For most people, the term project management may seem complex and elicit images of many people in a boardroom arguing over facts, opinions and data on how to best manage a project. However, project management is everywhere, and it ranges from simple projects like planning a home renovation to complex projects like building an entire city. Whichever case, the process from project initiation to completion is largely the same. 

From the moment a project manager takes charge, they have to collect and implement various tools to make their work easier. In this article, the tool in focus is software for project management. Software, also comes in many forms, ranging from desktop based software to web based ones. So, as project manager, it will be your task to determine which software will be best for your project. 

Differences between Web Based Software and Desktop Software

Desktop software is simply any software installed on one computer. Software for project management can be desk based if the team member using it, is mostly sedentary and will move around with their computer if need be. This means the computer is crucial and if it gets lost or corrupted, then the data may be compromised unless it’s saved elsewhere. To eliminate such risks, web-based software came about in order to ensure the software can be used anywhere and all that’s required is a login to a specific URL.

Therefore, web-based software allows project managers to have more space and to be flexible enough to ensure the project still goes one even without a physical office. To make sure this happens, online software for projects managers has several features to enhance communication and collaboration thereby keeping the team together and in lock step. 

Steps to Take Before Selecting Software for Project Management

Once you understand which type of software will work best for you, you need to understand how it works. Naïve project managers will rush to buy the latest software before understanding whether it can serve their purpose. The first step to avoid this is by first outlining your needs and checking whether any of the available software meets your expectations. List down the important features you need in the software based on your specific needs. Then narrow down by eliminating which software lacks those specific functions. 

The next step is to test out the software. Start with a limited trial period prior to the project’s start so that the trial process does not affect the project’s timeline. Test out various scenarios to check whether the software has collaborative functions, scheduling and task tracking. These are crucial functions that the best software have and which your selected software should have. 

Once you are certain of your selection, you can then proceed to purchasing a genuine version and getting the right security platforms to ensure it is free from intrusion. In general, you should rely on time tested protocols of procuring important software, by ensuring the software will function as desired, and that any problems can be addressed through an open and reliable framework