To separate practical advice from generic career tips, the ProjectManager editorial team reviewed the questions aspiring and beginner construction project managers ask most often across the web.

Then, we selected the 10 most popular questions and collaborated with experienced construction project management professionals to provide practical, experience-based answers that reflect the real challenges of managing construction projects, teams, budgets and schedules. We hope they’re helpful for you!

1. How Do I Become a Construction Project Manager?

Before worrying about schedules, budgets or leading jobsite meetings, it’s worth understanding how most people actually get into the profession. There’s no single roadmap that every construction project manager follows, but there is a career path that’s far more common than the rest. Once you understand that foundation, it’s much easier to decide which route makes the most sense for your own career.

From a general perspective, the most common path starts with a degree in construction management, civil engineering or a related field, followed by an entry-level role such as Project Engineer, Field Engineer or Assistant Project Manager. From there, most professionals gradually take on larger responsibilities until they’re trusted to manage projects independently. That is the path most construction project managers take, but it’s not the only way to do it.

• Start in the field before moving into the office: Many outstanding project managers began as carpenters, electricians, plumbers or equipment operators. Firsthand construction experience makes scheduling, estimating and problem-solving much easier because you’ve actually performed the work yourself.
• Work under an experienced project manager: There isn’t a college class that teaches you how to handle late subcontractors, difficult owners or conflicting priorities. Shadowing an experienced PM accelerates your learning because you see real decisions being made every day.
• Move up through an Assistant Project Manager role: If you’re already working for a contractor, ask to help with RFIs, submittals, meeting minutes, cost tracking or schedule updates. Those responsibilities naturally build the technical foundation needed to manage an entire project.
• Learn construction software before you’re required to: Becoming comfortable with scheduling, budgeting, document management and project tracking software makes you valuable long before you’re officially managing projects. Many employers look for candidates who can contribute immediately.
• Earn certifications after gaining practical experience: Certifications can strengthen your resume, but they’re most valuable once you’ve worked on real projects. Combining field experience with professional credentials shows employers that you understand both construction theory and day-to-day project execution.

If you’re looking for software to plan, schedule and track construction projects from start to finish, try ProjectManager instead. ProjectManager is an award-winning project management solution that gives construction project managers the tools they need to ensure projects are completed on time, within budget and within scope. Create detailed construction schedules, estimate costs, allocate resources, set budgets, track progress and compare estimated versus actual project outcomes using real-time dashboards and reports to quickly identify delays or cost overruns. Get started with ProjectManager for free today.

2. What Should a Construction Project Manager Focus on During Their First 90 Days?

Your first 90 days aren’t about proving you’re the smartest person on the project—they’re about learning how your company operates and earning the trust of the people around you. Spend as much time on the jobsite as possible, understand how work flows from one trade to the next and learn your company’s scheduling, budgeting and procurement processes. Get to know your superintendents, foremen, subcontractors and project engineers because they’ll become your best source of practical knowledge. Most importantly, ask questions before making changes. A new construction project manager who listens first and acts second will usually gain credibility much faster than one who tries to reinvent everything on day one.

3. How Do I Become a Better Construction Project Manager?

Among all the questions aspiring construction project managers ask online, this appears more than any other. It’s also one of the hardest to answer because every professional brings different strengths, experience and weaknesses. Still, the following skills consistently separate average construction project managers from outstanding ones.

• Build schedules that reflect reality: Anyone can put activities on a Gantt chart, but experienced construction project managers build schedules around crew availability, subcontractor sequencing, inspections, long-lead materials and weather risks. A schedule should help the field, not just satisfy the owner.
• Know your budget before the accountant does: Don’t wait until the monthly cost report to discover you’re losing money. Track committed costs, labor hours, purchase orders and change orders every week so you can spot budget overruns while there’s still time to correct them.
• Spend more time in the field: The schedule may say drywall starts Monday, but a quick site walk might reveal framing isn’t ready. Visiting the jobsite regularly helps you catch problems that reports and dashboards simply can’t show.
• Learn how to forecast project outcomes: Strong construction project managers don’t just report today’s progress—they predict where the project will finish. Regularly compare planned versus actual performance so you can anticipate schedule delays, cost overruns and resource shortages before they become crises.
• Become obsessive about tracking progress: If you don’t know exactly what was completed this week, you can’t confidently update the schedule or forecast completion dates. Accurate progress tracking leads to better decisions, more reliable reporting and fewer unpleasant surprises.
• Understand contracts before problems arise: Construction contracts determine responsibilities, payment terms, notice requirements and change order procedures. Reading them only after a dispute starts usually means you’ve already missed opportunities to protect your project.
• Treat change orders like project risks: Every design revision or scope change has ripple effects on labor, materials, equipment and scheduling. Evaluate those impacts immediately instead of focusing only on the additional cost of the work itself.
• Master resource planning: Great schedules fail when the right crews or equipment aren’t available at the right time. Continuously balance labor, subcontractors, materials and equipment across the project to avoid idle time and productivity losses.
• Use project management software every day: The best construction project managers rely on software to update schedules, monitor budgets, assign work, manage RFIs, organize documents and keep everyone working from the latest project information instead of outdated spreadsheets.
• Keep learning from every completed project: Every job teaches lessons about estimating, scheduling, procurement, communication and risk management. Review what caused delays, cost overruns and successful outcomes so each project makes you a stronger construction project manager than the last.

4. What Does a Typical Day Look Like for a Construction Project Manager?

No two days are exactly alike, which is one of the reasons construction project management is both challenging and rewarding. A typical morning usually starts by reviewing the project schedule, checking overnight emails and identifying the day’s highest priorities before heading to the jobsite. Once there, you’ll walk the site with the superintendent, verify progress, discuss upcoming work and identify any issues that could affect the schedule or budget.

The rest of the day is often spent coordinating subcontractors, answering RFIs, reviewing submittals, tracking costs, attending meetings and keeping the owner informed of project progress. Of course, no plan survives the day exactly as expected. Deliveries get delayed, inspections uncover unexpected issues and design changes create new priorities. Successful construction project managers know how to shift their focus quickly without losing control of the project’s schedule, budget, quality standards or overall objectives.

5. What’s the Hardest Part of Being a Construction Project Manager?

The hardest part isn’t creating schedules, reviewing budgets or leading meetings—it’s keeping dozens of moving pieces aligned while everything around you keeps changing. Materials arrive late, subcontractors fall behind, owners request scope changes and weather or unforeseen site conditions can throw carefully planned schedules off course overnight. Meanwhile, you’re still responsible for maintaining the budget, coordinating inspections, answering RFIs, processing submittals and keeping everyone informed.

The real challenge is learning how to prioritize competing demands without losing sight of the project’s overall goals. Great construction project managers aren’t the ones who avoid problems—they’re the ones who recognize issues early, adjust the plan quickly and prevent one small setback from turning into a major project delay.

6. What Mistakes Do New Construction Project Managers Make?

Every new construction project manager makes mistakes because the job demands technical knowledge, organization and people skills all at once. Some lessons only come with experience, but certain errors appear again and again. Avoiding these common pitfalls can save months of frustration, costly delays and difficult conversations.

• Trusting the schedule instead of the jobsite: A project schedule might show everything is on track, but the field often tells a different story. New project managers spend too much time behind a desk instead of walking the site, talking to superintendents and verifying that work is actually progressing as planned.
• Waiting too long to address problems: Small issues rarely stay small in construction. A delayed material delivery, an unanswered RFI or a subcontractor falling two days behind can quickly affect multiple trades if you don’t step in immediately and develop a recovery plan.
• Focusing only on today’s work: It’s easy to spend the entire day putting out fires, but experienced project managers are always looking two or three weeks ahead. Planning upcoming procurement, inspections, crew availability and long-lead materials prevents tomorrow’s emergencies.
• Failing to keep accurate cost and progress records: New project managers sometimes assume they’ll remember important details later. They won’t. Track completed work, labor hours, production rates, change orders and project costs consistently because those records drive better forecasts and protect you during disputes.
• Trying to solve every problem alone: Construction is a team sport. Superintendents, foremen, estimators, subcontractors and experienced tradespeople have probably seen your problem before. Asking questions early isn’t a weakness—it’s usually the fastest way to make the right decision and keep the project moving.

7. How Do Construction Project Managers Handle Difficult Owners?

Every project owner has a different personality, communication style and level of construction knowledge. Still, experienced construction project managers rely on a handful of proven habits that help keep even the most demanding owners productive and engaged.

• Set expectations before construction begins: Difficult owners often become frustrated because they expected something different. Walk them through the schedule, decision deadlines, approval process and potential risks early so there are fewer surprises as the project progresses.
• Communicate proactively, not reactively: Don’t wait for the owner to discover bad news. If a delivery is delayed or a subcontractor falls behind, explain what happened, what you’re doing about it and how it affects the overall project before they have to ask.
• Document every important decision: Follow up meetings, phone calls and verbal approvals with written documentation. Good records eliminate misunderstandings and prevent conversations from turning into debates about who said what three weeks earlier.
• Keep emotions out of difficult conversations: Some owners question every decision or challenge every invoice. Stay professional, stick to the facts, refer back to the contract and avoid taking criticism personally. Calm, consistent communication usually earns respect over time.
• Know when to say no—and explain why: Owners sometimes request changes that impact cost or schedule without realizing the consequences. Instead of simply rejecting the request, explain the tradeoffs, present alternatives and let them make an informed decision based on accurate information.

8. What Habits Do Successful Construction Project Managers Have?

Success in construction project management rarely comes from one big decision. Instead, it’s usually the result of small habits repeated every day. The best project managers develop routines that help them stay ahead of problems instead of constantly reacting to them.

• Walk the jobsite every day: Schedules and reports are useful, but nothing replaces seeing the work with your own eyes.
• Review tomorrow before today ends: Successful project managers leave each day knowing tomorrow’s priorities, meetings, deliveries and potential roadblocks.
• Follow up relentlessly: An unanswered RFI, pending submittal or overdue material order won’t fix itself without consistent follow-up.
• Keep detailed notes: Document conversations, commitments and decisions immediately because construction moves too fast to trust your memory.
• Look several weeks ahead: Great project managers aren’t just managing today’s work—they’re preventing the problems that could slow next month’s progress.

9. How Do You Earn the Respect of Field Crews as a New Construction Project Manager?

The quickest way to lose credibility is pretending you know more than the people building the project every day. Experienced field crews can spot that immediately. Instead, spend time on the jobsite, ask thoughtful questions and genuinely listen to their recommendations. If someone raises a problem, follow through until it’s resolved instead of letting it disappear into your inbox. Learn enough about the work to have productive conversations, but don’t be afraid to admit when you don’t know something. Crews respect project managers who are organized, dependable and willing to remove obstacles far more than those who simply give orders from the office.

10. What’s the Biggest Knowledge Gap New Construction Project Managers Have?

Most new construction project managers understand the administrative side of the job much better than the construction side. They know how to update schedules, write reports and organize documents, but they often struggle to understand why one delayed activity can disrupt several trades weeks later. Construction sequencing, procurement timing, crew productivity and field logistics are skills that usually develop through experience rather than classroom learning. That’s why spending time on active jobsites is so valuable. Once you understand how projects are actually built, you’ll create more realistic schedules, make better cost forecasts and identify potential problems long before they affect the project’s budget or completion date.

11. How Do Construction Project Managers Deal With Project Delays?

The first step is accepting that delays are part of construction, not a sign that you’ve failed as a project manager. What separates experienced PMs from inexperienced ones is how quickly they identify the root cause and develop a recovery plan. Start by determining whether the delay is caused by labor shortages, procurement issues, weather, design changes or subcontractor performance. Then evaluate how it affects the critical path and whether work can be resequenced to recover lost time. Keep the owner informed, coordinate closely with the superintendent and update the schedule frequently so everyone is working toward the same recovery plan.

Want to Learn More? See What People Are Saying on Reddit!

One of the best ways to learn construction project management is by hearing directly from people doing the job every day. The following Reddit discussions inspired many of the topics covered in this guide and offer additional perspectives from experienced construction project managers, superintendents and industry professionals.

• Project Managers – What Do You Wish You Knew Before Getting Into PM?
• Looking to Talk to Project Engineers and Managers About Their Experience
• In Your Experience, What Is the Biggest Knowledge Gap?
• Got a PM Assistant Interview Next Week…
• Hardest Part of Being a PM?
• Project Managers: What’s Your Biggest Daily Struggle?
• How Do You Approach a New Project as a PM?
• Need Help for Final Interview
• r/ConstructionManagers

ProjectManager Is the Best Construction Project Management Solution

ProjectManager offers a comprehensive construction project management software that combines advanced scheduling, resource management, cost tracking and team collaboration in a single platform. Construction managers can build Gantt charts, manage task dependencies, identify critical paths and monitor project performance without the expensive price tag and steep learning curve commonly associated with Microsoft Project.

In addition to traditional construction scheduling capabilities, ProjectManager includes AI-powered project insights, workflow automation and live performance tracking that help teams identify delays, manage risks and make better decisions.

One of the biggest advantages of ProjectManager is that it is fully cloud-based. While Microsoft Project Professional and Microsoft Project Standard are desktop applications, ProjectManager gives office staff, project managers, superintendents and field teams access to the same live project data from anywhere. Schedule updates, resource changes, timesheet submissions and project status information are immediately available, helping construction teams improve coordination and reduce communication delays.

Beyond scheduling, ProjectManager includes workload management, resource scheduling, portfolio roadmaps, real-time dashboards, kanban boards, timesheets and automated reports that help construction companies balance labor resources, monitor project costs and track performance across multiple projects. These tools provide greater visibility into schedules, budgets and resource utilization, making it easier to keep construction projects on track.

Watch the video below to learn more!

The platform also supports an open API and more than 1,000 integrations with tools like Acumatica, QuickBooks, Microsoft Project, Slack and Google Workspace, allowing construction companies to connect operational and project data across their existing systems. The Acumatica integration is particularly valuable for construction businesses because it connects project management workflows with ERP capabilities such as accounting, financial management and operational reporting.

For organizations looking for a modern construction project management platform that combines construction scheduling, resource planning, budget tracking, collaboration and ERP connectivity, ProjectManager is the best alternative to Microsoft Project.

ProjectManager is online construction project management software that empowers teams to plan, manage and track their projects in real time. We connect architects and engineers in the office with your work crew on the job site so they can share files and comments to foster better collaboration. Get started with ProjectManager today for free.

The post How to Become a Construction Project Manager: Expert Advice appeared first on ProjectManager.

What Is Construction Forecasting Software?

Construction forecasting software is a project management tool used to predict future project costs, labor needs, resource requirements, schedules and financial outcomes. It is commonly used by contractors, project managers and construction firms to improve planning, reduce uncertainty and make informed decisions throughout a project’s lifecycle.

Rather than relying solely on historical reports, these platforms analyze current project data to estimate what is likely to happen next. Forecasts may include final project costs, expected completion dates, workforce demand, equipment utilization, cash flow projections and profit margins.

By identifying potential overruns, delays and resource shortages before they occur, construction forecasting software helps teams take corrective action earlier. This allows construction organizations to improve budget control, allocate resources more effectively and increase the likelihood of delivering projects on time and within budget.

If you’re looking for software to plan, schedule and track construction projects from start to finish, try ProjectManager instead. ProjectManager is award-winning construction project management software that gives construction companies tools to ensure projects are completed on time, within budget and within scope. It allows project managers to create detailed construction schedules, estimate costs, allocate resources, set budgets, track progress and compare estimated versus actual project outcomes using real-time dashboards and reports to quickly identify delays or cost overruns. Get started with ProjectManager for free today.

Construction Forecasting Software Features

Strong forecasting capabilities give contractors a clearer view of project performance before issues affect budgets, schedules or profitability. The sections below explore the core forecasting functions found in construction forecasting software, including cost, labor, resource and schedule forecasting tools used to support planning and decision-making.

Construction Cost Forecasting

Construction cost forecasting features are tools used to predict future project expenses and estimate the final cost at completion. They are commonly used in construction projects to monitor spending trends and identify potential budget risks. These capabilities analyze budgeted and actual costs, forecast remaining expenses, evaluate cost variances and estimate the financial impact of change orders, material price fluctuations and subcontractor commitments.

As a project progresses, small cost deviations can quickly develop into significant overruns if they go unnoticed. Within construction forecasting software, cost forecasting features provide early visibility into budget performance and future financial outcomes. By projecting remaining costs and highlighting emerging risks, they help contractors make informed decisions before profit margins, cash flow or project viability are negatively affected.

Best Construction Cost Forecasting Software

Construction Labor Forecasting

Construction labor forecasting features are tools used to predict workforce requirements and labor-related costs throughout a project. They are commonly used in construction planning to align staffing levels with scheduled work. These capabilities forecast labor demand, crew assignments, overtime requirements, hiring needs and productivity trends while estimating payroll expenses and trade-specific workforce availability.

Labor often represents one of the largest and most variable project expenses, making workforce planning critical to accurate forecasting. In construction forecasting software, labor forecasting features help teams anticipate staffing shortages, avoid unnecessary overtime and balance workloads across projects. Better visibility into labor capacity and costs supports more reliable budgets, schedules and resource allocation decisions.

Best Construction Labor Forecasting Software

Construction Resource Forecasting

Construction resource forecasting features are tools used to predict future equipment, material and inventory requirements for a project. They are commonly used in construction operations to ensure resources are available when needed. These capabilities forecast equipment utilization, rental needs, procurement activities, inventory levels, material quantities and supply chain risks that could affect project execution.

Even well-planned projects can experience delays when equipment is unavailable or materials arrive later than expected. Through construction forecasting software, resource forecasting features help teams identify shortages before they disrupt work in the field. Forecasting future demand improves procurement planning, reduces idle equipment costs and supports more efficient use of available resources across multiple projects.

Best Construction Resource Forecasting Software

Construction Schedule Forecasting

Construction schedule forecasting features are tools used to predict future project timelines and evaluate potential schedule outcomes. They help anticipate delays and forecast completion dates. These capabilities analyze milestone progress, critical path activities, schedule variances and alternative scenarios while assessing how weather, resource constraints or task slippage may affect delivery.

Deadlines become difficult to manage when teams only react to schedule problems after they occur. In construction forecasting software, schedule forecasting features provide a forward-looking view of project progress and timeline risks. Scenario analysis allows project managers to test possible outcomes, evaluate corrective actions and make scheduling decisions that improve the likelihood of on-time completion.

Best Construction Schedule Forecasting Software

Construction Profitability Forecasting

Construction profitability forecasting features are tools used to predict the financial performance of a project and estimate expected profit outcomes. They are used to evaluate whether work remains financially viable. These capabilities forecast gross profit, profit margins, return on investment and final project results using estimate-at-completion and forecast-at-completion calculations.

Winning work is only valuable if projects remain profitable from start to finish. Within construction forecasting software, profitability forecasting features help contractors understand how changing costs, productivity levels and project performance affect financial results. Early visibility into expected margins allows teams to adjust spending, control risks and protect profitability before issues become difficult to correct.

Best Construction Profitability Forecasting Software

Construction Portfolio Forecasting

Construction portfolio forecasting features are tools used to predict financial and operational performance across multiple projects. They are commonly used by contractors managing several jobs simultaneously to evaluate future business conditions. These capabilities forecast company-wide revenue, cash flow, backlog, resource demand, capacity utilization and projected profitability to support strategic planning and growth decisions.

Looking at projects individually can hide broader trends that affect overall business performance. Through construction forecasting software, portfolio forecasting features provide a consolidated view of future workload, financial health and resource requirements. This perspective helps executives balance project commitments, avoid overextension, allocate resources effectively and make informed decisions about pursuing new opportunities.

Best Construction Portfolio Forecasting Software

Construction Risk Forecasting

Construction risk forecasting features are tools used to identify and predict conditions that could negatively affect project outcomes. They are commonly used during the construction planning phase to detect emerging threats before they cause disruptions. These capabilities evaluate risk indicators such as potential cost overruns, schedule delays, productivity declines, safety concerns, subcontractor performance issues and cash flow problems.

Many construction problems develop gradually before becoming visible in project results. As part of construction forecasting software, risk forecasting features provide early warnings that allow teams to respond sooner. Predictive alerts and risk scoring help project managers prioritize attention, reduce uncertainty and address issues before they lead to budget overruns, missed deadlines or operational disruptions.

Best Construction Risk Forecasting Software

Construction Forecasting Dashboards and Reports

Decision-makers need forecasting data presented in a format that is easy to understand and act upon. Construction forecasting software uses dashboards and reports to consolidate projected revenue, costs, profits, cash flow, labor demand, equipment needs, backlog and risk indicators into a single view. Real-time visibility helps stakeholders monitor trends, identify issues quickly and make more informed project and business decisions.

Best Construction Forecasting Dashboards and Reporting Software

ProjectManager Is Designed for Managing Construction Projects

ProjectManager offers a comprehensive construction project management software that combines advanced scheduling, resource management, cost tracking and team collaboration in a single platform. Construction managers can build Gantt charts, manage task dependencies, identify critical paths and monitor project performance without the expensive price tag and steep learning curve commonly associated with Microsoft Project.

In addition to traditional construction scheduling capabilities, ProjectManager includes AI-powered project insights, workflow automation and live performance tracking that help teams identify delays, manage risks and make better decisions.

Beyond scheduling, ProjectManager includes workload management, resource scheduling, portfolio roadmaps, real-time dashboards, kanban boards, timesheets and automated reports that help construction companies balance labor resources, monitor project costs and track performance across multiple projects. These tools provide greater visibility into schedules, budgets and resource utilization, making it easier to keep construction projects on track.

Watch the video below to learn more!

The platform also supports an open API and more than 1,000 integrations with tools like Acumatica, QuickBooks, Microsoft Project, Slack and Google Workspace, allowing construction companies to connect operational and project data across their existing systems. The Acumatica integration is particularly valuable for construction businesses because it connects project management workflows with ERP capabilities such as accounting, financial management and operational reporting.

For organizations looking for a modern construction project management platform that combines construction scheduling, resource planning, budget tracking, collaboration and ERP connectivity, ProjectManager is the best alternative to Microsoft Project.

ProjectManager is online construction project management software that empowers teams to plan, manage and track their projects in real time. We connect architects and engineers in the office with your work crew on the job site so they can share files and comments to foster better collaboration. Get started with ProjectManager today for free.

The post Construction Forecasting Software: Quick Buyer’s Guide for 2026 appeared first on ProjectManager.

1. Sales Forecast Template

Designed to support revenue planning, this template captures forecast assumptions, potential risks, growth opportunities and confidence levels alongside projected sales data. Product details, expected unit volumes, pricing, revenue estimates, sales channels, target markets and geographic coverage are organized in a structured format that simplifies forecasting activities.

Before inventory is purchased or sales targets are finalized, teams need visibility into future demand. Using this template helps sales managers estimate revenue, compare opportunities across products, identify potential shortfalls and align sales efforts with market conditions. Better forecasts also support budgeting, staffing and production planning decisions.

If you’re looking for project management software to plan, schedule and track sales activities and business projects, try ProjectManager. ProjectManager is a cloud-based project management software that includes Gantt charts to build project schedules, kanban boards to manage tasks and workflows, project portfolio roadmaps to oversee multiple projects simultaneously and real-time dashboards to monitor progress and costs. Workload charts and timesheets help teams allocate resources effectively and balance workloads. Try ProjectManager today for free.

2. Sales Dashboard Template

Built as a centralized reporting tool, this template combines executive-level KPIs with detailed sales breakdowns and visual charts. Users can track revenue, units sold, customer acquisition, product performance, regional results, sales growth and target comparisons while reviewing trends through automatically updated dashboards and performance summaries.

When performance data is scattered across spreadsheets, identifying problems becomes difficult. This dashboard brings key metrics into one view, allowing sales leaders to monitor progress against goals, evaluate territory performance, recognize top-performing products and uncover trends that may require corrective action or additional investment.

3. Sales Order Template

This template provides a complete framework for documenting customer purchases from initial order through fulfillment. It includes customer and vendor information, delivery details, payment and shipping terms, itemized product listings, quantities, pricing, tax calculations, order totals and signature fields needed to formally authorize transactions.

Accurate order documentation reduces fulfillment errors and improves communication between sales, operations and accounting teams. By standardizing order information, sales representatives can process transactions more efficiently, maintain clear records, track customer commitments and ensure products are delivered according to agreed terms and schedules.

4. Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Template

Created to centralize customer records, this template combines contact information, account status, follow-up schedules, revenue tracking and sales opportunities in a single worksheet. Built-in summaries and charts provide visibility into customer segments, account activity and top revenue contributors, making relationship management easier and more organized.

Strong sales performance depends on consistent customer engagement. By keeping account details, communication history and pipeline opportunities in one place, teams can prioritize follow-ups, identify valuable customers, monitor account health and reduce the risk of missed opportunities that could delay or prevent future sales.

5. Client Information Sheet

Organized as a comprehensive client intake document, this template captures company details, contact information, shipping and billing addresses, requested products or services and payment arrangements. Additional fields support purchase tracking, recurring billing management and special requirements, creating a complete record for each customer relationship.

Before proposals are prepared or orders are processed, sales teams need accurate customer information. Using a standardized client information sheet reduces administrative errors, improves communication between departments and ensures every transaction begins with complete, consistent data that supports fulfillment, invoicing and customer service activities.

6. Customer Journey Map Template

Structured around the customer lifecycle, this template helps teams document each stage from awareness through retention. Dedicated sections capture customer actions, touchpoints, emotions, pain points, supporting processes and improvement opportunities, providing a visual framework for understanding how prospects and customers interact with a business.

Rather than focusing only on transactions, successful sales organizations examine the entire customer experience. Mapping the journey helps identify friction points, uncover engagement gaps and improve interactions that influence buying decisions. The result is a more effective sales process that supports conversion rates, customer satisfaction and retention.

How to Make a Project Budget with ProjectManager

Free Excel and Word templates are useful for managing sales operations, but if you’re interested in managing tasks, workflows and projects, use ProjectManager instead. ProjectManager is designed to create detailed schedules, allocate resources and track costs. Simply make a list of tasks using the list, sheet or Gantt chart view, create a project schedule and allocate resources such as people, materials or equipment. Then, estimate the cost of those resources and establish a budget amount.

Once the project starts, enter actual project costs and task completion dates and ProjectManager will automatically calculate the difference between estimates and actual performance and will display this information in real-time dashboards and reports so you can check whether things are going according to plan or not.

ProjectManager also includes AI-powered project insights, workflow automation and live performance tracking that help teams identify delays, manage risks and improve decision-making. The platform also supports an open API and more than 1,000 integrations with tools like Acumatica, QuickBooks, Microsoft Project, Slack and Google Workspace. Watch the video to learn more!

ProjectManager is online project management software that empowers individuals and teams to plan, manage and track their projects in real time. Get started with ProjectManager today for free.

The post 6 Sales Templates for Excel and Word appeared first on ProjectManager.

Dashboard templates are designed to track a variety of different metrics that provide vital data for project managers and their teams. We have free dashboard templates that will help track budget, workload, progress and more. Monitoring this allows project managers to determine if the project is on schedule and not overspending. If it is, adjustments can be made to get back on track before it impacts the success of the project.

Download these Excel dashboard templates for free or sign up for a free 30-day trial of our software and see what real-time dashboards can do when managing a project, program or portfolio. We’ll talk more about that later, but first, let’s get to the Excel dashboard templates for free download.

1. Project Dashboard Template for Excel

Excel dashboard templates are important for a high-level overview of the project. This free project dashboard template for Excel is an excellent choice. It allows project managers and their teams to monitor project progress on several different bar charts and pie charts. Four dashboards together paint a clear picture of the project and where it stands concerning where it should be in terms of the project plan.

There’s a pie chart that captures the project tasks. It makes it easy to see at a glance what percentage of the team’s tasks have been completed, are in progress, aren’t yet started or are overdue, as well as the total. A workload bar chart shows the resource allocation for the project team. It’s color-coded to show work in progress, not started and overdue. A task length chart shows duration and a cost chart helps track the actual cost against the budget for that period.

All of this information is crucial to managing a project, but so is working efficiently. Excel dashboard templates are just not going to provide the efficiency that is built into project management software. ProjectManager is award-winning project and portfolio management software with real-time dashboards for either a project and multiple projects. Because our dashboard is online, it collects live data automatically, there’s no need to manually update a template. Our live dashboards provide a current overview of the project’s performance and progress, which allows project managers to quickly make adjustments if necessary to get the work back on track. Templates can’t do that. Get started with ProjectManager today for free.

2. KPI Dashboard Template for Excel

But, again, not everyone is ready to upgrade to project management software with real-time data visualization. For those looking for Excel dashboard templates to help as a task tracker, download this free KPI dashboard template for Excel. This is a great tool for providing critical information as it monitors, analyzes and displays KPIs to better manage organizations and projects.

This Excel dashboard has even more charts and graphs to help track the project timeline, budget and more. There’s even a yearly profit and loss overview with two charts, one showing revenue over time and the other expenses. This will help keep organizations aware of whether they’re in the red or the black. That data is even broken further down to monthly revenue, quarterly revenue, monthly expenses and quarterly expenses. There’s also a chart capturing workload analysis and one for resource planning, among others.

3. Budget Dashboard Template for Excel

One of the most important KPIs to track is cost. This free budget dashboard template for Excel is a robust breakdown of project costs essential for keeping track of the budget and delivering projects without suffering cost overruns. There’s also space to add the job number, customer name, job description and start and completion dates. This is certainly one of the Excel dashboard templates needed to keep track of budgets.

Beneath that are colorful pie charts that make this Excel spreadsheet easy to read and understand. For example, there’s one to show the planned costs against the actual costs, which helps project managers see if their current spending aligns with where the budget said they should be at this time. There are also pie charts for direct material costs, direct labor costs, direct equipment costs and overhead costs. A bar chart collects the total costs for an overview of the budget, which is another reason this Excel dashboard comes in handy when managing the budget.

4. Workload Dashboard Template for Excel

We’ve mentioned workload a few times already, but for those who aren’t familiar with the term, workload refers to the total amount of work assigned to a team member or group within a project. It’s usually measured in hours or tasks. Keeping track of workload ensures that team members are working at capacity, but not overallocated to the point of suffering from burnout, which erodes morale. Therefore, this is one of the Excel dashboard templates that everyone needs.

The free workload dashboard template for Excel is made up of four bar charts. On the left side are color-coded monthly resource allocation charts that show each team member’s resource availability (hours per month) in black and current workload allocation (again in hours per month) in yellow. This provides a monthly overview of the team’s resource allocation and can help project managers to balance their workload. Workload can also help with tracking labor costs. The right side of the Excel dashboard shows labor costs by employee in a chart for each month they’re working on the project.

5. Task Tracker Dashboard Template for Excel

Project managers use a task tracker to organize, prioritize and monitor the progress of individual tasks within a project. This free task tracker dashboard template for Excel is a centralized location to manage all project details and improve collaboration between team members while helping project managers know what needs to be done, who is responsible and when each task is due.

As Excel dashboard templates go, this one is another must-have. It is made up of a couple of charts and pie charts that are color-coded to make it easy to digest them easily and fast. There’s one for task priority levels, which has the status on the left column, which goes from very low to critical. There are also columns for count and percentage. There’s another, set up the same, only this tracks task status, from on hold to not started. This information is then translated to pie charts that visually show the percentage and color codes for those who prefer to get their information that way.

6. Asset Management Dashboard Template

Keeping track of equipment, tools and other business assets becomes much easier with this asset management dashboard template. Designed to consolidate inventory information into a single reporting view, it helps users monitor asset quantities, values and distribution across locations. This dashboard supports better resource planning, maintenance decisions and long-term asset management by presenting critical information in an organized format.

Several tables and charts work together to provide a comprehensive overview of asset data. A donut chart visualizes how assets are distributed across categories, while bar charts compare asset values and quantities. Supporting tables break down inventory by location, allowing users to quickly understand where assets are assigned.

7. Sales Dashboard Template

For teams that need a quick snapshot of sales performance, this dashboard template brings key metrics together in one place. It tracks revenue, orders, customer growth and sales activity while measuring results against predefined targets. By summarizing performance across products and regions, the template helps users identify opportunities, evaluate outcomes and make informed business decisions.

A combination of KPI tables, comparison charts and performance reports provides multiple perspectives on sales data. Revenue, units sold and closed deals are displayed through bar charts and visual summaries, while detailed tables organize results by product and region. Progress toward targets is also highlighted throughout the dashboard.

8. CRM Dashboard Template

Customer information, sales opportunities and account activity are centralized within this CRM dashboard template. It gives businesses a practical way to monitor customer relationships, schedule follow-ups and track potential revenue from active opportunities. With customer records and engagement data stored in a structured format, the dashboard supports stronger relationship management and improved sales visibility.

At the heart of the dashboard is a customer table containing contact information, account status, follow-up schedules and revenue details. Additional visual reports summarize customer types and highlight top-performing accounts. Together, the charts and tables provide a clear overview of customer engagement and revenue contribution.

Benefits of Using Excel Dashboard Templates

We’ve been talking about the importance of Excel dashboard templates and why they’re beneficial to project managers and their teams. To reiterate and provide more detail, we’ve listed the benefits of using an Excel dashboard in project management below.

• Dashboards bring together various project data in a centralized location, which makes it easier to track and monitor progress across different aspects.
• Excel dashboards can be updated regularly to reflect close-to-real-time data, giving project managers an updated view of how the project is progressing.
• With data presented in an easily digestible format, project managers can quickly identify problems or areas that need attention and make informed decisions faster.
• Graphs and charts help simplify complex data, making it easier for stakeholders to understand and access the project status without needing to dive into raw data.

Disadvantages of Using Excel Dashboard Templates

While Excel dashboard templates can be useful, they’re not a perfect project management tool. We’ve already noted some ways they are inferior to project management software. Here are some general disadvantages.

• Many pre-designed templates have fixed structures, which might not suit every project’s unique needs. Customizing templates is time-consuming and challenging.
• As the project grows or becomes more complex, the template might not scale effectively, creating issues with handling large amounts of data, slow performance or clutterness.
• Excel dashboards rely heavily on manual data entry or data imports. If the data isn’t consistently updated or entered correctly, it can lead to inaccurate results, which could impact decision-making.
• Unless specifically designed with automation or integration features, Excel templates don’t typically pull real-time data from other sources, which could result in outdated information unless manually refreshed.

ProjectManager Is a Better Project Tracking Tool Than Excel Dashboard Templates

While Excel dashboard templates have a place in project management, it’s mostly a stepping stone to more sophisticated tools. Sure, try out these free dashboard templates and get a handle on how useful they are in monitoring project metrics to meet deadlines and stay on budget. But chances are frustration will settle in soon enough. After all, these are only static documents that must be manually updated and are poor collaboration tools. ProjectManager is award-winning project and portfolio management software with real-time project and portfolio management dashboards. But that’s only one feature of many to deliver successful projects.

Multiple Project Planning and Scheduling Views

Before one can track data, projects must be planned and tasks, resources and costs scheduled. Our software has multiple project views to do that and execute the work. Project managers prefer the robust Gantt charts that schedule tasks, resources and costs, but also link all four types of task dependencies to avoid delays and cost overruns. They can filter for the critical path rather than go through timely and complicated calculations. Then, once a baseline is set, progress and performance are tracked in real time. Plans are shared across the visual workflow of kanban boards and powerful task lists for teams to execute their work, while stakeholders can stay updated with the calendar view.

Robust Resource Management Features

Many of the dashboards include workload, as does ours, but real project management software will have resource management tools, as well. As noted above, both human and nonhuman resources can be scheduled on the Gantt. When onboarding teams, project managers can set their availability according to PTO, vacation and global holidays, as well as skill sets, which makes assigning tasks easier. There’s a color-coded workload page to view resource allocation and balance team workload to keep everyone working at capacity. Our team page summarizes team activities, which can be filtered by priority, progress and more. Even our secure timesheets, which streamline payroll, also measure how far each team member has gotten in completing tasks.

Of course, there’s more. Automated workflows with task approvals for quality control, version control, global search and unlimited file storage, email and in-app notifications and risk management tools. But first, try the free Excel dashboard templates, then take a free trial and join the successful teams at Avis, Nestle and Siemens who use our software to deliver successful projects. Get started with ProjectManager today for free.

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1. Personal To-Do List Template

Keeping track of personal responsibilities becomes much easier when everything is organized in one place. Our personal to-do list template includes tasks, start dates, due dates, completion percentages, progress indicators and notes. Users can quickly see what needs attention, monitor ongoing activities and stay focused on important daily priorities.

If you’re looking for project management software to plan, schedule and track your personal projects, try ProjectManager. ProjectManager is a cloud-based project management software, equipped with Gantt charts to make project schedules, kanban boards for managing tasks and workflows, project portfolio roadmaps to manage multiple projects simultaneously and real-time dashboards to monitor progress and costs. These and many other project management tools and features can help you manage personal, professional or business projects, no matter their size or complexity. Try ProjectManager today for free.

2. Personal Statement Template

Applying for a university program, scholarship or job opportunity often requires a well-written personal statement. This template provides dedicated sections for personal information, academic achievements, professional experience, skills, accomplishments and career goals. By following a structured format, users can create a clear narrative that highlights their qualifications and motivations.

3. Personal Balance Sheet Template

Understanding your financial position starts with knowing exactly what you own and what you owe. Our personal balance sheet template organizes assets such as cash, investments, real estate and personal property alongside short-term and long-term liabilities. Automatic totals make it easy to calculate net worth and evaluate financial progress over time.

4. Personal Development Plan Template

Long-term growth rarely happens by accident. This personal development plan template helps users evaluate their current abilities, identify improvement opportunities and establish meaningful goals. Sections for skills development, learning activities, action plans, resources, progress tracking and success measures create a practical framework for personal and professional growth.

5. Personal Daily Task Tracker Template

Busy days are easier to manage when tasks, deliverables and progress updates are organized in a single document. Our personal daily task tracker template provides hourly time slots, task descriptions, deliverables and status indicators for completed, scheduled, in-progress and pending work. It helps users monitor daily responsibilities and stay accountable throughout the week.

6. Personal Time Blocking Template

Rather than reacting to tasks as they appear, this personal time blocking template encourages users to assign dedicated periods for specific activities. The layout includes time blocks, tasks, priorities and notes across multiple days. By planning work, breaks and routines in advance, users can improve focus and reduce distractions.

7. Personal Daily Schedule Template

Managing an entire week requires more structure than a simple to-do list. This personal daily schedule template organizes activities by day, time block, category and priority level. Users can map out work commitments, personal responsibilities, exercise, hobbies and planning sessions to create a balanced and realistic weekly routine.

8. 50/30/20 Personal Budget Template

Following a proven budgeting framework becomes much simpler with a clear financial plan. Our 50/30/20 personal budget template automatically separates after-tax income into needs, wants and savings categories. Users can allocate expenses, compare spending against targets and identify areas where adjustments are needed to maintain financial goals.

9. 70/20/10 Personal Budget Template

For individuals who prefer to prioritize essential expenses, our 70/20/10 personal budget template provides a practical spending framework. Income is automatically allocated across living expenses, financial goals and lifestyle spending categories. Users can track expenses, compare actual spending against targets and maintain greater control over long-term financial objectives.

10. Personal Weekly Budget Template

Controlling spending becomes easier when finances are reviewed in shorter intervals instead of waiting until month-end. This personal weekly budget template distributes monthly income across four weeks and calculates daily spending allowances. As expenses are entered, the template updates balances automatically, helping users monitor spending habits and adjust decisions before overspending occurs.

11. Personal Decision Matrix Template

Choosing between multiple options often becomes difficult when several factors must be considered at the same time. This personal decision matrix template uses weighted criteria, ratings and calculated scores to compare alternatives objectively. Users can evaluate major purchases, career opportunities, education choices or personal goals using a structured decision-making process.

12. Personal 30-60-90 Day Plan Template

Big goals become more achievable when they are divided into manageable milestones. Our personal 30-60-90 day plan template organizes objectives, action steps, deliverables, performance indicators and resource requirements across three time horizons. By breaking progress into stages, users can maintain momentum, measure results and stay focused on meaningful outcomes.

How to Make a Project Budget with ProjectManager

Personal templates are useful for personal project planning and personal finance management, but if you’re interested in managing your personal or professional projects, use ProjectManager instead. ProjectManager is designed to create detailed project schedules and budgets. Simply make a list of project tasks using the list, sheet or Gantt chart view, create a project schedule and allocate resources such as people, materials or equipment. Then, estimate the cost of those resources and establish a budget amount.

Once the project starts, enter actual project costs and ProjectManager will automatically calculate the difference between estimated costs and actual costs and will display this information in real-time dashboards and reports so you can check whether the project costs are exceeding the budget at a glance.

ProjectManager also includes AI-powered project insights, workflow automation and live performance tracking that help teams identify delays, manage risks and improve decision-making. The platform also supports an open API and more than 1,000 integrations with tools like Acumatica, QuickBooks, Microsoft Project, Slack and Google Workspace. Watch the video to learn more!

ProjectManager is online project management software that empowers individuals and teams to plan, manage and track their projects in real time. Get started with ProjectManager today for free.

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What Are Bid Documents in Construction?

Bid documents are a collection of construction procurement documents used to request, prepare, submit and evaluate contractor bids. They are commonly used by project owners, architects, engineers and contractors to define project requirements and support contractor selection. A bid package typically includes drawings, specifications, pricing forms, schedules and contractual information. Together, these documents establish a common understanding of the work, allowing bidders to prepare accurate proposals and owners to compare competing offers fairly.

If you’re looking for software to plan, schedule and track construction projects from start to finish, try ProjectManager instead. ProjectManager is award-winning construction project management software that gives construction companies tools to ensure projects are completed on time, within budget and within scope. It allows project managers to create detailed construction schedules, estimate costs, allocate resources, set budgets, track progress and compare estimated versus actual project outcomes using real-time dashboards and reports to quickly identify delays or cost overruns. Get started with ProjectManager for free today.

1. Bid Proposal

A bid proposal is a formal pricing document used to submit a contractor’s offer for a construction project. It is commonly used during competitive bidding to communicate the proposed cost, scope assumptions and project commitments. The document serves as the contractor’s official response to the owner’s bidding requirements and procurement process.

During construction bidding, the bid proposal allows owners to compare contractors based on pricing and commercial terms. Estimators use project drawings, specifications and quantity takeoffs to prepare the proposal. Once submitted, it becomes a key document used by procurement teams to evaluate offers and select a contractor.

• General contractors typically prepare the bid proposal using estimating and scheduling information.
• Project owners, procurement departments or public agencies receive completed proposals.
• Estimators contribute pricing calculations, labor forecasts and material cost assumptions.
• Project managers review schedule commitments and construction execution considerations before submission.
• Subcontractors provide quotations that support the contractor’s final proposal pricing.

2. Bill of Quantities (BOQ)

A bill of quantities (BOQ) is a document that itemizes construction work, materials and measurable quantities for pricing purposes. It is commonly used in construction procurement to create a standardized pricing structure. Each work item is listed separately, allowing bidders to calculate costs consistently across the project scope.

Rather than developing different quantity assumptions, contractors use the BOQ as a common pricing reference during bidding. This improves bid comparability and reduces discrepancies between proposals. Procurement teams also use the document during bid evaluation to identify pricing differences, review unit rates and assess contractor submissions.

• Quantity surveyors commonly prepare the BOQ using project drawings and specifications.
• Architects and engineers provide design information supporting quantity calculations and measurements.
• Contractors receive the document and use it to develop detailed pricing.
• Estimating teams review each line item before preparing cost breakdowns.
• Owners and procurement personnel use completed BOQs during bid evaluation.

3. Invitation to Bid

An invitation to bid is a procurement document used to formally request construction bids from qualified contractors. It is commonly used by project owners and public agencies to announce bidding opportunities. The document outlines submission requirements, deadlines, eligibility criteria and instructions for participating contractors.

Before contractors can prepare pricing, they need information about the bidding process itself. The invitation to bid establishes the rules governing submissions and identifies where supporting bid documents can be obtained. Procurement teams rely on it to attract qualified bidders and maintain a structured selection process.

• Project owners or procurement departments typically create and distribute invitations.
• Qualified contractors receive the invitation and decide whether to participate.
• Procurement managers establish submission requirements, deadlines and evaluation procedures.
• Design consultants may provide supporting project information referenced within the invitation.
• Contractor business development teams review opportunities and coordinate bid participation.

4. Request for Proposal (RFP)

A request for proposal (RFP) is a procurement document used to solicit detailed project solutions from contractors. It is commonly used when owners want bidders to propose approaches, methodologies and pricing. The document outlines project objectives, requirements and evaluation criteria used to compare competing construction proposals.

Unlike a simple pricing request, an RFP allows owners to assess technical capabilities alongside cost. Contractors use it to explain how they will deliver the project, manage risks and meet performance requirements. Evaluation committees review submitted proposals to identify the contractor offering the best overall value.

• Project owners typically develop the RFP with support from consultants.
• Procurement teams distribute the document to qualified contractors and bidders.
• Contractors prepare technical proposals, pricing information and project approaches.
• Design professionals often help define project requirements and evaluation criteria.
• Selection committees review submissions and score proposals against established requirements.

5. Request for Quotation (RFQ)

A request for quotation (RFQ) is a procurement document used to obtain pricing for specific construction services, materials or equipment. It is commonly used when project requirements are already defined. The document focuses primarily on cost, allowing buyers to compare prices from multiple qualified suppliers or contractors.

When drawings, specifications and quantities are already established, procurement teams use an RFQ to gather competitive pricing efficiently. Suppliers and subcontractors submit quotations based on the requested scope. Buyers then compare prices, delivery commitments and commercial terms before selecting the most suitable vendor or contractor.

• Procurement departments commonly prepare RFQs for suppliers and subcontractors.
• Project owners may issue RFQs directly during smaller construction procurements.
• Suppliers receive the document and provide pricing for requested items.
• Estimators review quotations and incorporate them into overall bid calculations.
• Purchasing personnel evaluate pricing, delivery schedules and commercial conditions.

6. Construction Drawings

Construction drawings are graphical documents used to communicate the design, dimensions and technical requirements of a construction project. They are commonly used by contractors, estimators and subcontractors to understand the work being bid. Plans, elevations, sections and details collectively define what must be built.

Before contractors can estimate costs accurately, they need a clear representation of the project scope. Construction drawings provide the information required for quantity takeoffs, scheduling and construction planning. Bidders use them alongside specifications and other bid documents to develop pricing and identify potential project risks.

• Architects typically create architectural drawings that define building layouts and details.
• Engineers prepare structural, mechanical, electrical and civil design drawings.
• Contractors review drawings to estimate labor, materials and equipment requirements.
• Subcontractors analyze discipline-specific drawings when preparing specialized quotations.
• Owners, consultants and procurement teams distribute approved drawing packages to bidders.

7. Technical Specifications

Technical specifications are written construction documents used to define material, equipment and workmanship requirements for a project. They are commonly used alongside construction drawings to communicate quality standards and performance expectations. The document establishes exactly how construction work must be executed and what products may be used.

Even detailed drawings cannot communicate every construction requirement. Technical specifications provide additional information needed for accurate estimating and procurement decisions. Contractors rely on them to understand acceptable materials, installation methods and testing requirements, helping bidders prepare proposals that align with the owner’s project expectations.

• Architects and engineers typically prepare specifications for their respective disciplines.
• Project owners receive specifications as part of the overall design package.
• Contractors review specification sections while developing cost estimates and bids.
• Subcontractors analyze requirements affecting materials, equipment and installation methods.
• Design consultants coordinate specifications with drawings to maintain project consistency.

8. Instructions to Bidders

Instructions to bidders are procurement documents used to explain how contractors must prepare and submit bids. They are commonly used during competitive construction bidding to establish submission procedures and administrative requirements. The document defines deadlines, required forms, eligibility criteria and other rules governing participation.

Because owners often receive multiple bids, consistency is essential during evaluation. Instructions to bidders help standardize submissions by requiring contractors to follow the same procedures. Procurement teams use the document to reduce administrative errors, improve compliance and ensure all bidders compete under identical conditions.

• Procurement departments commonly prepare instructions to bidders for construction solicitations.
• Project owners approve the requirements before distribution to potential bidders.
• Contractors review the document to ensure complete and compliant submissions.
• Legal and procurement advisors may participate in drafting bidding procedures.
• Bid evaluation teams enforce the requirements established within the document.

9. General Conditions of the Contract

General conditions of the contract are legal construction documents used to define the rights, responsibilities and obligations of project participants. They are commonly used in construction contracts to establish administrative and contractual procedures. The document governs topics such as payments, schedule management, changes and dispute resolution.

Long before construction begins, bidders must understand the contractual framework they may be required to follow. General conditions allow contractors to assess risks, responsibilities and administrative requirements during pricing. Owners use them to establish consistent contract terms and reduce misunderstandings after project award.

• Owners often adopt standard contract conditions from industry organizations or agencies.
• Legal counsel may review and modify provisions before project procurement begins.
• Contractors examine the document to evaluate contractual risks and obligations.
• Procurement teams distribute general conditions as part of the bid package.
• Project managers, attorneys and contract administrators frequently participate in reviews.

10. Supplementary Conditions

Supplementary conditions are contract documents used to modify, clarify or add project-specific requirements to the general conditions of a construction contract. They are commonly used when standard contract language does not address unique project needs. The document establishes additional obligations, procedures and contractual requirements for participants.

Every construction project presents different risks, regulations and administrative requirements. Supplementary conditions allow owners to customize contract terms without rewriting the entire contract framework. Contractors review these provisions during bidding to understand project-specific responsibilities that may affect pricing, scheduling, insurance requirements or risk allocation.

• Project owners typically develop supplementary conditions with legal and procurement advisors.
• Attorneys often review provisions to ensure contractual compliance and enforceability.
• Contractors analyze supplementary conditions when assessing project risks and obligations.
• Procurement teams include the document within the complete bid package.
• Project managers and contract administrators frequently participate in drafting reviews.

11. Scope of Work (SOW)

A scope of work (SOW) is a construction document used to describe the work, deliverables and project requirements expected from a contractor. It is commonly used to define project boundaries and responsibilities. The document establishes what work is included, excluded and required for successful project completion.

Clear project expectations are essential for accurate pricing and bid comparisons. A scope of work helps contractors understand the required activities, construction tasks and deliverables before preparing proposals. Owners use the document to reduce ambiguity, limit scope gaps and ensure bidders are pricing the same work.

• Project owners commonly prepare the scope of work with consultant support.
• Architects and engineers contribute technical requirements and project deliverables.
• Contractors use the document to estimate labor, materials and equipment needs.
• Subcontractors review relevant sections before preparing discipline-specific quotations.
• Procurement personnel distribute the scope to prospective bidders and contractors.

12. Bid Form

A bid form is a standardized procurement document used to collect contractor pricing and required bid information. It is commonly used in construction bidding to ensure submissions follow a consistent format. The document typically includes pricing fields, acknowledgments, certifications and signature requirements for bidders.

Evaluating bids becomes more efficient when contractors submit information in the same structure. Bid forms help owners compare proposals consistently while reducing administrative review time. Contractors complete the form using information from estimates, subcontractor quotes and other bid documents before submitting their final offer.

• Project owners or procurement departments typically create the bid form.
• Contractors complete the document and submit it with supporting materials.
• Estimators provide pricing information used to populate required form fields.
• Procurement teams review completed forms during compliance and bid evaluations.
• Authorized company representatives sign the document before official submission.

13. Bid Bond

A bid bond is a financial guarantee used to assure project owners that a bidder will honor its proposal if selected. It is commonly used in public and large private construction procurements to reduce bidding risk. The document provides financial protection if the successful bidder refuses to execute the contract.

Owners invest significant time evaluating construction bids and selecting contractors. A bid bond discourages non-serious submissions by creating financial consequences for withdrawing after award. Contractors typically obtain the bond before bid submission, giving owners greater confidence in the validity and commitment behind each proposal.

• Surety companies issue bid bonds after evaluating contractor qualifications and finances.
• Contractors obtain the bond and submit it with bid documents.
• Project owners receive the bond as part of the procurement package.
• Insurance brokers and surety agents often assist during bond procurement.
• Procurement teams verify bond compliance before accepting contractor submissions.

14. Schedule of Prices

A schedule of prices is a pricing document used to break down construction costs into individual work items or categories. It is commonly used during procurement to standardize bid pricing. The document lists unit rates, lump sums or itemized costs that support the contractor’s total bid amount.

Detailed pricing improves transparency during bid evaluation and contract administration. Owners use schedules of prices to compare costs across bidders and understand how proposals are structured. Contractors rely on the document to organize pricing assumptions and demonstrate how project costs are allocated throughout the work scope.

• Contractors typically prepare schedules of prices using detailed project estimates.
• Estimators develop unit rates and pricing breakdowns for individual work items.
• Project owners receive the completed schedule during the bid review process.
• Procurement teams compare submitted pricing structures across competing bidders.
• Subcontractor quotations often contribute to pricing included within the schedule.

15. Contractor Qualifications Statement

A contractor qualifications statement is a document used to demonstrate a contractor’s experience, capabilities and organizational resources. It is commonly used during prequalification and bid evaluation processes. The document provides information about financial strength, project history, key personnel, licenses, certifications and technical expertise.

Price alone does not determine whether a contractor can successfully deliver a project. Qualification statements help owners assess experience, capacity and past performance before awarding work. Procurement teams use the document to identify capable contractors and reduce the risk of selecting an unqualified bidder.

• Contractors prepare qualification statements using company and project performance information.
• Business development teams often coordinate document preparation and updates.
• Project owners review qualifications before inviting contractors to bid.
• Procurement personnel evaluate experience, resources and organizational capabilities presented.
• Executive leadership and project managers frequently contribute supporting information.

16. Addenda

Addenda are official procurement documents used to modify, clarify or supplement bid documents before bid submission deadlines. They are commonly used during construction bidding when project requirements change or additional information becomes available. The document ensures all bidders receive the same updated information before preparing final proposals.

Questions, design revisions and scope adjustments frequently arise after bid packages are issued. Addenda communicate these changes to contractors so estimates reflect the most current project requirements. Procurement teams rely on addenda to maintain fairness, reduce misunderstandings and ensure all bidders base proposals on identical information.

• Project owners typically authorize addenda before distribution to prospective bidders.
• Architects and engineers often prepare revisions that become part of addenda.
• Procurement departments distribute addenda to all registered bidding contractors.
• Contractors review updates and adjust pricing, schedules or assumptions accordingly.
• Estimators, project managers and design consultants frequently participate in reviews.

ProjectManager Is the Best Construction Project Management Solution

ProjectManager offers a comprehensive construction project management software that combines advanced scheduling, resource management, cost tracking and team collaboration in a single platform. Construction managers can build Gantt charts, manage task dependencies, identify critical paths and monitor project performance without the expensive price tag and steep learning curve commonly associated with Microsoft Project.

In addition to traditional construction scheduling capabilities, ProjectManager includes AI-powered project insights, workflow automation and live performance tracking that help teams identify delays, manage risks and make better decisions.

One of the biggest advantages of ProjectManager is that it is fully cloud-based. While Microsoft Project Professional and Microsoft Project Standard are desktop applications, ProjectManager gives office staff, project managers, superintendents and field teams access to the same live project data from anywhere. Schedule updates, resource changes, timesheet submissions and project status information are immediately available, helping construction teams improve coordination and reduce communication delays.

Beyond scheduling, ProjectManager includes workload management, resource scheduling, portfolio roadmaps, real-time dashboards, kanban boards, timesheets and automated reports that help construction companies balance labor resources, monitor project costs and track performance across multiple projects. These tools provide greater visibility into schedules, budgets and resource utilization, making it easier to keep construction projects on track.

Watch the video below to learn more!

The platform also supports an open API and more than 1,000 integrations with tools like Acumatica, QuickBooks, Microsoft Project, Slack and Google Workspace, allowing construction companies to connect operational and project data across their existing systems. The Acumatica integration is particularly valuable for construction businesses because it connects project management workflows with ERP capabilities such as accounting, financial management and operational reporting.

For organizations looking for a modern construction project management platform that combines construction scheduling, resource planning, budget tracking, collaboration and ERP connectivity, ProjectManager is the best alternative to Microsoft Project.

ProjectManager is online construction project management software that empowers teams to plan, manage and track their projects in real time. We connect architects and engineers in the office with your work crew on the job site so they can share files and comments to foster better collaboration. Get started with ProjectManager today for free.

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Related: 20 Best Microsoft Project Alternatives for 2026 (Free & Paid)

Some programs focus on the fundamentals, while others dive into advanced scheduling, resource management and reporting techniques. This guide explores the best courses, training programs and certifications available today to help beginners, project managers and experienced schedulers strengthen their Microsoft Project skills.

If you’re looking for software that can do what Microsoft Project does, in a more modern, user-friendly and cost effective platform, try ProjectManager instead. ProjectManager is an award-winning project management software that delivers the same powerful scheduling, resource planning and tracking capabilities as Microsoft Project, but at a significantly lower cost and in a more dynamic platform. Its intuitive, user-friendly interface makes it easier for teams across industries to adopt and manage projects efficiently, with real-time data, collaboration tools and flexible workflows designed for modern project execution. Get started for free today

Does Microsoft Offer an Official Microsoft Project Training?

Microsoft has offered official MS Project training for decades through a combination of product documentation, instructor-led courses, certification exams and online learning resources. During the Microsoft Project 2010 and 2013 era, users could earn Microsoft’s official Exam 74-343, “Managing Projects with Microsoft Project 2013,” which validated proficiency in scheduling, resource management, reporting and project tracking.

Passing the exam could also contribute toward broader Microsoft Project management credentials. Microsoft later shifted its certification strategy toward cloud, role-based and Microsoft 365 certifications, retiring Exam 74-343 on July 31, 2019 without announcing a replacement.

Today, Microsoft still provides official training materials through Microsoft Support and Microsoft Learn, but it no longer offers a dedicated Microsoft Project certification exam or certification pathway. Existing certifications remain on earned transcripts as retired credentials.

Having said this, we’ve looked for the best Microsoft Project training programs, courses and certifications available online.

1. Microsoft Project Training – Microsoft Support

Microsoft Project Training from Microsoft Support is a free collection of tutorials, guides and learning resources created by Microsoft. Rather than offering a structured course, it provides task-based training that teaches users how to build project schedules, assign resources, manage tasks, create reports and collaborate using Project.

The content is integrated into Microsoft’s broader Project help center and reflects the latest transition from Project for the web into Microsoft Planner. While it’s a good place to start, many users complain that the learning materials available in this Microsoft Support portal aren’t nearly as thorough as they should be for a software this complex.

2. Microsoft Project Courses – LinkedIn Learning

LinkedIn Learning offers one of the largest libraries of Microsoft Project courses available online. Learners can choose from beginner, intermediate and advanced training covering Microsoft Project 2021, Project Online Desktop, Project for the Web and specialized topics such as agile project management, scheduling and resource planning. Most courses include exercise files, quizzes and practical demonstrations, and learners receive a certificate of completion after finishing each course.

3. Microsoft Project Management: Build Job-Ready Skills Professional Certificate – Coursera

Unlike many Microsoft Project courses that focus exclusively on software functionality, this professional certificate teaches project management principles alongside Microsoft’s project planning tools. The program combines videos, assessments and hands-on activities that help learners build scheduling, planning, communication and project execution skills. It is designed for beginners seeking project management knowledge and can also help prepare learners for the PMP certification exam.

4. Microsoft Project Training – Master of Project Academy

Master of Project Academy provides self-paced MS Project training that focuses on building practical scheduling and project control skills. Students learn how to create project plans, define task relationships, manage resources, monitor schedules and generate reports.

The course includes quizzes, practice questions and completion credentials. While Microsoft discontinued its official Project certification exam in 2019, this program helps professionals demonstrate software proficiency through structured training and assessment exercises.

5. Microsoft Project Training Courses – ONLC Training

ONLC delivers instructor-led Microsoft Project courses through both live online classes and in-person training centers. Its curriculum is organized into separate levels, allowing learners to progress from schedule creation and task management to advanced topics such as resource leveling, earned value analysis, custom reporting and project tracking.

A notable feature is the hands-on classroom structure, which combines guided instruction with practical exercises completed directly within Microsoft Project.

6. Microsoft Project Training – Learning Tree

Learning Tree structures its Microsoft Project training around the practical tasks project managers perform every day. The course covers schedule development, task dependencies, resource allocation, baseline creation, progress tracking and project reporting.

Training is delivered through live instructor-led sessions and emphasizes hands-on exercises rather than software demonstrations alone. One aspect that stands out is its focus on applying Microsoft Project to real project scenarios instead of isolated feature tutorials.

7. Microsoft Project Training Courses – New Horizons

New Horizons offers a multi-level training pathway that allows learners to build Microsoft Project skills progressively. Rather than combining all topics into a single course, the provider separates instruction into beginner and advanced classes covering project planning, schedule development, resource management, cost tracking and reporting.

The training is available through live online and classroom formats, making it suitable for both individual learners and organizations seeking structured software training programs.

8. Microsoft Project Training – PRINCE2.com

PRINCE2.com offers a dedicated Microsoft Project training course focused on helping users build practical scheduling and project planning skills. The course covers project creation, task management, calendars, resource assignments, critical path analysis, baseline tracking, reporting and schedule control.

Unlike many broader project management programs, this training concentrates specifically on using Microsoft Project to manage project timelines and resources. Students can complete the course online at their own pace and receive a certificate upon successful completion.

9. Complete Microsoft Project Training & Certification – Udemy

Udemy’s Complete Microsoft Project Training & Certification course teaches Microsoft Project Professional through one section, 15 lectures and about 5 hours of video. The course covers calendars, task relationships, WBS creation, constraints, resources, resource leveling, tracking, earned value analysis, multiple projects, filters, groups and reports. It is built for students or professionals who want practical Microsoft Project scheduling skills.

10. MS Project Training & Certification Course – Techcanvass

Techcanvass offers MS Project training in foundation, advanced and live online formats. The course includes lectures, chapter-wise quizzes, hands-on training, practical examples, expert access and a proficiency certificate. Its syllabus moves from basic project setup into calendars, Gantt charts, task dependencies, WBS creation, baselines, resource allocation, cost tracking, reports, templates and project tracking.

11. Microsoft Project Level I Course – Graduate School USA

Graduate School USA’s Microsoft Project Level I course is a 6-hour beginner class available live online or self-paced. It teaches users how to set up tasks, allocate resources, track progress and generate reports in Microsoft Project Professional. The course includes Microsoft Office access for one month, recordings, a free retake and a verified digital certificate of completion.

12. Microsoft Project Fundamentals – GoSkills

GoSkills offers a self-paced Microsoft Project Fundamentals course built around Microsoft 365. The training includes 44 lessons and approximately 3.5 hours of video instruction covering task scheduling, resource allocation, project reporting, progress tracking, budgeting and project management workflows.

One notable feature is that learners can earn 19 PDUs or contact hours that can be applied toward PMI certification requirements. Students receive a certificate upon course completion.

13. Microsoft Project Training Course – Simplilearn

Simplilearn’s Microsoft Project training introduces learners to project planning, scheduling, resource management and project tracking using Microsoft Project.

The program combines video-based instruction with practical demonstrations that teach users how to build project schedules, manage dependencies, allocate resources and monitor project performance. The course is designed for professionals who want to strengthen their Microsoft Project skills while building broader project management knowledge.

14. Microsoft Project Training – The Project Group

The Project Group (TPG) offers specialized Microsoft Project training aimed at organizations that use Microsoft’s project and portfolio management tools in enterprise environments.

Unlike many general software training providers, TPG focuses heavily on practical scheduling, resource management, project portfolio management and Microsoft Project Server or Project Online implementations. Training is available through instructor-led formats and can be tailored to organizational requirements.

ProjectManager Is the Best Microsoft Project Alternative

ProjectManager is ideal for teams that want a robust project management solution without the drawbacks and expensive price tag of Microsoft Project. It provides a complete set of planning, scheduling and tracking tools, including Gantt charts, kanban boards, task lists and project and portfolio roadmaps. Teams can build detailed schedules, assign resources and monitor progress, costs, workload and timelines through real-time dashboards, timesheets, workload charts and performance reports.

Built as a cloud-based platform, ProjectManager allows teams to update schedules, manage tasks and generate reports in real time from any location. It also delivers AI-powered project insights to support better decision-making and connects with over 100 tools like Jira, Power BI and Azure DevOps. With its open API and wide range of integrations, organizations can seamlessly link ProjectManager to their existing systems. Watch the video below to learn more!

Free Microsoft Project Tutorials

• Microsoft Project 2021 Training Tutorials for Beginners by Simon Sez IT
• How To Use Microsoft Project: Hands-On Training by Pragmatic Works
• Learn Microsoft Project – Full Course Beginner to Master in 20 Minutes by David McLachlan
• MS Project Tutorial for Beginners by Stuart Taylor
• Project Full Course Tutorial by Learn Skills Daily

Microsoft Project Training FAQs

Why Do People Look for Microsoft Project Training?

Many professionals seek Microsoft Project training because the software has a steep learning curve. Its interface can feel “old” and overwhelming for new users, especially when working with task dependencies, resource allocation, critical paths and project baselines. Training helps users understand the software faster and avoid costly scheduling and planning mistakes.

What Is the Best Microsoft Project Training Course?

The best MS Project training course depends on your experience level and learning goals. Beginners often benefit from structured courses that teach scheduling fundamentals, while experienced users may prefer advanced training focused on resource management, reporting, earned value analysis and portfolio management.

Is Microsoft Project Training Worth It?

Microsoft Project training can be worthwhile for professionals who regularly manage project schedules, resources or budgets. Formal training often helps users avoid common mistakes, improve planning accuracy and learn advanced features more quickly than relying solely on documentation or trial-and-error learning. However, it’s important to be cautious when choosing online courses as many of them can be expensive, and in many cases, they simply explain things that could otherwise be learnt through free tutorials.

How Long Does It Take to Learn Microsoft Project?

Most users can learn the basic features of Microsoft Project within a few days of focused training. However, mastering advanced topics such as resource leveling, earned value management, reporting and portfolio management can take weeks or months of practice depending on experience and project complexity.

Does Microsoft Offer an Official Microsoft Project Certification?

Microsoft previously offered Exam 74-343, Managing Projects with Microsoft Project 2013, but retired the certification in 2019. Today, Microsoft provides training resources through Microsoft Learn and Microsoft Support, but it no longer offers a dedicated Microsoft Project certification exam or certification pathway.

Related Microsoft Project Content

• 20 Best Microsoft Project Alternatives for 2026 (Free & Paid)
• 7 Microsoft Project Templates (Free MPP Files)
• Microsoft Project Gantt Chart: A How-to Guide With Pros, Cons & Alternatives
• 10 Top Microsoft Project Management Software, Apps & Tools

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 today for free.

The post 14 Best Microsoft Project Training, Courses and Certifications appeared first on ProjectManager.

What Is Microsoft Project?

Microsoft Project is project management software used to plan, schedule, resource and track projects. It is commonly used in construction, engineering and other project-driven industries to create schedules, manage resources, monitor costs and track progress. The software includes tools for task dependencies, Gantt charts, resource allocation, budgeting and project reporting that help teams manage complex project timelines and workloads.

If you’re looking for software to plan, schedule and track construction projects from start to finish, try ProjectManager instead. ProjectManager is award-winning construction project management software that gives construction companies tools to ensure projects are completed on time, within budget and within scope. It allows project managers to create detailed construction schedules, estimate costs, allocate resources, set budgets, track progress and compare estimated versus actual project outcomes using real-time dashboards and reports to quickly identify delays or cost overruns. Get started with ProjectManager for free today.

Can Microsoft Project Be Used for Construction Projects?

Yes, Microsoft Project is used by general contractors, subcontractors, project owners, construction managers, engineering firms and specialty trades to plan and control construction projects. Its scheduling, resource management and cost-tracking capabilities make it suitable for managing construction timelines, coordinating crews and equipment, monitoring budgets and tracking project performance throughout execution.

• Develop detailed construction schedules that define activities, durations, milestones and predecessor relationships across the project lifecycle.
• Create critical path schedules that identify activities affecting project completion dates and highlight schedule risks.
• Manage labor resources by assigning crews, supervisors and subcontractors to scheduled construction activities.
• Track equipment utilization by allocating machinery, vehicles and specialized construction resources across projects.
• Estimate and monitor project costs using labor rates, material costs, fixed costs and resource-based budgeting.
• Establish project baselines and compare planned versus actual progress to identify schedule and budget variances.
• Produce construction reports that communicate schedule performance, resource workloads and project cost information to stakeholders.

Key Features of Microsoft Project for Construction Projects

Managing construction work requires more than a simple task list. Microsoft Project provides several project scheduling, resource planning and cost management tools that can help construction teams plan work, allocate resources, monitor budgets and track project performance throughout the construction lifecycle.

• Gantt charts: Microsoft Project’s Gantt chart helps with construction scheduling, timeline visualization, activity sequencing, milestone tracking and schedule communication.
• Task dependencies: Finish-to-start relationships, predecessor management, logic-driven schedules and critical path development.
• Critical path scheduling: Identification of schedule-driving activities that directly impact construction completion dates.
• Resource management: Assignment of labor crews, subcontractors, equipment and materials to construction activities.
• Resource leveling: Resolution of resource conflicts and workload balancing across multiple construction tasks.
• Cost management: Tracking of labor costs, material expenses, equipment costs and other project expenditures.
• Budget baselines: Comparison of planned costs and schedules against actual project performance throughout execution.
• Construction calendars: Working-day management, holiday scheduling, weather allowances and nonworking time controls.
• Progress tracking: Monitoring task completion, schedule performance and earned value metrics during construction execution.
• Project reporting: Generation of schedule, cost and resource reports for owners, contractors and project stakeholders.

Pros of Using Microsoft Project for Construction

For construction teams that need detailed scheduling capabilities, Microsoft Project offers strong planning and control functionality. Its ability to manage dependencies, resources, budgets and project baselines helps teams build structured schedules and monitor performance throughout project execution. Organizations with experienced schedulers often appreciate its depth and scheduling flexibility.

• Provides advanced scheduling capabilities that support complex construction projects with hundreds or thousands of activities.
• Allows detailed dependency management, helping teams build realistic schedules that reflect actual construction sequences.
• Supports labor, equipment and material resource planning to improve allocation decisions across project activities.
• Includes budget tracking and earned value analysis tools for monitoring financial performance during project execution.
• Offers extensive reporting capabilities that help communicate schedule status and project performance to stakeholders.

Cons of Using Microsoft Project for Construction

Despite its project scheduling capabilities, Microsoft Project has significant limitations for construction teams that need more than a construction scheduling tool. Many contractors, subcontractors and project owners require field collaboration, document management, cost controls and real-time reporting, which often forces them to supplement Microsoft Project with additional software. Its complexity, desktop-based architecture and lack of construction-specific functionality can also create adoption challenges across project teams.

• Requires significant training before users can confidently build, update and manage complex construction schedules.
• The interface feels dated compared to modern cloud-based construction project management software platforms.
• Microsoft Project is expensive, especially for construction companies that need multiple licenses across project managers, schedulers and project stakeholders.
• Field personnel often face challenges accessing and updating schedules compared to modern mobile-first construction management solutions.
• Most superintendents, foremen and subcontractors are unlikely to use Microsoft Project directly because of its complexity and steep learning curve.
• Construction teams frequently need additional software for document management, field reporting, issue tracking and other essential project workflows.
• Sharing project schedules with external stakeholders can be cumbersome when team members do not have Microsoft Project licenses.
• Resource management is heavily schedule-focused and lacks the visual workforce planning tools offered by many modern construction platforms.
• Cost tracking capabilities are limited compared to dedicated construction software that includes estimating, job costing and financial management features.
• Desktop-based project files can create version-control challenges when multiple stakeholders need to review or update project schedules

ProjectManager Integrates with Microsoft Project

ProjectManager integrates with Microsoft Project, allowing users to import and export Microsoft Project files while maintaining schedule data, task information, durations, dependencies and resource assignments. This makes it easier for organizations to transition from Microsoft Project, collaborate with external stakeholders who still use Microsoft Project or continue working with existing project schedules without rebuilding them from scratch.

For construction companies, this integration helps preserve investments in existing project schedules while providing access to ProjectManager’s cloud-based collaboration, resource management and reporting tools. Teams can continue exchanging schedule data with owners, contractors, subcontractors and consultants who use Microsoft Project while managing projects in a more modern and collaborative environment.

ProjectManager Is the Best Construction Project Management Solution

ProjectManager offers a comprehensive construction project management software that combines advanced scheduling, resource management, cost tracking and team collaboration in a single platform. Construction managers can build Gantt charts, manage task dependencies, identify critical paths and monitor project performance without the expensive price tag and steep learning curve commonly associated with Microsoft Project.

In addition to traditional construction scheduling capabilities, ProjectManager includes AI-powered project insights, workflow automation and live performance tracking that help teams identify delays, manage risks and make better decisions.

One of the biggest advantages of ProjectManager is that it is fully cloud-based. While Microsoft Project Professional and Microsoft Project Standard are desktop applications, ProjectManager gives office staff, project managers, superintendents and field teams access to the same live project data from anywhere. Schedule updates, resource changes, timesheet submissions and project status information are immediately available, helping construction teams improve coordination and reduce communication delays.

Beyond scheduling, ProjectManager includes workload management, resource scheduling, portfolio roadmaps, real-time dashboards, kanban boards, timesheets and automated reports that help construction companies balance labor resources, monitor project costs and track performance across multiple projects. These tools provide greater visibility into schedules, budgets and resource utilization, making it easier to keep construction projects on track.

Watch the video below to learn more!

The platform also supports an open API and more than 1,000 integrations with tools like Acumatica, QuickBooks, Microsoft Project, Slack and Google Workspace, allowing construction companies to connect operational and project data across their existing systems. The Acumatica integration is particularly valuable for construction businesses because it connects project management workflows with ERP capabilities such as accounting, financial management and operational reporting.

For organizations looking for a modern construction project management platform that combines construction scheduling, resource planning, budget tracking, collaboration and ERP connectivity, ProjectManager is the best alternative to Microsoft Project.

ProjectManager is online construction project management software that empowers teams to plan, manage and track their projects in real time. We connect architects and engineers in the office with your work crew on the job site so they can share files and comments to foster better collaboration. Get started with ProjectManager today for free.

The post Microsoft Project for Construction: Pros & Cons appeared first on ProjectManager.

What Is Smartsheet?

Smartsheet is a cloud‑based work and project management platform that combines a spreadsheet‑like interface with tools to plan, assign and monitor work. It is commonly used across construction, marketing, IT and operations to coordinate schedules, automate workflows and track progress in real time. Teams use Smartsheet to assign tasks, organize calendars, collaborate on documents and oversee progress from inception to completion.

Does Smartsheet Have a Gantt Chart?

Smartsheet includes a Gantt chart view that integrates a grid on the left with a timeline on the right. This view allows users to see task durations, dependencies and milestones in one place, making it a core scheduling option within the platform.

Short Answer: Yes, Smartsheet Has Gantt Charts

Smartsheet’s Gantt charts are functional and easy to edit. Users can drag and drop task bars, color‑code phases or owners and assign tasks directly from the timeline. Dependencies and critical path activities can be highlighted with a click, while baselines compare current dates to the original plan for schedule variance. Collaboration features let teammates add comments, attach files and receive automated alerts, and data can be imported from Excel, MS Project, Google and Trello or exported to PDF or PNG.

Long Answer: Smartsheet’s Gantt Charts Lack Key Features for Project Management

Although Smartsheet provides a usable Gantt view, it lacks advanced project management capabilities found in more robust tools. There is no built‑in way to estimate costs per task or log actual expenses, and resource allocation is handled through separate add‑ons rather than within the timeline. Smartsheet also limits how thoroughly you can compare planned and actual start and finish dates because baselines and variance tracking are basic. Organizations needing deeper cost, resource and performance analysis may outgrow Smartsheet’s Gantt charts quickly.

ProjectManager is award-winning project and portfolio management software that has Gantt charts that link all four types of task dependencies to avoid costly delays. They can filter for the critical path and set a baseline to track project variance in real time. Our Gantt charts update automatically and can be shared easily with your project team, even Apple users. Microsoft Project is not known for its collaboration or ease of use. Our software is easier to use, fosters collaboration, including a mobile app, and is not as expensive as Microsoft Project. Get started with ProjectManager today for free.

How to Make a Smartsheet Gantt Chart Better With ProjectManager

Transferring schedules between Smartsheet and ProjectManager is straightforward. Export your Smartsheet Gantt chart as a Microsoft Project XML or Excel file and then import it into ProjectManager to unlock advanced features like workload and resource allocation charts, timesheets, kanban boards, project calendars and more. The process also works in reverse, so you can round‑trip data between the two tools. To try it yourself, simply start a free trial of ProjectManager.

1. Use the Import Button on the Gantt Chart

Export your Smartsheet project as an MPP file and open ProjectManager. In the Gantt view, select the import option and choose to bring in data from a Microsoft Project (MPP) file. This initiates the guided import process and prepares the file for conversion.

2. Select Which MPP File You Want to Import

Browse your local drive for the exported Smartsheet file. Selecting the correct MPP ensures that all task names, dates and hierarchies transfer accurately into ProjectManager’s Gantt chart.

3. Choose Your MPP File Import Options

During import, decide whether to map columns automatically or manually. ProjectManager lets you match Smartsheet fields like task name, start date and finish date to its own columns to avoid data misalignment.

4. Import All Data or Just the Task List

ProjectManager offers the option to import every column (including predecessors and resources) or only the basic task list. Choose the full import to maintain dependencies and other metadata from Smartsheet.

5. Close the Success Prompt

Once the import completes, ProjectManager displays a confirmation. Closing this prompt takes you directly to the newly created Gantt chart, ready for review and edits.

6. Your Smartsheet Gantt Chart Is Ready to Edit in ProjectManager

With the data imported, you can refine the plan using ProjectManager’s advanced features. Assign resources, estimate costs, set baselines, link multiple dependency types and monitor progress with real‑time dashboards—all from a more powerful Gantt interface.

Key Features and Pros of Smartsheet Gantt Charts

Smartsheet’s Gantt view covers essential scheduling needs and offers several advantages for teams that like a spreadsheet feel.

• Tracks tasks with start and end dates on a timeline and links them so you see how one step affects another.
• Lets you set working days, adjust the scale from days to months and group subtasks under phases with automatic roll‑up of progress.
• Uses colors, baselines and critical‑path markers to show which tasks are late, risky or driving the finish date.
• Provides drag‑and‑drop editing, lets you choose what each column stores and summarizes key metrics in one panel.
• Offers collaboration tools like comments, file attachments and @mentions plus automated reminders and alerts.
• Allows you to color‑code tasks, assign work to team members and manage workloads with built‑in notifications.
• Supports importing data from Excel, MS Project and other tools and exporting the finished chart to PDF or PNG for sharing.
• Updates automatically whenever you adjust a task so the timeline and dependencies stay accurate.

Cons of Making a Gantt Chart in Smartsheet

Despite these strengths, Smartsheet’s Gantt functionality has notable shortcomings that can hinder complex projects or enterprises with advanced needs.

• There’s no built‑in cost tracking, so you can’t compare budgets to actual spending.
• The basic Gantt view doesn’t include resource assignment or workload balancing without paid add‑ons.
• Comparison features are limited, making it hard to see variances between planned and actual dates or budgets.
• It can be hard to learn, dashboards are manual, and connecting to other apps or using advanced features adds extra cost.
• Reports and dashboards aren’t automatic; you have to build and refresh them yourself.
• There’s no native time tracking, so you’ll need a separate tool if you want to log hours or timesheets.
• Task dependency options are basic, which makes it tricky to model complex schedules and constraints.
• Integrations often rely on third‑party services or custom workflows, which adds cost and complexity.

How to Make a Gantt Chart in Smartsheet

Smartsheet’s Gantt view is built upon a regular sheet with date columns. Follow these steps to create your own Gantt chart.

1. Add Tasks and Date Columns

Create a new sheet and list your tasks in rows. Add at least two date columns—start and end dates—to allow Smartsheet to calculate durations and draw Gantt bars. Without these columns, the timeline cannot be generated.

2. Switch to Gantt View

From the toolbar, select Gantt View to split the screen into a grid on the left and a timeline on the right. Use the divider to adjust how much space each section occupies.

3. Enable Dependencies and Configure Settings

Right-click a column header and select Edit Project Settings or use the settings button to open the project settings dialog. Here you can enable dependencies, choose predecessor columns and set other scheduling options.

4. Adjust the Timescale

Use the zoom in and zoom out icons to change the timescale between quarter, month, week or day views. Smartsheet will save your timescale settings when you export the chart.

5. Edit Tasks Directly on the Timeline

Drag the center of a taskbar to move its start and finish dates, or drag one end to adjust the duration. These adjustments update the underlying date columns automatically.

6. Customize Bars and Hierarchy

Right-click a taskbar to open color settings and choose custom colors for different phases or owners. Indent rows in the grid to create parent-child relationships; parent rows calculate progress and durations based on their subtasks.

ProjectManager Has Better Gantt Charts Than Smartsheet

Smartsheet’s Gantt view is convenient but limited. ProjectManager offers a more powerful alternative, providing deeper cost and resource tracking, richer variance analysis and integration with other project views and dashboards.

Superior Cost and Resource Tracking Gantt Chart Features

For resource and cost tracking, the difference between Smartsheet’s Gantt chart and ProjectManager’s Gantt chart is very clear. In ProjectManager you can assign people, equipment and materials to tasks, set hourly rates or budget lines and then see how costs accrue as time is logged. Workload charts make it clear who is overbooked or underused, while timesheets feed directly into the Gantt so there’s no manual reconciliation. You can drag tasks to adjust assignments and the system recalculates hours, utilization and forecast spend in real time, helping you catch overruns before they happen.

Planned vs Actual Comparisons

Another area where ProjectManager shines is in comparing the plan to actual performance. Baselines capture your initial project schedule and budget, and as your team updates progress the software computes variance on dates, costs and durations. Visual indicators call attention to tasks trending late or over budget, allowing you to drill down into the reasons and adjust course. You can save multiple baselines to track scope changes over time and generate reports that show whether your corrective actions are working.

Syncs with Other Project Views and Real‑Time Project Tracking Dashboards

Finally, ProjectManager’s Gantt chart doesn’t live in isolation. Any changes you make to tasks propagate to kanban boards, task lists and resource calendars, ensuring everyone sees the same information regardless of how the project management tools they prefer to work. A live dashboard aggregates key metrics such as completion percentage, budget consumption and team availability, updating as the Gantt changes. With integrations to tools like Slack, Google Drive and Microsoft Office you can collaborate with stakeholders seamlessly and keep your entire project ecosystem in sync.

ProjectManager is online project and portfolio management software that connects teams whether they’re in the office, out in the field or anywhere in between. 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 Smartsheet Gantt Chart: A How‑to Guide With Pros, Cons & Alternatives appeared first on ProjectManager.

What Is Raken?

Raken is a construction field management platform used to capture field data, manage safety and quality tasks and coordinate project documents. It is commonly used by general contractors, specialty contractors and subcontractors to complete digital daily reports, time cards and production logs while staying connected with the office.

The software helps crews record work logs, photos, videos and notes, track labor and equipment hours, and assign tasks—all from a smartphone or tablet. Because Raken emphasizes real‑time field visibility, project managers and executives can monitor progress, identify trends and address issues quickly.

If you’re looking for software to plan, schedule and track construction projects from start to finish, try ProjectManager instead. ProjectManager is award-winning construction project management software that gives construction companies tools to ensure projects are completed on time, within budget and within scope. It allows project managers to create detailed construction schedules, estimate costs, allocate resources, set budgets, track progress and compare estimated versus actual project outcomes using real-time dashboards and reports to quickly identify delays or cost overruns. Get started with ProjectManager for free today.

Raken Plans & Pricing

Raken offers two paid subscription tiers. Each plan requires a minimum of three users and includes unlimited projects, so companies can scale without additional project fees. Advanced capabilities such as time tracking and safety management are only available on the higher tier.

Raken Views

Raken structures its interface around different “views” that present project information for specific workflows. Each view pulls from the same underlying data, so updates in one perspective instantly reflect across the platform.

• Dashboard view. Provides a high‑level snapshot of jobsite performance, summarizing daily reports, labor hours and production data so project leaders can quickly identify trends and potential issues.
• Daily log view. Field supervisors capture work logs, notes, photos, videos, weather and manpower details; the interface organizes entries chronologically for easy reference and compliance.
• Production view. Shows labor and equipment hours alongside quantities installed, helping crews compare planned versus actual productivity and make adjustments to stay on schedule.
• Safety & quality view. Centralizes toolbox talks, managed checklists, observations, incident reports and audits to ensure compliance and reduce risk on the jobsite.
• Tasks view. Lists open and completed tasks with due dates, assignees and attachments; supervisors can assign new work, track status and communicate updates.
• Forms view. Enables creation and reuse of digital forms such as RFIs, submittals and change orders; forms can be customized and shared with stakeholders.
• Documents view. Organizes project files and drawings in cloud storage; users upload PDFs, photos and specifications, annotate documents and share them with multiple recipients.
• RFIs view. Facilitates creating, assigning and tracking RFIs; notifications ensure timely responses and the workflow records ball‑in‑court responsibility.

Raken Key Features

Raken combines progress reporting, production tracking, safety and project management into one field‑focused solution. The following feature categories reflect how the platform supports crews in the field and office.

• Daily progress reporting: Crews complete branded reports with time‑stamped photos, videos and attachments; automated summaries and weather data are assembled into PDFs that can be shared instantly.
• Collaborator & segmented reports: Subcontractors and trades submit their own daily reports; teams can segment reports by supervisor, shift or location to simplify analysis.
• Mobile data capture: Field teams log work, notes, photos, videos, time, safety issues, cost codes, materials and equipment directly from mobile devices.
• Real‑time dashboards & AI summaries: A real‑time dashboard connects the field and office via the cloud, and AI automatically highlights key insights from daily reports.
• Time & production tracking: Labor hours, equipment usage and production quantities are captured through time cards, time clocks and kiosks; geofencing and AI photo ID support accurate time entry.
• Resource scheduling: Crews can plan labor and equipment assignments ahead of time to ensure resources are available and avoid site delays.
• Material & equipment tracking: Field crews log material deliveries, usage and inventory levels along with equipment locations, helping managers plan procurement and reduce downtime.
• Budget management & production insights: Raken provides dashboards to compare actual production against project budgets and identify trends; the Performance plan adds insights dashboards and compliance reporting.
• Safety & quality management: Toolbox talks, managed checklists, observations, incident reports and dashboards help crews prevent safety incidents and maintain quality standards.

Pros and Cons of Raken

Raken stands out for its field‑first design and intuitive interface, but some advanced capabilities are available only at higher price points and the platform focuses on project execution rather than long‑term planning.

Pros

Raken excels at simplifying field reporting and making project data accessible. Its all‑in‑one app helps crews stay compliant, while real‑time dashboards and AI summaries provide executives with immediate insights into jobsite health.

• All‑in‑one mobile app consolidates daily reports, time cards, production tracking, safety and RFIs.
• Unlimited projects with real‑time activity feeds and notifications keep teams informed.
• Field‑first design and intuitive interface drive high adoption and compliance among crews.
• Integrates with existing accounting, payroll and project management systems to reduce duplication.
• Dedicated onboarding and live support help companies ramp up quickly and maximize value.

Cons

Because Raken is purpose‑built for field execution, some companies may need supplementary tools for detailed planning, cost forecasting and enterprise‑grade resource management. Pricing is per user and advanced modules are only available in the Performance plan.

• Time tracking, production tracking, safety & quality management, RFIs and document storage are only available in the higher‑priced Performance plan.
• No free tier; entry‑level Basic plan still requires at least three paid users and lacks advanced project management features.
• Primarily focused on field reporting and compliance; companies with complex construction scheduling needs may require additional software.
• Raken does not offer built‑in Gantt charts or detailed project planning tools, so teams must rely on other platforms for long‑term scheduling.
• Resource scheduling focuses on assigning crews and equipment day‑to‑day; it lacks advanced resource leveling or forecasting features found in dedicated project planning software.
• The platform tracks production quantities and costs but does not provide full budget forecasting or cost management capabilities; users may need accounting integrations for detailed financial control.
• While Raken captures daily jobsite data and generates insights, it does not automate procurement or materials budgeting, so materials planning must be managed separately.

ProjectManager Is the Best Raken Alternative for Construction Project Management

Raken is particularly strong for managing field operations, including daily reports, inspections, RFIs, submittals and drawing management. However, its project planning and scheduling tools are less robust than those found in dedicated project management software such as ProjectManager.

ProjectManager offers a more comprehensive construction project management solution with advanced Gantt charts, critical path tracking, workload management, resource scheduling, portfolio roadmaps, real-time dashboards, kanban boards, timesheets and automated reports in a single platform.

In addition to traditional construction scheduling capabilities, ProjectManager includes AI-powered project insights, workflow automation and live performance tracking that help teams identify delays, manage risks and improve decision-making. The platform also supports an open API and more than 1,000 integrations with tools like Acumatica, QuickBooks, Microsoft Project, Slack and Google Workspace, allowing construction companies to connect operational and project data across their existing systems.

Watch the video below to learn more!

More Raken Alternatives

While Raken focuses on field reporting and compliance, some projects require broader functionality. The following construction software alternatives provide different capabilities across planning, collaboration and project control.

Procore

Procore is a cloud‑based construction management platform that manages projects from preconstruction through closeout. General contractors, owners and specialty contractors use Procore to keep projects on budget and improve returns by connecting field and office teams. The platform supports project execution, cost management and resource management and unifies budgets, contracts and field progress into a single source of truth.

Related: Procore for Project Management: Features, Pros and Cons

ProjectSight

ProjectSight (now part of Trimble Unity Construct) is a unified digital project and site management solution designed to centralize project truth for faster, more accurate builds. Contractors and owners use it to scale from basic site management to customizable project control, with traceable document management, 2D/3D visualization and unlimited free collaborators. Modules support daily reports, checklists, RFIs, submittals, BIM models, schedules, cost management and capital planning.

Fieldwire

Fieldwire is a mobile construction management platform used to coordinate tasks, track progress and manage construction documents in the field. Contractors, owners and trades use it to assign work on digital plans, share updates and maintain a single source of truth for drawings, tasks and inspections. Fieldwire’s views (Kanban boards, Gantt charts, calendar and list) and modules like RFIs, submittals, budget management and BIM viewer help crews collaborate and keep projects on schedule.

ProjectManager is online construction project management software that empowers teams to plan, manage and track their projects in real time. We connect architects and engineers in the office with your work crew on the job site so they can share files and comments to foster better collaboration. Get started with ProjectManager today for free.

The post What Is Raken? Uses, Features and Pricing appeared first on ProjectManager.