Yes, many free project management tools like Trello and ClickUp offer robust features suitable for startups. However, as your business grows, upgrading to a paid plan can unlock more advanced capabilities.
Can project management tools integrate with other business apps?
Yes, most modern project management solutions integrate with tools like Slack, Google Workspace, Zoom, and accounting software to create a seamless workflow.
Can I use project management software on mobile devices?
Yes, almost all project management tools have mobile apps for iOS and Android, allowing you to manage projects on the go.
Do project management tools require training to use?
Some tools are intuitive and easy to learn, like Trello or Monday.com, while more complex ones like Jira may require training for maximum efficiency.
How do I choose the best project management software for my business?
Consider your business size, project complexity, budget, and preferred work style when selecting the best project management tools as a business owner.
Are project management tools secure for storing sensitive data?
Yes, reputable tools use encryption, secure servers, and compliance with privacy regulations to protect your business data.
Do these project management tools work offline?
Some offer limited offline functionality, allowing you to update tasks or notes that sync once you are online again.