Did you know that 35% of businesses say they miss deadlines because they don’t use project management tools? If you’re a Mac user, there’s good news. Some of the world’s best project management software is designed just for you so that you do not have to be a part of that 35%.
Mac has always been the go-to for designers, artists, and other creatives. But what about project managers? Well, the landscape is shifting. Now, Mac offers powerful tools tailored for project management. No more clunky adaptations or workarounds. Smooth interfaces. Clear visuals. All in the Apple ecosystem.
You might ask, “Which ones should I try?” That’s where we come in. We’ve done the research. We’ve tested the tools. In this guide, we present the top 5 project management software for Mac.
So, are you ready to boost your productivity? Are you eager to meet those deadlines with ease? Dive in. Discover tools that can transform your projects.
Quick List of 5 Project Management Software for Mac
- Onethread – Visual board-based project collaboration tool, ideal for team tasks.
- Wrike – Task and project management with a simple, intuitive interface.
- Monday.com – Colorful workflow visualization to track project progress.
- OmniPlan – Mac-specific software for advanced project scheduling and Gantt charts.
- Smartsheet – All-in-one team collaboration hub, combining to-dos, chat, and files.
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Comparison Chart Of Project Management Software for Mac
Here’s a comparison chart of the five project management software tools for Mac:
Tools / Features | Interface | Collaboration | Platform | Specialty |
Thread-based and visual | Task based comments, discussion, document sharing | Web based, iOS and Android App | Visual board-based | |
Simple, intuitive | Collaborative task/project management | Web, Mobile, Desktop (including Mac) | All-round task/project management | |
Colorful workflow visualization | Team collaboration with boards | Web, Mobile, Desktop (including Mac) | Workflow visualization | |
Gantt chart and task scheduling | Multi-project environments | Mac-specific | Advanced scheduling with Gantt charts | |
Unified team hub | Combines to-dos, chat, and files | Web, Mobile, Desktop (including Mac) | All-in-one collaboration hub |
What is Project Management Software for Mac?
Project Management Software for Mac refers to project management tools and applications that are compatible with Apple’s macOS operating system.
These software solutions are designed to help individuals and teams plan, execute, and monitor projects efficiently on Mac computers
They often come with features such as task management, project scheduling, team collaboration, resource allocation, and reporting.These tools cater to Mac users and are often available on the Mac App Store or as downloadable desktop applications.
Users can choose the software that best fits their project management needs and works seamlessly with their Mac devices.
In order for any of the software below to work properly, you need to update your Mac’s operating system regularly (if you have a problem with your Macbook not updating, you should check here for solutions)
How Project Management Software for Mac Can Help Your Business?
Starting a project without the right tools is like sailing a boat without a compass. Especially for Mac users, tailored project management software can steer your business ventures in the right direction. Here’s how:
- Streamlined Operations: Centralizes tasks, deadlines, and communication.
- Enhanced Collaboration: Teams can work together efficiently, regardless of location.
- Resource Allocation: Ensures optimal use of available resources.
- Real-time Monitoring: Track project progress and identify roadblocks instantly.
- Integration Capabilities: Synchronize with other Mac-friendly tools for a seamless workflow.
- Data Security: Mac-specific software often benefits from Apple’s robust security features.
With these tools, both individual professionals and businesses can elevate their project outcomes, ensuring timely and effective results.
Key Features to Consider in Project Management Software for Mac
Choosing the right project management software is crucial. Here we break down the essential features to consider when making your choice.
Visual Planning Tools
Visual planning tools are vital. They help you see the big picture. Think of Gantt charts and Kanban boards. These tools map out tasks and timelines. It means less confusion and clear paths to your goals.
Collaboration Tools
Teamwork makes the dream work. The software should foster communication. Features to look for include chat and comment sections. These promote dialogue and sharing of ideas. It is about keeping everyone on the same page.
Integration Options
Integration is like a golden key. It unlocks seamless connections with other tools. The software should integrate well with apps you already use. This way, you keep everything in one place, making work smoother and faster.
Offline Access
Sometimes, the internet fails us. The software should work offline too. This ensures work continues, even without a connection. It is about being reliable in all situations.
Custom Workflow
Your work process is unique. The software should respect that. It must allow for custom workflows. This means tailoring stages and steps to suit your needs. It promotes efficiency and harmony in the workflow.
Top 5 Project Management Software for Mac
Mac users demand tools that match their system’s performance and elegance. When it comes to project management, this is no exception.
We’ve explored the vast software landscape to bring you the top 5 standout choices for Mac.
#1. Onethread
Onethread stands out for Mac users. It’s more than just software. It’s a solution. Tailored for macOS, it fits seamlessly into the Apple ecosystem.
Mac’s renowned safety pairs well with Onethread’s robust protocols. It ensures data protection at all times.
The interface is clean and intuitive. Users don’t face a steep learning curve. This means quick adoption and faster results.
In the world of project management, Onethread is a Mac user’s ally. It promises efficiency, collaboration, and success.
Overview and key features
When it comes to project management on Mac, Onethread has you covered. This software offers this robust set of features tailored to enhance your project planning and execution:
Visual Planning Tools
Visualize your projects effortlessly with Onethread’s intuitive Gantt charts, calendar views and Kanban boards. These tools provide a clear roadmap of tasks, timelines, and dependencies, ensuring that your projects stay on track.
Collaboration Made Easy
Onethread fosters collaboration with chat, comments, and file-sharing features. Team members can communicate seamlessly within the platform, keeping everyone on the same page and eliminating the need for scattered email threads.
Custom Workflows
Tailor your project management process to suit your unique needs. Onethread allows you to create custom workflows, define project stages, and set up automated actions, enhancing your team’s productivity and efficiency.
Data Security
Rest easy knowing that your project data is secure with Onethread. Benefit from the robust security features of Mac, combined with Onethread’s encryption and access control, ensuring the confidentiality and integrity of your information.
Onethread is the ideal project management solution for Mac users, offering an array of features designed to simplify project planning, enhance collaboration, and ensure the security of your valuable data.
Pricing plans and options
Onethread offers flexible pricing plans to cater to a variety of needs. Here’s a breakdown of the options:
Free Plan: $0
For those looking to dip their toes into the world of Onethread, the Free Plan is a perfect starting point. It provides essential project management features at no cost. You can manage tasks, collaborate with your team, and get a feel for the platform’s capabilities without any financial commitment.
Growth Plan: $3.6/month
Ready to take your projects to the next level? The Growth Plan, priced at just $3.6 per month, unlocks a host of advanced features. Enjoy enhanced project visualization, priority support, and seamless integrations with other tools. Ideal for small businesses and growing teams.
Scale Plan: $6/month
For larger enterprises and ambitious projects, the Scale Plan is the ultimate choice. At $6 per month, it offers everything in the Growth Plan, plus advanced customization options, expanded storage, and priority access to new features and updates. Scale up your project management game with ease.
Pros and cons
Pros of Onethread:
- User-Friendly: Onethread’s intuitive interface makes it easy for team members to quickly adapt and start using the software effectively.
- Mac Integration: Tailored for Mac users, it seamlessly integrates with the macOS ecosystem, ensuring a cohesive workflow.
- Visual Planning: The Gantt charts and Kanban boards offer visual clarity, helping teams track project progress effortlessly.
- Collaboration Tools: The chat, comments, and file-sharing features promote efficient team communication and collaboration.
- Custom Workflows: Onethread allows for the creation of custom workflows, catering to the unique needs of different projects.
Cons of Onethread:
- Limited Free Plan: While there is a free plan available, it may have limitations for users with extensive project management needs.
- Pricing Tiers: Some advanced features are only available in the paid plans, which might not be suitable for all budget levels.
- Learning Curve: While it’s user-friendly, new users may still require some time to fully harness the software’s potential.
#2. Wrike
Wrike is a user-friendly work tool. It simplifies task and project management. With Wrike, you can create, assign, and manage tasks effortlessly.
Accessible on both desktop and mobile devices, Wrike adapts to your work style. It’s known for its credibility and user-friendly interface.
Wrike is a valuable solution for efficient work management and improved teamwork and the best part is, it can be seamlessly accessed from you Mac or any other platform that you can think of.
Wrike: Quick Facts
- Wrike was acquired by Citrix for $2.25 billion.
- In 2023, Wrike had approximately 800 employees.
- Founding Team:
- Andrew Filev: The founder and CEO; brings vast experience in project management and business operations.
Feature
Wrike stands tall as one of the leading project management solutions for Mac users. With its robust features, it offers a comprehensive project management experience tailored to the Mac ecosystem.
Visual Project Management
Wrike’s visual tools, including Gantt charts and Kanban boards, provide a clear overview of project progress. These visuals help teams stay on track and ensure everyone is on the same page.
Collaboration and Communication
Collaboration is effortless with Wrike’s chat, comments, and real-time editing features. Team members can work together seamlessly, making project communication efficient and transparent.
Custom Workflows
Wrike’s flexibility shines through its ability to create custom workflows. You can define project stages, automate processes, and tailor the software to your unique project needs.
Integration Capabilities
Wrike’s wide range of integrations allows you to connect it with other tools you use daily, streamlining your workflow and enhancing productivity.
Accessibility Across Devices
Whether you’re on a Mac, iPhone, or iPad, Wrike ensures you can manage your projects from anywhere, providing the flexibility modern teams need.
Pros of Wrike:
- User-friendly interface.
- Extensive customization options.
- Powerful reporting and analytics.
- Excellent customer support.
- Cross-platform accessibility.
Cons of Wrike:
- Can be expensive for larger teams.
- Steeper learning curve for advanced features.
- Some integrations may require higher-tier plans.
Pricing Plans:
- Free Plan: Limited features for small teams.
- Professional Plan: Starting at $9.80/user/month.
- Business Plan: Starting at $24.80/user/month.
- Enterprise Plan: Custom pricing for larger organizations.
Customer Ratings:
- G2: 4.2/5 stars based on 2,000+ reviews.
- Capterra: 4.3/5 stars based on 4,000+ reviews.
Our Review:
As dedicated Mac users, our experience with Wrike has been a mix of highs and lows. On the positive side, Wrike provides a comprehensive project management and collaboration platform that’s accessible via web browsers, which is a huge plus for Mac users.
Its user-friendly interface and robust features, like Gantt charts and task dependencies, empower our team to efficiently plan and execute projects.
However, there are some drawbacks. The absence of a dedicated desktop app for Mac means we rely heavily on web browsers, which can sometimes lead to performance issues and occasional lags. This is where we feel a native Mac app could greatly enhance the user experience.
Despite this drawback, Wrike’s cloud-based accessibility and cross-platform compatibility allow us to work seamlessly with team members using different operating systems.
#3. Monday.com
Monday.com is a simple work tool. It aids in managing tasks and projects efficiently. It employs boards and cards for better organization and a quick overview.
Monday.com promotes teamwork effectively. It simplifies sharing and collaboration, and you can integrate it with other essential tools. This feature helps save time and enhance productivity.
Accessible on both computers and mobile devices, it suits remote work perfectly. Its straightforward interface is user-friendly and trusted by many.
Monday.com: A Quick Overview
- Monday.com is valued at approximately $6 billion.
- In 2023, Monday.com has over 1500 employees.
- Founding Team:
- Roy Mann: Co-founder and CEO, providing leadership and direction to the company.
- Eran Zinman: Co-founder and CTO, responsible for the platform’s technological foundation.
Feature
Visual Workflow Creation
Monday.com offers an intuitive visual interface for designing workflows. This feature allows you to customize and automate processes, making complex projects more manageable and increasing overall efficiency.
Collaborative Workspaces
Collaboration is at the heart of Monday.com. Its user-friendly interface includes chat, comments, and file-sharing functionalities, ensuring seamless communication among team members regardless of their location.
Integration Hub
Monday.com is built to integrate with a multitude of third-party apps and services, streamlining your workflow and making it easier to manage tasks, calendars, and documents, all within one platform.
Customizable Dashboards
Monday.com allows you to create personalized dashboards, providing a clear and organized view of your projects. Tailor them to your specific needs and easily access critical project information.
Cross-Device Compatibility
Whether you’re using a Mac, iPhone, or iPad, Monday.com ensures you can manage your projects from anywhere, enabling flexibility for modern teams.
Pros of Monday.com:
- User-friendly, minimal learning curve.
- Extensive customization options.
- Versatile for different types of projects.
- Robust automation features.
- Exceptional customer support.
Cons of Monday.com:
- Pricing can be high for larger teams.
- Complex workflows may require expert setup.
- Limited free plan capabilities.
Pricing Plans:
- Basic Plan: Starting at $8/user/month.
- Standard Plan: Starting at $10/user/month.
- Pro Plan: Starting at $16/user/month.
- Enterprise Plan: Custom pricing for larger organizations.
Customer Ratings:
- G2: 4.6/5 stars based on 3,000+ reviews.
- Capterra: 4.7/5 stars based on 2,000+ reviews.
Our Review:
Our experience as Mac users with Monday.com has been a bit of a rollercoaster. On the positive side, Monday.com is a versatile work operating system that offers a visually appealing interface, making it easy to manage tasks and projects. Its web-based accessibility ensures that we can collaborate with our team seamlessly, regardless of their operating system.
However, there are some downsides. Monday.com’s performance on Mac web browsers has occasionally been less than optimal, leading to frustrating lags. We’ve also missed having a dedicated desktop app for Mac, which could potentially enhance the overall user experience and responsiveness.
Despite these minor setbacks, Monday.com’s customization options, intuitive project boards, and extensive integrations have significantly improved our team’s productivity.
If you're considering Monday.com but want to see how it compares to other alternatives, check out our comprehensive comparisons Monday.com vs Jira.
#4. OmniPlan
OmniPlan is a straightforward project management tool. It simplifies planning and scheduling. With OmniPlan, you can create, assign, and track tasks easily. It offers timelines, Gantt charts, and collaboration tools for efficient project management.
Accessible on both desktop and mobile devices, OmniPlan adapts to your workflow. It’s known for its credibility and user-friendly interface.
The best thing about OmniPlan is it is only available on Mac, meaning, the software is specifically customized and built keeping Mac users in mind.
OmniPlan – Overview
Product Information:
- Focus: Project management software for macOS and iOS.
- Parent Company: The Omni Group.
- Company Valuation (The Omni Group): 29.4
- Employee Numbers (The Omni Group): 79+
Founding Team of The Omni Group (the company behind OmniPlan):
- George Harrell:
- Position: Co-founder and CEO.
- EG Hamilton:
- Position: Co-founder and CTO.
Feature
Advanced Gantt Charts
OmniPlan excels in visual project planning with its advanced Gantt charts. These charts offer a detailed view of project timelines, dependencies, and critical paths, making it easy to manage even the most complex projects.
Resource Management
One of OmniPlan’s standout features is its resource management capabilities. It allows you to allocate resources to tasks, ensuring that work is evenly distributed among your team members, and no one is overburdened.
Collaboration Tools
While focused on individual project planning, OmniPlan also offers collaboration features such as task assignment and file sharing. These tools foster teamwork and communication among team members.
Scenario Planning
OmniPlan allows you to create multiple project scenarios, making it easy to explore different approaches and compare their outcomes. This feature is invaluable for decision-making and risk assessment.
Integration with Other Mac Apps
OmniPlan seamlessly integrates with other Mac applications, allowing you to leverage the full power of your Apple ecosystem. It syncs with calendars, contacts, and other essential tools for a streamlined workflow.
Pros of OmniPlan:
- Powerful Gantt chart functionality.
- Robust resource management capabilities.
- Scenario planning for better decision-making.
- Integration with Mac apps enhances productivity.
- Excellent customer support.
Cons of OmniPlan:
- Learning curve for beginners.
- Limited collaboration features compared to some other tools.
- Higher price point compared to some competitors.
Pricing Plans:
- Standard Plan: Starting at $199.99 for Mac.
- Pro Plan: Starting at $399.99 for Mac.
Customer Ratings:
- G2: 4.4/5 stars based on 50+ reviews.
- Capterra: 4.3/5 stars based on 100+ reviews.
Our Review:
Our experience with OmniPlan on Mac has been a mixed bag. On the positive side, OmniPlan excels in its comprehensive project planning capabilities. The intuitive interface allows us to create complex project timelines effortlessly.
However, there are a few drawbacks. The learning curve for beginners can be steep, and it may take a while to fully utilize all the advanced features. Additionally, the software’s cost can be quite high, especially for smaller teams or individual users.
Despite these downsides, OmniPlan remains a robust choice for Mac users who require in-depth project planning and management. It’s an excellent tool for professionals in industries where intricate project timelines and resource allocation are critical.
#5. Smartsheet
Smartsheet is a simple yet powerful work management platform. It streamlines collaboration and automates work processes. It offers intuitive grids, Gantt charts, and customizable templates for various work needs- all in a very spreadsheet lookalike interface.
Smartsheet enhances teamwork and productivity. You can share workspaces, set permissions, and integrate with popular business apps, saving time and improving efficiency.
Accessible on both desktop and mobile devices, Smartsheet adapts to your work style. It’s recognized for its credibility and user-friendly interface.
Smartsheet – Overview
Product Information:
- Focus: Collaborative work management platform.
- Company Valuation: US$486 million (2023)
- Employee Numbers: 3,191 (2023)
Founding Team:
- Brent Frei:
- Position: Co-founder and former CEO.
- Eric Browne:
- Position: Co-founder and former CMO.
- Maria Colacurcio:
- Position: Co-founder and former CCO.
Features
Grid View for Flexibility
One of Smartsheet’s standout features is its grid view, which resembles a spreadsheet. This view allows you to create and organize tasks, deadlines, and dependencies with ease, making it simple to manage complex projects.
Gantt Charts for Visual Planning
Smartsheet also provides Gantt charts for visual project planning. These charts offer a clear overview of timelines and task dependencies, helping you stay on top of project progress.
Collaboration Made Easy
Collaboration is a breeze with Smartsheet’s robust set of collaboration tools. You can comment on tasks, share files, and even set up automated notifications to keep everyone in the loop.
Integration Capabilities
Smartsheet seamlessly integrates with various Mac apps and tools, allowing you to connect your project management efforts with your existing workflows, calendars, and more.
Mobile Accessibility
Whether you’re using a Mac, iPhone, or iPad, Smartsheet ensures that you can manage your projects on the go, providing the flexibility modern teams need.
Pros of Smartsheet:
- Flexible grid view for project organization.
- Visual Gantt charts for project planning.
- Strong collaboration features.
- Extensive integration options.
- Excellent customer support.
Cons of Smartsheet:
- Learning curve for complex projects.
- Pricing can be on the higher side for larger teams.
- Limited automation compared to some competitors.
Pricing Plans:
- Individual Plan: Starting at $14/user/month.
- Business Plan: Starting at $25/user/month.
- Enterprise Plan: Custom pricing for larger organizations.
Customer Ratings:
- G2: 4.4/5 stars based on 1,000+ reviews.
- Capterra: 4.4/5 stars based on 1,000+ reviews.
Our Review:
On the positive side, Smartsheet truly excels in its versatility. It provides a platform where we can create customized workspaces, offering flexibility for various projects and workflows. The grid, card, Gantt chart, and calendar views are exceptional and cater to different project management needs- especially to our teammates who are spreadsheet-maestros.
However, there are a few challenges. Smartsheet’s user interface, while powerful, may initially overwhelm new users. It can take some time to fully grasp all the features and functionalities. Additionally, the pricing structure can be a bit steep for smaller teams or individuals.
If you're in search of the perfect project management tool, our Versatile Smartsheet vs Asana analyses can help you find the ideal fit.
Getting the Most Out of Project Management Software for Mac
Project management software for Mac can be a game-changer, but maximizing its potential requires effective practices. Here’s how to make the most of it:
1. Embrace Visual Planning: Leverage Gantt charts and Kanban boards for a clear project overview.
2. Ensure Collaboration: Encourage team communication through chat, comments, and file sharing.
3. Integrate Seamlessly: Connect your software with other Mac apps and tools for a streamlined workflow.
4. Customize Workflows: Tailor the software to your project’s unique needs for optimal efficiency.
5. Prioritize Data Security: Protect your project data by following Mac’s robust security features.
By following these best practices, you can harness the full potential of project management software for Mac, ensuring smoother project execution and better results.
Final Thoughts
Project Management Software tailored for Mac users offers a streamlined and efficient way to plan, execute, and monitor projects. With visual planning tools, seamless integration, and collaboration features, it enhances team productivity and project success.
Mac’s renowned security ensures data safety. By adopting best practices, users can unlock the full potential of these tools, making them indispensable for project management on Mac.
FAQs
What is the cost of Project Management Software for Mac?
Pricing varies depending on the software and its features. There are often free plans with limited features, as well as paid plans ranging from affordable to premium, catering to different needs.
How can I ensure the security of my project data on Mac project management software?
Mac’s robust security features, combined with the software’s encryption and access controls, provide a secure environment for your project data.
What best practices can I follow when using Project Management Software for Mac?
Best practices include embracing visual planning, encouraging collaboration, seamless integration with other Mac apps, customizing workflows, and prioritizing data security.
Can I try Mac project management software before purchasing?
Many providers offer free trials, allowing you to test the software’s features and suitability for your needs before committing to a subscription.