Project Management Professional (PMP) is a project management credential recognized and respected across the world. It equips project managers with the knowledge and skills they need to effectively manage projects from start to end. PMP tools and techniques are essential for effective project management.
PMP tools and strategies help project managers to effectively plan, execute, monitor, and control projects. In this post, we to plan, execute, monitor, and control projects effectively will look at some of the most often used PMP tools, as well as their benefits and applications in project management. This article will give vital insights into the fundamental PMP tools and techniques necessary for successful project management, whether you are a beginner or an experienced professional. Project Management classes online can help you if you are an aspiring project manager in learning PMP tools and techniques by training you on the frameworks for project management.
Tools for project management professionals (PMPs) are used to assist planning, executing, and managing projects more efficiently, effectively, and transparently. Get familiar with all Project Management Professional tools with KnowledgeHut, which offers you the best courses to become a professional project manager and also PMP corporate training to become an exceptional project manager.
The following are the popular PMP tools used by professionals and organizations:
1. Trello
Trello is a project management tool that has become increasingly popular due to its ease of use, simplicity, and adaptability. It is a popular web-based project management solution for managing projects visually. It helps users organize and prioritize their work by utilizing a system of boards, lists, and cards.
Features:
- The interface is simple to use and learn.
- Tasks and projects can be visually managed using boards, lists, and cards.
- A collaborative working platform allows teams to efficiently interact and communicate.
- Email reminders and notifications.
- Connectivity with additional programs like Microsoft Teams, Slack, and Google Drive.
- Assign specific team members' duties.
Pros
- Available on a variety of devices and platforms.
- Allows for the visual and flexible management of projects.
- The project details, including the deadline date and team comments, are immediately visible when you access your board.
- Assists in work prioritization and tracking progress.
Cons
- Reporting and analytics capabilities are limited.
- Template and workflow customization possibilities are limited.
- Report generation is not an option in Trello.
Cost
Trello is available in both free and premium versions. Trello offers paid plans starting at $5 USD for small teams who need to scale collaboration and manage work. Premium plan start at $10 for teams who must keep track of and visualize a variety of projects using boards, timelines, calendars, etc. Enterprise plans start at $10 for organizations that must connect cross-team work with greater security and controls.
Platforms
- Mobile apps: Android, IOS
- Operating systems: Windows, Mac
- Browser extensions: Google Chrome, Safari, and Mozilla Firefox.
2. Asana
The Asana tool is made to support team collaboration and organization. It is a cloud-based program, so anyone with an internet connection can access it from anywhere. The tool is particularly beneficial for agile project management approaches like Scrum or Kanban, where teams must swiftly react to changing requirements and priorities.
Features
- Asana provides customizable templates for a variety of project kinds and industries.
- It offers tools for file sharing, project timelines, and team communication.
- Users can create and assign projects, establish deadlines, and track progress.
- Timelines and deadlines are used to organize tasks and projects.
Pros
- It aids in project progress and timeline tracking.
- Asana creates to-do lists that can manage entire projects.
- Asana makes task delegation and assignment simple.
- It offers team members a collaborative workspace.
Cons
- The tool lacks obvious security features.
- When compared to dedicated PM software, Asana lacks comprehensive project management features.
- The Kanban view is limited.
Cost
Asana provides four price plans based on the organization's needs. Asana's pricing plans were as follows:
- Basic plan: Free for individuals who are just starting out with project management.
- Premium plan: This subscription is $10.99 per month per user and includes advanced features like timelines, forms, custom fields, and task dependencies.
- Business plan: This plan costs $24.99 per month per user and contains all of the Premium plan's capabilities, as well as portfolios, task management, and advanced integrations.
- Enterprise plan: This plan is for enterprises that require centralized visibility, control, and support. The price is available on request.
Platforms:
- Mobile device OS: Android and IOS
- Applications: Asana mobile app, and Asana desktop app for windows and mac
- Web browsers: Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Safari.
3. Wrike
Wrike is a cloud-based project management platform that enables teams of all sizes and from all industries to manage projects more efficiently and effectively. It provides a wide range of customizable features and functionalities to fulfill the specific needs of various projects and teams.
Features:
- Workflows that can be customized using templates, forms, and automation.
- User-friendly interface.
- Connectivity with well-known third-party platforms such as Salesforce, JIRA, and Slack.
- Time tracking, workload perspective, and Gantt charts for task and project management.
Pros
- Customizable project dashboards and reports are provided to monitor project status and identify potential difficulties.
- Has integrations with various project management software like Microsoft Office, Salesforce, and Google Drive.
- Creation of thorough, automated reports.
- File sharing, commenting, and task assignment help project team members collaborate and communicate.
- A team of five people can use it for free.
Cons
- Some users may find Wrike's interface to be confusing.
- Wrike's customization options are limited.
- Wrike's pricing can be too expensive for small companies.
Cost
The pricing of the Wrike tool varies depending on the package and features chosen. The many plans available are as follows.
- Free: $0 for the teams just getting started.
- Team plan: $9.80 per month for growing teams.
- Business: $24.80/month for all teams across an organization.
- Enterprise: For large teams, contact Wrike directly for the price details.
- Pinnacle: For teams with complex work needs. Contact Wrike directly for the price details.
Platforms
- Desktop apps for Windows and Mac.
- Mobile apps for iOS and Android devices.
- A web-based platform that may be accessed via a web browser.
4. Paymo
Paymo is a project management application that is intended to assist organizations in successfully managing their projects, tasks, and teams. It is one of the most extensively used project management tools in the business, with project managers favoring it for its ease of use, robust features, and low cost.
Features
- Multi-language interface, available in 23 languages.
- Time tracking
- File management
- Capabilities for invoicing and cost management to streamline project financing
- Resource scheduling
Pros
- Effective team collaboration tools
- User-friendly interface
- Strong timekeeping and billing features
- Customizable reports for data analysis and insights
Cons
- Integrations are limited in comparison to other project management solutions
- For new users, the user interface might be confusing and overwhelming
- The mobile app functionality is limited
Cost
- The following are the various pricing plans:
- Free: $0 for basic tools for business tools
- Starter: $4.95/month for freelancers
- Small office: $9.95/month for small teams and departments
- Business: $20.79/month for medium and large teams
Platforms
- Paymo’s mobile apps are available in both Android and IOS
- There is also a desktop app for Windows, macOS, and Linux
5. JIRA
Jira is a project management tool for planning, tracking, and managing projects. It is popular in the software development sector, yet it can be used in any project management circumstance.
Features:
- Mobile applications
- Customizable Reports and Dashboards
- Customizable workflows
- Time Tracking and Estimation
Pros
- Allows for real-time tracking of project progress and status updates
- Customizable dashboards and reports are available for data visualization and analysis
- Integrates with other tools and software to provide continuous workflow management
- Offers a centralized platform for tracking and reporting on projects
- Helps in the management of projects with many tasks and teams
Cons
- High cost for the full-featured version, which may not be justified for small businesses.
- Reporting and analytics features have limited visibility and flexibility
- Project workflow customization possibilities are limited
- Integration issues with other tools and systems
Cost
- The following are the pricing plans for the Jira tool in PMP:
- Free plan: $0 for individuals with a monthly subscription only.
- Standard plan: $7.75 per user per month
- Premium plan: $15.25 per user per month
- Enterprise plan: It is billed on an annual basis. $134500 for a minimum of 801 users.
Platforms
- Mobile Apps: Jira provides apps for iOS and Android mobile devices.
- Desktop Application: Jira provides desktop applications for Windows and Mac OS X.
- Web browser: Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge, and Safari are just a few examples of web browsers that can be used to visit Jira.
6. Basecamp
Basecamp is a project management solution that helps eliminate complexity by organizing everything in one place. Project managers and teams all across the world use Basecamp to improve communication, streamline processes, and ensure project success. It is a web-based program that serves as a collaborative communication platform for team members.
Features
- To-do lists for managing tasks
- Project templates
- Mobile applications
- Communication and collaboration with team members
- Calendar that is shared for scheduling and monitoring due dates
Pros
- Basecamp is a renowned project management application with a great reputation
- The interface is simple and easy to use
- The platform for centralized project management.
- Mobile app for on-the-go project management
- Advanced analytics and reporting for projects
- Capabilities for file sharing and storing
Cons
- There is no built-in time tracking functionality
- For small businesses, the Basecamp Business plan could be a bit costly
- There is no offline access to project information available
Cost
- The basecamp tool is available in three plans:
- Team plan: $99/month (Team up to 10 users)
- Business plan: $199/month (up to 10 users + unlimited clients)
- Unlimited Plan: $199/month (unlimited users and clients)
Platforms:
- Both desktop and mobile web browsers can access Basecamp
- iOS and Android apps
- Basecamp may be coupled with additional programs like Trello, Google Drive, and Zapier
7. ClickUp
Click Up is a project management tool designed for all industries and team sizes. It is intended to aid team collaboration and workflow efficiency by offering a centralized platform for all project-related information.
Features
- Mobile applications
- Gantt charts
- Time tracking
- Task management
- Custom statuses
Pros
- Allows for customizable workflows
- It is a popular option among project management software because of its user-friendly interface and client support
- It offers detailed reports
- To-do lists and reminders that are effective yet simple to use
- Teams may stay organized and productive by using the project management tool Click Up
Cons
- There are too many features. Some customers feel confused by the variety of functions, especially during the first set-up
- The internal chat option is unavailable
- Insufficient instruction or knowledge of how to use the tool
Cost
- Free plan: $0 per user for personal use
- Unlimited plan: $5 per member/month in a small team
- Business: $12 per user/month in a mid-sized team
- Business plus plan: $19 per user/month for multiple teams
- Enterprise plan: Contact directly the sales team for price details
Platforms
- Web browsers: Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Safari, and Microsoft Edge
- Mobile apps: ClickUp has mobile apps for both iOS and Android devices
- Desktop apps: Desktop apps for Windows and Mac devices
- Browser extensions: Browser extensions for Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox
8. Teamwork PM
Teamwork project management tools enable team members to communicate and share information in real-time, allowing them to collaborate more efficiently and effectively. Its powerful features enable you to manage everything from a single place.
Features
- Gantt Charts
- Budget Tracking
- Resource management
- Project Planning
- Task management
- Time tracking
Pros
- Teamwork PM enables teams to work together and efficiently manage their projects
- It offers tools for project planning, team collaboration, task management, and time monitoring
- Enhanced communication
- Project managers can effortlessly assign tasks to team members
Cons
- Some people may find the user interface confusing
- No built-in version control for documents
- Limited customization options
Cost
- Free forever: $0/month
- Starter: $5.99 per user/month
- Deliver: $9.99 per user/month
- Grow: $17.99 per user/month
Platforms
- Mobile app: Teamwork has mobile apps for both iOS and Android devices
- Desktop app: Teamwork offers a desktop app for Windows and Mac
- Web browsers
The Project Management Office (PMO) is responsible for controlling, overseeing, and standardizing project management procedures inside a business. Other than the above-mentioned tools many techniques are used across different project management methodologies and frameworks. PMP certification provides a comprehensive understanding of project management tools and techniques. The following are the different PMP tools that are used at different phases of project management.
1. Project planning phase
The following tools are used in the project planning phase to help with brainstorming and idea generation.
- Affinity diagram: The affinity diagram integrates a huge number of concepts into their natural relationships.
- Delphi technique: It is used to gather accurate information from a group of specialists in a given subject or sector without the necessity for face-to-face discussions.
- Mind mapping: Mind mapping is a visual approach to arranging information in project management.
2. Project monitoring and controlling phase
The following tools are often used to analyze project performance data and make appropriate decisions.
- Monte Carlo analysis: A statistical approach used in project management to simulate and assess project results based on various scenarios or input factors.
- Variance analysis: A strategy for identifying variations or variances by comparing actual project performance to planned performance.
- Regression analysis: A statistical approach for determining and calculating the relationship between various variables or factors influencing project success.
- Trend analysis: The study of data to discover patterns or trends that may be utilized to make financial decisions.
3. Project quality management phase
The following tools are often used to identify and prioritize quality issues and make improvements.
- Tornado diagram: A graphic representation of the relative importance of several variables or factors influencing the result of a project.
- Control chart: A statistical tool for tracking and controlling project performance over time.
- Context diagram: Context diagrams are techniques that commonly represent the breadth of the product by demonstrating the business system as well as how it connects to and interacts with other systems.
- Matrix diagram: A tool for analyzing and evaluating the interactions between various components or variables in a project.
- Pareto chart: A graphical illustration of the frequency or influence of several elements or causes influencing project performance.
1. Project Management Tools
Project management tools are software, strategies, and procedures that help project managers and teams effectively plan, execute, and control projects. These technologies assist in the streamlining of project processes, the optimization of resource allocation, the monitoring of progress, the identification of possible risks and concerns, and the communication of project status and updates to stakeholders.
2. Workflow Automation
Workflow automation is the use of software to execute certain operations and tasks without the need for human intervention. It's a tool for making work more efficient, simple, and consistent. This can include automating operations such as project initiation, planning, execution, monitoring and control, and conclusion.
3. Project Management Software
PMOs employ project management software to manage individual projects, track progress, and engage with project teams. These technologies assist PMOs in ensuring that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards.
4. Gantt Chart Makers
Gantt chart makers are software applications that help project managers construct Gantt charts for their projects. A Gantt chart is a sort of bar chart that visually shows a project's schedule and its numerous activities, indicating when each activity begins and finishes and how long it is estimated to take.
5. Resource Planning Software
Resource planning software is a form of project management software that assists organizations in efficiently and successfully managing their resources, such as staff, equipment, and materials.
6. Task Management Software
A task management software tool assists in the organization, streamlining, and prioritization of activities necessary to achieve a goal or finish a project. To-do lists, calendars, task assignments, progress monitoring, and communication tools are common features that make it simpler to prioritize and accomplish work quickly.
7. PPM Tools
PMOs utilize PPM tools to handle a project portfolio, analyze resource use, and give insights into project performance. These tools assist project management offices in making appropriate decisions regarding project selection, prioritization, and resource allocation.
8. Project Dashboards
Dashboard tools are used by PMOs to convey project-related information to stakeholders, including senior management. These technologies assist project management offices in communicating project status, progress, and risks to stakeholders in an easy-to-understand style.
Using project management tools has various advantages, including:
- Increased collaboration: Project administration applications provide a centralized platform for teams to collaborate, communicate, and share project information in real-time.
- Increased productivity: It enhances productivity at work and streamlines your decision-making process. Because all of the crucial information is in one location, you can always make accurate decisions in the least amount of time.
- Improved resource management: Project management applications give project managers access to resource availability and usage, enabling them to more efficiently allocate resources and prevent overbooking.
- Improved Risk Management: The application includes capabilities for recognizing and managing project risks. Managers may improve their risk mitigation techniques and execute effective remedies with the help of project management software.
- Budget administration: One significant advantage of adopting a project management application is that it allows users to properly manage all available resources
- Improved Efficiency: Many of the manual activities required in project management are automated by project management tools. This saves time, eliminates mistakes, and allows project managers to focus on more important responsibilities.
The project management tools discussed above are essential for successful project management. They provide an organized and efficient approach to project planning, execution, monitoring, and control. Project managers and teams can use these technologies to maximize resources, eliminate risks, and assure project completion on time and within budget and scope. In today's fast-paced business world, project management tools have become essential for organizations seeking to deliver effective projects and meet corporate objectives. So it is advised to stay updated with the new tools available in project management. Every day is a new learning experience. All the best!
