6 Strategies To Integrate Technology Into Your Project Management Process

Technology can’t save your project— but these tips can help you work better

by Nick Suarez, Sr. Project Manager

How often do you create a great project plan, but fall short when the time comes to keep track of all the moving pieces?

Managing projects with only a calendar and a pen can be difficult even for the best project manager. With the help of tools like Smartsheets and Plan Grid, I was able to manage my time, communicate with clients, vendors, and contractors, and store all of my documents in one location.

Still, just having the tool isn’t enough: you have to create processes and workflows that include these tools in a meaningful way. These six strategies can help you merge your existing work methods with a few of the tools I’ve found most useful so you can finish projects on time and within budget.

Use Conditional Formatting

Many project management platforms will automatically highlight tasks in yellow (due soon) or red (overdue), so you can quickly see what you need to focus on next.

Set up Reminders and Alerts

Even if you’re not the forgetful type, reminders can keep you on track by bringing tasks that need to be completed soon to your attention.

Incorporate a Client/Vendor Dashboard

We all know how important it is to keep clients and vendors in the know. Instead of sending frequent update emails, many types of software let you automatically update them in one central location.

Take Advantage of a Centralized Repository

Instead of having documents scattered across your computer’s hard drive, upload them into your project management platform so you have everything all in one place.

Pull Data From Your Email

Connecting your project management software to your email inbox helps you keep track of all project communication in one place.

Stay on Top of Your Budget

Financial reporting features make it simple to see how well you’re sticking to your client’s budget without needing to crunch the numbers by hand.

How do you use project management software to keep your projects running smoothly? I’d love to hear your strategies in the comments section!