Functions of Project Management Software

Software Review Paper
Student Name
University
Course
Professor’s Name
Date
Software Review Paper
Introduction
Project portfolio management can be theorized as a framework centered on project management knowledge, where the management software package emphasizes integrating the project with given conditions and goals. It constitutes a higher-tier project management endeavor within enterprises. To establish the capability and benefits of different project management software packages, the project manager should compare and contrasts different solutions available in the market. These solutions manage project portfolios and the endeavors linked to the respective portfolios. In addition, the solutions help the project manager to organize various projects in ways that foster the overall performance and sustainability of the business. This paper evaluates the unique functions of project management software that cannot be achieved using the spreadsheet, compares and contrasts Matchware’s Mindview, Basecamp, and Workamajig to Microsoft Project Online Professional, and offers justifications for investing in portfolio project management software.
What functions does project management software provide that you cannot do easily using other tools such as a spreadsheet or database?
Modelling benefits of spreadsheet software are well-established, and these program capabilities are now comprehensively spread into different areas of human endeavors. Spreadsheets constitute popular instruments for addressing optimization issues among end users. A spreadsheet program (for example, Microsoft Excel 2016) informs modelling of optimization issues of construction project time scheduling. After optimization of the project schedule, the derived output data is processed using project management software (PMS) geared at performing their graphical representation as well as control during project implementation. Therefore, PMS is needed to support the organization, planning, as well as management of resources in project management. The software can address estimation, budget management, project scheduling, resource assignment, communication, cooperation, decision-making, administration systems, and quality management. Different PMS solutions currently exist in the market (Valenko & Klanšek, 2017). Therefore, PMS ensures the project management process is successful, and all project endeavors must be conducted on time, which implies that the final plan is designed per the estimated budget. It also ensures that the project beneficiaries are content with the project execution and its advantages.
Microsoft Project is a prominent PMS used in the construction industry. It is primarily tailored to plan, monitor, and control project realization. Microsoft Project is utilized to monitor all the collected project data, visualize and demonstrate project schedules, efficiently assign resources and tasks, augment information exchange amongst the project team members, and facilitate communication between stakeholders within the project (Valenko & Klanšek, 2017).
How do the different tools you reviewed compare with Project 2016, based on cost of the tool, key features, and other relevant criteria?
Project management software packages ensure all the anticipated projects and tasks are completed in a timely manner. Basecamp, Microsoft Project, Matchware’s MindView, and Workamajig are the most trusted brands within the project management discipline. Basecamp has features for doc...