There are over 100 free project management templates for Excel and Word available to download right now on our site. They cover every phase of managing a project and can be used across industries. We’ve cherry-picked the best free goal-setting templates and goal-tracking templates and listed them below to help deliver successful projects.

1. SMART Goals Template

Not all goals are created equal. If you set unrealistic goals for yourself or a project, you’re setting yourself up for failure. Instead, be smart. Using a free SMART goals template for Word is the first step to achieving your goals because this goal-setting template ensures that the goals are grounded in reality. Once the goals are set, use this goal-tracking template to ensure you’re meeting your goals.

This is achieved through the simple process of vetting goals. That’s where the SMART part comes into play. This acronym stands for specific, measurable, attainable, relevant and time-bound. The goal-setting template is divided into three columns. The first column is for what each letter in SMART stands for. The second column asks a series of questions to help define that goal as related to a specific SMART goal. Finally, there’s a space for answers. When this process is complete, the goals collected will be specific, measurable, attainable, relevant and time-bound.

2. Strategic Roadmap Template

Setting goals is only the start. Now, those goals must be communicated to the team responsible for executing the individual tasks that will lead to achieving those goals. Using this free strategic roadmap template for Excel is a great visual aid for achieving the goal of disseminating the goal across the organization. This goal-setting template is a powerful tool to deliver long-term strategy, key goals, objectives and outcomes.

Using this free goal-setting template helps lay out all the strategy elements to prepare an organization for moving from where it currently stands to where it wants to be at a future date. Having a strategy and executing it are two points that are very distant from one another. The strategic roadmap template helps fill that gap.

The trouble with this goal-setting template is that it’s not very collaborative. Project management software is more conducive to sharing strategic plans. ProjectManager is award-winning project and portfolio management software that has robust roadmaps that can be shared with teams. More than that, we have resource management, time tracking and task management features that help teams reach those goals. Our robust roadmaps view all projects related to the strategic goal in one place where projects can be filtered to view which are open. The roadmap highlights key metrics for stakeholders, links dependencies, filters for the critical path and sets a baseline to track variance to stay on schedule. Get started with ProjectManager today for free.

3. SWOT Analysis Template

You can’t set goals blindly. Before setting goals, it’s important to understand where an organization stands. Knowing the competitive landscape and how the company fits into it is essential to developing a strategic plan. That’s where a free SWOT analysis template for Word comes in. It’s another acronym, this one standing for strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. Filling out the goal-setting template helps to gather the data necessary to make the next, right move.

This goal-setting template is divided into four quadrants, one for strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. The left-hand vertical axis is divided into two parts, one for external and the other for internal. Across the top axis is a column for positive and another for negative. Then it’s just a matter of placing the information about the company and its competitors into the proper quadrants. This will guide the development of a more impactful strategic plan.

4. Gap Analysis Template

A gap analysis is a tool to gather information that will help build an action plan. The free gap analysis template for Excel is designed to show how an organization can move from its current state to the desired future state. Use this goal-setting template to understand how to hit a strategic or business goal by determining the actions that must take place. Use it for project management, business process improvement and product management.

To use this goal-setting template, first list the focus areas, such as business processes to improve or an HR skill gap. Next, determine the current and future state of that focus area. Then, estimate the gap percentage and list the action items to close that gap (including priority, start and end dates as well as required resources). These action items will be assigned to someone and a status column helps track their progress.

5. To-Do List Template

Once goals are set, then comes the real work. Using this free to-do list for Excel is a task management tool that organizes and prioritizes work to make executing that work more efficient and effective. This goal-setting template collects all the tasks a team member is responsible for and keeps them in one place, which makes it easier to manage. It’s also a goal-tracking template in that it provides a sense of progress as each task on the list is completed.

It’s easy to get started with this goal-setting template. Just list all the tasks assigned to a team member and estimate the duration of each task, which includes the start date and due date. As tasks are being worked on, set the percentage complete with the drop-down menu, which goes in 25 percent increments from zero to 100. Then note the progress and add any notes that don’t fall into the previous columns.

6. Milestones Template

One of the easiest ways to track progress toward your goals is by using milestones. A milestones template maps out the key checkpoints in a project’s lifecycle; major events such as the end of a phase, delivery of a major deliverable or critical approvals. This structure makes it easy to track when important dates are approaching or overdue, coordinate handoffs or phase completions, and communicate critical deadlines with your team or stakeholders.

These milestones mark progress in a clear, visible way, helping teams and stakeholders stay aligned on what’s important and when. By focusing on major achievements instead of every small task, a milestone plan simplifies scheduling, highlights priorities and helps avoid surprises.

7. Progress Report Template

Setting goals without tracking their progress is a loser’s game. One way to make sure that the actual progress is aligned with the planned progress is with this free progress report template for Word. A progress report documents how far a project has progressed against where the project plan says it should be at this point. This goal-tracking template captures a snapshot of the project’s progress within a specific time frame to show if things are moving forward as planned.

This goal-tracking template begins with a summary to show the big picture before diving into the details that follow. Those details include all the tasks that were executed over the period covered in the progress report, any issues that came up and the money spent over that time. There’s also room to list any accomplishments and expected accomplishments that will show up in the next progress report.

8. 5-Year Plan Template

It’s never too early to start setting long-term goals. This 5-year plan template is designed to define your long-term objective and break it down year by year, noting annual end-goals, strategies or processes to get there, required resources and measurable success metrics.

It gives long-term direction, helps prioritize resources and provides a framework for decision‑making over time. With a clear 5‑year plan, everyone understands the vision and can align their efforts to support sustainable growth, avoid chaos, and measure progress against shared objectives.

9. Status Report Template

Another goal-setting template is the free status report template for Excel. A status report is different from a progress report. The former is a broad overview of a project’s current state, while the latter focuses on the project’s progress over time. Regardless, both are important goal-tracking tools.

This goal-setting template opens with a summary of the project, such as its name, date, project manager as well as the reporting period. There follows a summary of key accomplishments, completed work, planned work, milestones, deliverables and action items. Then there’s a rundown of the project’s health, such as the budget, schedule, quality and scope. There is also a risk management overview and recommendations for going forward.

10. Project Deliverables Template

A project deliverables list defines the concrete outputs a project is expected to produce, including the reports, features, products, or services that must be delivered when the project ends. With this project deliverables template, you capture each deliverable’s name, description, who’s responsible, and its due date, all in one organized sheet. You can monitor status (e.g., not started, in progress, complete), add notes or comments and adjust deadlines or ownership as needed.

By specifying deliverables early, it ensures everyone understands what “done” means, aligns expectations among stakeholders and reduces the risk of scope creep or missing outcomes. This clarity helps guide planning, coordinate work, and validate project success.

11. Requirements Gathering Template

Knowing the requirements necessary to execute a plan is a key part of achieving one’s goals. Using this free requirements gathering template for Word collects what’s required and communicates that information between the user and developer. The user will show what they require and the developer ensures that it’s all accounted for in the requirements-gathering process.

The free goal-setting template has a cover page that not only names the project but also has a box that tracks the versions and why changes were made to the requirements gathering template. Next, there’s a section for the project plan, its purpose, scope and timeframe, with milestones, goals and dependencies. Constraints and restrictions are outlined. Then the requirements are broken down into seven subsections to capture everything from user requirements to risk management.

12. Project Overview Template

A project overview is a high-level description of the project and one of the documents used to get a new project started. Use this free project overview template for Word to convince senior management of the project’s viability and to get the project team on the same page in terms of the goals and objectives of the project.

This goal-setting template captures everything from the business case, which summarizes the project and its value, to the project deliverables. There’s also a section to capture opportunities and problems, goals and objectives and what’s in and out of scope for the project.

13. Annual Work Plan Template

An annual work plan is a strategic document that lays out what a team or organization aims to accomplish over the course of a year. Use our free annual work plan template to turn broad goals into concrete objectives, define the initiatives needed and assign responsibilities, timelines and resources.

The template offers a central place to organize objectives, giving your team a shared roadmap and helping everyone stay focused on what matters most during the year.

14. Project Summary Template

A project summary is part of a project proposal, which is used to convince stakeholders or clients that the potential project is worth funding. To achieve this goal use our free project summary template for Word. This project goal-setting template can also be a standalone document or part of a project proposal. Either way, it’s a comprehensive overview of the project, briefly stated, but including key details.

This goal-setting template captures important information, such as the project schedule, including durations, milestones and deliverables. There’s space for the project budget, which includes financial projections to show costs and return on investment (ROI). The resource plan is outlined and there’s a risk management overview to show how roadblocks and other challenges will be dealt with.

15. Eisenhower Matrix Template

The Eisenhower matrix is a simple yet powerful prioritization method that helps you decide which tasks to tackle first by evaluating two criteria: urgency and importance. Use our free Eisenhower matrix template to divide tasks into four categories: “urgent & important,” “important but not urgent,” “urgent but not important” and “neither urgent nor important.”

You can quickly see which tasks deserve your immediate attention, which should be scheduled later, which can be delegated and which can be dropped. By doing so, the template helps you convert a chaotic to‑do list into a prioritized, actionable plan

ProjectManager Helps With Goal-Setting and Tracking

Using these goal-setting templates is helpful, but only to a point. That’s because all templates, whether for Excel or Word, are static documents. That means that each must be manually updated, taking teams away from their tasks and giving managers data that is already outdated once added to the template. To leverage an advantage that templates can’t provide, use project management software. ProjectManager is award-winning project and portfolio management software that delivers real-time data and has workflow automation with approval settings to ensure quality deliverables while streamlining processes.

Monitor Goals With Real-Time Dashboards

There are goal-setting templates that can monitor progress and help make sure the actual effort is aligned with the planned effort. But those templates are always a day late and a dollar short. Get a high-level overview of the project’s key performance indicators (KPIs) with our real-time dashboards for individual projects, a program or a portfolio of projects. Easy-to-read graphs and charts capture time, cost, workload and more, automatically updating as teams log their statuses. Best of all, there’s no lengthy and complicated setup needed as with lightweight alternatives.

Get More Details With Customizable Reports

When more detail is required, toggle over to the reporting feature. Reports can be generated in minutes and show project or portfolio status, variance, timesheets, workload and more. Filter the reports to go deep into detail for managers and their teams or create a more general overview that can then be shared with stakeholders to keep them up to date.

Related Template Content

Looking for more free templates. Other template roundups collect free templates around a theme, whether that’s change management, construction or project management. Below are links to those posts.

• 14 Free Change Management Templates for Excel and Word
• 18 Free Excel Construction Templates
• 25 Must-Have Project Management Excel Templates and Spreadsheets

ProjectManager is online project and portfolio management software that connects teams whether they’re in the office, out in the field or anywhere else. They can share files, comment at the task level and stay updated with email and in-app notifications. Get started with ProjectManager today for free.

The post 15 Free Goal-Setting and Tracking Templates for Excel and Word appeared first on ProjectManager.

Using Excel to Track Tasks

Managers have more control over their projects and operations with Excel tracking templates. Because of their quantitative nature, Microsoft Excel spreadsheet templates are a great tool to track data-rich metrics. Whether it’s a KPI dashboard for an overview of progress or a timeline template to visually organize tasks in one place, Excel task trackers can help you deliver on time and on budget.  Without such tools, you risk joining the 78% of projects that reportedly go over budget.

Related: Project Management Excel Templates and Spreadsheets

Best Free Excel Tracker Templates & Spreadsheets

We’ve collected ProjectManager’s 25 best Excel spreadsheet templates for tracking that you can download and use for free. Want more than task trackers for Excel? Visit our project management templates page where we’ve created over 100 free templates for Excel and Word.

1. Dashboard Template

A dashboard is how you keep track of your work, including the time spent on tasks, what you’re spending and if you’re making progress as planned. ProjectManager’s free dashboard template for Excel gives you an overview of how you’re doing on your work. This information is vital to know if you’re overspending or running behind on your schedule.

ProjectManager’s free dashboard template has several widgets that monitor metrics in your work. For example, there’s a color-coded task graph that shows if your tasks are complete, in progress, not started or overdue. There’s also a workload chart for managing teams and making sure their workload is balanced.

There’s another task graph that measures the duration of the tasks, which is helpful in seeing what’s getting done on time and what’s taking too long. Finally, there’s a cost bar chart to help you stay on budget.

This Excel dashboard template can manage your work, but it’s a static document that must be updated manually. Project management software automates that process. ProjectManager is better than Excel spreadsheet templates as it helps to accumulate real-time data, crunch the numbers and display it. Plus it’s packed with planning and collaboration features like Gantt charts, task lists, reports and more. Get started with ProjectManager for free today.

Not all project management software offers the same project dashboards. ProjectManager’s project dashboard comes equipped with the right project management features to help you keep track of time, tasks, costs and more.

2. Task Tracking Spreadsheet

ProjectManager’s free task tracker for Excel template can organize and keep track of your work. It’s similar to a to-do list, where you just need to add the work and manage it. Having a task list is the first step to controlling your work.

This task tracker spreadsheet captures the details of your work plan. Add the name of the task and include dependent tasks. You can assign it to yourself or someone on your team.

Next, set the priority and when you expect to finish. Finally, there’s a column to mark its status, which is essential to track your work. It has everything you need to track your tasks at a basic level with an Excel spreadsheet.

3. Budget Spreadsheet for Cost Tracking

Managing costs in your work is as important as meeting deadlines. ProjectManager’s free budget template for Excel helps you keep to your budget by tracking your financial details on one spreadsheet.

Tasks cost money, and the budget defines the costs of the resources you’ll employ to deliver those tasks to completion. First, the spreadsheet template has a numbered list that corresponds to your work breakdown structure (WBS). Then, there are labor costs including planned vs. actual hours plus the cost per hour. Materials are broken down by units and cost per unit.

There’s also room for other line items on your budget, which include travel, equipment, fixed and miscellaneous costs. Finally, there are columns to collect the budgeted and actual cost for each line item, then a balance showing if the line item is above or under budget.

Related: How to Track Project Expenses

4. Timeline Template for Task Tracking

ProjectManager’s free timeline template in Excel is perfect for scheduling your project from start to finish in Excel. It’s a way to view all your tasks and keep on schedule. You can even add milestones!

To get started with this free timeline template, you first need to list your tasks and give them a name. Each task must have a start date and an end date, plus the time you think it’ll take to complete.

You add all that data to the left side of the template, which is a normal tracking spreadsheet. Then, on the right, you’ll see the timeline that lays out your tasks as horizontal bars across a timeline. It’s easy to see how long it’ll take to complete each task.

Excel spreadsheet templates are good for beginners, but if you want to take your planning even further, upgrade to online software that lets you build timelines in minutes. ProjectManager has online project timelines that update instantly as the team collaborates on tasks. Track costs, workload, planned vs actual progress and more. Get started for free.

5. Task Tracking Dashboard Template

When tasks move across teams, having a unified dashboard helps everyone stay aligned and focused on priorities. Instead of juggling multiple task lists or updates spread across apps, a dashboard brings key progress metrics into one view. Managers can instantly see what’s on schedule, what’s falling behind and who may need additional support. With real-time tracking, teams respond faster to changes, reduce bottlenecks and keep momentum strong from planning through completion.

Our task tracker dashboard template for Excel displays assignments, due dates, priorities and status indicators in a structured, easy-to-scan layout. Color-coded breakdowns show how much work is done, in progress or overdue, helping users quickly assess workload distribution. Notes fields allow for context on delays or follow-ups, while tracking actual versus planned dates improves schedule accuracy over time. On top of that, it’s also equipped with charts that make it even easier to track tasks at scale and ensure nothing slips through the cracks.

6. Budget Tracking Dashboard Template

Tracking a budget is easier when the numbers instantly make sense. A budget tracking dashboard gives teams visual control over spending by highlighting where money is going and how it compares to the original plan. Instead of combing through long spreadsheets, users can quickly spot overruns, evaluate cost efficiency and make informed adjustments before issues escalate. This centralized view supports better financial decision-making, stronger accountability and more predictable outcomes for any type of project or operation.

This budget dashboard template for Excel organizes expenses into clear categories such as materials, labor, equipment and overhead, while comparing planned versus actual totals to show whether spending is staying on target. Donut charts visually break down budget available, budget spent and remaining balance so users can track financial health at a glance. With automatic totals and clear variance indicators, the dashboard simplifies reporting and helps teams maintain full visibility into budget performance from start to finish.

7. Daily Task Tracking Spreadsheet

Managing tasks day by day keeps priorities clear and prevents work from slipping through the cracks. A daily tracker helps individuals and teams stay focused on what matters right now, while also maintaining visibility of progress over time. It encourages accountability, supports better workload planning and highlights both achievements and emerging roadblocks early. With structured daily tracking, projects move forward more smoothly because decisions are based on current, accurate information rather than assumptions.

Our daily task tracker template for Excel breaks each day into hourly slots so responsibilities, deliverables and progress updates can be captured in real time. Clear status indicators show what’s completed, scheduled or still pending, helping users adjust their workflow quickly.

8. KPI Tracking Dashboard

An Excel tracker template will ideally provide an overview of key metrics across an organzation. This free KPI dashboard template for Excel is designed to display a high-level view of progress to track the key performance indicators. This allows managers to make sure campaigns and operations are performing as planned.

This Excel task tracker displays project data imputed by the team. This data is then automatically translated from data to easy-to-read graphs and charts that make it simple to see the status of the KPIs at a glance.

This task tracker for Excel keeps tabs on everything from timelines to the budget and even provides a cost summary. There are graphs and charts that analyze workload to keep teams productive, task status and much more.

9. Action Plan Spreadsheet

Managing work means outlining the steps you must complete to achieve your goals. Use ProjectManager’s free action plan spreadsheet for Excel to track tasks and detail the strategy you’ll use to complete your work on time and within budget.

We’ve broken up this action plan template into three sections. The first is the action steps, which note the priority and list tasks, phases and assignments. There’s also space to note the status of your tasks and track their progress.

Section two of this Excel spreadsheet template is a timeline, with start and due dates, including planned hours. Finally, section three focuses on resources; for example, which department is responsible for which task, what materials are needed and what are the resource costs?

10. Status Report Spreadsheet

Knowing where you are at any particular point in the project life cycle is how you manage time and costs. Our free status report template is a great tool to track your progress and stay on schedule.

This free status report template is made up of five sections: project information, project status summary, project health, risk management overview and a conclusion that includes recommendations for the future.

A status report is a cornerstone of tracking your work. It’s used in project management and work management alike because it gives managers a picture of their planned vs actual progress. It’s also a powerful tool when presenting to stakeholders.

11. Risk Tracking Spreadsheet

No matter how well-planned your work is, there are unknowns that can impact your progress. Use ProjectManager’s free risk register spreadsheet to help you plan for risks in your work.

This free risk register for Excel has columns to ID the risk to make it easier to track. There’s a column to describe the risk and explain how it’ll impact the work you’re doing if it goes from a risk to an actual issue.

For each risk you identify on the template, you can add a risk response, which is the response you’ll take if the risk actualizes. You can also note the risk level. Then, if you’re working in a team, you can assign the risk so that the team member is responsible for identifying and rectifying it.

12. Change Tracking Spreadsheet

Download ProjectManager’s free change tracking spreadsheet for Microsoft Excel to manage change when it impacts your work management. It’ll help you control change so it doesn’t make you spend too much overtime or incur additional costs.

A change log Excel spreadsheet is one of the most important Microsoft Excel templates we offer. It’s a spreadsheet template that captures change when it happens. You can number changes for better tracking and note when the change first came up and who discovered or requested it.

You can then prioritize the change, and you or a team member can take ownership to see it through to completion. The Excel spreadsheet tracks the change from discovery to recovery and ensures that no change order is lost in the cracks.

13. Time Tracking Spreadsheet

There’s no better template to track the time you spend on your tasks than with ProjectManager’s free time tracking spreadsheet. This timesheet is great for you or team members to record the amount of time spent on work.

This timesheet Excel spreadsheet template has space for your name or the name of the employee, their department, supervisor and hourly rate. The template collects their hours, such as their start time and end time for their workday. There’s even a place to add overtime and lunch.

Then, the total for the week is added and multiplied by the pay rate to show the total amount the employee is owed. Finally, there’s a line for the employee to sign and the supervisor to look it over and sign it, if accurate.

14. Bug Tracker Template

The QA process is ideal for an Excel tracking template. When a problem is identified in a software product, a bug report is generated and sent to developers. They follow the instructions therein to fix the problem. This process is tracked by the free bug report template for Excel. It tracks one bug at a time to avoid confusion and make sure that the issue is resolved before the product is delivered to the public.

This Excel task tracker does so by collecting all the pertinent information a developer will need to replicate and remove the bug. There’s space to add a summary, screenshot and define the environment in which the bug occurred. There’s also bug tracking to define the severity and priority of the problem.

15. Project Update Spreadsheet

Regular project update meetings keep everyone aligned on progress, risks and upcoming priorities. They provide a space to celebrate recent wins, surface challenges early and ensure stakeholders are able to keep track of how timelines and scope are evolving. These touchpoints improve accountability because every owner knows what is expected next. By sharing updates consistently, teams reduce confusion, strengthen decision-making and maintain momentum all the way to project completion.

This project update template for Excel captures status insights in a clean, structured way. It includes sections for key accomplishments, completed work, upcoming tasks and milestone tracking so updates remain clear and focused. RAG indicators help quickly show what’s on track and where attention is needed. Budget, schedule, scope and quality summaries provide executive-level visibility at a glance. With space for risks, change requests and comments, this template ensures every update is thorough, actionable and easy to reference later.

16. Multiple Project Tracking Spreadsheet

When you’re managing a portfolio or program, you have to monitor all your projects in one place to make insightful decisions as to how to allocate resources. Using our free multiple-project tracking template for Excel gives you a high-level overview of every project for which you’re responsible.

Once you download the free Excel template, you’ll find it’s formatted with three projects, one stacked on top of the other. You can copy and paste to add as many projects as needed. You can also add columns if you need to track something not already on the template.

Each project spreadsheet allows you to list all the project tasks by name and description, as well as if they’re dependent on another task. There’s space to add who’s assigned to each task. Each task has a start and planned end date, and planned cost, with an actual end date and actual cost to help you track the project.

17. Issue Tracking Spreadsheet

Issues are problems that arise while executing your project. These issues must be quickly identified and resolved to keep the project on schedule and within its budget. With our free issue-tracking template for Excel, you have the tools to monitor the progress of resolving those issues.

The free template is ideal to capture risks, which become issues if they in fact show up in your project. When they do, you already have them described in the template and what their potential impact is. Next, you can define its priority, from low to critical, which helps you determine which risks need your immediate attention.

There’s also a place to note the date the issue first was discovered and when it was closed, as well as the team member who’s responsible for resolving it. Finally, the free template states the department that’s handling the issue and there’s a column to note its status when tracking the issue.

18. Operating Budget Tracking Spreadsheet

Tracking costs is critical to keeping a business operating. An operating budget is used to forecast revenue and expenses over a period of time. Download the free operating budget template for Excel to create an accurate operating budget.

Managers can use this Excel tracker template at the end of each month to see if the actual results match the figures forecast in the operating budget. It can also help to go back over the month or quarter and see if sales were correctly predicted. Managers can analyze financial results and adapt to changing business conditions.

The free template tracks income and expenses, identifies cost drivers and helps to show where there is room for cost efficiency and greater profitability.

19. To-Do List Template

Everyone has work to do, and getting that work done efficiently requires task management. At its most basic, that means having a list of your tasks. It’s the first step to getting organized. That’s where our free to-do list for Excel comes in handy.

A to-do list is a simple but highly effective tool. Simply list the tasks you’ve been assigned or you can even use it for household chores. Next, you’ll want to give each task a start and due date. This is the duration or timeframe in which you want the work completed.

Now, you’ll want to track your progress. The free to-do list template shows the percentage complete for each task. It’s a satisfying feeling to see the cell move from 25 percent to 100 percent. Then there’s a column to note the progress. Before you know it, your work is done.

20. Action Log Spreadsheet

An action log is a simple but powerful tool for keeping track of follow-up items that emerge during meetings and project reviews. It records what needs to be done, who is responsible, and when each action must be completed. By prioritizing tasks and monitoring progress, teams avoid delays, miscommunication and forgotten commitments. This level of visibility promotes accountability across departments and ensures that essential work keeps moving forward toward project goals.

This action log template for Excel organizes every action into a clear structure, including ownership, priority level, expected duration and planned start and finish dates. Status updates show whether an item is not started, in progress or completed, making it easy to track progress during check-ins. With all key details in one place, project managers can identify overdue actions early, shift resources when needed and maintain momentum between meetings—even on fast-moving initiatives.

21. Inventory Tracking Template

If you’re a manufacturer or have a company with which you carry stock that you need to run your business, then you need our free inventory template for Excel. Use it to prevent production delays by keeping track of what you’re warehousing.

Use this free template to record the level of your inventory and track its turnover. First, each line is numbered to make it easier to find the item you want. Then the item is listed and described, with the unit price noted and the quantity you have in stock.

Now you can calculate the inventory price, which is the unit price multiplied by the number in stock. This Excel spreadsheet template does this automatically. There’s a column to note whether you need to reorder, what level to reorder, how long it takes to restock and what that reorder quantity should be.

22. Progress Report Template

Project reports are essential for a number of reasons. One, they help you monitor your progress and performance, and two, they’re a great tool for keeping stakeholders updated. Our free progress report template for Word captures an overview of the activities and tasks that occurred over a specific period.

The free progress report is broken up into a number of different sections. There’s a summary, which provides a quick overview of what’s to follow, including pertinent data, such as the project scope, schedule, cost and risk for the time period being reported on.

Then there’s a section in this Excel spreadsheet template that goes over the tasks that have been executed over a period of time covered in the report. There’s space to note the status of tasks that aren’t yet completed and a section to list issues, talk about the budget and more. It’s a great way to capture a snapshot of the project in time.

23. Punch List Template

Construction project management can’t deliver a project until everything is completed properly. To ensure that the work is done as planned, the crew does a walkthrough and adds any incomplete or incorrect work to a punch list.

To keep track of that last-minute work, download this free punch list template for Excel. Property owners are often contractually allowed to withhold the final payment until the punch list is completed. Using this task tracker for Excel ensures the general contractor gets paid and the client is happy with their work.

The punch list template will avoid miscommunication between contractors, subcontractors, architects, builders, et al. This document is collaborative and that means better productivity. All the information necessary for the work is collected on the template, from a description and who’s assigned to task dates and status.

24. Work Schedule Template

Need help managing your human resources or operations planning? Check out our free work schedule template for Excel. This free template lists all your employees and their working hours, including responsibilities, over a day, week or month.

Use the work schedule template to keep your employees productive and help with tracking your resource utilization and scheduling. You can also use it to prioritize tasks and balance your team’s workload, which leads to greater productivity and happier employees.

Our free spreadsheet template has a weekly and monthly work schedule. Both list your employees, their tasks, which project they’re working on and then their hours, either day-by-day or over the course of a month. This will help most organizations and even long-term projects.

25. Workload Analysis Template

Beyond tasks, costs and time, one of the essential metrics to track is workload. Workload tracks resource allocation. Using an Excel tracker template to calculate workload is going to help teams work more efficiently and avoid burnout. Download this free workload analysis template for Excel to manage the project workforce. It identifies the amount of work that must be done and determines how to balance that workload evenly across the project team.

Using this Excel task tracker ensures that the team is working at capacity and no one is overallocated or underutilized. This delivers the best possible performance and highest-quality deliverables.

Use ProjectManager to Track Time, Costs and Tasks Better Than Excel

Templates and Excel spreadsheets for tracking are great, but as noted, they can only do so much. ProjectManager is online work management software that connects everyone, no matter where they work, what time, department or skill level. It does so in real-time to ensure that everyone is collaborating and working on the most recent data.

Automatically Fill Out Timesheets

Take timesheets, for example. Instead of having your employee fill out the timesheet, ProjectManager’s timesheets autofill their tasks and update the time they’ve spent. This streamlines payroll but also offers a window into tracking the time they spend on their tasks. That way, you know if they’re meeting their quota. Once submitted, timesheets are locked and secure.

Work the Way That Suits You

Multiple project views allow everyone on the team to work how they want. Managers can plan ahead on Gantt charts that show all their tasks on a timeline. The duration bar that connects each task’s start and end dates automatically shows progress based on how much of it is shaded. Teams can use task lists, kanban boards or calendars if they prefer, all of which are updated and show progress. No tool is more flexible for planning and tracking work.

Generate One-Click Reports in Seconds

Tracking time, costs and more is easy with ProjectManager’s one-click reports. Get status reports, reports on tasks, timesheets, expenses and more. These reports take complicated data and turn it into insightful and easy-to-read reports to monitor progress and more. Reports can also be filtered to see only the data you want and then shared to keep stakeholders updated.

Related Excel Project Management Content

While Excel is not a project management software, it can still be a very helpful for managing various aspects of your projects. That’s why we’ve created dozens of blogs, templates and guides to help you use Excel for project management.

• Essential Excel Report Templates
• Free Manufacturing Excel Templates
• Free Excel Construction Templates
• Free Word & Excel Templates for Business
• How to Create a Project Timeline in Excel (Free Template Included)
• How to Make a Gantt Chart In Excel Step-By-Step (Template Included)
• Project Management Templates for Google Sheets
• 14 Plantillas de Seguimiento de Tareas, Costos y Tiempo para Excel

ProjectManager is award-winning project management software for teams. Our real-time tool tracks time, costs and more to ensure you’re always on schedule and never spending over your budget. Join the 35,000+ people using our software to track tasks, cost and time. Get started with ProjectManager free today.

The post 25 Excel Spreadsheet Templates for Tracking Tasks, Costs and Time appeared first on ProjectManager.

Teams can plan workflows, assign responsibilities and visualize progress across multiple projects using interactive dashboards and automated reporting tools. This software gives organizations complete control and transparency, helping them deliver work on time and within budget while reducing the risk of miscommunication.

What Is the Best Way to Track a Project?

The best way to track a project is by using project management software that provides real-time visibility into tasks, deadlines and resource allocation. This type of tool allows managers to monitor progress against baselines, identify delays early and keep all stakeholders informed. With live updates and performance metrics, teams can maintain alignment and ensure that each phase of the project stays on schedule and within scope.

Project management software centralizes all project data in one platform, replacing scattered spreadsheets and manual reporting. It enables automatic tracking of tasks, budgets and workloads while offering multiple project views like Gantt, kanban, list and calendar. This not only saves time but also improves accuracy and collaboration by keeping everyone on the same page from start to finish.

ProjectManager is the best option for tracking projects because it combines robust planning tools with real-time dashboards and AI-powered reports. Managers can instantly see progress across teams, update timelines, balance workloads and track costs. Unlike Excel or basic apps, ProjectManager integrates planning, collaboration and reporting in a single platform that scales with your business, making it the most effective and efficient choice for professional project tracking. Get started with ProjectManager today for free.

Best Ways to Track Projects by Project Management Software Tool

There are many tools available for managing and monitoring work, but project management software provides the best way to track projects in real time. These tools give teams structure and visibility so they can meet deadlines, control costs and communicate effectively. Whether you’re leading small initiatives or large cross-functional programs, using the right view makes all the difference in keeping projects organized and on schedule.

Below are some of the best ways to track projects using different project management software tools. Each view serves a specific purpose and helps teams visualize progress, allocate resources efficiently and make better decisions. From detailed planning to high-level reporting, these methods help ensure that every project stays on track from start to finish.

1. Gantt Charts: The Best Way to Track Projects With Task Dependencies and Complex Timelines

Gantt charts are one of the best ways to track projects that involve multiple phases, interdependent tasks and strict deadlines. They provide a visual timeline showing how tasks relate to one another and how delays in one area affect the rest of the schedule.

Project managers can use Gantt charts to set baselines, assign tasks, link dependencies and monitor overall progress in real time. They also make it easy to adjust timelines when priorities change. With ProjectManager, Gantt charts automatically update as team members complete work, ensuring project data remains accurate and updated. This helps leaders forecast delays, identify bottlenecks and communicate changes effectively to stakeholders across departments.

2. Task Lists: The Best Way to Track Projects That Are Simple or Small

Task lists are the best way to track projects that have straightforward workflows or smaller teams. They provide a clear breakdown of what needs to be done, who’s responsible and when tasks are due. Task lists help teams focus on immediate priorities without the complexity of advanced planning tools.

Managers can assign owners, set deadlines and check progress quickly, keeping everyone accountable. ProjectManager enhances task list tracking by syncing updates in real time and connecting each item to larger goals. Teams can easily filter tasks by priority, progress or due date, and switch to other views when projects grow more complex. This makes task lists a simple but scalable method for maintaining project clarity and control.

3. Project Dashboards: The Best Way to Track Projects Across an Organization

Project dashboards are one of the best ways to track projects across multiple teams or departments. They provide instant visibility into project performance through key metrics like schedule progress, costs, workloads and task completion rates. Dashboards consolidate this data into visual charts and graphs, helping leaders spot risks or inefficiencies before they escalate.

With ProjectManager, dashboards update automatically as work is completed, ensuring accurate and current insights. Managers can customize views by department, portfolio or objective, creating tailored reports for executives or clients. This allows for data-driven decision-making, stronger communication and better alignment across the organization, making dashboards essential for enterprises managing several projects simultaneously.

Related: 5 Google Sheets Dashboard Templates for Business and Project Management

4. Project Reports: The Best Way to Track Projects as a Stakeholder

Project reports are the best way to track projects from a stakeholder’s perspective because they summarize key data on progress, performance and outcomes. Reports consolidate essential metrics like schedule variance, cost performance and resource utilization into clear visual summaries. This allows executives and clients to quickly understand whether goals are being met without reviewing detailed schedules.

ProjectManager simplifies this process with automated reporting tools that can generate status, variance or workload reports in seconds. Stakeholders can view or export these reports in multiple formats for presentations or governance meetings. With real-time data feeding directly from the project workspace, project reports ensure transparency, accountability and informed decision-making across every level of the organization.

5. Project Sheets: The Best Way to Track Projects’ Estimations vs. Actual Results

Project sheets are the best way to track projects when comparing estimated values against actual results. They combine spreadsheet functionality with real-time data to monitor costs, timelines and resource usage side by side. Teams can input budget forecasts, expected durations and planned hours, then track live performance as the project progresses. This provides an instant understanding of where projects are on or off track.

In ProjectManager, project sheets update automatically as team members log time, complete tasks or adjust resources. Managers can apply filters, conditional formatting and roll-up summaries to evaluate overall accuracy and efficiency. This makes project sheets a powerful, data-driven tool for cost control and performance tracking throughout the project lifecycle.

6. Kanban Boards: The Best Way to Track Projects With Repetitive Workflows and Recurrent Tasks

Kanban boards are the best way to track projects that involve ongoing, repetitive workflows such as agile sprints, maintenance tasks or marketing campaigns. They visualize work in columns labeled “To Do,” “In Progress” and “Done,” giving teams an instant view of project status.

ProjectManager enhances kanban tracking with features like task automation, customizable workflows and drag-and-drop updates. Each card can store attachments, due dates and assignees, while color-coded tags make priorities easy to identify. Real-time sync ensures every team member sees the latest updates. Kanban boards encourage continuous improvement, limit bottlenecks and help maintain a steady workflow pace, making them ideal for teams managing recurring deliverables or multi-step production processes.

Related: 32 Must-Have Project Management Templates for Google Sheets

7. Timesheets: The Best Way to Track Projects With High Labor Costs

Timesheets are the best way to track projects that rely heavily on labor hours and workforce productivity. They help managers capture billable and non-billable time, monitor workloads and calculate actual costs against budgets. Accurate time tracking is essential for payroll, resource forecasting and project profitability.

With ProjectManager, timesheets integrate directly into task assignments, allowing team members to submit hours online or from mobile devices. Managers can approve entries, generate utilization reports and identify where labor costs may exceed estimates. Real-time updates ensure financial data remains current, reducing errors and improving accountability. This seamless integration between tasks and timesheets gives organizations better control over time, cost and overall project performance.

Related: 9 Free Timesheet Templates for Excel, Google Sheets & Word

8. Workload Charts: The Best Way to Track Projects That Require Labor-Intensive Work

Workload charts are the best way to track projects that demand careful management of labor-intensive tasks. They provide a visual representation of team members’ assigned tasks, hours committed and capacity limits, allowing managers to prevent overload and balance workloads effectively.

In ProjectManager, workload charts update automatically as tasks are assigned or completed, showing over-allocated resources in red for immediate action. Teams can filter by project, department or employee to identify bottlenecks. These charts help managers optimize assignments, maximize productivity and maintain a consistent workflow while ensuring labor-intensive projects stay on schedule without overtaxing personnel.

9. Project Status Reports: The Best Way to Track Projects With a Long Duration

Project status reports are the best way to track long-duration projects, as they summarize progress over weeks or months. They highlight milestones, completed tasks, upcoming deadlines and potential risks, providing stakeholders and managers a clear overview without sifting through detailed schedules.

ProjectManager automates status report generation, pulling real-time data from tasks, timesheets and resource charts. Users can customize reports to focus on budget, scope or schedule performance and export them for governance meetings. Regular status reporting ensures transparency, allows for early corrective actions and maintains alignment across teams and stakeholders throughout extended project timelines.

10. Critical Path Method: The Best Way to Track Projects With Tight Deadlines

The critical path method (CPM) is the best way to track projects that have tight deadlines because it identifies tasks that directly impact the overall project completion date. By mapping dependencies, durations and milestones, CPM highlights which activities must be completed on time to avoid delays.

ProjectManager incorporates CPM into Gantt charts, automatically calculating the earliest start and finish dates and showing the critical path visually. Managers can adjust schedules, reassign resources and monitor task progress to prevent slippage. This ensures that even complex projects with strict timelines remain on track, allowing teams to focus on priority tasks and complete projects efficiently and reliably.

11. Earned Value Management: The Best Way to Track Projects With Tight Budgets

Earned value management (EVM) is the best way to track projects with tight budgets because it integrates scope, schedule and cost to provide a clear measure of project performance. EVM compares planned work and costs against actual progress and expenditures, helping managers identify variances early.

ProjectManager automates EVM calculations, showing cost performance index (CPI) and schedule performance index (SPI) in real time. Users can see whether tasks are under or over budget, adjust resources, and make informed decisions to prevent overspending. This method ensures that even financially constrained projects stay within budget while maintaining progress and quality standards.

12. Project Baselines: The Best Way to Track Projects When Conditions Are Known

Project baselines are the best way to track projects when conditions are known because they establish a reference for scope, schedule and cost at the start of a project. Comparing actual progress against the baseline allows managers to identify deviations and implement corrective actions quickly.

ProjectManager enables teams to set and update baselines within Gantt charts, highlighting changes in real time. By tracking performance against established baselines, managers can maintain control over deliverables, monitor schedule adherence and assess the impact of changes. Baselines provide a trusted benchmark, ensuring that projects are measured accurately, risks are mitigated and objectives are achieved efficiently.

ProjectManager Is the Best Way to Track Projects of All Kinds

ProjectManager is the best way to track projects of all kinds because it combines multiple project views, real-time dashboards, automated reporting and resource management tools in a single platform. Teams can use Gantt charts, kanban boards, project sheets and timesheets to monitor progress, manage workloads and control costs. AI-powered reporting and baseline comparisons provide instant insights while collaboration features keep everyone aligned.

Unlike static spreadsheets or limited software, our software adapts to any project size or complexity, making it ideal for tracking deadlines, budgets and performance across teams, departments and entire organizations efficiently and accurately.

Related Project Progress Tracking Content

These are the best ways to track projects, but not the only ways. For readers to want to continue and explore this important topic, check out the links below. They lead to articles on time tracking, cost tracking and others.

• Project Time Tracking: Tools, Features and Software Reviews
• Project Cost Tracking: Process, Tools and Best Practices
• Tracking Budget Variance in Project Management
• Project Expense Tracking: 6 Ways to Track Project Costs

ProjectManager is online project and portfolio management software that connects teams, whether they’re in the office or out in the field. They can share files, comment at the task level and stay updated with email and in-app notifications. Get started with ProjectManager today for free.

The post 12 Best Ways to Track Projects With Project Management Software appeared first on ProjectManager.

Using Excel as a Project Progress Tracker

Excel spreadsheets have long been a popular method for maintaining a project progress tracker. They allow users to list tasks, assign responsibilities, set deadlines and update progress manually. Conditional formatting, formulas and charts provide visual cues for project status. Excel is flexible and accessible, but requires manual updating, which can increase the risk of errors. While simple for small projects, it becomes cumbersome for larger initiatives, making dedicated project progress tracker tools more efficient.

Best Free Project Progress Tracker Templates & Spreadsheets

There are many free project progress tracker templates and spreadsheets available for managers seeking a quick start. Templates often include built-in formulas, Gantt chart visuals and pre-formatted tables for task tracking. They allow users to monitor task completion, resource allocation and deadlines at a glance. These free spreadsheets are ideal for small teams or individual projects but may lack automation, real-time updates and collaboration features that larger organizations require for effective project tracking.

1. Project Progress Tracker Template

This project progress tracker template provides a clear layout for tracking tasks, deadlines and completion status. Each task can be assigned to team members with start and end dates, priority levels and percentage completed.

Conditional formatting highlights overdue tasks or milestones that require attention, while summary charts give managers a visual overview of overall progress. This template is ideal for single projects, helping teams stay organized and accountable while ensuring every deliverable is completed on time.

However, templates have their limitations. To avoid those pitfalls, use ProjectManager, award-winning project and portfolio management software with real-time dashboards that collect live data and display it on easy-to-read graphs and charts. Even better, with AI-powered analytics and recommendations, users can get instant summaries and expert advice. Get started with ProjectManager today for free.

2. To-Do List Progress Tracker Template

The to-do list progress tracker template simplifies task management by focusing on individual assignments. Team members can check off completed items, update progress percentages and note any blockers.

This template is particularly useful for small teams or personal projects, providing a quick and easy way to monitor daily or weekly tasks. Managers can see which tasks are behind schedule at a glance, ensuring work is prioritized effectively and the project stays on track.

3. Multiple Project Progress Tracker Template

The multiple project progress tracker template is designed for organizations managing several projects simultaneously. It allows managers to view tasks, milestones and deadlines across multiple initiatives in one consolidated spreadsheet.

Each project can have its own tab, while summary dashboards provide overall progress insights. This template supports resource allocation, identifies potential bottlenecks and enables better decision-making, making it ideal for teams handling complex workloads and needing a comprehensive view of progress across all projects.

4. Action Plan Progress Tracker Template

The action plan progress tracker template helps teams break down strategic objectives into actionable steps. Each action item is assigned to a team member with start and end dates, priority and completion status.

Conditional formatting highlights overdue or delayed tasks, while summary charts provide a visual overview of overall progress. This template ensures accountability, keeps teams focused on key objectives and allows managers to monitor execution against the plan efficiently, making it ideal for structured project management and strategic initiatives.

5. Task Progress Tracker Template

The task progress tracker template is designed to monitor individual tasks within a project. It includes columns for task name, owner, start and end dates, priority, status and percentage complete.

Visual cues such as color coding or progress bars quickly highlight completed or delayed tasks. This template is suitable for both small and medium projects, providing an easy way to track workload, identify potential bottlenecks and ensure tasks are completed on schedule, keeping the project aligned with its objectives.

Related: Best Task Management Software: Free & Paid Options (2025)

6. Timeline Progress Tracker Template

The timeline progress tracker template provides a visual Gantt-style layout of project tasks along a timeline. Each task is represented with start and end dates, dependencies and progress percentage.

This allows managers to see overlaps, critical paths and project milestones at a glance. Ideal for projects with multiple phases, the timeline template ensures that deadlines are visible, resources are managed effectively and teams remain on track. It simplifies complex schedules and helps prevent delays by highlighting potential conflicts early.

7. Project Dashboard Tracker Template

The project dashboard tracker template consolidates project data into one visual report for quick analysis. It displays task progress, resource allocation, budget status and timeline metrics using charts and graphs.

Managers can instantly identify delays or risks and make informed decisions. This project progress tracker is ideal for teams managing multiple deliverables since it provides a high-level overview without digging through spreadsheets. It helps improve communication, supports executive reporting and keeps every stakeholder aligned on performance and project health.

8. Budget Tracker Template

The budget tracker template helps monitor project expenses, compare actual costs against forecasts and manage financial performance throughout the project lifecycle. Each line item lists planned and actual costs, remaining budget and variance.

Charts or conditional formatting highlight overspending and help maintain cost control. As part of a project progress tracker system, it ensures teams stay financially accountable and enables project managers to make data-driven adjustments before cost overruns occur, promoting better transparency and long-term financial planning.

Related: 13 Budget Templates for Business & Project Budgeting

9. KPI Tracker Dashboard Template

The KPI tracker dashboard template allows project managers to measure performance against key success indicators such as cost variance, schedule adherence, resource utilization and milestone completion.

Data is displayed in charts, gauges and summary cards to provide a real-time view of progress. This project progress tracker simplifies complex reporting by centralizing metrics in one place, ensuring stakeholders can quickly assess performance. It supports continuous improvement by revealing trends, identifying inefficiencies and driving actionable insights for better decision-making.

10. Project Status Tracker Template

The project status tracker template provides a structured way to summarize overall project performance across schedule, budget and deliverables. It highlights progress through color-coded indicators such as “on track,” “at risk” or “delayed.”

This project progress tracker helps project managers report status updates clearly to stakeholders while maintaining visibility across multiple phases. By using this template, teams can align on project priorities, ensure accountability and quickly address areas needing attention before they escalate into larger issues that affect timelines or budgets.

11. Project Risk Tracker Spreadsheet

The project risk tracker spreadsheet helps identify, assess and monitor potential risks that could impact project success. It includes fields for risk descriptions, probability, impact level, mitigation strategies and contingency plans.

Using this as part of a broader project progress tracker allows teams to manage uncertainty proactively and maintain control over project outcomes. Project managers can track evolving risks, assign ownership and regularly update statuses to ensure preventive actions are taken before risks turn into costly delays or disruptions.

12. Project Change Tracker Spreadsheet

The project change tracker spreadsheet records and evaluates all approved or pending changes to project scope, schedule or budget. It lists change requests, justifications, impacts and approval statuses in one organized view.

Incorporating this into a project progress tracker ensures transparency and helps manage scope creep effectively. Teams can document decision history, evaluate trade-offs and maintain alignment with stakeholders when adjustments are needed. This structured approach improves governance and prevents miscommunication across departments and project teams.

ProjectManager Is a Better Project Progress Tracker Than Excel Templates

While Excel templates offer a static way to record project data, ProjectManager transforms tracking into a dynamic, real-time experience. This online project progress tracker connects tasks, resources and budgets across multiple projects, so updates automatically sync across dashboards and reports. Managers can import Excel data instantly, visualize dependencies and monitor performance through interactive dashboards that update in real time. Use Gantt, kanban, list, calendar and sheet views that update instantly as tasks move forward.

This flexibility lets project managers plan at a high level or zoom in on details, depending on the stage of work. Gantt charts show dependencies and critical paths, while kanban boards enable agile workflows. Calendar and list views make daily prioritization easier, ensuring no milestone is missed.

Robust Resource Planning and Cost Tracking Tools

Plan and balance workloads with ProjectManager’s built-in resource management tools. The team page provides a centralized view of every team member’s assignments and availability, while workload charts display utilization across projects to prevent burnout or bottlenecks. Managers can allocate hours, adjust schedules and rebalance workloads with a few clicks.

Cost tracking features connect directly to tasks, letting you monitor labor rates, expenses and budgets in real time. This live resource data eliminates the guesswork common in Excel-based project progress trackers and ensures financial accuracy from start to finish.

Real-time Project Management Dashboards and Reports

Track performance instantly with live dashboards that pull data directly from active projects. ProjectManager’s dashboards display metrics such as task completion rates, time logged, budget variance and workload distribution. Teams can create AI-powered reports that analyze project health, flag risks and recommend adjustments automatically.

Secure online timesheets integrate with these dashboards, providing up-to-date insight into labor costs and productivity without manual input. Compared to Excel templates, which require constant data entry and static reporting, ProjectManager delivers continuous visibility and actionable intelligence that drive better project outcomes.

Related Project Progress Tracking Content

Looking for more information on project progress tracking? You’ve come to the right place. Below are a number of links to articles on time tracking, cost tracking and other related subjects.

• Project Time Tracking: Tools, Features and Software Reviews
• Project Cost Tracking: Process, Tools and Best Practices
• Tracking Budget Variance in Project Management
• Project Expense Tracking: 6 Ways to Track Project Costs

ProjectManager is online project and portfolio management software that connects teams, whether they’re in the office or out in the field. They can share files, comment at the task level and stay updated with email and in-app notifications. Get started with ProjectManager today for free.

The post 12 Free Project Progress Tracker Templates for Excel & Word appeared first on ProjectManager.

The best time tracking software for consultants offers features tailored to their unique workflows, like flexible time entry options, client-specific tracking, integrated invoicing and robust reporting. With mobile access, automatic timers and easy integration with accounting tools, consultants can focus more on delivering value and less on administrative tasks.

What Is Time Tracking Software?

Time tracking software is a digital tool designed to monitor and record the amount of time individuals or teams spend on tasks, projects or activities. It helps businesses and professionals gain visibility into how work hours are allocated, ensuring better productivity, accountability and resource management. Time tracking tools typically allow users to start and stop timers, log hours manually, assign time entries to specific projects or clients and generate detailed reports for billing or analysis.

For project managers, time tracking software is vital in keeping projects on schedule and budget. By understanding how time is spent, managers can identify bottlenecks, allocate resources more effectively and make data-driven decisions. The best time tracking software also integrates with project management platforms, invoicing systems and collaboration tools, streamlining workflows and enhancing overall efficiency. Whether for internal operations, client billing or performance tracking, online time tracking software has become essential to modern project and team management.

What Features Make the Best Time Tracking Software?

When choosing time tracking software, look beyond basic timers. The best time tracking software offers comprehensive features that track hours, improve planning, streamline workflows and support decision-making across teams and departments. Below is a list of the key features to look for.

• Automated Time Tracking: Minimizes manual input by automatically recording time spent on apps, websites or tasks, helping ensure accuracy and reducing interruptions.
• Task & Workflow Management: Allows users to create, assign and track tasks within projects, offering visibility into who’s doing what and how long tasks are taking.
• Project Scheduling: Helps map out timelines, dependencies and milestones, ensuring tasks are aligned with project goals and deadlines.
• Project Tracking: Provides real-time progress updates and performance metrics to monitor whether projects are on schedule and within scope.
• Project Budgeting & Cost Tracking: Enables managers to set budgets, track labor costs and forecast financials based on time spent, helping to prevent overruns.
• Timesheets: Lets users log hours worked and submit them for review or approval, streamlining payroll, invoicing and compliance.
• Workload Management Charts: Visual tools that display team capacity and task distribution, helping to balance workloads and avoid burnout or inefficiencies.

2025 Best Time Tracking Software Rankings

Now that we understand what time tracking software is and the features that potential users should look for, let’s go through a list of the best online time tracking software on the market. The following starts with our pick for the time tracking tool that meets all the criteria and then the list moves down in descending order.

1. ProjectManager

ProjectManager is an ideal time tracking software for consultants because it seamlessly combines time logging, project planning and client management in one streamlined platform. Consultants benefit from its ability to track billable and non-billable hours in real time, link time entries directly to specific clients or projects and generate detailed reports for invoicing or performance analysis. Its online design and mobile accessibility make it easy for consultants to log hours on the go, stay updated on progress and keep clients informed—all while maintaining full visibility and control over their time and workload.

Schedule Projects With Gantt Charts

Scheduling projects with Gantt charts in ProjectManager is especially useful for consultants juggling multiple clients and deliverables. The intuitive drag-and-drop interface allows users to build project timelines, set all four types of task dependencies to avoid cost overruns and bottlenecks and adjust plans as priorities shift. Consultants can visualize how each project phase unfolds, share progress with clients in real time and ensure deadlines are met without overcommitting or losing track of tasks by setting a baseline to track the planned effort against the actual effort in real time.

Assign Tasks to Team Members and Track Their Work Hours

Assigning tasks to team members and tracking their work hours is simple and efficient. Color-coded workload charts provide a real-time overview of resource allocation. ProjectManager enables consultants working with subcontractors or team members to delegate tasks, monitor progress and view time spent on each activity. A team page provides valuable transparency into individual contributions, helps avoid scope creep and ensures that time is spent effectively, critical for maintaining profitability and meeting client expectations. Teams can manage their work on robust task lists, add files, priority and more.

Streamline Payroll with Online Timesheets

Streamlining payroll with online and secure timesheets is another major advantage for consultants. ProjectManager automatically populates timesheets based on logged hours and assigned tasks, eliminating manual entry and reducing errors. These timesheets can be reviewed, approved and exported for payroll or client billing, ensuring faster, more accurate compensation and smoother administrative processes—all while maintaining clear records for audits or client reviews. They also track labor costs to make it easy to stay on budget.

It’s clear that ProjectManager checks all the boxes for the best time tracking software for consultants. Find out for yourself, get started with ProjectManager today for free.

Verdict: Best Time Tracking Software for Consultants

ProjectManager Pros & Key Features

• Combines time logging, project planning and client management
• Cost tracking of billable and non-billable hours in real time
• Mobile app for Android and iOS
• Task management and automated workflow with task approval settings
• Online, secure timesheet
• 30-day free trial

ProjectManager Cons & Limitations

• Limited customization features
• Few native integrations
• No free plan

ProjectManager Pricing

• Team: $14.00/user/month
• Business: $26.00/user/month
• Enterprise: contact sales for a custom quote

ProjectManager Reviews

• G2 review: 4.4/5
• Capterra review: 4.1/5

Highlighted User Reviews

• “ProjectManager works very well with both large and small-scale projects. Being able to use this with anything from a project involving only two members of staff, to hundreds, has been invaluable.” Peter W – from Capterra
• “We used to manage our projects, resources, and reporting in different systems. Enter ProjectManager. We have consolidated systems and work more efficiently.” Jeffrey M – from Capterra
• “Having the full scope of activities and who is responsible to do it, plus the time tracking is excellent.” Flavio M – from G2
• “It has an excellent accounting system capable of calculating the time that a person has used to develop a task that was assigned to him. I like being able to collaborate with all my colleagues in the Finance sector through ProjectManager.” Jesus C – from G2
• “The UI of the application is user-friendly, and it helps to identify what we are looking for with minimal effort.” Pavan H – from G2

2. Harvest

Harvest is a time tracking software for consultants with a clean interface, ease of use and strong invoicing capabilities. It allows consultants to track time by project, task or client, making it easy to distinguish between billable and non-billable hours. Integrated expense tracking, one-click invoicing and compatibility with tools like QuickBooks, Asana and Trello make this time tracking tool a practical choice for solo consultants and small teams who want a streamlined, no-fuss solution that handles time logging and billing in one place.

However, Harvest has limitations that may be restrictive for consultants managing complex or large-scale projects. It lacks robust project planning tools like Gantt charts, detailed resource management or advanced scheduling capabilities, which are essential for consultants juggling multiple deadlines and collaborators. Additionally, while it works well for straightforward time tracking and invoicing, it may fall short for those needing deeper insights into project performance or integration with broader project management workflows. As a result, it’s better suited for simpler consulting setups rather than full-service consulting firms or teams with more complex operational needs.

Verdict: Best Time Tracking Software for Solo Consultants

Harvest Pros & Key Features

• Clean interface and ease of use
• Easy to distinguish between billable and non-billable hours
• Good for small teams

Harvest Cons & Limitations

• Not ideal for complex or large projects
• Lacks Gantt charts, detailed resource management and advanced scheduling
• Doesn’t provide deeper insights into project performance

Harvest Pricing

• Free: for individuals
• Pro: $11/seat/month
• Premium: $14/seat/month

Harvest Reviews

• G2 review: 4.3/5
• Capterra review: 4.6/5

Highlighted User Reviews

• “Has a clean interface to track time with many management options that avoid you to spend excessive time on that task. I use it frequently in my daily work and it is integrated with my employer management platform.” – Diego Felipe M., from G2
• “I used Harvest in the past for one of my clients with its integration with Asana and liked its simple interface. For a newbie, it is a good time tracking program but still needs more advanced functionality.” – Ankit D., from Capterra

3. Toggl Track

Toggl Track is a time tracking software for consultants who value simplicity, speed, and flexibility in time tracking. Its intuitive interface allows users to start tracking time with a single click, making it ideal for fast-paced consulting work where switching between tasks and clients is common. Toggl Track supports tagging, client and project breakdowns and detailed reporting, which helps consultants understand how their time is spent and generate accurate invoices. Its mobile and desktop apps, browser extensions, and offline tracking capabilities make it accessible anytime, anywhere—perfect for consultants constantly on the move.

On the downside, Toggl Track lacks deeper project management features that many consultants might need, such as task scheduling, budgeting tools or built-in invoicing. While it integrates with other platforms to fill these gaps, these can add complexity or cost for users who prefer an all-in-one solution. For consultants working on multi-phase projects or with teams requiring task coordination, Toggl Track may feel too lightweight and require supplemental tools to manage the full project lifecycle.

Verdict: Best time Tracking Software for Consultants on the Move

Toggl Track Pros & Key Features

• Simple and flexible tool
• Detailed reporting
• Client and project breakdowns

Toggl Track Cons & Limitations

• Lacks task scheduling, budgeting tools and built-in invoicing
• Adding missing features through integration is complex and costly
• Not up to handling multi-phase projects

Toggl Track Pricing

• Free: up to five users
• Starter: $10/user/month
• Premium: $20/user/month
• Enterprise: contact sales

Toggl Track Reviews

• G2 review: 4.6/5
• Capterra review: 4.7/5

Highlighted User Reviews

• “Full control over work hours. Both billable and non billable. Good reports, and easy to use. I’m especially happy with the calendar sync with Outlook.” – Chrisster H., from G2
• “Easy to use! I like the reminder that pops up after a time. The ease of creating projects and tasks. The connectivity with the apps for phone and computer.” – Sophie J., from Capterra

4. Time Doctor

Time Doctor is ideal for consultants who need to track billable hours and productivity precisely across multiple client projects. Its automatic time capture, website and app monitoring and screenshot features provide transparency that helps consultants justify their time and improve client accountability. Integration with popular project management and invoicing tools streamlines workflows, making it easier to manage different engagements simultaneously. Detailed reports also enable consultants to analyze how their time is spent, helping optimize efficiency and accurately bill clients.

However, Time Doctor’s heavy monitoring features might feel intrusive for consultants who value autonomy and flexibility. The software’s complexity and learning curve can be challenging, especially for solo consultants without dedicated IT support. Since Time Doctor focuses mainly on time tracking, it lacks built-in project management or collaboration tools, requiring consultants to juggle multiple apps to manage their workflow, which can reduce overall productivity and increase administrative overhead.

Verdict: Best Time Tracking Software for Consultants Tracking Billable Hours

Time Doctor Pros & Key Features

• Precise tracking of billable hours and productivity
• Automatic time capture, website and app monitoring
• 14-day free trial

Time Doctor Cons & Limitations

• Intrusive for consultants who value autonomy and flexibility
• Steep learning curve, especially for those not supported by a dedicated IT team
• Lacks built-in project management and collaboration tools, requiring additional apps

Time Doctor Pricing

• Basic: $6.70/user/month billed annually
• Standard: $11.70/user/month billed annually
• Premium: $16.70/user/month billed annually
• Enterprise: contact sales

Time Doctor Reviews

• G2 review: 4.4/5
• Capterra review: 4/5

Highlighted User Reviews

• “Time doctor allows me to track the hours and activity of my foreign employees. I find it incredibly useful for this purpose.” Philip S. – from G2
• “We have been using Time Doctor for close to years now and it has been a great experience with the way it works and how it keeps track of everything.” Ania C. – from Capterra

5. ProofHub

ProofHub is a great choice for consultants who want time tracking built directly into their project management workflows. It’s built-in time tracker lets you log billable hours in real time, add manual entries, set time estimates, and create detailed timesheets. Timesheets can be exported for invoicing or shared with clients, adding transparency to consulting projects.

Moreover, ProofHub makes it easy for consultancies to organize and manage multiple client projects from a single platform. You can categorize projects by client, invite clients into the workspace, and control what they see with custom roles and access permissions. This ensures clients stay informed without compromising sensitive internal information. In addition, ProofHub brings together task management, project planning, discussions, chat, file sharing, proofing, and reporting, all in one tool. Its flat-rate pricing, with no per-user charges, makes it especially cost-effective for consulting teams that scale or work with external collaborators.

On the downside, ProofHub doesn’t offer built-in invoicing. However, you can seamlessly integrate it with accounting and invoicing tools like FreshBooks and QuickBooks, giving you flexibility to manage billing alongside project work.

Verdict: Best time Tracking Software for Consultants managing multiple client projects

ProofHub Pros & Key Features

• All-in-one project management and team collaboration tools
• Flat pricing with no per-user fee
• Customizable and intuitive interface

ProofHub Cons & Limitations

• Lacks direct invoicing
• Not suitable for solopreneurs
• No free version available

ProofHub Pricing

• Essential: Flat $45/month (billed annually) for unlimited users and up to 40 projects
• Premium: Flat $89/month (billed annually) for unlimited users and projects

ProofHub Reviews

• G2 review: 4.6/5
• Capterra Review: 4.5/5

Highlighted User Reviews

• “I really like how easy ProofHub is to use. It just makes your life easy with its intuitive and user-friendly interface. Despite a range of features for task management, project planning, resource management, time tracking, project reporting, and team communication, it does not get complex” –Alona S., from G2
  “Working in ProofHub was a sensation of scaling collaboration at a known cost. With ease, I listed teammates and clients together, built task templates, and handled permission in relation to safeguard sensitive content.” –Jenifer, from Capterra.

6. Clockify

Clockify is a strong choice for consultants thanks to its intuitive interface, flexible time tracking options and generous free plan that supports unlimited users and projects. It enables consultants to track billable hours in real time, categorize work by client or project and generate detailed timesheets and reports for invoicing and performance analysis. This time tracking software for consultants also integrates with project management tools, streamlining workflows for consultants managing multiple clients. The platform’s ability to distinguish between billable and non-billable hours helps ensure accurate client billing and improves profitability.

On the downside, Clockify’s reporting and analytics tools can feel too basic for consultants who need more advanced insights or customizable dashboards. While the core time tracking features are solid, many more powerful tools—like invoicing, labor cost tracking and time audits—are locked behind paid plans. This may require consultants to upgrade sooner than expected. Additionally, this time tracking software for consultants doesn’t include built-in client communication or task management features, which means consultants often need to use separate tools to handle those aspects of their workflow.

Verdict: Best Time Tracking Software for Consultants Who Want Free Tool

Clockify Pros & Key Features

• Free for life with unlimited users and projects
• Tracks billable hours in real time, categorizes work by client or project
• Generates timesheets and reports for invoicing and performance analysis

Clockify Cons & Limitations

• Basic reporting and analytic tools don’t provide advanced insights
• Invoicing, labor cost tracking and time audits are locked behind paid plans
• Doesn’t include built-in client communication or task management features

Clockify Pricing

• Free

Clockify Reviews

• G2 review: 4.5/5
• Capterra review: 4.8/5

Highlighted User Reviews

• “Clockify is great for keeping track of projects, and total time on all projects for each client. There are simple dashboard features that keep time tracking easy and at your fingertips.” Charles H. – from G2
• “They were great with the setup. We provided some functional requests and those seemed to evaporate in the void. I’m probably going to look for another solution unless our “quality of life” requests are implemented.” Michael P. – from Capterra

7. Simple Time Tracker

Simple Time Tracker is a lightweight, no-frills solution that appeals to consultants who need a quick and efficient way to track time without navigating a complex interface. Its minimal setup and distraction-free environment make it easy for solo consultants or small teams to start tracking time immediately. The time tracking software for consultants supports tagging by project or task, helping consultants differentiate between clients and activities. It’s especially useful for those who prefer a straightforward tool that doesn’t overwhelm with unnecessary features, keeping the focus purely on accurate time logging.

However, Simple Time Tracker lacks many advanced features consultants often need, such as detailed reporting, client invoicing or integration with project management and billing systems. This time tracking software for consultants may feel too barebones for managing multiple clients or complex billing structures. There’s limited automation or customization, and it doesn’t offer mobile apps or cloud syncing, which can be a disadvantage for consultants working remotely or across devices. As needs grow, consultants may quickly outgrow the tool and need to switch to something more robust.

Verdict: Best Time Tracking Software for Consultants Wanting a Simple Interface

Simple Time Tracker Pros & Key Features

• Lightweight, no-thrills for quick, efficient time tracking
• Ideal for individuals or small teams
• Supports tagging by project or task to differentiate between clients and activities

Simple Time Tracker Cons & Limitations

• Lacks advanced features for detailed reporting, client invoicing and project management integration
• Too barebones for managing multiple clients or complex billing structures
• Limited automation, customization and no mobile app

Simple Time Tracker Pricing

• Free
• $10/month

Simple Time Tracker Reviews

• G2 reviews: 5.0/5
• Capterra reviews: 4.4/5

Highlighted User Reviews

• “Simple is super easy to use, and you can create a task and start logging on it very fast! There are no overcomplicated fields to fill and options to set… Honestly it is “just” tracking your time and that’s all. It is a good choice for freelancers. The UI is also nice, there are no noises there, just your tasks.” Renata J. – from G2
• “I love it because it’s user-friendly; literally anyone can use it.” Christian – from Capterra

8. Tick Time Tracker

Tick Time Tracker is time tracking software for consultants who manage multiple client projects and need to track time against budgets. Its simplicity and budget tracking features help consultants stay profitable by alerting them when they’re nearing project limits. The software integrates with popular tools like Basecamp, Trello and QuickBooks, making it easier to fold into an existing workflow. With reporting features tailored to billable vs. non-billable hours, Tick enables consultants to monitor efficiency and accurately invoice clients, ideal for freelancers and small consulting teams focused on staying within scope.

Despite its budget-awareness features, this time tracking software for consultants can feel overly simplistic for those who need advanced functionality like detailed invoicing, time audit trails or productivity monitoring. It lacks features like automatic time tracking or idle time detection, which are useful for accurately capturing all billable hours. The mobile app experience is also limited, and without offline tracking or more powerful integrations, Tick may not scale well for consultants juggling complex client needs or working in teams that require a more comprehensive time and project management solution.

Verdict: Best Time Tracking Software For Freelance Consultants

Tick Time Tracker Pros & Key Features

• Manages multiple clients and tracks time against budget
• Alerts when nearing project budget limits
• Reporting features tailored to billable vs. non-billable hours

Tick Time Tracker Cons & Limitations

• Overly simplistic, lacking advanced functionality like detailed invoicing, time audit trails or productivity monitoring
• Lacks automatic time tracking and idle time detection for accurate billable hours
• Limited mobile app

Tick Time Tracker Pricing

• 1 project: free
• 10 projects: $19/month
• 30 projects: $49/month
• 60 projects: $79/month
• Unlimited projects: $149/month

Tick Time Tracker Reviews

• G2 review: 4.5/5
• Capterra review: 4.5/5

Highlighted User Reviews

• “What I like best about Tick is the ability to track time spent on my projects. It’s a brilliant and incredible platform that supports excellent features which are very easy to use.” Genevieve M. – from G2
• “I love how easy Tick is to use. The interface is streamlined for both the user and administrator. The API is simple, yet has just enough features to make it worth implementing.” Josh A. – from Capterra

9. Paymo

Paymo is a good time tracking software for consultants who need more than just a stopwatch. It combines time tracking with project management, task planning, and invoicing—all in one platform. Consultants can track time per task or project, convert billable hours into branded invoices and even manage retainers and recurring clients. The visual timesheets, detailed reporting and ability to track time manually or automatically help ensure accuracy and accountability. For consultants juggling multiple clients, Paymo’s built-in tools reduce the need for additional software, streamlining administrative work and keeping projects on track.

While Paymo offers a robust feature set, its interface can be overwhelming for consultants who want straightforward time tracking without project management extras. It also lacks deeper functionality in areas like automated time capture or integrations with certain CRM or accounting tools that consultants may already use. Additionally, Paymo’s pricing tiers may not be ideal for solo consultants on a tight budget, especially compared to free or lower-cost tools focused solely on time tracking. For those who don’t need the full suite of features, Paymo may feel like more software than necessary.

Verdict: Best Time Tracking Software for Consultants Juggling Multiple Clients

Paymo Pros & Key Features

• Combines time tracking and project management
• Tracks time per task or project
• Converts billable hours into branded invoices

Paymo Cons & Limitations

• Overwhelming interfaces for those who only want a time tracker
• Lacks deeper functionality like automated time capture and integrations
• Pricing tiers are not ideal for solo consultants or those on a tight budget

Paymo Pricing

• Free plan: $0/user/month
• Starter plan: $3.90/user/month paid annually
• Small Office plan: $6.90/user/month paid annually
• Business plan: $10.90/user/month paid annually

Paymo Reviews

• G2 review: 4.6/5
• Capterra review: 4.7/5

Highlighted User Reviews

• “Paymo has all the capabilities that allows me to save time by automating project and task management procedures.” Larry K – from G2
• “I like the way Paymo has been designed. With its straightforward menu sidebar, it’s easy to access everything your business needs quickly and easily.” Jamie Lee J – from G2

Related Content

If readers want more background before deciding which time tracking software for consultants is best, check out the links below. They lead to more general articles on timesheets, time management and more.

• Timesheets: How to Use Project Timesheets
• Project Time Management: Strategies, Tips & Tools
• Project Tracker: The Ultimate Guide to Project Tracking

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Beyond keeping teams on track, project time tracking also supports accurate billing and better forecasting. It helps managers spot bottlenecks early and shift workloads to avoid burnout or wasted time. The best project management time tracking tools combine ease of use with real-time data, so decisions can be made quickly and confidently.

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What Is Project Time Tracking?

Project time tracking is the process of monitoring how much time team members spend on specific tasks and deliverables. It helps managers see where hours are allocated across the project timeline and ensures deadlines stay realistic. Accurate time tracking also improves accountability by showing which tasks are taking longer than expected and which are ahead of schedule, giving project managers the data they need to adjust resources before issues escalate.

Time tracking for project management also supports accurate cost control and better client reporting. When hours are logged consistently, managers can create more precise estimates for future projects and avoid budget overruns. For teams that bill clients based on hours worked, project time tracking software ensures invoices are transparent and defensible, strengthening client relationships and reducing disputes over project costs.

Project management time tracking software brings all project data into one platform, making it easy to connect hours worked with tasks, budgets and deadlines. Instead of using separate spreadsheets or manual logs, teams can enter time directly where work is managed. This eliminates double entry, reduces errors and provides real-time insights into project health, which is crucial for fast-moving teams.

ProjectManager is built to make project time tracking simple and powerful. Its Gantt charts link tasks to timelines, so managers can see progress against the schedule in real time. Secure online timesheets make it easy for team members to log hours from anywhere, while workload charts help balance assignments and prevent burnout. It also integrates with ERP platforms like Acumatica, connecting time tracking with financial data for a complete picture of project performance. Together, these features give construction, manufacturing, IT and professional services teams everything they need to stay on schedule and on budget. Get started with ProjectManager today for free.

Why Is Project Time Tracking Important?

Project time tracking is essential for keeping work on schedule and budgets under control. It gives managers visibility into how time is spent so they can spot delays early and reassign tasks before deadlines are missed. Without project management time tracking, projects often run over schedule and over budget because there’s no accurate way to measure progress against the plan.

Tracking time also leads to better decision-making and forecasting. When you know how long tasks actually take, you can create more realistic schedules for future work and improve cost estimates. For client-facing teams, project time tracking software ensures billing is accurate and transparent, which builds trust and helps maintain strong relationships.

Key Features of Project Time Tracking Software

The best project time tracking software gives managers visibility into every hour of work and ties that data directly to project performance. These tools do more than just log time—they help teams plan, monitor and optimize how work gets done. When evaluating project management time tracking options, focus on features that connect hours with tasks, budgets and deadlines so you can act on real data.

Gantt Charts

Gantt charts connect tasks to deadlines, making it easy to see where work stands at any moment. When paired with project time tracking, they show how logged hours align with scheduled work so managers can spot delays early and adjust timelines or resources.

Timesheets

Online timesheets let team members record hours quickly from anywhere, which reduces manual entry and keeps time logs consistent. Integrated timesheets feed the project time tracking system so managers get real-time visibility into labor costs and progress.

Task Time Tracking

Task-level time tracking reveals exactly how much time is spent on individual tasks and deliverables. This detail helps teams measure productivity, refine estimates and reallocate resources to the highest priority work.

Time Clock & Attendance

A built-in time clock simplifies attendance by letting users clock in and out from the platform. This is especially useful for teams that need precise records for payroll, compliance and shift management.

Related: 20 Excel Spreadsheet Templates for Tracking Tasks, Costs and Time

Workload Management Charts

Workload charts visualize how hours are distributed across people and projects. They help managers balance assignments, avoid overloading team members and keep capacity aligned with project demands.

Billable vs. Non-Billable Hours

Separating billable from non-billable hours is crucial for client-facing teams. This feature ensures invoices reflect actual work performed and gives a clear view of how much time generates revenue versus supporting tasks.

Planned vs. Actual Hours Comparison

Comparing planned hours to actual hours highlights where tasks take longer than expected. Project time tracking that offers these comparisons improves future estimates and pinpoints process inefficiencies.

Integration with ERP & Payroll Management Systems

Integrations with ERP and payroll systems connect time tracking data to financials, reducing duplicate entry and improving payroll accuracy. Linking project time tracking to enterprise systems gives a complete view of project costs and profitability.

5 Best Project Time Tracking Software Tools

With the understanding of what project time tracking is and the features that are essential to a viable project time tracking software, let’s review the top products on the market. We’ll explore the good, bad and ugly of each, providing pricing and customer reviews to give readers a well-rounded assessment of each so they can make an educated decision of which is best for them.

1. ProjectManager

ProjectManager is online project management software that can be used anywhere and by anyone. This flexibility is especially useful for project time tracking, where teams may be distributed or working on multiple projects at once. Managers can monitor hours spent on tasks in real time, keeping projects on schedule and budgets under control.

Beyond time tracking, ProjectManager offers a suite of tools to manage every aspect of project workflow, from scheduling tasks and tracking hours to balancing workloads and analyzing billable versus non-billable time. The platform also integrates with ERP and payroll systems, connecting tracked hours directly to financials and improving accuracy. Plus, ProjectManager offers a free 30-day trial so teams can test its features before committing.

Visual Scheduling and Task Management

ProjectManager includes online Gantt charts that provide a clear timeline of tasks, start and end dates and logged hours. Managers can assign tasks, link dependencies, track critical path tasks and adjust schedules with drag-and-drop ease. Task-level time tracking shows exactly how much time is spent on each deliverable, helping managers spot inefficiencies and optimize workflows. The platform also lets teams collaborate at the task level by leaving comments, attaching files and tracking updates in real time.

Time Tracking, Attendance and Workload Management

Timesheets allow team members to log hours from anywhere, supporting accurate project time tracking and payroll. A built-in time clock tracks attendance automatically, while workload charts visualize how hours are distributed across the team. Managers can balance assignments, prevent overwork and ensure deadlines are realistic. The system also separates billable from non-billable hours and compares planned versus actual hours, giving clear insight into performance and profitability.

Integrations and Streamlined Financials

ProjectManager integrates with ERP and payroll platforms like Acumatica, connecting tracked hours to financials for accurate reporting and billing. This reduces duplicate entries, simplifies payroll processing and provides a complete picture of project costs. All files, timesheets and reports are stored securely online, allowing managers to access critical data anytime from a desktop or mobile.

Given its comprehensive project time tracking and management features, ProjectManager is an ideal tool for teams looking to optimize schedules, track hours accurately and streamline workflows. Click here to start a 30-day free trial.

Verdict: Best Project Time Tracking Software for Teams

ProjectManager Pros & Key Features

• Online Gantt charts for visual task and time management
• Timesheets and task-level time tracking for real-time insights
• Workload management charts to balance assignments
• Attendance tracking with built-in time clock
• Billable vs. non-billable hours and planned vs. actual hours comparison
• Integration with ERP and payroll systems
• Mobile app for Android and iOS
• Free 30-day trial available

ProjectManager Cons & Limitations

• Limited customization options
• No built-in invoicing or payment tools
• Lacks advanced bidding functionality
• No free plan beyond trial

ProjectManager Pricing

• Team: $14.00/user/month
• Business: $26.00/user/month
• Enterprise: Contact sales for a custom quote

ProjectManager Reviews

• G2 review: 4.4/5
• Capterra review: 4.1/5

Highlighted User Reviews

• “ProjectManager works very well with both large and small-scale projects. Being able to use this with anything from a project involving only two members of staff, to hundreds, has been invaluable.” Peter W – from Capterra
• “We used to manage our projects, resources, and reporting in different systems. Enter ProjectManager. We have consolidated systems and work more efficiently.” Jeffrey M – from Capterra
• “Having the full scope of activities and who is responsible to do it, plus the time tracking is excellent.” Flavio M – from G2
• “It has an excellent accounting system capable of calculating the time that a person has used to develop a task that was assigned to him. I like being able to collaborate with all my colleagues in the Finance sector through ProjectManager.” Jesus C – from G2
• “The UI of the application is user-friendly, and it helps to identify what we are looking for with minimal effort.” Pavan H – from G2

2. Clockify

Clockify is a project time tracking software that, as its name suggests, is cloud-based. It’s easy to use for teams of any size. Its intuitive interface allows employees to log hours quickly and accurately, whether they are working on individual tasks or multiple projects at once. Clockify supports project management time tracking with features like timers, manual time entry, task-level tracking and reporting.

Teams can monitor billable versus non-billable hours, compare planned versus actual hours and generate reports to improve productivity and resource allocation. Its mobile app makes time tracking simple for remote or on-site work, and integrations with platforms like Asana, Trello and Jira ensure seamless workflow management across tools.

On the downside, Clockify is primarily focused on time tracking rather than full project management. While it offers basic task management features, it lacks advanced scheduling tools, Gantt charts and workload management charts that are included in more robust platforms. It also does not integrate with ERP or payroll systems out of the box, which can limit its usefulness for teams that want a single platform to manage hours, resources and finances together. Reporting and dashboards are functional but less customizable than higher-end project management software, and some advanced features require a paid plan.

Verdict: Best Free Project Time Tracking Tool

Clockify Pros & Key Features

• Timer and manual time entry for accurate project time tracking
• Task-level time tracking and reporting
• Billable vs. non-billable hours tracking
• Planned vs. actual hours comparison
• Mobile app for Android and iOS
• Integrations with Asana, Trello, Jira and other project tools
• Free plan available for unlimited users and projects

Clockify Cons & Limitations

• Limited project management features beyond time tracking
• No built-in Gantt charts or workload management charts
• Lacks ERP and payroll system integrations
• Advanced reporting and dashboards require a paid plan

Clockify Pricing

• Free

Clockify Reviews

• G2 review: 4.5/5
• Capterra review: 4.8/5

Highlighted User Reviews

• “Clockify is great for keeping track of projects, and total time on all projects for each client. There are simple dashboard features that keep time tracking easy and at your fingertips.” Charles H. – from G2
• “They were great with the setup. We provided some functional requests and those seemed to evaporate in the void. I’m probably going to look for another solution unless our “quality of life” requests are implemented.” Michael P. – from Capterra

Related: 9 Free Timesheet Templates for Excel, Google Sheets & Word

3. TimeCamp

TimeCamp is an online project time tracking software designed to help teams log hours accurately and improve productivity. It supports project management time tracking with features such as automatic time tracking, manual entries, task-level tracking and detailed reporting.

Teams can monitor billable and non-billable hours, compare planned versus actual hours and get insights into resource allocation. TimeCamp also integrates with popular project management tools like Trello, Asana, Jira and Basecamp, allowing seamless workflow management and real-time tracking across multiple projects.

On the downside, TimeCamp is primarily focused on time tracking rather than full project management. While it has some task organization and reporting features, it lacks advanced scheduling tools, Gantt charts and workload management charts. Integration with ERP or payroll systems is limited and often requires third-party connectors. Customization options for dashboards and reports are less flexible than more comprehensive project management platforms, and some features are only available in paid plans.

Verdict: Best Lightweight Project Time Tracking Solution for Teams

TimeCamp Pros & Key Features

• Automatic and manual time tracking for accurate project hours
• Task-level tracking and reporting for detailed insights
• Billable vs. non-billable hours tracking
• Planned vs. actual hours comparison
• Integrations with Trello, Asana, Jira and Basecamp
• Mobile app for tracking on the go
• Free plan available for basic time tracking

TimeCamp Cons & Limitations

• Limited project management features beyond time tracking
• No built-in Gantt charts or workload management charts
• ERP and payroll integrations require third-party connectors
• Advanced features and reporting require paid plans

TimeCamp Pricing

• Free
• Starter: $2.99 per month/user billed annually
• Premium: $4.99 per month/user billed annually
• Ultimate: $7.99 per month/user billed annually
• Enterprise: $11.99 per month/user billed annually

TimeCamp Reviews

• G2 review: 3.5/5
• Capterra review: 4.7/5

Highlighted User Reviews

• “Easy tracking, connection to trello. Many settings.” Yevgen G. from G2
• “A great way to track hours for billing or for tracking time on projects.” John B. – from Capterra

4. My Hours

My Hours is online project time tracking software that helps teams monitor hours, stay organized and optimize productivity. It supports project management time tracking with features like timers, manual time entry, task-level tracking and reporting.

Teams can track billable versus non-billable hours, compare planned and actual hours and generate insights to improve scheduling and resource allocation. My Hours also integrates with tools like Trello, Asana and Basecamp, making it easy to track project time across multiple platforms and keep projects on target.

On the downside, My Hours focuses primarily on time tracking rather than full project management. It lacks advanced scheduling features, Gantt charts and workload management charts found in more robust platforms. Integration with ERP or payroll systems is limited, which can be a challenge for teams that want a single system to manage time, resources and finances. While reporting and dashboards are useful, they are less customizable than higher-end project management software, and some features are only available in paid plans.

Related: 20 Best Resource Management Software of 2025 (Free & Paid)

Verdict: Best Simple and User-Friendly Project Time Tracking Software

My Hours Pros & Key Features

• Timer and manual time entry for accurate project time tracking
• Task-level tracking and reporting for detailed insights
• Billable vs. non-billable hours tracking
• Planned vs. actual hours comparison
• Integrations with Trello, Asana and Basecamp
• Mobile app for tracking on the go
• Free plan available for unlimited users and projects

My Hours Cons & Limitations

• Limited project management features beyond time tracking
• No built-in Gantt charts or workload management charts
• ERP and payroll integrations are limited
• Advanced reporting and dashboards require paid plans

My Hours Pricing

• Free, up to five users or teams
• Pro: $8 per user/month billed annually
• Enterprise: contact sales

My Hours Reviews

• G2 review: 4.6/5
• Capterra review: 4.8/5

Highlighted User Reviews

• “Easy to use, navigate and help organize. Report filters are great. Customer Support prompt. Natash O. – from G2
• “Easy to use time tracking and billing” Rish A. – from Capterra

5. Paymo

Paymo is online project time tracking software is designed to help teams log hours, manage tasks and improve productivity. It supports project management time tracking with features like timers, manual time entries, task-level tracking and detailed reporting.

Teams can track billable versus non-billable hours, compare planned and actual hours and generate insights to optimize scheduling and resource allocation. Paymo also integrates with popular tools like Trello, Asana and QuickBooks, making it easy to manage project time across multiple platforms.

On the downside, Paymo is more focused on time tracking and task management than full-scale project management. It lacks advanced Gantt charts, workload management charts and deeper ERP or payroll system integrations found in more comprehensive platforms. While reporting and dashboards are functional, customization options are limited, and some advanced features require paid plans. Teams looking for a complete all-in-one project management solution may need additional tools alongside Paymo.

Verdict: Best All-in-One Project Time Tracking Software for Small Teams

Paymo Pros & Key Features

• Timer and manual time entry for accurate project time tracking
• Task-level tracking and reporting for detailed insights
• Billable vs. non-billable hours tracking
• Planned vs. actual hours comparison
• Integrations with Trello, Asana and QuickBooks
• Mobile app for tracking on the go
• Free plan available with basic time tracking features

Paymo Cons & Limitations

• Limited advanced project management features
• No built-in Gantt charts or workload management charts for complex scheduling
• ERP and payroll integrations are limited
• Advanced reporting and dashboards require paid plans

Paymo Pricing

• Free plan
• Starter plan: $3.90/user/month paid annually
• Small Office plan: $6.90/user/month paid annually
• Business plan: $10.90/user/month paid annually

Paymo Reviews

• G2 review: 4.6/5
• Capterra review: 4.7/5

Highlighted User Reviews

• “Paymo has all the capabilities that allows me to save time by automating project and task management procedures.” Larry K – from G2
• “I like the way Paymo has been designed. With its straightforward menu sidebar, it’s easy to access everything your business needs quickly and easily.” Jamie Lee J – from G2

What Are the Main Benefits of Using Project Time Tracking Software

Project time tracking software gives teams a clear view of where hours are being spent and how resources are being used. It helps managers understand project performance, optimize schedules and ensure that work is completed on time. With accurate data on time spent per task, organizations can improve productivity and make informed decisions about future projects.

Accurate Labor Cost Tracking and Cost Control

Project time tracking allows managers to monitor labor hours for each task and project. This helps control costs by showing exactly how much time and effort are being invested. Tracking hours accurately ensures that budgets are adhered to and that billing for client work is transparent and precise.

Facilitates Project Progress Tracking

By logging hours against tasks and milestones, project time tracking software makes it easy to see progress in real time. Managers can identify delays or bottlenecks early, reassign tasks when needed and adjust project schedules to keep everything on track. This transparency ensures that deadlines are met and projects remain aligned with their goals.

Helps Managers Balance Their Team’s Workload

Workload charts and task-level tracking give managers insight into who is working on what and how much time each task requires. This helps balance the distribution of work, prevent team members from being overloaded and ensure that resources are used efficiently. Balanced workloads improve team productivity and reduce the risk of burnout.

Related Project Time Tracking Software

There is more to learn about project time tracking. For those that want to further explore the topic, check out the links below. They lead to articles on strategy, time management plans and much more.

• Project Time Management: Strategies, Tips & Tools
• How to Make a Time Management Plan You’ll Actually Use
• A Quick Guide to Time Blocking
• Time Estimation in Project Management: Tips & Techniques
• Free Time Management Worksheets & Templates
• 8 Best Time Tracking Software for Consultants

ProjectManager is online project and portfolio management software that connects teams, whether they’re in the office or out in the field. They can share files, comment at the task level and stay up to date with email and in-app notifications. Get started with ProjectManager today for free.

The post Project Time Tracking: Tools, Features and Software Reviews appeared first on ProjectManager.

The following is a list of the best production tracking software in descending order. These production tracking software tools help manufacturers monitor the production cycle, optimize operations, track capacity and improve overall efficiency. Whether you need a dedicated tracking system or an ERP solution with production monitoring capabilities, this list has options to fit your needs. Before we dive into the top production tracking software, let’s clarify what production tracking software is and why it’s essential for modern manufacturing.

What Is Production Tracking Software?

Production tracking software is a tool that helps manufacturers monitor and manage their production processes from start to finish. This type of production tracking software tracks the progress of tasks, oversees resource usage, monitors inventory and ensures that production stays on schedule. Production tracking software can be cloud-based or installed on-premise, depending on your needs.

While “production tracking software” is the most common term, you may also hear it referred to as manufacturing tracking software, production monitoring software or production management software. Production tracking software helps minimize delays by streamlining workflows, providing real-time updates on production progress and optimizing the allocation of resources for a more efficient manufacturing process.

Key Features of Production Tracking Software

The features offered by production tracking software can vary, and the best solution depends on your industry and how your team manages production. Here are some essential features to look for:

• Task & Workflow Monitoring: Production tracking software allows managers to follow the progress of tasks in real time. Tools such as Gantt charts, kanban boards, checklists and dashboards help teams visualize the production timeline, see who is responsible for each task and track completion status.
• Resource Management: Efficiently allocating people, materials and machinery is critical. Production tracking software should include features to schedule and manage resources effectively, including workload distribution charts and real-time availability updates.
• Project Management Capabilities: Since production often follows a project-like structure with timelines, budgets and stakeholders, production tracking software should support basic project management principles, allowing managers to plan, coordinate and adjust as needed.
• Cost Tracking and Budgeting: Keeping production costs under control is essential. Look for production tracking software with timesheets, cost dashboards and reporting features to monitor labor, materials and overhead throughout the production cycle.
• Document Management: Production involves many documents, including manufacturing orders, bills of materials and purchase orders. The best production tracking software offers file storage, sharing and version control to keep everything organized.

10 Best Production Tracking Software

Now that we understand what production tracking software is and the features that it should have to do its job better, let’s review the best products on the market. We’ll start with the best and for each review pros and cons, pricing and more.

1. ProjectManager

ProjectManager is award-winning production tracking software that puts manufacturers in control of their entire production process. Cloud-based and easy to set up, it offers a full suite of tools for production monitoring, resource management, task tracking and reporting. There’s even a mobile app for managing work directly from the shop floor. With a free 30-day trial, you can experience ProjectManager’s robust tracking features firsthand.

Track Resources and Costs in Real Time

ProjectManager’s Gantt charts are essential for production tracking. They connect all task dependencies to prevent bottlenecks and costly delays. Both human and nonhuman resources, along with associated costs, are tracked in real time. Once a production schedule is created, you can set a baseline to compare planned versus actual progress, identify anomalies and reallocate resources to keep production on track.

Automate Production Workflows

ProjectManager allows you to create custom workflows that keep production moving smoothly. Automated workflows enable triggers to update task status, assignees and more, saving time while maintaining control. Task approval settings ensure quality by requiring an authorized check before a task progresses. Multiple project views—Gantt, kanban, list and calendar—reflect all workflow updates across the platform, making it easy to manage production from any perspective.

Gain Real-Time Insights Into Team Workload and Progress

ProjectManager’s resource management tools let you see all team tasks in one place. Filter tasks by team, daily or weekly work, and adjust assignments instantly with drag-and-drop. You can add comments, attach files or update hours on any task. This seamless integration of production tracking with resource management makes it easier than ever to balance workloads and keep projects on schedule.

Thanks to its powerful scheduling, resource management and workflow automation features. ProjectManager is ideal for manufacturers who need real-time insights, task tracking and seamless project visibility across teams. Start your free 30-day trial today and see how it can optimize your production operations.

Verdict: Best Production Tracking Software for Manufacturers

ProjectManager Pros & Key Features

• Workload charts monitor resource utilization and allocate tasks in real time
• Real-time dashboards & timesheets track costs, labor and key performance indicators
• Workflow automation & task approval settings streamline production while ensuring quality deliverables
• Multiple project views show schedules in Gantt, kanban, list and calendar formats
• Document & version control store files and revert to previous plans if needed
• Risk management features visualize potential issues with impact and likelihood graphics
• Mobile app manages production from anywhere on iOS or Android
• Free 30-Day trial allows users to test all features with no risk

ProjectManager Cons & Limitations

• Does not include built-in ERP tools but integrates with Acumatica
• Missing some manufacturing-specific features
• Limited support for assembling the bill of materials
• No free plan beyond the trial

ProjectManager Pricing

• Team Plan: $14/user/month
• Business Plan: $26/user/month
• Enterprise Plan: Contact sales

ProjectManager Reviews

• G2 review: 4.4/5
• Capterra review: 4.1/5

Highlighted User Reviews

• “ProjectManager works very well with both large and small-scale projects. Being able to use this with anything from a project involving only two members of staff, to hundreds, has been invaluable.” Peter W – from Capterra
• “We used to manage our projects, resources, and reporting in different systems. Enter ProjectManager. We have consolidated systems and work more efficiently.” Jeffrey M – from Capterra
• “Having the full scope of activities and who is responsible to do it, plus the time tracking is excellent.” Flavio M – from G2
• “It has an excellent accounting system capable of calculating the time that a person has used to develop a task that was assigned to him, I like being able to collaborate with all my colleagues in the Finance sector through ProjectManager.” Jesus C – from G2
• “The UI of the application is user-friendly, and it helps to identify what we are looking for with minimal effort.” Pavan H – from G2
• “It’s a solid platform and has very good customer service. you can send collaboration invitations to your customers or partners, without the need for a setup or anything extra. What I like is that the website is always online, does not fall and is easy and intuitive to manage.” Aleksei V – from GetApp

2. MRPeasy

MRPeasy is an entry-level production tracking software that provides basic tools for small manufacturers. It offers built-in production planning and inventory management, giving real-time visibility into schedules, inventory levels and material requirements.

MRPeasy also tracks customer information and integrates with accounting platforms like QuickBooks and Xero, making it a solid choice for small teams looking to streamline basic production and financial processes. There’s a free trial, and the platform has a mobile-friendly interface for Android and iOS, allowing some flexibility for users on the go.

However, MRPeasy has several limitations that make it less ideal for more complex manufacturing environments. It only provides a calendar view for scheduling, which can feel restrictive compared to dynamic tools like Gantt charts. Workload management features are limited, and workflow customization is minimal, making it challenging for manufacturers with specialized processes. Some functionality requires paid integrations, which adds cost and setup complexity. Additionally, the platform can have a steep learning curve for non-technical users, and its mobile app is not as fully featured as competitors.

Verdict: Production Tracking Software for Small Manufacturers

MRPeasy Pros & Key Features

• Tracks customer information, including order history and communications
• Integrates with QuickBooks and Xero for invoicing and financial reporting
• Built-in production planning and inventory management for real-time schedule and material tracking
• Offers a free trial
• Mobile-friendly interface for Android and iOS

MRPeasy Cons & Limitations

• Only offers a calendar view for scheduling production, lacking dynamic visualization tools like Gantt charts
• Relies on paid integrations for full functionality, adding cost and setup complexity
• No workload management tools for balancing tasks across employees or machines
• Limited workflow customization for specialized processes
• Mobile app is limited in functionality compared to desktop features
• Steep learning curve for non-technical users

MRPeasy Pricing

• Starter: $49/user/month
• Professional: $69/user/month
• Enterprise: $99/user/month
• Unlimited: $149/user/month

MRPeasy Reviews

• G2 review: 4.5/5
• Capterra review: 4.5/5

Highlighted User Reviews

• “It covers all the essential features I need to manage my manufacturing processes, from inventory tracking to order management, without overwhelming me with complexity.” Alice B – from G2
• “It provided a solid foundation for managing manufacturing processes and streamlining operations.” Marek T – from Capterra

3. Katana MRP

Katana MRP is a cloud-based production tracking software that works well for small to mid-sized manufacturers. It provides automated workflows to move tasks along production lines efficiently and offers clear visibility into raw material availability and inventory levels directly linked to production orders.

The software integrates seamlessly with e-commerce platforms and accounting systems, giving manufacturers a central hub to manage both production and sales. There’s a free 14-day trial, making it easy to test the platform before committing.

On the downside, Katana lacks many advanced production tracking features that larger or more complex manufacturers may need. It does not include Gantt charts or other in-depth production planning tools, and there are no workload management features like resource leveling or shift planning.

Users also have limited access to project status, cost reporting or quality control tools. Workflow customization is minimal, there’s no native CRM, and the absence of a mobile app makes it harder for teams to manage production on the go.

Verdict: Production Tracking Software for Integrating with E-Commerce Platforms

Katana MRPPros & Key Features

• Automated workflows trigger actions to move production tasks efficiently
• Visibility into raw material availability and inventory levels tied to production orders
• Seamless integration with e-commerce and accounting platforms
• Offers a free 14-day trial

Katana MRP Cons & Limitations

• Limited production planning and scheduling features, lacking tools like Gantt charts
• No workload management features, such as resource leveling or shift planning
• No project status, cost or health reports, limiting insight into job-level performance
• Lacks native CRM and customer communication tools
• No built-in quality control tools for inspections or defect tracking
• Limited workflow and status customization
• No mobile app

Katana MRP Pricing

• Essential: $99/user/month
• Advanced: $299/user/month
• Professional: $599/user/month
• Enterprise: Contact sales

Katana MRP Reviews

• G2 review: 4.4/5
• Capterra review: 4.6/5

Highlighted User Reviews

• “I’ve found Katana to be quite easy to use and operate.” Lucas M – from G2
• “The Excel templates allow for bulk uploads of all of the required data categories, which don’t need to be uploaded manually.” Brent T – from Capterra

4. NetSuite

NetSuite is a powerful cloud-based production tracking software that is well-suited for medium to large manufacturers. Its integrated ERP system gives full visibility into production processes, inventory levels, and supply chain management. Users can track materials, monitor production progress, and manage resources all in real time. NetSuite also offers strong reporting tools, allowing manufacturers to analyze performance, costs, and efficiency across multiple sites.

However, NetSuite can be overly complex for smaller operations or teams without dedicated IT support. Its setup and customization require significant time and expertise, and the platform can feel overwhelming for non-technical users. NetSuite’s high price point and reliance on ERP modules for full functionality may make it inaccessible for smaller manufacturers, and mobile access is limited compared with more lightweight production tracking solutions.

Verdict: Production Tracking Software for Enterprise Manufacturers

NetSuite Pros & Key Features

• Integrated ERP system provides real-time visibility into production, inventory and supply chain
• Comprehensive reporting for performance, cost tracking, and operational insights
• Tracks materials and production progress across multiple facilities
• Centralized platform for managing resources, procurement and manufacturing processes
• Cloud-based system allows for remote access and collaboration

NetSuite Cons & Limitations

• Complex setup and configuration requiring technical expertise
• High cost, making it less suitable for small manufacturers
• Steep learning curve for non-technical users
• Mobile app functionality is limited compared with other production tracking software
• Full production tracking features often require additional ERP modules

NetSuite Pricing

• Pricing varies by package and number of users; contact sales for a quote

NetSuite Reviews

• G2 review: 4/5
• Capterra review: 4.2/5

Highlighted User Reviews

• “The best part about NetSuite is the ease of use for new users across our organization.” Joe W – from G2
• “NetSuite was the easiest ERP Software to learn and use.” Wes P – from Capterra

5. SAP PP

SAP PP (Production Planning) is a robust production tracking software designed for large-scale manufacturers and complex production environments. It provides comprehensive tools to plan, track, and optimize production processes, including material requirements planning, capacity planning and real-time monitoring of shop floor activities.

SAP PP integrates seamlessly with other SAP modules, giving manufacturers a full view of operations from procurement to sales, and enabling data-driven decisions across the enterprise.

Despite its power, SAP PP can be challenging for smaller businesses due to its complexity and cost. Implementation is time-intensive, requiring specialized knowledge, and users often need training to navigate the platform effectively. The interface can feel overwhelming, and its mobile capabilities are limited compared with lighter production tracking software. For companies without dedicated SAP support, the steep learning curve and high subscription fees may be significant obstacles.

Verdict: Production Tracking Software for Large Manufacturers

SAP PP Pros & Key Features

• Comprehensive production planning, including MRP, capacity planning and shop floor tracking
• Integrates with other SAP modules for full enterprise visibility
• Real-time monitoring of production progress and resource usage
• Advanced reporting and analytics for cost, efficiency, and operational insights
• Supports complex manufacturing processes and multi-site operations

SAP PP Cons & Limitations

• Complex setup and implementation requiring specialized expertise
• High cost makes it inaccessible for small and medium manufacturers
• Steep learning curve for non-technical users
• Limited mobile capabilities compared with lightweight alternatives
• Interface can feel overwhelming for smaller production teams

SAP PP Pricing

• Pricing varies by company size and module selection; contact SAP sales for a quote

SAP PP Reviews

• G2 Review: 4.2/5
• Capterra Review: 4.3/5

Highlighted User Reviews

• “SAP Customer Data Platform helps us to build trust with customers and reduce the time to market products. It has a holistic view of customer data, which is very helpful to our management in making decisions. It complies with all of our required compliance.” Rajiv T. – from G2
• “The thing I like most about this is that you can manage all the Enterprise Resources, so that you can get better efficiency. Javier R. – from Capterra

6. Jira

Jira is a flexible production tracking software popular with manufacturing and software teams alike. Its strength lies in task management, workflow customization, and real-time progress tracking. Jira allows teams to visualize production processes using kanban boards, scrum boards and customizable dashboards, giving managers insight into task status, bottlenecks and team workloads. The platform also integrates with numerous third-party tools, including time tracking and reporting solutions, making it versatile for production operations.

However, Jira is not designed specifically for manufacturing, so it lacks built-in production scheduling, material planning and shop floor tracking features. Workload management for physical resources is limited, and advanced production reporting is not native.

Teams may need multiple add-ons to achieve full production tracking functionality, which increases cost and complexity. The interface can be overwhelming for non-technical users, and mobile app functionality, while available, is limited compared with dedicated production tracking software.

Verdict: Production Tracking Software for Task-Oriented Teams

Jira Pros & Key Features

• Customizable workflows and task boards for visualizing production processes
• Real-time tracking of task progress and team workload
• Integrates with numerous third-party tools for time tracking, reporting and collaboration
• Kanban, scrum and dashboard views provide flexible project visualization
• Cloud-based system with web and mobile access

Jira Cons & Limitations

• Lacks built-in production scheduling and material planning features
• No native shop floor or resource tracking for manufacturing operations
• Advanced production reporting requires additional add-ons
• Mobile functionality is limited compared with dedicated production tracking software
• Interface can be complex and overwhelming for non-technical users

Jira Pricing

• Free plan available for small teams
• Standard: $7.75/user/month
• Premium: $15.25/user/month
• Enterprise: Contact sales

Jira Reviews

• G2 review: 4.3/5
• Capterra review: 4.4/5

Highlighted User Reviews

• “In my office we use jira for task management and time management, which helps us for team projects with multiple moving parts.” Saili K – from G2
• “Once we got past the learning phase, Jira significantly improved our project efficiency and collaboration.” Abu R – from Capterra

7. DELMIAWorks

DELMIAworks is a comprehensive production tracking software built for manufacturers who need full visibility into their operations. It provides real-time monitoring of production workflows, inventory, and shop floor activities, while also integrating quality management, scheduling, and material planning. The platform is highly configurable and includes reporting and analytics tools that help manufacturers track performance, optimize resources, and reduce downtime.

On the downside, DELMIAworks can be complex and resource-intensive to implement. Smaller manufacturers may find the learning curve steep, and navigating the system without dedicated support can be challenging. Its mobile capabilities are limited compared with lighter production tracking software, and the cost of the platform can be prohibitive for small to mid-sized businesses. Additionally, the setup and customization process can require significant time and expertise.

Verdict: Production Tracking Software for Mid-to-Large Manufacturers

DELMIAworks Pros & Key Features

• Real-time monitoring of production workflows and shop floor activities
• Integrated quality management and compliance tracking
• Advanced scheduling and material planning capabilities
• Customizable reporting and analytics for operational insights
• Highly configurable to adapt to complex manufacturing processes

DELMIAworks Cons & Limitations

• Complex setup and configuration requiring technical expertise
• High cost, less suitable for small manufacturers
• Steep learning curve for non-technical users
• Limited mobile functionality compared with lighter production tracking software
• Time-intensive customization and implementation process

DELMIAworks Pricing

• Pricing varies depending on company size and modules; contact DELMIAworks sales for a quote

DELMIAWorks Reviews

• G2 review: 4.1/5
• Capterra review: 4.1/5

Highlighted User Reviews

• “I like its concept of making jobs easier by making your business operations transparent and more organized. Easy to manage and handle” Khurshid Muhammad S. – from G2
• It includes everything from order entry, inventory, machine scheduling to accounting Pierrette L. – from Capterra

8. Visual Planning

Visual Planning is a versatile production tracking software designed to help manufacturers organize, monitor, and optimize production schedules. Its drag-and-drop interface and customizable calendars allow managers to visualize tasks, resources, and timelines easily.

The software provides real-time updates on task progress and resource allocation, helping teams reduce bottlenecks and improve efficiency. Integration with other business tools and reporting features gives manufacturers a comprehensive overview of operations.

Despite its flexibility, Visual Planning has some limitations. Its production tracking features are relatively basic compared with more advanced platforms, lacking robust tools like Gantt charts, material planning or in-depth resource leveling. Mobile access is limited, and customization options for complex workflows can be restrictive for manufacturers with specialized processes. Users may also find that scaling the system for larger teams or multiple sites requires additional setup and support.

Verdict: Production Tracking Software for Overview of Operations

Visual Planning Pros & Key Features

• Drag-and-drop interface for scheduling and task management
• Real-time updates on task progress and resource allocation
• Customizable calendars and views for easy visualization of production
• Integration with other business tools for reporting and operational oversight
• Helps reduce bottlenecks and improve efficiency in production workflows

Visual Planning Cons & Limitations

• Basic production tracking features, lacking Gantt charts and material planning
• No advanced workload management or resource leveling
• Limited mobile access
• Workflow customization is limited for complex or specialized production processes
• Scaling for larger teams or multiple sites requires additional setup and support

Visual Planning Pricing

• Pricing varies depending on the number of users and modules; contact Visual Planning for a quote

Visual Planning Reviews

• G2 review: 3.8/5
• Capterra review: 4.6/5

Highlighted User Reviews

• “Scheduling tasks for different employees is very simple, you just click on their box and then click add card.” Benjamin M – from G2
• “Great for keeping up with a fluid production schedule.” Dave O – from Capterra

9. Tactic by Waterloo

Tactic by Waterloo is a cloud-based production tracking software that provides manufacturers with real-time visibility into production workflows, inventory, and resource allocation. Its platform is highly visual, allowing teams to manage tasks, monitor job progress, and track materials using interactive dashboards. Tactic also includes reporting and analytics features, helping managers identify bottlenecks, optimize resource usage, and make data-driven decisions efficiently.

Despite its strengths, Tactic has some drawbacks for manufacturers with complex or large-scale operations. It lacks advanced production planning features such as Gantt charts, material requirements planning and detailed workload management. Mobile capabilities are limited, and the system may require training for non-technical users to fully utilize all features. Additionally, scaling the software for multiple sites or highly customized workflows can be challenging without additional configuration.

Verdict: Production Tracking Software for Highly Visual Teams

Tactic by Waterloo Pros & Key Features

• Real-time visibility into production workflows, inventory, and resource allocation
• Interactive dashboards for monitoring task progress and materials
• Reporting and analytics to optimize production and resource usage
• Cloud-based system for easy access and collaboration
• Visual interface simplifies tracking and managing production tasks

Tactic by Waterloo Cons & Limitations

• Lacks advanced production planning features like Gantt charts and MRP
• No detailed workload management for balancing resources across teams
• Mobile functionality is limited compared with other platforms
• May require training for non-technical users to fully leverage features
• Scaling for multiple sites or highly customized workflows can be challenging

Tactic by Waterloo Pricing

• Pricing varies depending on the number of users and configuration; contact Tactic by Waterloo for a quote

Tactic by Waterloo Reviews

• G2 Review: 4.8/5
• Capterra Review: 4.6/5

Highlighted User Reviews

• “One of the things I really appreciate about Tactic is the ability to reserve my preferred computer station and easily check who will be working on that day. It’s so convenient to see the availability of each person and their specific time slots.” Angela O. – from G2
• “The ability to customize and to integrate TACTIC into the existing ERP/MRP was key!” – Allen D. – from Capterra

10. Fishbowl Inventory

Fishbowl Inventory is a production tracking software designed to help small and mid-sized manufacturers manage inventory, production workflows, and material requirements. It integrates seamlessly with QuickBooks and Xero, providing visibility into production costs, inventory levels, and order fulfillment. Fishbowl’s intuitive interface and reporting tools make it easier for managers to track job progress, monitor resource usage, and optimize production processes in real time.

However, Fishbowl has several limitations that may affect larger or more complex operations. Its production scheduling and planning features are relatively basic, lacking advanced tools like Gantt charts or capacity planning. Workload management across multiple machines or teams is limited, and mobile functionality is restricted compared with other production tracking software. Additionally, fully leveraging Fishbowl’s features may require additional integrations, which can increase cost and setup complexity.

Verdict: Production Tracking Software for Warehouse Workflows

Fishbowl Inventory Pros & Key Features

• Tracks inventory, production workflows, and material requirements in real time
• Integrates with QuickBooks and Xero for accounting and cost tracking
• Reporting tools provide insight into job progress, costs, and resource usage
• Intuitive interface simplifies production tracking for small teams
• Helps optimize production processes and order fulfillment

Fishbowl Inventory Cons & Limitations

• Basic production scheduling and planning features, lacking Gantt charts or capacity planning
• No advanced workload management for teams or machines
• Mobile functionality is limited
• Full functionality may require additional paid integrations
• Not ideal for complex or multi-site manufacturing operations

Fishbowl Inventory Pricing

• Pricing varies by number of users and modules; contact Fishbowl for a quote

Fishbowl Inventory Pricing

• Contact for quote (starting at $4,395)

Fishbowl Inventory Reviews

• G2 review: 4/5
• Capterra review: 4.2/5

Highlighted User Reviews

• “We were looking for a platform to help us keep up with our inventory quantities, costs, ordering, and manufacturing.” Bryan W – from G2
• “There is a learning curve but in the end you have what you need.” Rulon C – from Capterra

Related Content

The best production inventory software is necessary for greater efficiency. For those who want to read more about project management software, production management, planning and more, check out the links below.

• Best Project Management Software: Rankings, Reviews & Comparisons
• Production Management: A Quick Guide
• Production Planning in Manufacturing: Best Practices
• Production Scheduling Basics
• How to Create a Master Production Schedule (MPS)

ProjectManager is online production planning software that empowers everyone to plan, manage and track their production run in real time. It gives manufacturers automated and custom workload, task approval, filtered reports and much more. Join teams at Avis, Nestle and Siemens who are using our software to deliver successful projects. Get started with ProjectManager today for free.

The post 10 Best Production Tracking Software appeared first on ProjectManager.

These timesheet templates are designed to be simple, customizable and accessible for anyone, regardless of experience with spreadsheets or document software. With these daily, weekly and monthly trackers, you can find a template that fits your needs. Using these templates can save time, reduce errors and provide a clear overview of work hours across multiple tasks and projects.

Free Timesheet Templates for Excel

Tracking work hours accurately is crucial for payroll, project management and productivity. Free timesheet templates for Excel are a simple way to record daily or weekly hours, monitor tasks and ensure projects stay on schedule. These templates are easy to use and can be customized to fit individual or team needs without requiring advanced spreadsheet skills.

Excel timesheet templates offer flexibility and accessibility for both personal and professional use. Whether you need a basic daily tracker or a more detailed weekly report, these templates help reduce errors, save time and give a clear overview of hours worked across multiple tasks or projects. Using them can make managing work hours more efficient and organized. Simply click on the images to download each template.

Daily Excel Timesheet Template

A daily Excel timesheet template is a practical tool for tracking work hours on a day-to-day basis. It allows employees or freelancers to log the exact hours they start and finish each task, making it easier to calculate total hours worked. With built-in formulas, the template can automatically total hours, reducing errors and saving time on manual calculations.

Users can also include columns for project names, task descriptions and breaks to provide a complete picture of how time is spent throughout the day. This level of detail helps managers monitor productivity and ensures that employees are accurately compensated for their work.

Daily Excel timesheet templates are highly customizable and suitable for a wide range of workplaces. They can be adapted for part-time, full-time or shift-based schedules, making them versatile for teams of any size. By using a structured template, individuals and managers gain clear visibility into work patterns, identify areas for improvement and maintain organized records for payroll or reporting purposes. Overall, a daily Excel timesheet template streamlines time tracking and enhances efficiency without requiring specialized software.

ProjectManager’s timesheets are more powerful than standard Excel or Google Sheets templates because they combine time tracking with full project management tools. Employees can log hours directly against tasks or projects, and managers can approve, monitor and analyze work in real time. Integrated dashboards, automated calculations and reporting features eliminate manual errors and provide instant insights into productivity, budgets and resource allocation.

Unlike static spreadsheets, ProjectManager’s timesheets update automatically across the platform, allowing teams to see progress, identify bottlenecks and make informed decisions quickly, all in one centralized system. Get started with ProjectManager today for free.

Weekly Excel Timesheet Template

A weekly Excel timesheet template is designed to help track hours worked over an entire week, providing a clear overview of time spent on different tasks or projects. Users can log start and end times for each day, calculate total daily hours and automatically sum weekly totals using built-in formulas.

This template is especially useful for managers and team leaders who need to monitor workloads, plan resources and ensure accurate payroll. By including columns for project names, task details and breaks, the template gives a comprehensive picture of how time is allocated throughout the week.

Weekly Excel timesheet templates are flexible and suitable for employees with regular schedules, part-time shifts or varying workloads. They help reduce manual errors, save time on calculations and create a consistent record of work hours that can be shared across teams.

A structured weekly template enables better analysis of productivity trends, facilitates easier reporting, and enhances accountability for both individuals and managers, making it a practical solution for any organization that requires reliable time tracking.

Monthly Excel Timesheet Template

A monthly Excel timesheet template is an efficient way to track hours over an entire month, providing a big-picture view of employee work patterns and project progress. Users can record daily start and end times, breaks and total hours, while formulas automatically calculate weekly and monthly totals.

This type of template is particularly useful for payroll processing, budget tracking and long-term project management. Capturing detailed information for each day helps managers ensure accurate compensation and monitor overall team productivity.

Monthly Excel timesheet templates are versatile and can be customized for different work schedules, including full-time, part-time or shift-based teams. They simplify record-keeping, reduce calculation errors and create an organized log of hours worked that can be easily reviewed or shared.

A structured monthly template helps organizations gain valuable insights into time allocation, identify patterns or bottlenecks and maintain consistent documentation for reporting, compliance and performance analysis.

Free Timesheet Templates for Google Sheets

Free timesheet templates for Google Sheets provide an easy and accessible way to track work hours without needing complex software. Whether you’re managing a team or logging your own time, these templates help organize daily, weekly or monthly hours, calculate totals automatically and keep records accurate and updated. They are simple to customize and can be used for payroll, project tracking or productivity analysis.

Daily Timesheet Template for Google Sheets

A daily timesheet template for Google Sheets is a convenient way to track work hours for each day, helping individuals and teams stay organized. Users can log start and end times, record breaks and automatically calculate total hours with built-in formulas.

Columns can be added for project names, task descriptions or notes, giving a clear picture of how time is spent. This level of detail supports accurate payroll, task management and productivity tracking without needing additional software.

Daily Google Sheets timesheet templates are highly flexible and easy to customize for different types of work schedules. They work well for freelancers, remote teams or full-time employees and can be adjusted for multiple projects or clients. A structured daily template helps managers and employees gain visibility into work patterns, reduce errors from manual calculations and maintain organized records for reporting or performance analysis, all within a free and accessible platform.

Related: 10 Best Project Timeline Software of 2025

Weekly Timesheet Template for Google Sheets

A weekly timesheet template for Google Sheets helps track work hours over the course of a week, providing a clear overview of time spent on various tasks or projects. Users can log start and end times for each day, calculate daily totals and automatically sum weekly hours using formulas.

Columns for project names, task descriptions or breaks can be included to give a complete picture of how time is allocated. This makes it easier for managers to monitor productivity, plan resources and ensure accurate payroll without manual calculations.

Weekly Google Sheets timesheet templates are flexible and suitable for a variety of work schedules, including full-time, part-time or shift-based teams. They simplify record-keeping, reduce errors and create consistent documentation that can be easily shared or reviewed. Using a structured weekly template allows managers and employees to analyze work patterns, improve accountability and maintain organized records for reporting, billing or project management purposes.

Monthly Timesheet Template for Google Sheets

A monthly timesheet template for Google Sheets is ideal for tracking work hours over an entire month, giving managers and employees a comprehensive view of time spent on tasks and projects. Users can record daily start and end times, breaks and total hours, while formulas automatically calculate weekly and monthly totals. This helps ensure accurate payroll, monitor team productivity and track project progress all within a single, easy-to-use spreadsheet.

Monthly Google Sheets timesheet templates are highly customizable and suitable for various work schedules, including full-time, part-time or shift-based employees. They provide organized records that can be easily shared or reviewed, reduce errors from manual calculations and offer valuable insights into work patterns. By using a structured monthly template, teams can maintain consistency, improve accountability and streamline time tracking for reporting, billing or performance analysis.

Free Timesheet Templates for Word

Free timesheet templates for Word provide a simple way to track work hours and manage tasks using a familiar format. They are easy to customize for daily, weekly or monthly use and allow individuals or teams to record hours, project details and notes without needing spreadsheets or specialized software. These templates are ideal for creating printable timesheets or maintaining digital records for payroll, project tracking and productivity monitoring.

Printable Daily Timesheet Template for Word

A printable daily timesheet template for Word offers a straightforward way to record work hours on a day-to-day basis. It allows employees, freelancers or contractors to log start and end times, breaks and total hours worked, creating a clear record that can be submitted for payroll or invoicing. Since it’s designed in Word, the template is easy to format, customize and print, making it ideal for workplaces that prefer hard copies or require physical signatures for approval.

Using a daily timesheet template in Word also benefits teams that need quick access to a simple, non-digital tracking method. It can include sections for project names, task descriptions and notes, ensuring all relevant information is captured. This printable template helps maintain accurate records, streamline payroll processing and support accountability across multiple work environments.

Printable Weekly Timesheet Template for Word

A printable weekly timesheet template for Word provides a simple way to track work hours over a week. Employees, contractors or freelancers can record daily start and end times, breaks and total hours worked, with a weekly summary at the bottom for quick review. Designed in Word, the template is easy to edit, customize and print, making it a practical choice for workplaces that require hard copies or signed documentation for payroll or project approvals.

This type of template is ideal for teams or individuals who prefer a clear and straightforward format without needing spreadsheet software. It can include sections for project names, task descriptions and notes, ensuring all details are captured in one document. A structured weekly format helps businesses reduce errors, maintain organized records and simplify time reporting for payroll, billing or productivity tracking.

Printable Monthly Timesheet Template for Word

A printable monthly timesheet template for Word is designed to track work hours across an entire month in a clear and organized format. It allows employees, contractors or freelancers to log daily start and end times, breaks and total hours worked, while providing a monthly summary for quick review. Since it’s built in Word, the template is easy to customize and print, making it ideal for workplaces that need physical timesheets for approval or record keeping.

This type of template is especially useful for payroll processing, invoicing and long-term project tracking. It can include sections for project names, task descriptions and notes, ensuring all relevant details are documented. A structured monthly layout helps businesses simplify time tracking, reduce manual errors and maintain accurate records for compliance, reporting and performance analysis.

Free Related Templates

In addition to timesheet templates, these free tools help improve scheduling, task tracking and workload management. Each template is designed to save time, reduce errors and keep projects organized.

Employee Schedule Template

This template helps plan and manage employee shifts, track availability and ensure adequate staffing levels throughout the week or month.

Task Tracker Dashboard

A task tracker dashboard provides a visual overview of assignments, deadlines and progress, helping teams stay on track and meet project goals.

Workload Analysis Template

Use this template to evaluate team capacity, balance workloads and identify resource gaps to improve efficiency and productivity.

How to Manage Project Costs With ProjectManager

ProjectManager provides advanced tools that go beyond what a simple template can offer. Unlike static spreadsheets, our software connects timesheets directly to task and project data, ensuring real-time accuracy in cost tracking. Multiple project views, including Gantt charts, kanban boards and dashboards, allow teams to visualize workloads and budgets while timesheets automatically record labor costs. This integration helps managers make informed decisions faster and keep projects on track financially.

Optimize Resource Management

We make it easy to manage resources efficiently with features designed to improve visibility and reduce workload imbalances. Availability indicators show when team members are free or overbooked, while color-coded workload charts provide instant clarity on capacity. A dedicated team page centralizes resource allocation, helping managers ensure that tasks are assigned effectively and costs remain under control.

Track Costs in Real Time

Tracking costs is seamless thanks to real-time data updates across all project tools. Expenses, labor hours and resource usage are captured instantly, giving managers a clear overview of current and projected spending. Automated reporting highlights budget performance and helps identify cost overruns early, ensuring projects are delivered on time and within budget.

Related Timesheet Content

Looking to learn more about time management beyond timesheet templates? You’re in the right place. Below are a couple of links on timesheet management and how timesheet software can help manage construction crews.

• Timesheet Management: How to Create & Manage Timesheets
• How to Make a Construction Timesheet With Timesheet Software

ProjectManager is online project and portfolio management software that connects teams, whether they’re in the office or out in the field. They can share files, comment at the task level and stay updated with email and in-app notifications. Join teams at Avis, Nestle and Siemens who use our software to deliver successful projects. Get started with ProjectManager for free today.

The post 9 Free Timesheet Templates for Excel, Google Sheets & Word appeared first on ProjectManager.

A well-designed Google Sheets dashboard template takes this a step further by providing a ready-made structure that saves you time. Instead of building from scratch, you can plug in your data and immediately get a visual overview of your operations. These templates are customizable, easy to share and ideal for teams who need transparency across departments or stakeholders.

For project management, a Google Sheets dashboard template simplifies tracking tasks, deadlines and progress. For business reporting, it gives you snapshots of financials, sales, inventory or performance in one view. This roundup of dashboards highlights some of the most useful templates that can help streamline your workflows and keep your team aligned.

1. Project Tracking Google Sheets Dashboard

A project tracking Google Sheets dashboard is a practical way to monitor project milestones, task progress and deadlines in one centralized place. It gives project managers and team members a visual overview of work status using tools like Gantt-style bars, conditional formatting for task statuses and progress indicators.

This makes it easier to keep track of what’s been completed, what’s in progress and what might be falling behind schedule. Whether you’re running a marketing campaign, software sprint or construction job, this dashboard helps keep deliverables aligned and projects moving forward.

This template is especially useful for small teams or businesses looking for a lightweight solution without investing in complex software. With a project tracking dashboard in Google Sheets, updates can be made in real-time, shared across departments and viewed from any device.

Users can also customize fields to match their project’s unique workflow. While it may lack some advanced automation, it provides an accessible way to bring visibility to project health, maintain accountability and identify roadblocks early—all within a tool many teams are already familiar with.

2. KPI Google Sheets Dashboard

A KPI Google Sheets dashboard is a powerful tool for measuring performance across departments, teams or entire organizations. It helps managers and executives visualize key performance indicators—such as revenue growth, conversion rates or productivity metrics—in real time.

By using graphs, tables and conditional formatting, a well-built KPI dashboard transforms complex data into insights that are easy to interpret and share. It supports quick decision-making and keeps business goals front and center for everyone involved.

A Google Sheets dashboard template specifically designed for KPIs saves time and ensures consistency in reporting. Rather than building from scratch, users can plug in their data and instantly generate performance visuals. These templates are easy to modify, making them suitable for monthly reporting, team reviews or executive presentations. They’re also cloud-based and collaborative, so multiple stakeholders can access and update them as needed, no matter where they’re located.

However, these templates often require manual updates and don’t offer live data feeds. That’s where ProjectManager’s real-time dashboard comes in. Unlike static templates, our project and portfolio dashboards automatically pull live data from ongoing tasks and projects, displaying up-to-date KPIs with no extra effort. This gives managers an accurate, dynamic snapshot of performance, costs, time and more, allowing them to respond to changes immediately—without sifting through spreadsheets. Get started with ProjectManager today for free.

3. Budget Tracker Google Sheets Dashboard

A budget tracker Google Sheets dashboard helps manage project finances by clearly displaying planned costs, actual spending and budget variances. With this type of dashboard, users can track expenses across categories, spot overspending early and adjust allocations as needed. Charts and graphs make it easy to visualize trends and compare projections to reality, ensuring financial visibility throughout the project lifecycle.

Using a budget dashboard template in Google Sheets simplifies setup and ensures consistency across projects. These templates can include automated calculations, dropdown menus for cost categories, and color-coded alerts for budget overruns. Because Google Sheets is cloud-based, stakeholders can collaborate on the same file in real time, improving transparency and reducing the risk of duplicate entries or outdated figures. It’s a reliable option for project managers, finance teams and small business owners who want financial oversight without needing complex accounting software.

4. Workload Google Sheets Dashboard

A workload Google Sheets dashboard allows teams to visualize how tasks are distributed across members and identify imbalances before they impact productivity. It provides a clear overview of who’s working on what, when and how much capacity they have left. Using charts or heat maps, managers can identify overloaded team members and reassign tasks to enhance efficiency and prevent burnout.

These dashboards are particularly useful for teams managing multiple projects or juggling competing deadlines. With the help of a Google Sheets dashboard template, workload data can be organized by team member, task or time frame. Color-coded cells, automated formulas and conditional formatting make it easy to track capacity and ensure equitable distribution of work. Since it’s built in Google Sheets, teams can access it from anywhere and update it live, making it a useful collaboration tool as well.

5. Task Tracker Google Sheets Dashboard

A task tracker Google Sheets dashboard is a simple but effective tool for staying on top of daily responsibilities, milestones and deadlines. It offers a clear layout of all tasks, their assigned owners, statuses and due dates. This visual clarity helps individuals and teams manage workloads more effectively and ensures nothing falls through the cracks. It’s especially helpful in fast-paced environments where visibility and accountability are crucial.

Using a Google Sheets dashboard template for task tracking removes the hassle of setting everything up from scratch. Most templates come with built-in progress bars, status dropdowns and conditional formatting to automatically update task statuses. Whether used for individual productivity or team coordination, this kind of dashboard streamlines task management and promotes transparency. It’s a low-cost, high-impact way to organize workflows and keep everyone aligned.

Related: 10 Free Task Management Templates

Benefits of Using a Google Sheets Dashboard Template

A Google Sheets dashboard template offers an efficient and accessible way to visualize data, track performance and manage workflows without needing specialized software. With prebuilt layouts and formulas, these templates eliminate the need to build dashboards from scratch—saving time and reducing the risk of formatting errors. Whether you’re monitoring KPIs, tracking a budget or managing project tasks, a template provides an organized framework to help you stay focused and informed.

One of the biggest advantages is ease of use. Most teams are already familiar with Google Sheets, so there’s no learning curve involved. Templates are cloud-based, allowing for real-time collaboration and updates from anywhere. Multiple users can view and edit dashboards simultaneously, making them ideal for remote or hybrid teams. Additionally, templates are highly customizable—you can adapt them to suit your goals, whether you’re working in finance, operations, marketing or project management.

Templates also enhance decision-making by transforming raw data into charts, graphs and summaries. They offer quick insight into trends and outliers, helping you make informed choices faster. With built-in calculations, filters and conditional formatting, Google Sheets dashboard templates provide a powerful, no-cost solution for small businesses and teams that need clear, consistent reporting.

Disadvantages of Using a Google Sheets Dashboard Template

While Google Sheets dashboard templates are convenient and user-friendly, they also come with limitations—especially as projects grow in size and complexity. One major drawback is the need for manual updates. Unless you connect your dashboard to external data sources using scripts or third-party add-ons, you’ll need to input or refresh data manually. This creates a risk of outdated information and data entry errors, which can lead to misinformed decisions.

Another limitation is performance. As the volume of data increases, especially across multiple sheets and tabs, Google Sheets can slow down or become harder to manage. Complex dashboards with numerous formulas and visual elements may also become difficult to troubleshoot or share across teams. And while customization is possible, building more advanced dashboards often requires spreadsheet expertise, which not all team members may have.

Lastly, templates don’t offer the automation, security or real-time data syncing of dedicated project management software. They can’t pull in live task updates, integrate deeply with other tools, or provide audit trails and user-level permissions. For teams managing multiple projects or seeking real-time oversight, a static dashboard may fall short. In these cases, a platform like ProjectManager offers a stronger alternative with dynamic dashboards, automated tracking and built-in collaboration features designed for high-performance environments.

ProjectManager Is Better Than a Google Sheets Dashboard

ProjectManager offers a more powerful and scalable alternative to a Google Sheets dashboard by combining real-time dashboards with dynamic reporting tools and secure timesheet tracking. While Google Sheets can provide visual snapshots of data, our software goes further by automatically updating project status, budgets and team performance as work happens.

Customizable reports can be generated instantly for stakeholders, giving leadership precise insights without the manual upkeep that spreadsheets require. Our integrated and secure timesheets also ensure accurate tracking of hours, making payroll and forecasting much easier to manage within the same system.

Learn more about our dynamic project dashboards in the short video below.

Manage Projects With Multiple Project Views

While a Google Sheets dashboard is usually tied to a single project or data set, our platform supports different project views—like Gantt charts, kanban boards, calendars and task lists—that update in real time. These views can be filtered and switched depending on the user’s role or preference, making it easier to monitor progress across projects without switching tools.

For example, task lists are crucial for breaking down work into actionable steps and giving team members clear visibility into their responsibilities and deadlines. Gantt charts excel at scheduling work on a timeline, linking dependencies to avoid cost overruns, filtering for the critical path to identify tasks with zero slack and setting a baseline to track project variance in real time.

Balance Workload, Track Availability and More With Resource Tools

We also outperform spreadsheets in resource management. It tracks team availability, planned hours and actual workload in one place, giving managers a clear picture of how their resources are being utilized. The color-coded workload chart makes it easy to spot overbooked or underutilized team members, helping prevent burnout or inefficiencies.

Most importantly, the dedicated team page centralizes all personnel details—including roles, capacity and current assignments—making scheduling and planning far more strategic and data-driven than what’s possible in Google Sheets.

Related Google Sheets Dashboard Content

Looking for more than a Google Sheets dashboard template? How about 32 free Google Sheets templates? Or free Excel dashboard templates? There’s that and many more to find in the links below.

• 32 Must-Have Project Management Templates for Google Sheets
• What Is a Dashboard? 5 Dashboard Examples
• 5 Free Excel Dashboard Templates
• 4 Must-Have Project Dashboard Tools
• Free Gantt Chart Templates for Excel, Google Sheets & More

ProjectManager is online project and portfolio management software that connects teams whether they’re in the office or out in the field. They can share files, comment at the task level and stay up to date with email and in-app notifications. Join teams at Avis, Nestle and Siemens who are using our software to deliver successful projects. Get started with ProjectManager today for free.

The post 5 Google Sheets Dashboard Templates for Business and Project Management appeared first on ProjectManager.

This blog explores what construction monitoring is, why it matters and when it takes place in a project’s timeline. By understanding this process, project managers and stakeholders can ensure greater visibility, improved coordination and a more predictable outcome from start to finish.

What Is Construction Monitoring?

Construction monitoring is the process of systematically observing, evaluating and reporting the progress and quality of construction work. It helps ensure the project adheres to design specifications, timelines and budget requirements. Monitoring typically involves regular site visits, reporting systems and communication between stakeholders to resolve issues quickly and ensure compliance throughout construction.

This process directly relates to the “monitoring and control” phase in the project life cycle. In that stage, project teams assess progress, track performance metrics and implement corrective actions to keep the project on track with scope, schedule and cost objectives.

There are several ways to monitor construction projects. Gantt charts schedule tasks, while resource and cost management features can compare actual effort against planned effort. Reports can provide a more detailed view of these metrics. A dashboard offers a high-level visual representation of key performance metrics (KPIs).

ProjectManager has all of these options and, better still, collects live data for a real-time capture of the project. It provides free, view-only guest licenses to keep stakeholders informed and real-time project and portfolio dashboards that track time, cost, resources and more, allowing general contractors to adjust the schedule proactively rather than reactively. Quickly spot delays, bottlenecks or scope creep and make informed decisions. Get started with ProjectManager today for free.

Why Is Construction Monitoring Important?

Construction monitoring provides ongoing assurance that the construction work meets the defined standards and project requirements. It helps detect deviations early, so issues can be resolved before escalating into costly delays or rework. This ongoing oversight promotes accountability, transparency and alignment between stakeholders. It also improves documentation, risk mitigation and overall quality control, ultimately protecting investments and ensuring the project’s objectives are met as intended.

When Does the Construction Monitoring Process Take Place?

The construction monitoring process begins during the construction phase, after pre-construction planning is complete and before post-construction activities such as commissioning and closeout begin. It spans the active building period when physical work is taking place on-site, continuing until the work is completed and verified.

In terms of the project management life cycle, construction monitoring occurs during the “execution” and “monitoring and control” phases. These phases involve implementing the plan and continuously tracking performance against baseline metrics to ensure successful delivery of the construction project.

What Are the Key Areas of Construction Monitoring?

Construction monitoring centers around the main components of a construction plan: schedule, budget, quality and scope of work. Each must be closely tracked to ensure project objectives are met. These elements are interconnected, so delays, excessive use of resources, overspending or quality issues in one area can quickly affect the others and disrupt overall progress.

Construction Schedules

Monitoring the construction schedule means regularly comparing actual progress against the planned timeline. This involves reviewing task completion, updating Gantt charts and holding weekly site meetings. By doing so, project managers can spot delays early and adjust resources or workflows to stay on track. Monitoring schedules is essential to ensure timely project delivery and reduce costly downtime caused by poor coordination or unexpected disruptions.

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Construction Schedule Template

Use this free Construction Schedule Template to manage your projects better.

Get the Template

Construction Budgets

To monitor a construction budget, project managers must track actual expenses against budgeted amounts, review invoices, approve payments and forecast future costs. This requires frequent updates to cost reports and coordination with procurement and finance teams.

Budget monitoring helps avoid cost overruns, manage change orders and keep the project financially viable. Without it, financial risks increase, overall project profitability may suffer or even worse, the project could fail due to lack of resources, which makes tracking budgets one of the most critical aspects of construction monitoring.

Construction Quality

Quality monitoring involves inspecting materials and workmanship to ensure they meet project specifications and building codes. Techniques include site inspections, material testing and reviewing contractor compliance with standards. This process helps identify defects early and avoid rework. Maintaining quality is vital for safety, longevity and client satisfaction. Poor quality control can lead to legal liabilities, reputational damage and increased maintenance costs.

Scope of Work (SoW)

Monitoring the scope of work requires ensuring all tasks and deliverables align with the original contract and project documentation. This involves reviewing progress reports, conducting audits and managing change requests. Keeping the scope in check prevents scope creep, delays and disputes. A well-monitored SoW ensures stakeholders stay aligned, resources are properly allocated and the finished work matches the agreed-upon objectives.

Resource Utilization

Monitoring resource utilization involves tracking how labor, equipment and materials are being used on-site compared to the project plan. This includes reviewing timesheets, delivery logs and equipment usage reports. Efficient resource use prevents bottlenecks, avoids over-allocation and ensures productivity remains high.

If resources are mismanaged, it can lead to schedule delays, cost overruns or idle labor. Proper construction monitoring helps project managers make timely adjustments and ensure the right resources are available when and where they’re needed most.

Construction Change Orders

Monitoring construction change orders requires logging all modifications to the original scope, tracking their approval status and updating schedules and budgets accordingly. Each change order should be documented, costed and communicated to the relevant parties.

Without proper oversight, change orders can lead to confusion, delays or disputes. Consistent monitoring ensures transparency, avoids scope creep and helps maintain control over project goals, timelines and financial expectations throughout the construction process. It also provides a clear audit trail for all changes made.

Construction Document Control

Monitoring document control involves managing the flow, storage and accessibility of project documents such as drawings, contracts, RFIs and reports. A centralized construction monitoring software should be used to ensure documents are versioned, approved and distributed correctly.

Related: 18 Best Construction Scheduling Software of 2025

Poor document control can cause miscommunication and rework. Strong monitoring ensures everyone is working with the latest information, which boosts efficiency, maintains compliance and reduces errors. It also protects the project from legal or contractual issues by keeping a reliable record of all correspondence.

Who Is Responsible for Construction Monitoring?

Construction monitoring is a collaborative effort involving multiple parties. Each stakeholder plays a distinct role in tracking progress, ensuring quality and resolving issues as they arise. While the construction project manager usually leads the process, owners, contractors and other professionals contribute by providing oversight, documentation and on-the-ground insights.

• Project Owner: Initiates the construction effort and has a vested interest in ensuring that it stays on schedule, on budget and up to standards. Their role in construction monitoring includes reviewing reports, approving major changes and maintaining communication with the project manager.
• General Contractor: Executes the construction work and plays a crucial role in day-to-day monitoring. They supervise subcontractors, manage resources and report progress to the project manager. Contractors also flag issues that could affect timelines or quality and submit updates on costs, safety and inspections.
• Construction Project Manager: The construction project manager is the central figure in the construction monitoring process. They coordinate with contractors, consultants and owners to track progress against the schedule, budget and scope. Their responsibilities include reviewing reports, updating plans, managing risks and ensuring documentation is accurate and timely.

Related: 32 Construction Documents (Templates Included)

Key Construction Monitoring Tools

There are many tools available to help monitor construction projects effectively. These tools provide real-time visibility into progress, performance and potential risks. Choosing the right combination of tools allows teams to track essential metrics, make data-driven decisions and ensure that construction activities stay aligned with the project plan, timeline and budget throughout the execution phase.

Gantt Charts

Gantt charts are essential for tracking construction schedules. They provide a visual timeline of tasks, durations and dependencies, helping teams identify progress and potential delays. In some cases, Gantt charts can also track task-specific costs and resource allocations, offering a more complete view of project performance.

Project managers can use Gantt charts to adjust timelines proactively and ensure that milestones are met as planned, making them a foundational tool for construction monitoring and effective schedule management.

Project Dashboards

Project dashboards provide a real-time overview of the construction project’s health. These tools consolidate key metrics such as schedule progress, cost performance and risk status into a single interface. Dashboards allow teams to monitor cost and schedule variance at a glance, identify problem areas and make informed decisions quickly.

They are especially useful for reporting to stakeholders who need regular updates without diving into detailed documents or spreadsheets, making them practical and efficient for monitoring construction projects.

Construction Project Management Reports

Project management reports help communicate detailed updates throughout the construction monitoring process. Status reports and progress reports are the most common, but others include cost reports, risk reports and resource reports. These documents provide in-depth insights into project performance, helping teams identify issues, track changes and maintain accountability.

Project managers and stakeholders can review reports regularly to ensure alignment with goals, respond to risks promptly and maintain control over key areas such as budget, scope and schedule throughout the project lifecycle.

Construction Daily Log

The construction daily log records day-to-day site activities, including weather conditions, labor hours, deliveries, inspections and incidents. This document is essential for monitoring daily progress, ensuring accountability and keeping a historical record of events.

It also helps identify trends or recurring issues that may impact the schedule or quality of work. Daily logs provide transparency across the team and serve as valuable references when disputes arise or adjustments to the project plan are needed.

Free Construction Monitoring Templates

Not ready to upgrade to project management software and real-time construction monitoring? You can use templates. We have over 100 free project management templates for Excel and Word that cover all aspects of managing projects. Here are just a few that can provide a monitoring framework.

Construction Scope of Work Template

Download this free construction scope of work template to outline specific tasks, deliverables, timelines and responsibilities for a construction project. It helps with construction monitoring by clearly defining what work needs to be done, who is responsible and when it should be completed—reducing confusion, preventing scope creep and making it easier to track progress against agreed-upon goals.

Construction Schedule Template

Use this free construction schedule template to outline key tasks, milestones, deadlines and dependencies for a construction project. It helps with construction monitoring by providing a clear roadmap for tracking progress, identifying delays and coordinating crews and resources, ensuring the project stays on time and aligned with the overall plan.

Construction Budget Template

This free construction budget template is a detailed document that outlines estimated and actual costs for labor, materials, equipment and other project expenses. It helps with construction monitoring by tracking spending in real time, comparing it to the planned budget and identifying cost overruns early, enabling better financial control and informed decision-making throughout the project.

ProjectManager Has Real-Time Construction Monitoring

ProjectManager’s tracking features are better than static templates. They enhance project scheduling by providing real-time visibility into task progress, time spent, resource use and overall performance. As work begins, team members can update task statuses, log hours and submit timesheets, feeding live data into your Gantt chart, dashboards and workload views.

This constant feedback loop lets project managers spot a shift in deadlines, reassign resources or modify dependencies. Tracking tools such as automated alerts, progress bars on Gantt charts and variance reports ensure your schedule stays aligned with reality and helps you keep the project on time, within budget, and under control.

Stay Informed With Customizable Reports and Secure Timesheets

Get accurate, real-time insights into labor, costs and progress with our construction monitoring features. Customizable reports allow project managers to track key construction metrics—like task completion, budget usage, resource allocation and timeline variances—tailored to stakeholders’ needs. Whether it’s a high-level progress summary for executives or a detailed cost breakdown for site supervisors, these reports ensure everyone has the information they need to make timely, informed decisions.

Secure timesheets ensure that labor hours are accurately logged and approved, which is essential for tracking subcontractor work, managing payroll and staying compliant. Since timesheets feed directly into the project plan and budget, any deviations in labor costs or timelines are immediately visible, enabling proactive adjustments to keep construction projects on schedule and within budget.

Streamline Construction Monitoring With Resource Management

ProjectManager’s resource management features, workload chart and team page work together to give project managers full visibility into labor, equipment and task allocation. The resource tools ensure the right workers and assets are assigned based on availability and skill, while the workload chart visually highlights over- or under-assigned team members to prevent delays and optimize crew efficiency by balancing workloads.

The team page centralizes assignments, availability and performance tracking, improving coordination between field crews and office staff. Together, these tools help construction teams respond quickly to changes, balance workloads and keep projects on schedule and on budget.

Related Construction Project Management Content

Construction monitoring is an important part of construction project management, but it’s only one piece of the larger picture. For more of those pieces, check out the links to recent articles below on the process of construction management, its phases and more.

• Construction Management: Process, Key Areas and Roles
• 20 Free Excel Construction Templates
• Construction Phases: Documentation, Templates & Steps
• 32 Construction Documents (Templates Included)
• Construction Reporting: Types of Construction Reports
• 14 Types of Construction Contracts: Pros, Cons & Best Practices

ProjectManager is online project and portfolio management software that connects teams whether they’re in the office or on the job site. They can share files, comment at the task level and stay updated with email and in-app notifications. Join teams at Avis, Nestle and Siemens who use our software to deliver successful projects. Get started with ProjectManager today for free.

The post Construction Monitoring: Keys for Tracking Your Project’s Success appeared first on ProjectManager.