Microsoft Project Review - Features, Pricing & Deals

Microsoft Project is a project management tool that helps organizations plan, track, and manage their projects effectively. As part of the Microsoft 365 suite, it provides tools for scheduling, resource management, and team collaboration.

The software comes in both cloud-based and desktop versions, offering flexibility for different business needs. Teams can create detailed project timelines, assign tasks, track progress, and generate reports all in one place. Its integration with other Microsoft applications like Teams and SharePoint makes it easier for project teams to work together and share information.

Users can choose from several pricing tiers, starting at $10 per user monthly for basic features, while more advanced plans include additional capabilities like resource management and portfolio tracking. For organizations that prefer traditional licensing, standalone desktop versions are also available.

While the tool shines in complex project environments, it's worth noting that it requires some training to use effectively. Its robust feature set includes Gantt charts, resource calendars, and customizable dashboards that help teams stay on top of their project goals.

• Dynamic Task Management: Easily reschedule tasks and automatically adjust project plans in real-time, ensuring seamless workflow adaptability and efficient project tracking.
• Resource Allocation Tools: Manage team resources effectively with timeline views and smart task assignments that optimize workforce productivity across projects.
• Financial Planning Features: Track project budgets, generate financial insights, and make informed decisions with comprehensive cost management and reporting capabilities.
• Portfolio Management: Monitor multiple projects simultaneously, track progress, and generate real-time updates for enterprise-level project coordination.
• Microsoft Teams Integration: Collaborate seamlessly with built-in communication tools, file sharing, and task update features that connect team members instantly.
• Advanced Reporting Analytics: Create customizable dashboards with graphical reports, pivot tables, and visual representations of project data for quick insights.
• Microsoft 365 Ecosystem Integration: Seamlessly connect with SharePoint, Office apps, and other Microsoft tools to streamline document management and project communication.

• Project Plan 1 offers basic project management features at $10 per user per month, including task management, project planning, scheduling, collaboration tools, and cloud saves.
• Project Plan 3 provides advanced features at $30 per user per month, with resource management, road mapping, baselines, reports, customizations, desktop client, and timesheet submission capabilities.
• Project Plan 5 is the most comprehensive cloud plan at $55 per user per month, offering portfolio management, demand management, enterprise-level reporting, security features, analytics, Power BI integration, and custom branding.
• On-premise options include Project Standard 2021 at $679.99 per license for basic project management, and Project Professional 2021 at $1,129.99 per license with advanced resource and timesheet management.
• Project Server pricing is custom and requires direct consultation with Microsoft, tailored to the organization's size and complexity.

Project Plan 1 ($10 per user monthly) offers basic features like task management, project planning, and collaboration tools. It's good for simple projects. Project Plan 3 ($30 per user monthly) adds more power with resource management, roadmapping, reports, and desktop access. Project Plan 5 ($55 per user monthly) is for bigger organizations, adding portfolio management, enterprise reporting, and Power BI integration. Choose based on your project complexity and team size.

Yes! Microsoft offers on-premise versions you can buy with a one-time payment. Project Standard 2021 costs $679.99 per license and includes basic project management tools. Project Professional 2021 costs $1,129.99 per license and adds resource management features. These don't require monthly payments, but you won't get automatic updates like with subscription plans.

Microsoft Project plays nicely with other Microsoft 365 apps. You can share project data with Teams for better team communication, store files in SharePoint, and create custom reports with Power BI. The integration lets you chat, share files, and hold meetings without leaving your project environment. This connection makes it easier to keep everyone on the same page throughout your project.

Microsoft Project has a learning curve, especially if you're new to project management software. The basic functions like creating tasks and setting deadlines are straightforward, but more advanced features like resource leveling and critical path analysis take time to master. Microsoft offers training resources, and many users find that watching tutorials helps. If you already use other Microsoft products, the familiar interface will make learning easier.

Yes, Microsoft offers a free trial period for Project Plans. This lets you test the features before committing to a subscription. The trial gives you full access to the software's capabilities, so you can see if it meets your needs. Remember to cancel before the trial ends if you decide not to continue, or you'll be charged for the subscription.