Kanban software is an organizational tool that presents project details in a structured manner. Kanban, which literally translates to "billboard" or "signboard" in Japanese, stays true to its name by serving as a visual project management solution. The concept of Kanban originated in a Toyota office to streamline project processes and improve manufacturing. Now, it's one of the most popular Agile project management strategies used across various industries.
Organizations can use these tools to visualize processes, limit work-in-progress tasks (WIPs), enhance efficiency, improve communication, identify bottlenecks, and track overall progress. Keeping this in mind, we'll dive into various Kanban tools, exploring the features they offer and the benefits they bring to the table. We'll also list the factors you should consider before determining the best Kanban software.
A Kanban board fulfills the primary purpose of a Kanban tool. It is responsible for visually representing tasks in the shape of columns. Each column represents different stages that help in tracking progress. Each task is represented by a card that progresses through the columns as it moves from initiation to completion. Organizing information this way increases visibility, helps project teams monitor workflows, identify priority tasks and inefficiencies.
Here is a comparison table showcasing the top providers' key features, Kanban tool pricing plans, and the types of teams they are ideal for.
Disclaimer: The pricing is subject to change.
Trello software is a web-based collaboration tool developed by Atlassian. Its main purpose is to provide users with a visual approach to organizing tasks and projects. The software's kanban-style boards, lists, and cards all add to its intuitive and user-friendly interface. Trello is simple and easy to use, making it ideal for beginners and small companies.
Key Features include:
- User-friendly interface
- Customizable boards, lists, and cards
- Power-ups (integrations with other tools)
- Collaboration features (comments, attachments, mentions)
Benefits include:
- Easy to use for beginners
- Versatile and adaptable to various project types
The software is ideal for small to medium-sized teams, beginners, and those looking for a simple yet effective tool.
Asana software was introduced as a project management tool in 2008. Its main purposes include the organization, tracking, and management of tasks. The Kanban tool provides users with boards, cards, custom fields, and automated workflows, making it easier to keep everything on track. The software's versatility and scalability make it a popular choice for companies of all sizes. It's not just a project management tool; with its desktop apps for both Mac and Windows, Asana seamlessly transforms into a powerful Kanban app.
Asana software key features are:
- Task management
- Custom workflows
- Timeline and calendar views
- Integrations with third-party applications
Benefits include
- Comprehensive project management capabilities
- Flexible and adaptable to different workflows
The software is ideal for teams of all sizes looking for an all-in-one project management solution.
ClickUp is a relatively newer project management software, launched in 2017 by Alex Yurkowski and Zeb Evans. It is known for providing users with multiple productivity tools all on one platform. Much like in other Kanban tools, ClickUp software organizes tasks into columns based on whether they fit in "To-Do", "In Progress", or "Done". The software also automates task movements and integrates with various third-party applications.
Key features of ClickUp include:
- Customizable dashboards
- Task management with kanban boards
- Time tracking and goal setting
The software's benefits include:
- Highly customizable and versatile
- The comprehensive suite of features
ClickUp is perfect for teams needing an all-in-one platform to manage tasks seamlessly.
Wrike software is known for its project and resource management properties. Launched in 2006, the software aims to streamline workflows and provide detailed project planning with the help of various Agile methodologies. Along with being a Kanban tool, Wrike also has Gantt charts and project timelines. As a Kanban tool, the software has boards, columns, cards, automation, and custom dashboards.
Key features of the software include:
- Versatile management capabilities
- Customizable workflows
- Reporting and time tracking
- Integrations with third party-applications
Benefits of Wrike are as follows:
- Ideal for managing complex projects
- Highly customizable
Wrike software is ideal for large teams and organizations managing complex projects.
Also developed by Atlassian, Jira software is very popular in the software development niche. Like Wrike, Jira also supports Agile methods, including Scrums and Kanban tools. The latter includes roadmaps for projects that showcase their milestones and timelines. Jira also facilitates its users with a free Kanban tool.
Key features include:
- Custom workflows
- Reporting and analytics
- Strong support for Agile methodologies
Benefits include:
- Beneficial for software development teams
- Has advanced reporting tools
Jira software is ideal for software development teams needing a robust and customizable Kanban solution.
Smartsheet software is most popularly known for combining the interface of a spreadsheet with project management capabilities. It works in grid view and is a highly scalable and flexible solution for teams of large sizes tackling complex projects. Smartsheet has commendable integrations and automated features, allowing users an easy-to-navigate experience.
Key features include:
- Grid-based interface
- Automation
- Customizable workflows
- Advanced analytics
Benefits of Smartsheet include:
- It is suitable for large projects
- Has powerful automation features
Smartsheet is ideal for large enterprises looking for a versatile project management tool for complex projects.
Unlike most of the software on this list, Miro software is known for collaboration. It provides users a whiteboard platform to facilitate their team's planning and collaboration. Along with pre-made templates, the software's whiteboards also facilitate a Kanban framework that teams can use to keep on top of project objectives.
Key features of Miro software include:
- Interactive whiteboards
- Custom kanban boards
- Integrations with Asana and Jira software
- Collaborative features
Main benefits include:
- Enhanced creativity and collaboration
- Facilitates remote and dispersed teams
Miro software is ideal for creative and remote teams in need of a collaborative and interactive project management tool.
When choosing the right tool for your organization, it's important to find one that not only helps you visualize your processes but also limits work-in-progress tasks and identifies any bottlenecks. When finalizing a software, it will help to keep the following factors in mind:
Choosing the right Kanban tool can be daunting, especially if one is not sure of their requirements. If none of the software discussed above catches your fancy, the Microsoft Kanban tool is a very reliable alternative. Kanban Tool is also available for download on Google Play Store for Android and App Store for Apple devices.
If still unsure, you can visit our site for personalized recommendations based on your needs and workflow requirements. Happy hunting!
