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Work Management
Last modified date

Sep 30, 2024

The Best 20 Project Management Software for Architects

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Laurențiu Bancu

Blog average read time

20 min

Last modified date

September 30, 2024


In today’s dynamic world of architecture, the intricate dance of design, collaboration, and execution is a sight to behold. With their multifaceted schedules, architects find themselves immersed in conceptualizing awe-inspiring designs at one moment and synergizing with interior designers and contractors at the very next.

However enthralling this dance may seem, the pressure it brings to consistently deliver top-notch results while managing several projects can be overwhelming.

The vast sea of project management software available today presents both an opportunity and a challenge. The choices seem endless, from specialized tools tailored for architects to more generalized ones fit for various industries.

Check this case study to see how project management software can really help an architecture firm.

Yet, it’s not just about picking any tool; it’s about finding one that resonates with architectural workflows’ unique needs and demands. The struggle of maintaining organization, ensuring effective communication, and meeting deadlines are all too real.

Understanding that the software we delve into here is distinct from architectural modeling tools is crucial. Their purpose isn’t to aid in designing but to ensure that architects have a firm grip on the reins of their projects.

From tracking time and billable hours to navigating client billing and approval processes, these software solutions aim to ensure architects have their finger firmly on the pulse of their projects, making it easier to deliver on promises to clients, stakeholders, and team members.

So, as you explore this curated list of the top 20 project management software tailored for the world of architecture, bear in mind the multifaceted demands of the industry.

I’ve made a concerted effort to cover as many real-world needs as possible to ensure that architects, regardless of the complexity and scope of their projects, find tools that align perfectly with their specific challenges and aspirations.

Here are the best project management software for architects:

  1. Paymo – best complete package for architects: time tracking, planning, and invoicing
  2. Monograph – a good choice for templatized A/E projects
  3. Asana – easy to use and multipurpose, but not peculiar to architects
  4. Monday.com – for architects who struggle to find a tool matching their needs
  5. BQE Core – for architects with accounting and CRM needs
  6. Archisnapper – best for architects frequently engaged in on-site tasks
  7. Wrike – best for architects who want to focus on task manipulation features
  8. Deltek Ajera – best for complex architecture projects requiring integrated management
  9. TeamGantt – best for architects that often use Gantt charts
  10. Newforma – best for architects working with files and documents in bulk

Top Architectural Project Management Software

1. Paymo

best complete package for architects: time tracking, planning, billing

Pricing: Low

88

of 100

Pros
pros-image

advanced time-tracking features

pros-image

one-click invoicing based on timesheets

pros-image

strong planning & estimation features

pros-image

reliable support team

Cons
cons-image

it lacks native communication features

cons-image

the interface could be more intuitive

2. Monograph

a good choice for templatized A/E projects

Pricing: Very High

86

of 100

Pros
pros-image

focus on time tracking, planning, and invoicing

pros-image

frequent updates, especially in the areas where it’s needed

pros-image

good planning features and intuitive user interface

Cons
cons-image

lack of transparency in pricing

cons-image

time-tracking could be better

cons-image

invoicing could be improved

cons-image

relatively new/young when compared to other competitors

3. Asana

easy to use and multipurpose, but not peculiar to architects

Pricing: Average

85

of 100

Pros
pros-image

easy to use, intuitive, and aesthetically pleasing

pros-image

good customization features

pros-image

many integrations with other tools

pros-image

unicorn graphic that appears when you complete a task

Cons
cons-image

expensive when compared to other tools

cons-image

one assignee per task

cons-image

navigating through a project hierarchy can be challenging

4. Monday.com

for architects who struggle to find a tool matching their needs

Pricing: High

84

of 100

Pros
pros-image

with bright colors & clean design, the interface is aesthetically pleasing for many

pros-image

high customization options cater to specific needs

Cons
cons-image

the high price point may be a concern for small architectural teams

cons-image

live chat functionality could be more reliable

cons-image

the mobile app tends to be slow and clunky.

cons-image

the notification system needs to be more straightforward

5. BQE Core

for architects with accounting and CRM needs

Pricing: Very High

82

of 100

Pros
pros-image

accounting feature

pros-image

CRM features

Cons
cons-image

slow and glitchy

cons-image

lousy customer support & training

cons-image

significant issues in many modules

cons-image

lack of transparency in pricing

6. ArchiSnapper

best for architects frequently engaged in on-site tasks

Pricing: Very High

80

of 100

Pros
pros-image

best for field reporting

pros-image

punch list features

pros-image

good phone application

pros-image

easy to use

Cons
cons-image

not a complete project management tool

cons-image

users report frequent crashes and can be slow to load

cons-image

users complain about text formatting issues

cons-image

terribly ugly interface

7. Wrike

best for architects who want to focus on task manipulation features

Pricing: High

78

of 100

Pros
pros-image

dependent tasks and advanced task functions

pros-image

many customization options & high flexibility

Cons
cons-image

setup complexity

cons-image

steep learning curve

cons-image

customer service issues and generic support responses

8. Deltek Ajera

best for complex architecture projects requiring integrated management

Pricing: Very High

76

of 100

Pros
pros-image

one of the oldest tools in the market

pros-image

offers ERP capabilities beyond typical PM functionalities

pros-image

suitable for coordinated management across various departments

Cons
cons-image

it can feel clunky and somewhat outdated compared to newer, more intuitive tools

cons-image

steep learning curve

cons-image

lack of transparency in pricing

9. TeamGantt

best for architects who often use Gantt charts

Pricing: Average

75

of 100

Pros
pros-image

visually appealing Gantt charts

pros-image

drag & drop functionality

pros-image

one of the most intuitive

Cons
cons-image

significant price leap from the free to standard tier

cons-image

cap on the number of projects each project manager can oversee

cons-image

lacks advanced budgeting features

10. Newforma

best for architects working with files and documents in bulk

Pricing: Very High

73

of 100

Pros
pros-image

advanced document & file management

pros-image

amazing search functionality

Cons
cons-image

not intuitive

cons-image

slow

cons-image

expensive

cons-image

no free trial

Runner-up A/E project management software

11. Basecamp

If you believe collaboration and communication are fundamental to your business, then Basecamp could be the right solution. This is especially useful for large-scale, mixed-use developments that often demand the most communication between team members due to their multifaceted nature.

For example, imagine an architecture project that aims to develop a waterfront area into a mixed-use district comprising residential towers, a shopping mall, office spaces, a hotel, recreational areas, and a transportation hub.

Such a project would involve architects specializing in different building types, landscape architects, urban planners, interior designers, environmental consultants, and more. They would need to constantly communicate to ensure that the residential spaces don’t clash with the bustling commercial zones, that traffic flows smoothly for pedestrians and vehicles, that there’s a harmonious aesthetic throughout, and that sustainable and environmental standards are met.

Moreover, because different parts of the project may be at different stages at any given time (e.g., the hotel’s interior design might be finalized while the residential towers are still in a conceptual phase), communication becomes paramount to keep everyone on the same page and to manage overlapping timelines and dependencies.

If your project thrives on transparent communication and you still need to be tied to platforms like Slack, Basecamp could be a perfect fit. The platform facilitates seamless connections, fosters collaboration, and enables swift check-ins with anyone in your organization.

Yet, it’s not without its caveats. Basecamp embraces a minimalist approach, which might only resonate with some users. If you prefer a rich, structured display of information, Basecamp’s streamlined design might leave you wanting more.

A notable drawback is Basecamp’s limited customization capabilities. Compared to platforms like ClickUp or Asana, which excel in flexibility, Basecamp can appear inflexible. While Asana’s feature-rich interface might be overwhelming, some appreciate Basecamp’s lean approach, emphasizing simplicity and a clutter-free project management experience.

Pros

  • Focus on communication and collaboration
  • Clean/minimalistic user interface

Cons

  • Limited project management features
  • Limited customization options
  • Prices make sense only for large creative teams (over 30 users)

12. Mosaic

Mosaic shines brightest in enterprises with a vast employee base, facilitating the swift construction of specialized teams for diverse projects. Its standout feature is the AI-driven team builder, rapidly combs through your personnel, crafting a project team in moments.

This system considers skills, availability, and location and optimizes for peak efficiency. When initiating a new venture, Mosaic’s advanced AI suggests the most fitting contributors and highlights potential hiring needs.

While not among the top contenders in terms of popularity, this project management app for architects lacks substantial public user feedback. It seems to prioritize user-friendliness, but its feature set is less robust, and updates are less frequent compared to more popular options like Monday or ClickUp.

Pros:

  • AI-enhanced functionality
  • Advanced team assembly with intelligent personnel scanning
  • User-friendly interface

Cons:

  • Limited features relative to top-tier competitors
  • A slower pace of feature rollouts
  • Fewer integrations compared to leading platforms.

13. ClickUp

What sets ClickUp apart is its exceptional customization capabilities and attractive entry price. It’s an optimal choice for architects with distinct requirements that aren’t met by most available tools. For example, an architect working on an intricate historic building restoration might have vastly different needs than another focusing on sustainable, modular housing designs.

These projects vary in scope and the kind of documentation, approvals, materials, and collaboration they demand. With ClickUp’s robust customization features, both architects have the flexibility to mold the platform to fit their unique project requirements. If previous tools can’t hit the mark, ClickUp offers a fresh opportunity to craft a workspace tailored to your needs.

However, smaller architecture teams or solo architects seeking simplicity for tasks like drafting initial designs, coordinating client meetings, or overseeing site inspections might find its extensive options and occasional bugs burdensome, potentially complicating rather than aiding their workflow. In this case, simpler alternatives like Paymo or Basecamp are more fitting.

Pros:

  • A comprehensive set of tools and functionalities
  • Versatile and can be tailored to various use cases
  • The support team is quick to respond
  • Sophisticated automation features
  • Regularly updated to maintain cutting-edge functionality.

Cons:

  • Its extensive features can be daunting, creating a steep learning curve.
  • Infrequent slowdowns and occasional server interruptions.
  • Users have noted UI quirks, automation issues, and some bugs.
  • Pricing can be deceptive; initial costs seem affordable, but expenses can accumulate swiftly.

14. Notion

Notion shines as a flexible and robust tool for solo architects, especially when there’s no need for Gantt charts, time tracking, or invoicing. Its versatility allows for tailoring the workspace precisely to individual needs. For those architects looking to enhance their workflow and effectively manage daily tasks, Notion might be the ideal choice.

Its user-friendly interface and modular approach let you build a system that mirrors your preferred way of working, making it especially suitable for architects keen on organizing and visualizing their tasks and ideas uniquely.

Another aspect that sets this tool apart is its collection of templates, curated explicitly for architects. As of when this article was written, there are 19 such templates, all crafted by the community.

While Notion can be an architect’s ally for organization and task management, specific features might be sought elsewhere. Paymo or Monograph might be more apt choices if time tracking and hassle-free invoicing are paramount.

For those who prioritize Gantt charts, TeamGantt offers specialized functionality. Asana stands out for its ease of use and straightforward interface, ideal for those who want a quick setup and intuitive experience.

Meanwhile, Monday comes into its own with its rich feature set and customization options, catering to those who need a more comprehensive and adaptable project management platform.

Pros:

  • Robust tool for solo professionals
  • Versatile to enhance your workflow
  • Modular approach
  • Decent free plan and cheap upgrades

Cons:

  • No time tracking features
  • No budgeting & invoicing features
  • No Gantt Chart and advanced project management features

15. Outplanr

Outplanr is designed to help architecture teams plan and manage their projects by turning task lists into work plans, where tasks are organized by priority and deadline. For example, imagine an architectural firm working on designing and developing a new urban park.

Instead of having a list that says ‘site analysis, preliminary design sketches, client meeting, final design approval, etc.,’ Outplanr would transform this list into a dynamic plan. It would set the ‘site analysis’ as the top priority, assigning it a specific deadline, followed by ‘preliminary design sketches’ with their timeframe.

Each task would be mapped out in a sequence, ensuring every team member knows their role, the sequence of activities, and the deadlines they need to meet.

This approach becomes particularly beneficial when there’s a noticeable chasm between a team’s task lists and the actual implementation of those tasks. It’s not uncommon for architectural teams to compile comprehensive task lists, but transitioning from these lists to real-world execution can often be riddled with oversights, miscommunications, or lack of clear direction.

Outplanr bridges this gap by providing a structured, timeline-oriented approach to tasks. It ensures that what’s planned on paper aligns closely with the team’s day-to-day activities, fostering a more coherent and efficient work process.

By visually mapping out priorities and deadlines, teams can better understand their workflow, reducing the chances of tasks falling through the cracks or being delayed.

While Outplanr covers the necessities for architects, it might have a more extensive feature set than some of the more prominent players in the project management field offer. Tools like Asana, Monday.com, and Paymo have continued to expand their features and integrations over the years.

Specifically, it lacks budgeting and invoicing capabilities, which are essential for many businesses to track finances and bill clients. Additionally, those looking for Gantt chart visualization to manage project timelines may be wanting, as Outplanr does not currently offer this feature. A better alternative would be TeamGantt.

Pros:

  • Turns task lists into work plans

Cons:

  • No budgeting & invoicing features
  • No Gantt chart features
  • Limited advanced project management features

16. Xledger

Xledger is ideal for architects seeking advanced features in financial planning and forecasting. While it leans more towards an ERP system, it’s aptly described as an Accounting & Financial Management Software.

Thus, if the financial aspects of your architectural projects are paramount, Xledger might be the right choice for you. Imagine an architectural firm taking on several international projects. They deal with multiple currencies, diverse subcontractor costs, and varied taxation systems.

Using Xledger, the firm can effortlessly manage these financial intricacies, ensuring they maintain budgetary control while concentrating on their architectural endeavors.

Its ERP nature can make it overwhelming for architects just looking for simple task management. Due to its finance-centric interface, there’s a steeper learning curve, and it might need to integrate more with standard architectural tools.

Moreover, Xledger is pricier than more straightforward project management solutions, so while it provides advanced financial tools, it may feel excessive for teams only seeking straightforward architecture project tracking software.

Pros:

  • Advanced features in financial planning and forecasting
  • Good reporting features, including many predefined reports

Cons:

  • It is more complex due to its ERP nature
  • Lack of transparency in pricing

17. Contractor Foreman

Contractor Foreman is primarily a construction management software. While it’s tailored for construction professionals, the lines between construction and architecture often blur, especially in the execution phase.

Architects can benefit from such a platform, especially if they are deeply involved in overseeing construction processes or play a more hands-on role during the building phase. It’s an ideal fit for architects whose primary focus is on the construction aspect of projects, ensuring that the designed structures are brought to life precisely as envisioned.

Among the benefits of Contractor Foreman being primarily a construction management software is its comprehensive approach to managing on-site teams. Architects can oversee their workforce efficiently with detailed crew timecards, incident reporting, and crew scheduling.

The software also boasts a safety meeting toolbox, ensuring that all protocols are met, and safety remains a priority. Moreover, the time cards come equipped with GPS tracking, providing an extra layer of oversight and ensuring accurate timekeeping and project accountability.

One of the primary criticisms of Contractor Foreman is its dated user interface, a point repeatedly highlighted by users in their feedback. Additionally, the platform tends to exhibit occasional sluggishness and minor bugs.

However, it’s worth noting that the company’s support team has responded to these concerns. With the software’s growing popularity, they are investing in server upgrades and potential improvements to address these issues.

Contractor Foreman enjoys a positive reception among its users, with many commending it as offering good value for its cost. This sentiment is frequently echoed in user reviews, suggesting that, despite its shortcomings, the platform provides substantial benefits relative to its price point.

Pros:

  • Helpful customer service
  • Lots of construction-specific features
  • Time cards with location tracking
  • Ability to report incidents
  • Worth its cost

Cons:

  • Currently, it runs slowly, but improvements are underway
  • Outdated look and feel

18. ArchiCAD

If you’re an architect less concerned with project management features and more interested in enhanced CAD design capabilities, ArchiCAD might be a fitting choice. ArchiCAD, developed by Graphisoft in 1982, is a premier Building Information Modeling (BIM) software. BIM provides architects with 3D modeling capabilities and comprehensive data about building components.

ArchiCAD offers document management and collaboration tools, but its project management capabilities are essential. If you’re seeking Gantt charts or budgeting & invoicing features, you’ll need solutions like TeamGantt or Paymo.

ArchiCAD is considered expensive primarily due to its advanced Building Information Modeling (BIM) capabilities, which offer architects, designers, and engineers a high level of detail and precision.

The cost reflects significant investments in research and development to maintain its leading edge in architectural design technology. Premium prices also account for comprehensive customer support and training resources and the licensing model tailored for professional use.

Pros:

  • Enhanced CAD design capabilities
  • Document management and collaboration

Cons:

  • No time tracking features
  • No budgeting & invoicing features
  • No Gantt chart features
  • No advanced project management features
  • Very expensive (over $3000/year)

19. Nifty

Nifty‘s Dynamic Milestone Automation is particularly beneficial for architects. Plans can frequently change in architectural projects due to client requests, site constraints, or material availability.

With Nifty, when tasks within a project are altered or shifted, the associated milestones adjust automatically. The tool recalibrates the project timeline if an architect has to modify a design phase or push back a consultation.

This automatic recalibration saves architects the hassle of manual milestone updates, allowing them to maintain a current view of their project’s trajectory. Because of this feature, Nifty is especially useful for architects who juggle multiple projects simultaneously or those involved in complex, phased projects where timelines can frequently change.

Overall, Nifty is highly regarded for its intuitiveness among users. Being a relatively new player in the project management arena, having launched in early 2018, many of its shortcomings can be attributed to its youth.

The most common feedback centers on the desire for additional integrations and features. While there are minor bugs and areas for enhancement, the team behind Nifty is actively updating and refining the product.

Pros:

  • Dynamic Milestone Automation
  • Intuitive
  • Worth its cost

Cons:

  • It could use more features
  • It could use more integrations
  • It is a bit buggy, but it gets frequent updates

20. Plaky

Plaky is an ideal choice for architects venturing into project management without wanting to invest heavily. With one of the most generous free plans and competitively priced paid options, it’s a low-risk entry point for those unsure about the potential benefits of project management tools. If you’re still determining whether such tools are more hassle than help, Plaky is a great place to start.

However, beyond its free plan and cost-effective pricing, Plaky doesn’t offer features tailored specifically for architects. It does cater to general needs with file management, team collaboration, activity tracking, a rudimentary CRM, and a mobile app.

Yet, it needs more crucial functionalities such as time tracking, invoicing, Gantt charts, and other advanced project management tools that many professionals might seek.

Pros:

  • Good free package
  • Cheap paid packages

Cons:

  • No time tracking features
  • No budgeting & invoicing features
  • No Gantt chart features

Conclusion:

For architects exploring the expansive world of project management tools, there’s a solution to fit every unique project requirement.

Small to medium architectural firms might find Paymo particularly appealing for its strong emphasis on time tracking and invoicing. Monograph offers a similar focus but comes with its own set of limitations. Asana stands out for architects prioritizing user-friendliness, while Monday caters to those desiring deeper customization options.

For professionals often on site, ArchiSnapper provides tailored features, whereas Teamgantt is the go-to for those who prefer working with Gantt charts.

Ultimately, the best selection depends on each architectural team’s distinct needs and methodologies.

Laurențiu Bancu

Author

Laurențiu started his marketing journey over 18 years ago and now leads a marketing team. He has extensive experience in work and project management, and content strategy. When not working, he’s probably playing board games or binge-watching mini-series.

Alexandra Martin

Editor

Drawing from a background in cognitive linguistics and armed with 10+ years of content writing experience, Alexandra Martin combines her expertise with a newfound interest in productivity and project management. In her spare time, she dabbles in all things creative.

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