Have you been asked to move to online project management software? If you are used to using desktop apps, it might seem like a drag to have to learn a new application and log in every time you want to access your schedule. But before you dismiss online tools, give some consideration to the benefits of working online. Here are 7 reasons why you shouldn’t be without online project management software.
Access from anywhere
One of the main benefits of using web applications for project management is that you can access your files from wherever you are. So if you need to update your schedule from the airport lounge, or on the train, or on the way to a client’s site, you can. Simply log in and everything is there.
Sharing with your team
As your files are online, it is easy to share them with your project team members. They only need a log in and password and they can get instant access to all the critical project information.
One version of the truth
One of the downsides with storing your project schedule and files on your own PC is that when you need to make changes you have to do it yourself! There’s also the chance that you’ll email the file to your colleagues, they’ll make changes and then you’ll have to incorporate those into your master file.
There’s no risk of duplicate files and getting confused about which one is the most up-to-date when you store your schedule online. You’ll have one version of the truth, and that’s it.
Updates in real-time
If you’d like to let your team members update their own project progress and mark their tasks as complete, online project management software lets you do that. Because you are all working from the same file, it’s easy to ensure that your team members have the access they need to make their changes in real-time.
That way, every time you need to know what is happening, you can guarantee that your project schedule will show you the most up-to-date information possible, and that changes are being made in real-time.
Easy to use
Many web applications are easy to use as they have an interface that is very similar to applications that you are already used to using. So there is a very small learning curve for you and your team members.
Another benefit is that everything is automatically backed up for you, so that if you lose your laptop or it is stolen, you can still access your files. How easy is that?
Nothing to install
Unfortunately, many IT departments limit the type of software that individuals can install, which makes web based products a good choice. There’s nothing to install so there is minimal work for your IT department to do and you can get started straight away without a long, drawn-out procurement process.
Manage via Google Drive
A lot of web applications tap into software that you already know how to use and that you are probably already using for work. Seavus Project Viewer™ Web Version, for example, uses Google Drive to help you view and manage your MS Project files (.mpp files). You don’t need anything except a Gmail email account, and you can set one of those up quickly and for free if you don’t already have one.