Project Management Software : Uses and Issues
Learn about the results of a study designed specifically for Project Management software and the functionalities sought in this field.
The “go-to” solution for just about everything, Excel schedule is sometimes employed in tasks for which is little suited, like project management.
For generating reports and performing complex calculations, Excel has long been unbeatable in its power and capacity for personalization. The “go-to” solution for just about everything, Excel is sometimes employed in tasks for which is little suited. This is particularly true when it comes to Project Management where using an Excel schedule falls short of the needs of a PM team.
An Excel schedule is not collaborative
Excel has an enormous range of uses but it remains essentially an individual tool. The needs of collaborative teamwork are different, requiring updates of data in real time and targeted delivery according to the different responsibilities of each team member. Using Excel’s schedule, one must always centralize data before extracting the relevant progress information related to each stage. This pyramid structure is in itself ill-suited to teamwork and lacks visibility and effectiveness. In addition, the not unimportant aspect of loss or theft of data is accentuated by storing multiple copies of files on myriad, less protected computers.
It's not dynamic
When working with employees in different locations, it becomes even more important that the data and information flow is in real time for maximum efficiency. This is not possible in Excel schedule. You want to have permanent access to the latest, updated documents at any time, monitor the progress of the project and be able to give your input with just a couple of clicks. This is the crucial difference with tools designed specifically for Project Management. In addition to an efficient administration of resources and tasks, there is a visual representation of the whole process and each of its elements through clear and precise graphics. For example; the option of generating Gantt charts which mark each crucial point with a milestone.
It's isolated from the project management's other components
Another advantage over an Excel schedule is that you can manage multiple projects using common resources, saving a significant amount of time. With this inter-operability, you access an actual dashboard combining all features ranging from time management, technical resources to highlighting of priorities. The integration of third party applications is another strong point of this type of software, smoothly importing and exporting data from various sources.
The icing on the cake is simply that Project Management software like Planzone, is developed by professionals who perfectly understand the working environment. In addition to the support and training available, you can count on a tool designed exclusively to meet your needs.
