Top picks for resource planning tools in 2024

Picking the right resource planning tool is all about knowing your needs and finding features that hit the mark. It's a balance between powerful functionality and user-friendly design. Look for simplicity, integration and solid support to make resource planning in project management a breeze.

Nailing resource planning means every part of your project – from team members and finances to materials – is perfectly lined up. This helps dodge overruns, whether it’s time or budget. With a clear picture of what's available and what’s needed, you make better decisions and keep everything running smoothly. If you need a friendly guide on this journey, we've got your back with this article.

Why dedicated resource planning tools make the difference

Switching from traditional methods like Excel to specialised resource planning tools brings a ton of advantages. These tools offer sophisticated functionalities, real-time capabilities and collaborative features that old-school spreadsheets just can't match. Let’s dive into why these advanced tools are a game-changer for modern project management.

1. Simplified resource booking and scheduling

Specialised resource planning tools take the hassle out of booking and scheduling. They automate the allocation process for team members, equipment and other resources, saving you heaps of time. With user-friendly interfaces, making adjustments and reassignments is quick and easy, ensuring your resources are always used effectively.

2. Detailed project schedules

These tools give you a crystal-clear view of project timelines. You get detailed insights into task durations, dependencies and key milestones, helping you understand the full scope of your project. This level of detail makes planning and execution smoother and more accurate.

3. Improved management control

Using resource planning platforms gives you better control over your projects. From allocating resources to tracking progress and managing budgets, these tools let you oversee every aspect. This oversight helps you spot and tackle potential issues early, keeping your projects on track and within budget.

2024’s best resource planning tools: Our top picks

In 2024, the top resource planning tools are all about ease of integration, flexibility and rock-solid support. While Excel still has its place for data manipulation and analysis, specialised platforms are now essential for modern resource planning needs.

Below are the tools that are worth considering for your project management requirements. These tools stand out not just for their advanced features, but also for their ability to seamlessly integrate with existing systems, adapt to unique business needs and provide reliable customer support.

1. Priofy

Priofy is your go-to for streamlining project finances and costs from one easy-to-navigate platform. It offers daily updates, letting you monitor project progress, budgets, resources and costs with ease. Think of it as your project’s financial command center.

Why teams can't get enough of Priofy:

• Powerful tools to manage resources efficiently
• Complete control over finances, aiding informed decisions
• Instant cost analysis for quick response to any issues
• Top-notch support team always ready to assist
• Wellbeing focus to keep your team productive and happy

2. Resource Guru

Resource Guru makes scheduling people, equipment and other resources super simple. Its intuitive interface lets you quickly see who’s available and avoid overbooking. With features like leave management, capacity planning and insightful reports, it’s a versatile tool for teams big and small.

3. Runn

Runn is all about visual timelines and managing workloads. It helps project managers and teams plan, track and analyse projects and resources in real time. With project forecasting, capacity planning and financial tracking, Runn makes it easy to stay on budget and on schedule.

4. Float

Float is known for its user-friendly scheduling and robust planning tools. It helps you manage team capacities and project timelines with real-time updates, keeping everything on track. Float’s features include project and task tracking, resource allocation and powerful reporting, all designed to boost team productivity.

5. Teamdeck

Teamdeck covers booking, time tracking, leave management and reporting in one platform. It streamlines planning and provides insights into project timelines and team availability, making it perfect for agencies and remote teams looking to optimise workflows and ensure project success.

6. Smartsheet

Smartsheet combines the familiarity of spreadsheets with robust project management features. It supports projects of all complexities with automated workflows, real-time collaboration and comprehensive reporting. Smartsheet’s grid interface and Gantt chart support make it a great choice for detailed project tracking and resource management.

Getting started with a resource planning tool

Diving into resource planning tools might seem overwhelming at first, but it's all about taking that first step. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you kick things off smoothly:

1. Identify your needs

Before choosing a tool, take a close look at your project's specific needs. Ask yourself questions like: What are our key resource challenges? Do we need advanced scheduling features, real-time tracking or robust reporting capabilities? Knowing your needs will help you narrow down the options.

2. Trial and error

Many resource planning tools offer free trials or demos. Take advantage of these opportunities to test different platforms. Get your team involved in the process and gather feedback on what works and what doesn’t. This hands-on approach will help you find a tool that fits your workflow seamlessly.

3. Prioritise user experience

A tool that’s packed with features but hard to use can end up being more of a hindrance than a help. Look for a resource planning tool with an intuitive interface and easy navigation. The goal is to make resource management simpler, not more complicated.

4. Focus on support and training

Even the best tool can be challenging without proper support. Ensure that the tool you choose offers excellent customer support and comprehensive training resources. Whether it’s through tutorials, live chats or dedicated account managers, having support can make all the difference.

5. Scale and flexibility

Your chosen tool should be scalable to grow with your team and flexible enough to adapt to changing project needs. Look for features that allow customisation and scalability to ensure the tool remains useful as your projects evolve.

6. Embrace a collaborative approach

Involve your team in the selection process. Their buy-in is crucial for successful implementation. A tool that everyone is comfortable with and finds useful will lead to better adoption and ultimately, more effective resource management.

Wrapping it up

Ready to dive into resource planning bliss? Each of the tools above offers something unique, whether it’s Priofy’s top-notch financial management or Float’s user-friendly scheduling. The key to enhancing your project management practices lies in choosing a tool that matches your project requirements, team size and workflow preferences.

Switching from old-school spreadsheets to dedicated resource planning tools is a game-changer in project management. Choosing a resource planning tool doesn’t have to be daunting. Start by listing your team's specific needs and challenges. Then, find a tool that meets those needs without adding unnecessary complexity. Remember, the best tool is the one that helps your team work better together, not the one that promises to "revolutionise" your workflow overnight.