Are you a consultant struggling to manage multiple projects efficiently? The right project management software can transform your workflow, offering features like task automation, real-time collaboration, and detailed reporting. 

These tools address common pain points such as disorganized tasks and client communication challenges. 

Check out our expertly curated quick list of the best project management software for consultants, tailored to streamline your consulting projects and elevate your productivity.

Quick List of  The Best 11 Project Management Software for Consultants

1. Onethread: It offers a user-friendly interface, making it ideal for consultants who prioritize ease of use and efficient project tracking.
2. ClickUp: Versatility and customization options make it a top choice for consultants seeking adaptable project management solutions.
3. Wrike: It excels in real-time collaboration and integrates seamlessly with other tools, perfect for consultants working in diverse environments.
4. Nifty: Its all-in-one approach combines project management and communication, catering to consultants who value consolidated workflows.
5. Monday.com: Monday.com’s visual and intuitive platform suits consultants who prefer a highly interactive project management experience.
6. Asana: Robust work management capabilities make it the go-to choice for consultants looking for efficient task tracking and organization.
7. Jira: Its focus on automation and analytics caters to consultants who value data-driven insights and efficient project workflows.
8. Accelo: Accelo’s automation features are perfect for consultants seeking streamlined processes and time-saving project management.
9. Microsoft Project: Offers enterprise-level project management capabilities, ideal for consultants working on large-scale projects with complex requirements.
10. Smartsheet: Teamwork’s comprehensive project management features and detailed reporting are a must for consultants handling intricate projects.
11. Notion: Its flexible and collaborative workspace is a great fit for consultants who want to customize their project management system to match their unique needs.

PS: Those who know what project management software for consultants is and its benefits, skip to the Top 11 project management software for consultants.

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What is Project Management Software for Consultants?

PM software for consultants is a digital tool designed to help manage various aspects of consulting projects. It streamlines tasks like planning, tracking, and communication. These tools are tailored to meet the unique needs of consultants. 

Let’s say you’re a business consultant. You have multiple clients, each with different needs and deadlines. Without a tool, you’d be juggling emails, spreadsheets, and maybe even sticky notes. Mistakes could happen, and things could fall through the cracks.

Enter consulting project management software. You can input all your tasks, set deadlines, and assign them to specific clients or team members. The software sends reminders and updates, keeping everyone in the loop.

Advantages of Using Project Management Software for Consultants

Project management software isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a must for any serious consultant or consulting firm. Here’s why:

• Client Management: Centralizes all client data and interactions, making it easier to manage multiple clients simultaneously.
• Boosting Efficiency and Productivity: Gain valuable insights into project performance, resource utilization, and client satisfaction through detailed reporting and analytics.
• Time Tracking: Allows consultants to accurately log hours spent on specific tasks or projects, essential for billing and productivity.
• Juggling Multiple Projects: Streamline workflow and focus on high-impact tasks with visual project boards, task dependencies, and smart scheduling tools.
• Resource Allocation: Helps in assigning the right people and resources to specific client projects, optimizing skills and time.
• Staying Connected and Collaborative: Keep everyone on the same page with instant project updates, progress reports, and transparent status tracking
• Custom Workflows: Offers the flexibility to create consulting-specific processes and templates, streamlining project delivery.
• Reporting and Analytics: Provides valuable insights into project performance and client engagement, aiding in future decision-making.
• Remote Work: Facilitates seamless collaboration among consultants and clients, regardless of location.

For consultants, the right software can be the difference between a project’s success and failure.

Top 11 Project Management Software for Consultants

Consultants face unique project management challenges, from maintaining project organization to efficiently tracking time and fostering client collaboration. 

The right project management software can be a game-changer, equipping consultants with tools to handle these demands effectively. This comparison chart highlights the best project management software for consultants as of 2024.

Whether you’re a solo consultant or part of a larger firm, this guide aims to assist you in selecting the most suitable PM tool for your specific needs.

1. Onethread

All-in-one software with excellent support for consultants.

Onethread is by far the best project management software for consultants, outshining others with its user-friendly design and comprehensive features. It simplifies project tracking and client communication, making it a top choice for efficiency and ease of use. 

Key features include advanced work management, real-time collaboration tools, and customizable reporting, all tailored to meet the dynamic needs of consultants.

What sets Onethread apart is its intuitive interface. Unlike competitors like ClickUp and Wrike, which can be complex, Onethread offers a straightforward experience. This means consultants spend less time learning software and more on delivering value to clients.

Additionally, Onethread’s customer support is outstanding, responding up to 10 times faster than ClickUp and Wrike. This quick support minimizes downtime, a crucial factor for consultants facing tight deadlines.

Onethread’s blend of specialized features, superior support, and user-centric design makes it the superior choice for consultants, clearly outperforming its closest competitors.

Features

Let’s delve into what makes OneThread a must-have tool for consultants.

Role & Approval:

One of the standout features of OneThread is its robust Role and permission settings. This feature allows you to define who has access to what within your projects, ensuring that sensitive information stays confidential. 

With customizable roles and permissions, you can easily manage team collaboration while safeguarding client data.

Timesheet:

Consultants often work on an hourly basis or have to manage various expenses. OneThread’s time and tracking features make it easy to log hours and expenditures, streamlining the financial process.

Task Management:

Managing tasks is a breeze with OneThread. Its intuitive interface allows you to assign tasks, set deadlines, and track progress, all in one place. This is particularly useful for consultants who manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Customizable Dashboards:

It offers customizable dashboards that can be tailored to meet your specific consulting needs. Whether you want to track KPIs or manage client relationships, these dashboards provide a real-time overview of your projects.

Secure File Sharing:

OneThread’s secure file-sharing feature ensures that sensitive documents can be exchanged safely, thanks to robust encryption protocols.

Best Use Cases of Onethread

Here are some of the suitable use cases from different perspectives:

Organizations:

• Project Management Agencies: Use Onethread for managing diverse client projects with its visual boards and custom workflows. It boosts team collaboration and profitability.
• Creative Agencies: Useful for campaign organization, content creation, and client approvals, Onethread adapts to different creative projects.

Occupations:

• Independent Consultants: Offers work management, time tracking, and invoicing, streamlining solopreneur workloads.
• Freelancers: Helps freelancers in various fields manage projects, client expectations, and budgets.
• Business Consultants: Enhances client engagements with collaboration tools, secure portals, and insightful reporting.

Best Suited For:

• Consultants favor simplicity and visual organization.
• Those managing diverse client projects.
• Professionals needing effective collaboration with teams and clients.
• Consultants aiming to enhance productivity and efficiency.

Additional Benefits:

• Scalability for growing client bases.
• Mobile access for on-the-go management.
• Strong security and data protection features.

Onethread, thus, caters to a wide range of professional needs, from individual freelancers to large agencies, emphasizing collaboration, efficiency, and security.

Pros:

• Very easy to use.
• Efficient task tracking.
• Seamless communication.
• Tailorable to project needs.
• Budget-friendly pricing.

Pricing Plan of Onethread

Here are the pricing plans and options for Onethread:

• Free: This plan is free and includes up to 10 users. It offers unlimited organizations, projects, and tasks, as well as 15GB of file sharing, a notice board for company announcements, and a dashboard for both organization and project.
• Growth: Priced at $3/user/month (annually). It caters to 11-50 users and includes unlimited file sharing, access level control, and additional features like the ability to export tasks and projects, and standardized reports.
• Scale: For larger teams of up to 200 users, this package costs $5/user/month (annually). It includes all features of the Growth Package, along with early access to new features and upcoming tools such as risk management, custom workflow, and budgeting.

What Users Say About Onethread?

Product Hunt Review: 5/5

“The onboarding process is much easier. It also helps me track my productivity. I am currently using the free trial. As far as I have used it, it has become a part of my life now. I love it. Thank you for the lovely tool. Best of luck.” Anisul Islam

G2 Review: 4.7/5

“The email notification helps other teams stay on track” Amni A.

Why Should You Choose Onethread?

Choosing Onethread as your PM software for consulting work offers tailored solutions to common pain points faced by professionals in this field. The table below demonstrates how Onethread’s features effectively address these specific challenges:

Onethread addresses key areas where consultants often face challenges, offering a comprehensive, secure, and user-friendly solution that enhances productivity and client satisfaction.

2. ClickUp

Feature-rich and intuitive for managing multiple projects.

ClickUp is a notable project management software for consultants, featuring work management, time tracking, goal setting, and tailored views. These features are essential for effective project management. 

In comparison to Smartsheet, ClickUp‘s work management feature excels at efficiently organizing projects into smaller, manageable tasks. This functionality simplifies project management for consultants. 

Additionally, ClickUp’s time-tracking capability aids in monitoring project progress and consultant productivity, which sets it apart from Smartsheet. 

The goal-setting function helps in aligning project objectives with client expectations. Customizable views enable consultants to tailor the interface to their specific needs, enhancing workflow efficiency. Additionally, ClickUp offers collaboration tools, making it easier for teams to communicate and stay updated. 

These functionalities demonstrate ClickUp’s suitability for consultants seeking organized and efficient project management solutions.

Features

ClickUp is often regarded as the best project management software for consultants. Here are four features that make it stand out:

Client Management Tools: 

Consultants can easily organize client information, track interactions, and maintain efficient communication. This feature is essential for managing multiple clients or projects simultaneously.

Customizable Task Management: 

The software allows users to customize tasks and projects. Consultants can tailor their workspace to fit specific project needs, using custom statuses, priorities, and tags. This flexibility is key in managing diverse consulting projects.

Integrated Time Tracking: 

ClickUp includes a built-in time-tracking tool. Consultants can track the time spent on each task list or project. This feature is helpful for billing clients accurately and managing time efficiently.

Collaboration and Communication Features: 

The platform supports team collaboration and communication. Features like shared calendars, document sharing, and real-time chat enhance teamwork. This is vital for consultants working with teams or needing to coordinate with clients.

Pros:

• Adaptable for various consulting projects.
• Tailorable to specific needs.
• Promotes teamwork.
• Works seamlessly with popular tools.
• Offers free and affordable plans.

Cons:

• Too robust for basic projects.
• Mobile apps lack desktop functionality.

Pricing

• Free: $0
• Unlimited: $7/user/month
• Business: $12/user/month
• Enterprise: Custom

What Do Users Say About ClickUp?

Product Hunt Review: 4.5/5

Positive Review

“I really like the core concept. It’s very intuitive to use. For me, it’s the best tasks management system” Laurent Gobert

G2 Review: 4.7/5

Critical Review

“I dislike that I cannot do a mass date change on items within a task, as this can add time to changing click up or updating it.” Becky N.

3. Wrike

Robust functionality for large consulting teams.

Wrike stands out as a top project management software for consultants, offering key features like advanced work management, comprehensive reporting tools, real-time collaboration, and customizable workflows. 

These elements are vital for effective project management. During our testing, we found Wrike’s interface to be user-friendly, enhancing team coordination and project tracking. Its ability to integrate with various tools adds to its versatility. 

However, when compared to Nifty, Wrike lacks in certain areas. For instance, Nifty provides more intuitive project visualization tools and a more streamlined communication platform. 

While Wrike excels in functionality and customization, it might fall short for teams seeking more straightforward, visual pm solutions.

Features

Wrike stands out as a top project management software for consultants, offering:

Custom Workflows:

Tailored to meet the specific needs of consultants and firms, enabling efficient project tracking and management.

Real-Time Collaboration:

Facilitates seamless communication and teamwork, essential for consultants working with diverse clients and teams.

Time Tracking & Reporting:

Provides detailed insights into project time allocation, helping consultants manage their time and resources effectively.

Advanced Security Features:

Ensures data protection and client confidentiality, a critical aspect for consultants handling sensitive information.

Pros:

• Easy-to-Use Interface
• Effortless Collaboration
• Customization Options
• Time-Saving Automation
• Real-Time Project Updates

Cons:

• Costly for Small Firms
• Learning Curve
• Integration Complexity

Pricing Plans

• Free: $0
• Team: $9.80/users/per month
• Business: $24.80/users/per month
• Enterprise: Custom Pricing
• Pinnacle: Custom Pricing

What Users Say About Wrike?

Capterra Review: 4.3/5

Positive Review

“Fast and accurate. Wrike gives satisfactory services that anyone would wish for. Give it a trial.” Kreasan G.

G2 Review: 4.2/5

Critical Review

“Navigation can be difficult at times, sometimes I need a specific section, and the only way to have visibility is to reload another older tab that can navigate me to the previously viewed page. The sidebar can be confusing.” Em S.

4. Nifty

Simple and affordable PM for small businesses.

Nifty is a project management software tailored for consultants, providing essential features like milestone-driven planning, task automation, dynamic reporting, and seamless team collaboration. 

These functionalities are crucial for efficient project management in a consultancy setting. Milestone-driven planning helps consultants keep projects on track and aligned with client objectives. 

Task automation streamlines workflow, saving time and reducing manual errors. Dynamic reporting in Nifty allows for real-time progress tracking, ensuring informed decision-making. 

Furthermore, its team collaboration tools enhance communication, essential for maintaining team synergy and client engagement. During our evaluation, we found Nifty’s integrated approach to project management especially beneficial for consultants who manage multiple projects and need a comprehensive yet user-friendly platform.

Features

Nifty, as a leading project management software for consultants, offers several standout features:

Tailored Solutions for Consultants/Firms: 

Nifty provides customized options catering to the unique needs of consultants and firms, ensuring streamlined workflows and effective client management.

Intuitive Project Visualization: 

Offers interactive Gantt charts and Kanban boards, enabling consultants to visualize project timelines and progress easily.

Enhanced Communication Tools: 

Incorporates advanced messaging and video conferencing features, facilitating seamless communication within teams and with clients.

Robust Task Management: 

Equipped with detailed task tracking and assignment features, Nifty helps keep projects on track and ensures efficient time management.

Pros:

• Combines project tools in one platform.
• User-friendly design.
• Helps with accurate billing.
• Streamlines repetitive work.
• Facilitates seamless client teamwork.

Cons:

• Some customization restrictions.
• Slight learning curve for new users.

Pricing

• Free: $0
• Starter: $39/user/month/ annually billed
• Pro: $79/user/month/ annually billed
• Business: $124/user/month/ annually billed
• Unlimited $399/user/month/ annually billed

What Users Say About Nifty?

Capterra Review: 4.7/5

Positive Review

“Nifty’s ability to centralize all of the core elements of project management into a single platform has been invaluable in facilitating my work with a wide variety of teams and clients.”  Brandon E.

G2 Review: 4.7/5

Critical Review

“I am not entirely pleased with the fact that you are limited to using a came through very lengthy and complicated processes and their ultimate response was, that’s what we have :)”  Hiroyuki S.

5. Monday.com

Visually appealing boards for workflow tracking.

Monday.com is your go-to project management software for consultant teams. It offers a user-friendly platform, perfect for simplifying project tasks and enhancing collaboration. With Monday.com, consultants can effortlessly create, assign, and track tasks to ensure project timelines are met. 

The software’s customizable features adapt to various consulting methodologies, offering flexibility for your unique needs. Real-time updates and efficient communication tools keep teams connected and projects on course. 

If you’re seeking a straightforward, dependable project management solution, look no further than Monday.com. It’s the trusted choice for consultants aiming to streamline their workflow. It’s an excellent choice for consultants who require a flexible, all-in-one project management solution.

Key Features

Here’s why Monday.com stands out.

Centralized Workflows:

Monday.com allows you to centralize all your work, processes, and files. This is crucial for consultants who manage multiple projects and need a single source of truth.

Customizable Dashboards:

The platform offers customizable dashboards for a high-level overview of your organization. This feature helps consultants make data-driven decisions and scale workflows as needed.

Real-Time Notifications:

Stay in the loop with real-time notifications and easy-to-use automation. This keeps consultants and their teams aligned and informed at all times.

Multiple Views:

From Kanban boards to Gantt charts, Monday.com offers multiple views to visualize and plan your work. This is particularly useful for consultants who need to adapt to different project requirements.

No-Code Automation:

Streamline your processes with no-code automation. For consultants, this means more focus on strategic tasks and less on repetitive work.

Pros

• Highly customizable
• Real-time notifications
• Multiple view options
• No-code automation

Cons

• Can be overwhelming for new users
• Pricing can be steep for small teams

Pricing Plan

• Individual: Free
• Basic: $8 per user/month
• Standard: $10 per user/month
• Pro: $16 per user/month
• Enterprise: Custom pricing

What Users Say About Monday.com?

Capterra Review: 4.6/5

Positive Review

“I have used two other project management tools in the past but this one is the best in terms of work management and visualization of project workflow.” Stella D.

G2 Review: 4.7/5

Critical Review

“monday.com offers many plans which its users can opt for according to their needs and requirements. However, the basic plan can simply be a waste of money as it does not offer any of the unique features of monday.com. The real show begins with the standard plan while the pro and enterprise plan offers a great variety of features to teams to play with.” Narendranath D.

6. Asana

Straightforward interface for work management.

Asana stands out as an exceptional project management software designed to meet the specific needs of consultants. This user-friendly platform offers a comprehensive toolkit to streamline project workflows, enhance collaboration, and boost productivity. 

Unlike Jira and Monday, Asana’s real-time updates and interactive dashboards keep teams informed, while its customizable templates adapt to diverse project requirements.

With Asana’s robust reporting and analytics, consultants gain valuable insights into project performance, setting it apart from Jira and Monday.

Consultants can effortlessly create tasks, assign responsibilities, and set deadlines, ensuring that projects stay on track. With Asana’s robust reporting and analytics, consultants gain valuable insights into project performance.  

Discover a hassle-free way to manage projects effectively and elevate your consulting endeavors with Asana. It’s particularly useful for consultants who need to juggle multiple projects and clients. 

Key Features

Here’s why Asana is a top choice.

Flexibility and Ease of Use:

Asana is user-friendly and adaptable. It can be tailored to fit the specific needs of your consulting business, making project management a breeze.

Real-Time Tracking:

You can monitor work progress in real-time. This feature is crucial for consultants who need to make quick decisions based on current data.

Automation:

Asana allows you to automate repetitive tasks and processes. This saves time, letting you focus on more critical aspects of your consultancy.

Collaboration:

The platform enables seamless communication among team members. You can share files, assign tasks, and even integrate with tools like Slack and Microsoft Teams.

Integrations:

Asana offers a wide range of third-party integrations. From time tracking with Everhour to file sharing with Dropbox, it connects with over 1000+ apps to streamline your workflow.

Pros

• User-friendly interface
• Robust automation features
• Excellent third-party integrations
• Real-time tracking and reporting

Cons

• Can be expensive for small teams
• Limited offline capabilities

Pricing Plan

• Basic: Free
• Premium: $10.99 per user/month
• Business: $24.99 per user/month
• Enterprise: Custom pricing

What Users Say About Asana?

Capterra Review: 4.5/5

Positive Review

“After years of using Asana, I can say that my experience with this software is generally positive, Simply it is an effective tool for managing tasks and projects.” Giovanni K.

G2 Review: 4.3/5

Critical Review

“I have not utilized customer support yet for Asana. Perhaps I could use more guides and asynchronous support to make sure I am using Asana to the best of my ability.” Treah H.

7. Jira

Powerful agile project management capabilities.

Jira is a highly regarded project management software for consultants, offering features like agile project management, detailed reporting, customizable workflows, and robust integrations. 

These are key for managing complex consulting projects. Agile project management in Jira allows for flexibility and adaptability in project planning and execution. 

Detailed reporting provides insights into project performance and team productivity. Customizable workflows enable consultants to tailor the tool to specific project needs, enhancing efficiency. Furthermore, Jira’s integrations with various apps streamline processes and data sharing.

However, compared to Asana, Jira‘s user interface can be more complex, potentially requiring a steeper learning curve for new users.  

Our expert team noted that while Jira offers extensive functionalities, its complexity might be overwhelming for teams seeking a more straightforward, user-friendly experience. This contrast with Asana’s more intuitive interface could be a deciding factor for some consulting teams.

Key Features

Jira is widely recognized as a top project management software for consultants, offering a range of features that cater specifically to their needs. Here are four standout features:

Advanced Agile and Scrum Frameworks: 

It supports agile and scrum methodologies, crucial for consultants managing iterative and flexible project structures. This feature allows for adaptive planning and efficient tracking of project progress.

Customizable Workflow Management: 

The platform allows users to customize workflows to suit specific project needs. This flexibility is essential for consultants who work with a variety of clients and project types, enabling them to tailor their approach to each unique situation.

Integrated Reporting and Analytics: 

It provides detailed reporting and analytics tools. These tools help consultants monitor project performance, track key metrics, and make data-driven decisions, ensuring project success and client satisfaction.

Robust Integration Capabilities: 

The software integrates seamlessly with a wide range of other tools and applications. This interoperability is critical for consultants who use multiple software systems and need them to work together smoothly.

Pros

• Comprehensive planning features
• Real-time tracking and reporting
• No-code automation
• High scalability

Cons

• Can be complex for beginners
• May be expensive for small teams

Pricing Plan

• Free: $0/ For teams up to 10
• Standard: $8.15/user/month
• Premium: $16.00/user/month
• Jira Align: Custom pricing for enterprise agility

What Users Say About Jira?

Capterra Review: 4.5/5

Positive Review

“I appreciate Jira’s efficiency of project management capabilities. The flexibility it offers in creating and managing tasks, along with customizable workflows for US and BUGS, ensures that our team can tailor the platform to our specific needs.” El alaoui A.

G2 Review: 4.3/5

Critical Review

“I would like to say Jira’s dislike point is only related to Cost. especially in larger organizations or with extensive use of add-ons, which can become costly. Some users find the pricing structure to be a drawback, particularly if they only need specific features.” Ajay Y.

8. Accelo

End-to-end solution including billing and invoicing.

Accelo emerges as a proficient project management software for consultants, equipped with features such as streamlined client work management, adaptive task tracking, robust team collaboration, and comprehensive reporting. 

These functionalities are vital for any consultant seeking to optimize project workflows. In our assessment, Accelo’s client work management system stands out, enabling consultants to align projects closely with client expectations. 

The adaptive task tracking allows for real-time progress monitoring, essential for meeting deadlines and managing workloads effectively. 

Additionally, its team collaboration tools support seamless communication, ensuring everyone stays on the same page. The detailed reporting tools in Accelo provide valuable insights, aiding in strategic planning and project improvement. These features collectively contribute to Accelo’s recognition in the consulting sector.

Features

Accelo is often recognized as a top project management software for consultants. Here are four key features:

Project and Task Management: 

These tools help consultants plan, execute, and track project progress in real-time, ensuring projects stay on schedule and within budget.

Automated Time Tracking and Billing: 

Accelo offers automated time tracking and billing, specifically beneficial for consultants. This feature ensures accurate billing and efficient time management, essential for consultancy firms.

Client Relationship Management (CRM): 

The software includes a comprehensive CRM system. This allows consultants to manage client interactions and data effectively, leading to better client relationships and project outcomes.

Team Collaboration and Communication: 

The platform supports seamless team collaboration and communication. Features like shared workspaces, document sharing, and integrated messaging enhance teamwork and project coordination among consulting teams.

Pros:

• Efficient Workflow
• Client Relationship Management
• Automated Time Tracking
• Integration Flexibility
• Powerful Analytics

Cons:

• Costly for Small Firms
• Complex Setup

Pricing

• Core: $20/user/month
• Professional: $50/user/month
• Business:$70/user/month
• Advanced: $90/user/month
• Elite: Custom

What Users Say About Accelo?

Capterra Review: 4.5/5

Positive Review

“It’s capacity to handle various activities with various customers, and even house various tasks with a similar customer. This permits me to follow how much work I’ve finished with every customer on a granular level, versus the time dispensed for the task.” Kevin H.

G2 Review: 4.4/5

Critical Review

“Accelo uses all members, but members will be reaped. These conversation processes will be slow and late updating all things Excel. The user will be sacrificed for the conversation. Aniket k.

9. Microsoft Project

Trusted standard for project scheduling.

Microsoft Project is a recognized project management software for consultants, offering robust scheduling, resource management, reporting, and integration capabilities. 

These features are vital for effective project management. During our evaluation, we found its scheduling tools allow precise project timelines and milestone tracking. 

Resource management aids in the optimal allocation and utilization of resources. The software’s comprehensive reporting features enable consultants to generate detailed project insights and status updates. Integration with other Microsoft tools, like Teams and Office, streamlines workflow and enhances collaboration. 

Also, Microsoft Project’s user-friendly interface and customization options make it a practical choice for consultants seeking a comprehensive and efficient project management solution.

Features

Microsoft Project, acclaimed as an excellent project management software for consultants, boasts several key features:

Customizable Project Templates: 

Offers a range of templates tailored to consultants’ needs, facilitating quick and efficient project setup.

Advanced Scheduling Tools: 

Includes Gantt charts and timeline views, allowing consultants to plan, track, and manage projects with precision.

Integrated Resource Management: 

Enables effective allocation and tracking of resources, ensuring optimal utilization and budget adherence.

Comprehensive Reporting and Analytics: 

Provides in-depth insights and analytics, crucial for data-driven decision-making and project performance assessment.

Pros:

• Offers a wide range of project features.
• Easily integrates with Office apps.
• Powerful visual planning.
• Efficient resource allocation.
• Suitable for large projects.

Cons:

• Overwhelming for small projects.
• Higher price compared to alternatives.

Pricing

• Project Plan 1: $10.00/User/month
• Project Plan 3: $30.00/User/month
• Project Plan 5: $55.00/User/month

What Users Say About Microsoft Project?

Capterra Review: 4.4/5

Positive Review

“It is a very good software for Project Management work. Without a doubt, the software excels with its intuitive user interface, powerful planning tools, and strong resource management features” Mazidul Islam M.

G2 Review: 4.0/5

Critical Review

“There are some cumbersome features that slow down the completion of tasks. There are unnecessary dimensions for each individual task. The wizards and templates need more choices and more Agile-related templates.” Peter V.

10. Smartsheet

Flexible sheets for real-time collaboration.

Smartsheet is a versatile project management software designed to streamline tasks for consultants. With its user-friendly interface, it simplifies project planning, tracking, and collaboration. 

Smartsheet offers customizable templates, Gantt charts, and automated workflows, making it an ideal tool for managing projects of all sizes. Its real-time updates and file-sharing capabilities ensure seamless communication among team members. 

Consultants can set deadlines, assign responsibilities, and monitor progress effortlessly. Smartsheet is cloud-based, allowing access from anywhere, ensuring consultants stay on top of their projects. It is a reliable choice for consultants seeking an efficient project management solution.

Key Features

Here are the key features of Smartsheet

Flexible Solutions:

Smartsheet offers a variety of solutions that can adapt to your work at any scale. This is crucial for consultants who manage diverse projects and require flexibility.

Rich Set of Views and Dashboards:

Capture and track your plans, resources, and schedules with Smartsheet’s diverse views, workflows, reports, and dashboards. This feature is essential for consultants who need to adapt to various client needs.

Speed to Market:

Smartsheet combines user experience with process consistency to accelerate project delivery. For consultants, this means faster time-to-market and better business results.

Portfolio-Level Automation:

Smartsheet allows you to scale faster by aligning people, priorities, and purpose. This is particularly useful for consultants involved in transformational change projects.

Integrations:

Smartsheet integrates with the software you’re already using. This is beneficial for consultants who need a seamless workflow across different platforms.

Pros

• Highly flexible and customizable
• Rich set of views and dashboards
• Speedy project delivery
• Strong portfolio-level automation
• Wide range of integrations

Cons

• May require a learning curve for new users
• Pricing can be on the higher side for small teams

Pricing Plan

• Pro: $7 per user/month
• Business: $25 per user/month
• Enterprise: Custom pricing

What Users Say About Smartsheet?

Capterra Review: 4.5/5

Positive Review

“The best part about using Smartsheets is that you can keep all of your information in one place, including notes, files, and contacts. The system is intuitive because it is laid out similarly to common spreadsheets but with additional features.” Grace B.

G2 Review: 4.4/5

Critical Review

“There are some limitations to customization capabilities for automated notifications, formula limitations (Smartsheet is not a 1:1 mirror of Excel capabilities), extremely limited capability to display charts and graphs, non-user friendly pivot tables, and sheet capacity limitations that can be frustrating when working with large datasets.” John K.

11. Notion

Notes, tasks, and wikis for knowledge management.

Notion stands out as a significant project management software for consultants, featuring customizable templates, integrated knowledge management, intuitive task organization, and robust collaborative tools. 

These features are crucial for consultants who need flexible and comprehensive project management solutions. Customizable templates allow for tailored project planning, addressing specific consultancy needs. 

The integrated knowledge management system is invaluable for storing and accessing vital project data and resources. Task organization is made intuitive and user-friendly, enabling efficient prioritization and execution of tasks. 

Collaborative tools enhance team communication and project transparency, key to successful project outcomes.

However, during our analysis, we noted that compared to Smartsheet, Notion lacks advanced project tracking and automation capabilities. Smartsheet excels with more sophisticated project management tools, better suited for handling complex, large-scale projects. 

Therefore, while Notion is highly versatile and user-friendly, it may not fully satisfy the needs of consultants handling more intricate projects that require detailed project tracking and reporting.

Features

Notion is highly regarded as a versatile project management software for consultants, offering:

All-in-One Workspace: 

Ideal for consultants and firms, it combines notes, tasks, databases, and wikis in one place for streamlined project management.

Customizable Templates: 

Offers a range of templates that can be tailored to specific project needs, enhancing efficiency and organization.

Collaborative Tools: 

Facilitates teamwork and client interaction with shared pages and real-time editing capabilities.

Integrated Task Management: 

Enables tracking of tasks and deadlines, ensuring consultants stay on top of their projects and deliverables.

Pricing

• Free: $0
• Plus: $8/user/month
• Business: $15/user/month
• Enterprise: Custom

Pros:

• Consultants can tailor workflows to their needs.
• Real-time teamwork is easy.
• Store all project info in one place.
• Connect with other tools seamlessly.
• Competitive pricing for consultants.

Cons:

• Takes time to master.
• Lacks this essential feature.
• Not as robust as some alternatives.

What Users Say About Notion?

Capterra Review: 4.8/5

Positive Review

“I have access to it from all my devices and the speed and performance continue to improve. As I predominantly use it as my second brain, the ease of getting information into Notion is 2nd to none and retrieval of that information is so simple, and more importantly fast.” Jason M.

G2 Review: 4.7/5

Critical Review

“Notion has very little apparent structure or purpose when you start using it. I found that trying out free templates shared by other users was a helpful way to overcome this and develop some structure. Review collected by and hosted on G2.com.” Fiona L.

Key Features to Consider in Project Management Software for Consultants

Choosing the right project management software is crucial for consultants. But with so many options, how do you pick the best one? Here are some key features to consider that are specifically designed to meet the unique needs of consultants.

Client Relationship Management (CRM)

A built-in CRM feature is invaluable for consultants. It allows you to keep track of all client interactions, from emails to meetings. This centralized database makes it easier to manage multiple clients and ensures that you never miss a follow-up or deadline.

Time Tracking and Billing

Consultants often bill by the hour. A software with time tracking and billing features can automatically log your hours and generate invoices. This not only saves time but also eliminates the risk of undercharging or overcharging clients.

Customizable Workflows

Every consulting project is different. A software that allows you to customize workflows can adapt to the specific needs of each project. Whether it’s a marketing strategy or IT implementation, you can set up a workflow that fits.

Task Automation

Repetitive tasks can take up a lot of your time. Task automation features can handle these for you. From sending out weekly reports to setting reminders for client meetings, automation frees you up to focus on more important tasks.

Real-Time Collaboration

Consulting often involves teamwork. Real-time collaboration features enable you and your team to work on tasks simultaneously. This is especially useful for remote teams or when coordinating with clients in different time zones.

So, What’s The Best Project Management Software For Consultants?

From our comprehensive research and hands-on testing, Onethread emerges as the best pm software for consultants. It combines essential features for effortless pm at an affordable price, making it ideal for startups and small teams. 

A standout aspect of Onethread is its exceptional customer service, ensuring quick resolution of issues and saving valuable time. Unlike many competitors with limited trial periods, Onethread offers an extended free trial, allowing users to thoroughly evaluate its suitability. 

Also, for consultants seeking alternative options, ClickUp and Wrike are commendable choices, offering robust project management solutions tailored to diverse needs.

Explore Onethread’s features with its free trial and discover how it can streamline your project management process.

Getting the Most Out of Project Management Software for Consultants

By following these best practices, consultants can leverage project management software to enhance efficiency, collaboration, and client satisfaction.

• Collaborative Setup: Ensure all team members are on board and trained in using the software.
• Efficient Communication: Use the software for real-time communication and document sharing.
• Task Management: Assign tasks, set deadlines, and track progress within the software.
• Data Security: Prioritize data security and access control to protect sensitive client information.
• Regular Updates: Keep the software and project information up to date for accurate reporting.
• Integration Capabilities: Opt for software that integrates with other essential tools.
• Client Engagement: Use the software to involve clients, keeping them informed and engaged.
• Continuous Evaluation: Regularly assess the software’s effectiveness and make improvements.

FAQs

How can I ensure data privacy and compliance with Project Management Software?

Consultants should choose software providers that adhere to data privacy regulations and offer features like data encryption and compliance tools to ensure data security and legal compliance.

Can Project Management Software help with resource allocation and scheduling?

Yes, Project Management Software often includes features for resource allocation and scheduling, helping consultants optimize their team’s workloads and meet project deadlines efficiently.

What types of reporting and analytics are available in Project Management Software?

Project Management Software typically provides various reporting and analytics tools, allowing consultants to track project progress, identify bottlenecks, and make data-driven decisions to improve project outcomes.

How can I migrate data from my existing systems to Project Management Software?

Most software providers offer data migration assistance, and consultants can work with the provider’s support team to ensure a smooth transition from their existing systems to the new software.

Final Words

Project management software is an invaluable asset for consultants, streamlining tasks, enhancing collaboration, and improving client communication. 

By adhering to best practices and choosing the right software tailored to their needs, consultants can achieve greater efficiency, accuracy, and client satisfaction. Embracing technology in this way empowers consultants to deliver exceptional results in today’s fast-paced business environment.