The Top 15 Tools For Project Management Professionals
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editricon The top 15 tools for Project Management Professionals

Community Engagement & Technical Writer
The demand for Project Management professionals is high, according to the latest poll from IT jobs watch (21 March 2013), there are currently 9671 Project Management roles advertised in the IT Sector alone, with an average salary of £50,000.

Nevertheless, life in Project Management is tough, to help you along we've scoured the net and cherry picked from existing curated lists to provide you with a comprehensive list of Project Management tools. There is something for everyone so whether you're on a budget (looking for free tools) or have some disposable funds, we've found a project management tool for you. As much as possible we have chosen tools that can be adopted for the multiple approaches to Project Management, whether you're practicing CAPM, PMP or PRINCE2 (or any other cert that is flying around).

1. Jumpchart
With its special features, Jumpchart allows the user to plan his website's navigation by simply creating and dragging pages into the plan. The user can also add and format texts on the pages and then export his site map and CSS files when his is through. 

2. DotProject
DotProject is a comprehensive web-based, multi-language, and multi-user tool featuring a calendar, Gantt charts, resource allocation, projects, a to-do list, reports, forums, and company names and contacts. This open-source software is available free of charge. 

3. No Kahuna
No Kahuna comes with an easy-to-use interface and features activity tracking, task tracking, and collaboration tools. Even though it has very simple features, it is a near perfect tool for ticket-tracking and project management. 

4. Basecamp
Basecamp features a to-do list, project overviews, message boards, file sharing, time-tracking, and milestones. It has a basic monthly payment plan of about $30~£19.83 allowing management of 15 projects or you can go for the all singing all dancing UNLIMITED projects for $150~£99.30.


5. GanttProject
This tool features a Gantt chart, HTML & PDF reports, task hierarchy, resource load chart, MS project import/export, generation of PERT chart, and WebDAV-based group work management. It can be downloaded for free. 

6. PHProjeckt
PHProject is a free open-source project management tool that allows users to share important documents and information and coordinate group activities through the Web. It features a group calendar, contact manager, mail client, and a file management system.

7. CreativePro Office
CreativePro Office is a free project management tool with a tabbed navigation comprising of time sheets, tabs for clients, finances, and projects. Its dashboard presents the user with a list of outstanding invoices, list of projects, search functionality, and a calendar of upcoming events. 

8. Feng Office
Feng Office focuses on improving the management, collaboration, and productivity of teams. It features calendar, task, e-mail, and document management systems. Its elegant dashboard allows the user to access vital information and communicate with clients and co-workers. 

9. ProjectPier
ProjectPier is a self-hosted PHP app for managing teams, projects, and tasks through an intuitive and sensitive Web interface. It allows the user to collaborate and coordinate with colleagues or partners to get things done in a better way. 

10. PBWorks
PBworks is an online collaboration tooolk allowing you to capture knowledge, share files and manage projects in a secure working environment. The platform has evolved to offer multiple solutions; prices are available upon submission of interest.


11. Clocking IT
Clocking IT is a free project management tool meant to help the user in tracking the time spent on each project. If features a Wiki and a user forum. 

12. Project Status Report
This tool provides the user with information on the risk status, financials, and milestones of a project. The program has a variety of pricing options dependent on the number of users required. A 30 day free trial is available giving you a chance to get to grips with the product.


13. Jira
Jira is a customisable issue-tracking application featuring workflow mapping, issue organising, project organising, and advanced reporting features. It offers numerous featured add-ons including the option to build your own plug in. Again there is a 30 day free trial with pricing options form $10~£6.60 upwards reflective of the number of users.

 

14. Less Accounting
Less Accounting is a wonderful online invoicing and accounting software featuring mileage tracking, expense tracking, proposal creation, and sales-lead management. The tool is designed to speed up your bookkeeping. The fee recently moved to a flat fee of £19.80~$30

15. FourteenDayz
FourteenDayz is a unique online time-tracking tool designed for teams. It features exportable reports, drag-and-drop categories, and day-by-day time sheets to help you organise your team and track progress. There are a variety of pricing options starting for Free for 4 users and under. Pricing then evolves from $5~£3.30 per month through to $99~£65.20 
 

So there you have it, 15 tools selected to help you in your role as a Project Manager. Perhaps you would like to share your experience with using these project management tools. Or perhaps you have a suggestion you’d want to add to the list. Either way, we’d love to hear from you.


Author Bio:

This article was created by Edward Jones who works for Project Management training provider Firebrand Training. Edward has worked in the IT Certification and training industry and writes a range of articles around Project Management regarding tools, how to guides and certification and training news.

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