We have created this comprehensive guide, including 50+ popular project management tools. And the guide also explains key features you should consider when you’re buying project management software for your company.

What is Project Management Software?

From project planning to execution, project management software help you manage all your project management requirements.

A good project management software package can help you carry out multiple key functions, which include but are not limited to:

• Project planning and task management
• Collaboration
• Calendar and contact sharing
• Bug tracking
• Time tracking

In a nutshell, you can use project management software for planning, organizing, and managing projects.

Our Methodology: How We Chose the Best Project Management Software Tools 

In the fast-paced world of project management, delivering results on time is paramount. Effective software tools can be the backbone of ensuring timely and accurate deliverables. Given the myriad of options available, here’s how we zeroed in on the best project management software tools specifically tailored for managing deliverables:

Task and Milestone Tracking (10/10)

At the heart of deliverables is task completion. We prioritize software that offers detailed task and milestone tracking, allowing teams to monitor progress comprehensively.

Collaboration Features (9/10)

Successful deliverables often require teamwork. We value tools that facilitate smooth collaboration, such as real-time chats, file sharing, and comment threads.

Visual Workflow Management (9/10)

Visual aids like Gantt charts, Kanban boards, or flow diagrams help in visualizing the path to a deliverable. We appreciate software that integrates these functionalities.

Customizability (8/10)

Every project has unique deliverables. Software that allows users to customize workflows, templates, and reports stand out in our evaluation.

Reporting and Analytics (8/10)

Understanding project performance can guide future deliverables. We lean towards tools offering in-depth analytics, status reports, and performance insights.

Integration Capabilities (8/10)

Seamless integration with other tools—be it CRM systems, communication platforms, or file storage solutions—can streamline the deliverable process. We consider the range and efficiency of such integrations.

Ease of Use (7/10)

A tool’s effectiveness is diminished if it’s overly complex. User-friendly interfaces that make the software accessible to all team members are essential.

Scalability (7/10)

As projects grow and deliverables multiply, software should adapt. We favor tools that can scale with the needs of a project or organization.

Real-time Notifications (7/10)

Immediate updates on task status, deadlines, or changes are crucial for timely deliverables. Tools with prompt and customizable notifications earn our nod.

Budgeting and Resource Allocation (6/10)

Ensuring resources are aptly utilized without overshooting budgets is part of effective deliverable management. We value software that aids in these financial aspects.

Security and Data Protection (6/10)

Project details and deliverables can be sensitive. We assess software based on its encryption, data protection standards, and access controls.

Customer Support and Documentation (6/10)

Having a reliable support system and thorough documentation ensures any hiccups in managing deliverables are promptly addressed.

Managing deliverables is a balancing act of timely execution and quality assurance. With our comprehensive evaluation method, we spotlight project management software tools that not only support these objectives but empower teams to consistently meet and exceed project goals.

52 Best Project Management Tools

Picking the right project management tool won’t be hard after exploring our list of the #52 best project management tools.

The list includes a variety of project management tools well-suited for businesses of all types. Also, the list ropes in online project management tools, project management apps, and software.

Without further ado, let’s dive in:

Trello

Trello is the best project management software if you are looking for a hassle-free project management app.

This project management solution helps you organize different projects using boards. Each board has multiple lists and cards to hold project-related files, and other essential details.

With Trello, you can:

• Get an overview of projects
• Assign tasks to your employees
• Track status of tasks
• Automate common actions

Compatible with: Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.

Trello Pricing: The Free plan is good for individuals and small teams. For businesses with large teams, Trello has Business Class and Enterprise plans. To use the Business Class plan of this top project management tool for a month, you will have to pay $10. You can try it for 14 days without spending any money.

Asana

Asana helps you manage projects, tasks, and different essential functions. It comes with to-do lists, timeline overview, calendar, and many more features.

Asana helps you:

• Build plans for your projects
• Create custom workflows
• Plan and track campaigns
• Get real-time progress and insights

Compatible with: Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.

Asana Pricing: Asana has four plans: Basic (free, for up to 15 users), Premium, Business, and Enterprise. Paid plans start at $10.99 per user, per month. You can also try Asana for free for 30 days.

Zoho Projects

Zoho Projects is perhaps the best project management software to manage resources and collaborate with your teams. It can integrate with other Zoho apps and third-party apps for a seamless experience.

With Zoho Projects, you can:

• Get quick project-related updates
• Automate recurring tasks
• Record and track the hours worked
• Communicate via group chats

Compatible with: Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.

Zoho Projects Pricing: Zoho Projects has three plans: Free (limited to 3 users and 2 projects), Premium, and Enterprise. The paid plans start at $5 monthly for one user (for up to 50 users).

You can try Zoho Projects for free for 10 days.

Wrike

Wrike is thought to be the best project management software by many. You can integrate other essential tools to turn it into a full-fledged project control center.

Wrike can help you to:

• Improve collaboration across departments
• Manage feedback process
• Get timely status updates
• Visualize team progress in real-time

Compatible with: Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.

Wrike Pricing: Wrike has four plans: Free (with limited features), Professional, Business, and Enterprise. The paid plan starts at $9.80 monthly for one user. You can try Wrike for free for 2 weeks.

Teamgantt

Teamgantt is the top project management tool to help you create comprehensive Gantt charts to plan, schedule, and manage different projects.

This project management app can also help you keep your budget and expenses in control.

Teamgantt software package comes with these following features:

• Schedule tasks for different teams
• Organize files and conversations
• Time tracking
• Manage project workflow easily

Compatible with: Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and iOS devices.

Teamgantt Pricing: It has four plans: Free (for individual use), Standard, Advanced, and Enterprise. The Standard plan starts at $24.95 per month for one user. You can try this tool for free for 30 days.

Gantt Charts

Gantt Charts are used to show activities displayed against time. And a good thing about Gantt Charts is you can find several tools to make them.

The subscription plans for Gantt chart software vary from one tool to another.

You can find more information about Gantt Charts here.

Basecamp

Basecamp is one of the best project management software tools to help you and your teams stay organized and work better.

From message boards to to-dos and document management to file storage, it has everything available in one place. So, it is no surprise that Basecamp is loved by thousands of project management teams.

Basecamp has the following key features to manage complex projects:

• Get assignments’ overview at once
• Catch up on project-related updates
• Interact with everyone directly
• Minimize notifications and distractions

Compatible with: Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.

Basecamp Pricing: Basecamp offers two plans: Personal, which is free but has limited features, and Business. The paid Business plan costs $99 per month. You can also test Basecamp free for 30 days.

Monday.com

Monday.com helps in achieving effective and productive workflow management. It comes with multiple templates to plan and organize all your team’s work.

With monday.com, you can:

• Collaborate over marketing campaigns
• Manage your IT operations better
• Take care of recruitment and onboarding
• Save time on repetitive processes

Compatible with: Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.

Monday.com Pricing: This cloud-based tool has five plans: Individual (Free), Basic, Standard, Pro, and Enterprise. The basic plan starts at $8 monthly for one user. The company also offers a 14-day free trial.

ProjectManager.com

ProjectManager is an online platform that provides project planning and scheduling features along with team collaboration tools.

ProjectManager.com has the following key features for managing projects:

• Keep track of tasks and budget
• Manage to-do lists and team calendar
• Track workload and costs
• Create customized reports

Compatible with: Windows and Mac devices

ProjectManager Pricing: ProjectManager offers four plans: Starter (free for up to 3 users), Team, Business, and Enterprise. To access the premium features of ProjectManager, you’ll need to pay at least $14 per month, depending on the selected package. Additionally, you can try it free for 30 days.

Deltek WorkBook

Deltek WorkBook is designed for agencies and in-house teams to help streamline their projects, human resource, and finances. It provides full control and flexibility over the processes.

It can help you:

• Plan project and allocate resources
• Budget costs in advance
• Manage tasks with time tracking
• Build a transparent relationship with clients

Compatible with: Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.

Deltek WorkBook Pricing: Deltek WorkBook has four packages: Projects, Projects + CRM, Projects + Finance, and Full Suite. You’ve to request a quote from the website to get the price.

ClickUp

ClickUp is a project management tool that combines documents, emails, events, time tracking, resource management, and much more in one platform.

It enables you to:

• Get an overview of all tasks and sync them with calendar reminders
• Communicate with connected teams directly
• Create and manage knowledge base docs

Compatible with: Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and iOS devices.

ClickUp Pricing: It has four plans: Free Forever (with limited features), Unlimited, Business, and Enterprise. The unlimited plan starts at $5 monthly for one user. It doesn’t offer a free trial of its premium plans.

Teamwork

Teamwork helps you manage multiple complex projects easily. It comes with time tracking, invoicing, client access, and other important features.

With Teamwork, you can:

• View all task lists in one place
• Automate your workflow
• Keep track of time spent
• Optimize your resources better

Compatible with: Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.

Teamwork Pricing: Teamwork has four plans: Free Forever (for individuals), Deliver, Grow, and Enterprise. The paid plans begin at $10 monthly for one user and go upward. You can also try it for free for 30 days.

FreedCamp

FreedCamp helps manage different task lists and collaborate with involved teams efficiently. It also has additional features to keep clients updated.

FreedCamp has the following features for managing projects:

• Streamline projects, processes, and task lists
• Track working hours and raised issues
• Manage and edit documents easily
• Back up the data on your systems

Compatible with: Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.

FreedCamp Pricing: It has four plans: Free (with only the essential features), Minimalist, Business, and Enterprise. Paid packages start at $1.49 per user for a month. And you can try it for free for 14 days.

Redbooth

Redbooth is an online tool designed for flexible project management and team communication. Additionally, it is useful for planning and scheduling tasks.

Here are key highlights of Redbooth:

• Keep an eye on all task lists
• Delegate responsibilities to concerned employees
• Conduct video meetings instantly
• Get customized reports

Compatible with: Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.

Redbooth Pricing: It has four plans: Free (with basic features, limited to 2 users), Pro, Business, and Enterprise. The Pro plan starts at $9 per user, per month. A 14-day free trial is also available.

Notion

Notion acts as an all-in-one-workspace to keep all notes, tasks, and databases as different content blocks. It is a handy tool to plan projects and stay organized.

Notion has the following features to manage projects and tasks:

• Create and manage campaigns
• Get a bird’s-eye view of tasks
• Handle documentation and templates
• Share information with the concerned members easily

Compatible with: Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.

Notion Pricing: Notion has four plans: Personal (free with limited features), Personal Pro, Team, and Enterprise. The Team and Enterprise plans are meant for companies. And its paid plans start at $8 monthly for one user. And you can use it for free for up to 1000 content blocks.

Scora

Scoro is designed to help professional service businesses. It is a work management software package to handle projects, quotations, billing, and much more.

Scoro helps you:

• Plan and prioritize your work for better work management
• Monitor calendar and working hours
• Track everything (from project status to company sales)
• Automate budgets and finances

Compatible with: Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.

Scora Pricing: Scoro has four plans: Essential, Work Hub, Sales Hub, and Ultimate. The Essential plan starts at $26 monthly (for 5 users). And you can try it free for 14 days.

Paymo

Paymo allows you to control your team’s workflow, time, and finances, all through a cloud-based platform. It also supports integrations to automate and improve the processes.

With Paymo, you’re able to do the following and more:

• Organize tasks and other activities
• Provide feedback in real-time
• Manage time-offs and holidays
• Invoice your clients directly.

Compatible with: Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and iOS devices.

Paymo Pricing: Paymo has three plans: Free, Small Office, and Business. The paid plans start at $9.95 monthly for one user. You can try Paymo for free for 15 days.

ProofHub

ProofHub is one of the best project management software packages. It can help you plan, organize, and deliver projects while keeping everyone in the loop. You can see all steps of the project in one place.

It can help you:

• Get an overview of the timeline
• Assign tasks to concerned employees
• Bring files and documents in one place
• Define custom roles and access rights

Compatible with: Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.

ProofHub Pricing: ProofHub has two plans: Essential and Ultimate Control. The Essential plan starts at $45 for a month. And you can try it for free for 14 days.

nTask

nTask is a powerful online software to simplify project planning, budgeting, and resource allocation. It has Kanban Boards, Gantt Charts, and other tools to help you manage your work.

With nTask, you’ll be able to do the following and more:

• Track progress with interactive Gantt charts
• Communicate and collaborate with the involved teams
• Manage meetings and follow-ups easily
• Monitor time spent on different tasks

Compatible with: Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.

nTask Pricing: There are four available plans: Basic (free), Premium, Business, and Enterprise. The paid plans begin at $2.99 per month for a single user and increase from there. Additionally, you can test it for free for 14 days.

Workzone

Workzone is a project management tool to help you deliver projects on time, measure, and improve the results. It has to-do lists, document sharing, automated alerts, and many other features.

Workzone allows you to:

• See everything in a glance
• Review documents with ease
• Keep a watch on the project budget
• Get detailed reports and team insights

Compatible with: Windows and Mac devices.

Workzone Pricing: Workzone has three plans: Team, Professional, and Enterprise. The Team plan begins at $24 monthly for one user (for a team of 15). A free trial is not available, but you can request a demo from its website.

Citrix Podio

Citrix Podio is one of the best project management software to make your teams work in sync and communicate effectively. It brings all content, conversations, and processes to one platform.

Citrix Podio can help you:

• Automate recurring workflows
• Schedule meetings using a shared calendar
• Upload and attach files with content
• Search all content and conversations

Compatible with: Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.

Citrix Pricing: Citrix offers four plans: Free (for up to 5 users), Basic, Plus, and Premium. The Basic plan begins at $7.20 per month for a single user. A product demo can be requested from its website.

Microsoft Project

Microsoft Project is an intuitive and simple project management tool to set up and get started with your projects. It is flexible and integrates well with the Microsoft ecosystem.

With Microsoft Project, you can:

• View all active projects at once
• Generate interactive reports
• Manage and optimize resources
• Share files and chat with your team

Compatible with: Windows, Mac, and Linux devices.

Microsoft Project Pricing: It comes with three plans, starting with $10 monthly for one user. You can also try it for free for 30 days. Check its website for further details.

Kintone

Kintone shared platform helps you with creating low-code apps to automate workflows and processes. You can have apps to manage all tasks across the organization.

Key highlights of Kintone apps include but are not limited to:

• Create and manage databases
• Prioritize tasks across projects
• Set up custom reminders
• Communicate with the team easily

Compatible with: Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.

Kintone Pricing: Kintone has two packages for businesses: Professional and Enterprise. These plans start at $24 monthly for one user. A 30-day free trial is also available.

Jira

Jira management tool is designed for software teams to plan, build and release software easily. It provides transparency and real-time updates to project workflows.

With Jira, you can:

• Distribute tasks across the team members
• Be updated with recent changes
• Develop and deploy software with agility
• Automate your development workflow

Compatible with: Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and iOS devices.

Jira Pricing: Jira comes with four plans: Free (for up to 10 users), Standard, Premium, and Enterprise. The Standard plan starts at $7 monthly for one user. A 7-day free trial is also available.

Smartsheet

Smartsheet platform helps you manage projects, automate workflows and organize all processes to build solutions.

It can help you:

• Automate repetitive tasks
• Sync data across systems
• Distribute assets efficiently
• Manage and review in real-time

Compatible with: Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.

Smartsheet Pricing: It has two plans for businesses: Business and Enterprise. You can visit the website to request subscription costs. A 30-day free trial is also available.

Nutcache

Nutcache is a management software to track your projects & tasks from start to finish. It can help you visually organize your processes.

Nutcase enables you to:

• Manage documents and other resources
• Record and track working hours
• Invoice projects and get paid easily
• Track budgets to control expenses

Compatible with: Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.

Nutcache Pricing: It has three plans for businesses: Free (with limited features), Pro, and Enterprise. The Pro plan starts at $6 monthly for one user. You can also try this tool for free.

Hive

Hive helps your team work together with collaborative note-taking, task tracking, and interactive meetings. It comes with powerful proofing and annotation tools.

With Hive, you’ll be able to do the following and more:

• Assign tasks from a central dashboard
• Get an overview of available resources
• Improve performance through analytics
• Collect and manage regular feedback
• Flexible project views

Compatible with: Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.

Hive Pricing: Hive comes with a base package (with all the essential features) starting at $12 monthly for one user. You can try it for free for 14 days.

Workfront

Workfront is an online work management platform by Adobe. It has tools to manage documents, plan workflows, expedite approvals, and much more.

Workfront helps you:

• Plan, execute, and review campaigns
• Prioritize tasks for better efficiency
• Get real-time team and project insights
• Create transparent client experience

Compatible with: Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.

Workfront Pricing: Workfront has four packages: Team, Pro, Business, and Enterprise. You can request customized costs of different plans through its website.

Kissflow Project

Kissflow Project helps you manage your projects and improve team efficiency. You can visualize and filter the flow of your work with this tool:

With Kissflow Project, you can:

• Organize tasks for easy access
• Get accurate information on projects
• Communicate and share files
• Stay ahead of deadlines with alerts

Compatible with: Windows and Mac devices

Kissflow Project Pricing: It has four plans: Free (accessible to 3 users to manage 1 project), Starter, Professional, and Enterprise. The paid plans start at $35 for a month. And you can try Kissflow free for 14 days.

Clarizen

Clarizen helps you simplify the entire work lifecycle and accomplish your goals. It has different work styles and hybrid methodologies to suit individual project needs.

With Clarizen, you’re able to:

• Set up a manageable project workflow
• Connect and engage your workforce
• Keep all discussions and files together
• Minimize delays and improve outcomes

Compatible with: Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.

Clarizen Pricing: There are two available plans: the Enterprise Edition and the Unlimited Edition. Customized pricing can be requested via its website.

Airtable

Airtable helps you create customized solutions to manage all the tasks. It is similar to a spreadsheet, but with the power of a database tool.

The best part of using Airtable is you have toggle navigation to look at multiple formats like a spreadsheet, Kanban board, or calendar.

You can use it to:

• Distribute resources across teams
• Manage budgets and expenses
• Automate information sharing
• Keep track of all the data

Compatible with: Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.

Airtable Pricing: Airtable has four plans: Free (with limited features), Plus, Pro and Enterprise. They’re available starting at $10 monthly for one user. It also offers a free trial for 14 days.

GanttPRO

GanttPRO is an online project management tool based on Gantt charts. It helps in smooth team collaboration while keeping clients in the loop.

With GanttPRO, you’ll be able to do the following and more:

• Plan project workflow and budget
• Distribute tasks to the involved teams
• Track progress on a visual timeline
• Manage day-offs and vacations

Compatible with: Windows and Mac devices.

GanttPRO Pricing: GanttPRO has two plans for businesses: Team and Enterprise. Its Team plan starts at $8.90 monthly for one user. It also offers a free trial for 14 days.

Chanty

Chanty simplifies team communication and task management, allowing you to stay connected with all team members while keeping track of progress.

You can use Chanty to:

• Stay updated via text, voice, or video
• Create and manage tasks smartly
• Get all tasks, files, and links together
• Automate workflow with integrations

Compatible with: Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and iOS devices.

Chany Pricing: Chanty’s Business plan starts at $3 per user, per month. It also has a free plan, with limited features, for teams with up to 10 users.

Timely

Timely is easy-to-use project management software tool. Its key highlights include:

• Project tracking
• Time tracking
• Team tracking

Compatible with: This project management app is compatible with Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS.

Timely Pricing: Timley has three plans – Starter, Premium, and Unlimited. If billed annually, the Starter package of this project management software will cost you $8 monthly.

Yodiz

Yodiz is an Agile Scrum tool to maximize team efficiency and wrap up projects faster. From project planning to customer support, it brings many functions together.

Yodiz can help you to:

• Define customer journeys
• Screenshot and annotate project issues
• Engage with the team in real-time
• Get actionable smart analytics

Compatible with: Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.

Yodiz Pricing: It has four plans: Starter (free, for up to 3 users), Issue Tracker, Agile Tool, and Self Hosted. Its paid plan starts at $3 monthly for one user. You can also try it for free for 30 days.

Todoist

Todoist enables you to organize tasks easily. It has reminders, task filters, and many other features to help you manage the workload.

Todoist comes handy when you have to:

• Delegate tasks to your team
• Handle repetitive tasks
• Keep an eye on all important tasks
• Share files and discuss details

Compatible with: Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS, and wearable devices.

Todoist Pricing: Todoist has three pans – Free, Pro, and Business. The business plan starts at $5 monthly for one user. You can also try it free for 30 days.

Forecast

Forecast helps you manage all your projects, resources, and finances in one easy-to-use platform. It provides full data visibility to teams and transparency to clients.

With Forecast, you can:

• Plan projects with the help of AI
• Reduce time spent on repeat tasks
• Allocate resources efficiently
• Manage working hours and time-offs

Compatible with: Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.

Forecast Pricing: Forecast has three plans: Lite, Pro, and Plus. The Lite plan starts at €27 monthly for one user. You can try it free for 14 days.

Confluence

Confluence is a hassle-free collaboration software package for teams working on critical projects. It is equipped with tools and templates to get started easily and work securely.

Confluence helps you to:

• Edit and provide feedback in real-time
• Create and manage knowledge base
• Get personalized project status feed
• Build a culture of open teamwork

Compatible with: Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.

Confluence Pricing: It comes with four plans: Free (for up to 10 users), Standard, Premium, and Enterprise. The Standard plan starts at $5 monthly for one user. You can try it free for seven days.

Accelo

Accelo helps service businesses with project planning, execution, and delivery. It handles everything, from time tracking and reporting to billing.

With Accelo, you can:

• Build and nurture client relationships
• Assign tasks to the team
• Automate recurring processes
• Manage contracts and retainers effortlessly

Compatible with: Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.

Accelo Pricing: Accelo has four regular plans: Projects, Sales, Retainers, and Service, each available at $39 per month and with a free 14-day trial.

It also offers an all-in-one ServOps plan that will cost you $79 per month.

Mavenlink

Mavenlink is a professional services automation tool that brings together project management, resource management, and team collaboration on one platform.

It enables you to:

• Manage timelines and budgets
• Delegate tasks efficiently
• Respond to changes in real-time
• Improve client engagements

Compatible with: Windows and Mac devices.

Mavenlink Pricing: You have to request customized cost or schedule a demo through its website.

Nifty

Nifty enables you to centralize your work operations and keep the tasks and their dependencies in sync. It has tools for communication, scheduling, meeting, and many more functions.

You can use Nifty to:

• Manage feedback and deadlines
• Streamline time and resources
• Store and edit documents together
• Have real-time discussions

Compatible with: Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.

Nifty Pricing: Nifty offers four packages: Starter, Pro, Business, and Enterprise. The Starter plan starts at $39 monthly. You can try this tool for free for up to 14 days.

Liquid Planner

LiquidPlanner comes with predictive tools to plan projects, schedule tasks, create estimates and do many more things. It is a software package that predicts when work will be done.

With LiquidPlanner, you can:

• Organize and manage tasks
• Understand how everyone spends time
• Optimize and distribute the workload
• Make informed decisions with insights

Compatible with: Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.

Liquid Planner Pricing: LiquidPlanner comes with four plans: Free (limited to 10 users and 3 projects), Essentials, Professional and Ultimate. The Essential plan starts at $15 monthly for one user. You can try this tool for free for 14 days.

Project.co

Project.co is a handy tool for creative teams to keep projects on the envisioned track. It can help you manage all projects in one place while improving teamwork.

Project.co helps you to:

• Keep track of every communication
• Manage files, tasks, and other project assets
• Track time and payments
• Bring clients in sync

Compatible with: Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.

Project.co Pricing: It comes with one ‘Everything Unlimited” plan, which is priced at $10 monthly for one user. After signing up, you can try this tool for free for 14 days.

Hitask

Hitask comes with an easy-to-use project management dashboard to organize your tasks and manage teams. It supports multi-platform operations to manage work on the go.

With Hitask, you can:

• Share tasks with multiple team members
• Track time spent on tasks
• Drag and drop files on demand
• Exchange messages and track issues

Compatible with: Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.

Hitask Pricing: Hitask offers three plans: Team Free (free, for up to 5 users), Team Business, and Enterprise. Its paid plan starts at $5 per user, per month. The company offers a free trial.

Toggl Plan

Toggl Plan helps you plan projects and manage teams with ease. It comes with features like drag-and-drop scheduling, file sharing, reporting, and more.

It enables you to:

• Divide projects into milestones
• Add files, notes, and checklists to tasks
• Share plans and timeline with the team
• Comment and provide feedback

Compatible with: Windows and Mac devices.

Toggl Plan Pricing: Toggl Plan comes with two packages for businesses: Team and Business. Its subscription cost starts at $8 monthly for one user. You can try this tool for free for 14 days.

ActiveCollab

ActiveCollab brings together project management, time tracking, and invoicing under one hood. It helps you organize the entire workflow from start to finish.

With ActiveCollab, you can:

• Manage meetings and projects together
• Monitor important projects easily
• Search for information quickly
• Invite and collaborate with clients

Compatible with: Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.

ActiveCollab Pricing: It has three plans: Free (with limited features), Plus, and Pro. The Pro plan starts at $6.25 monthly for one user. You can try this tool for free for 14 days.

Cascade

Cascade assists you in planning strategies and fostering teamwork. It ensures that daily tasks are aligned with the key goals that drive your growth.

It enables you to:

• Put objectives, projects, and KPIs together
• Build accountability and transparency
• Visualize the activity of the entire organization
• Translate strategy into execution

Compatible with: Windows and Mac devices.

Cascade Pricing: It has two paid plans: Teams and Enterprise. Its paid plan starts at $58 per user for a month. Cascade doesn’t have a free plan. But it offers a free trial to explore the benefits.

Agilean

Agilan is a workflow management tool with the sole purpose to make your team more agile. It is a combination of Objectives & Key Results (OKR) and agile software.

With Agilean, you’re able to:

• Create and assign tasks to the team
• Get clear visibility of project progress
• Pause unwanted ongoing work
• Find detailed analytics

Compatible with: Windows and Mac devices.

Agilean Pricing: Agilean’s paid plan starts at $5 per user, per month with all features bundled in one package. It also offers a 30-day free trial.

Epicflow

Epicflow provides you with all the necessary tools to manage projects and achieve your company’s objectives faster. It has a Gantt chart, predictive what-if analysis, and many more features.

Epicflow allows you to:

• Monitor progress of all projects
• Analyze team performance
• Allocate resources efficiently
• Prioritize tasks and assign them

Compatible with: Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.

Epicflow Pricing: You have to request a demo from its website to get the subscription details.

Backlog

Backlog helps software developers organize, discuss, and track the overall progress all in one place. It also has essential tools to manage code versions.

With Backlog, you can:

• Manage tasks with a task hierarchy
• Keep related project files together
• Communicate with multiple teams easily
• Secure workspace with IP restrictions

Compatible with: Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.

Backlog Pricing: It has five plans: Free (for up to 10 users), Starter, Standard, Premium, and Enterprise. The Starter plan starts at $35 per month. It comes with a 30-day free trial.

Flowlu

Flowlu is a project management software package with all the essential tools to run your company. It can help you handle projects, finances, customer relationships, and many more essential things.

It helps you to:

• Automate repetitive workflows and tasks
• Track time spent across projects
• Generate automated invoices and estimates
• Improve sales and lead onboarding

Compatible with: Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.

Flowlu Pricing: Flowlu offers five plans: Free (for 2 users), Team, Business, Professional, and Enterprise. The paid plans begin at $29 per month, and a 14-day free trial is available.

FunctionFox

FunctionFox is a simple online timesheet coupled with project management tools. It can help you keep all your projects on track, on time, and on budget.

With FunctionFox, you can:

• Estimate project budgets
• Streamline internal communication
• Get real-time progress updates
• Track time and project expenses

Compatible with: Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.

FunctionFox Pricing: FunctionFox has three plans: Classic, Premier, and In-house. Its subscription starts at $5 per user, per month. It doesn’t have a free plan, but you can sign up for a 14-day free trial.

What Makes Good Project Management Software?

Not all great project management software packages are created equal. The right software can make the difference between a project’s success and failure.  So, it is imperative that you should know the best project management features to pick the best tool that suits your needs.

Here are the key features that your project management tool must have:

Easy to Use

A good project management software should be intuitive and user-friendly. The last thing any team needs is to grapple with a steep learning curve. Features such as a project plan template can simplify the process.

It should offer straightforward functionalities, with a clear and clean user interface. Features like drag-and-drop, simple task creation, and easy-to-understand dashboards can make a tool much more accessible.

The presence of onboarding resources, like video tutorials or customer support, can further ease the transition for your team. Tools like Trello and Asana, for example, are renowned for their simplicity and ease of adoption.

Time Tracking

Understanding where your team’s time is going can be crucial in optimizing productivity and ensuring timely project delivery. A good project management software should allow members to log the time they spend on tasks.

This not only aids in billing and invoicing but also helps in evaluating the efficiency of the team and refining processes. With tools like Mavenlink and Wrike, teams can precisely track their time, leading to more informed decision-making.

Kanban Board

Visual representation can significantly enhance the way teams handle tasks. Kanban boards provide a clear picture of task status, helping prioritize tasks and ensure smooth workflow. With columns typically representing stages of a process, moving tasks becomes a breeze.

Tools like ProofHub, Trello, and Zoho Projects make it easy to implement and maintain these boards, helping teams stay organized.

Task Management

Being able to efficiently assign, monitor, and manage tasks is the crux of any project management software. The software should allow for easy categorization, prioritization, and status updates of tasks.

Features such as recurring tasks, dependencies, and sub-tasks can elevate a tool’s utility. Both Asana and Basecamp shine in this regard, offering comprehensive task management solutions.

Team Collaboration

Projects often involve diverse teams and cross-functional collaboration. Therefore, your chosen software should promote easy communication and collaboration. Features like chat, comment sections, and notification settings can ensure everyone is on the same page.

Tools like Asana, nTask, and Chanty facilitate smooth team interaction, ensuring that all stakeholders are aligned.

Resource Management

Efficient allocation and monitoring of resources, both human and material, can significantly impact project outcomes. Your software should allow for capacity planning, resource allocation, and tracking. This ensures that no resource is overburdened or underutilized.

Mavenlink, Monday.com, and Forecast are known for their resource management capabilities.

Creation and Management of Project Plans

Project plans lay the foundation for execution. Good project management software should support the creation, modification, and tracking of these plans. The ability to set milestones, create timelines, and adjust as per real-time developments is crucial.

Asana and nTask offer robust features in this domain, helping managers stay on top of project trajectories.

Budget Tracking

Financial prudence can make or break a project. Therefore, your project management tool should offer budget tracking capabilities. This enables managers to monitor expenses, forecast costs, and ensure that the project remains within financial bounds.

With tools like Wrike and ProjectManager.com, budgeting becomes more structured and transparent.

File Sharing

The ability to share and access files seamlessly can significantly streamline workflows. Your software should offer secure file storage and sharing capabilities. This ensures that team members can collaborate on documents, designs, or any other project-related file with ease.

Tools like Smartsheet and Trello, with their efficient file sharing mechanisms, enhance collaborative efforts.

The Importance of Project Management Software

Project management tools are integral in the modern business landscape. Here a look at why these tools are so advantageous:

• Better Planning and Scheduling: Proper planning lays the foundation for any successful project. With project management tools, teams can set realistic timelines, allocate resources wisely, and set clear milestones. This ensures that every phase of the project is well-organized and that the team knows the path ahead, reducing the chances of costly overruns.
• Improved Collaboration: In the age of remote work and distributed teams, collaboration becomes paramount. Project management tools bridge the geographical gap, allowing teams from different parts of the world to work in tandem. Features like chat, comment sections, and real-time updates ensure everyone remains in sync.
• Efficient Task Delegation: Knowing who is doing what is crucial for smooth project execution. With project management software, leaders can assign tasks to team members with clarity. It also allows managers to monitor progress and ensure that no one is overwhelmed with too many tasks.
• Easy File Sharing: Gone are the days of long email chains with attachments. Modern project management tools offer centralized storage solutions. This means team members can upload, share, and collaborate on documents or other project-related files seamlessly, ensuring that everyone has access to the latest versions.
• Enhanced Communication Among Stakeholders: Stakeholders, whether they’re team members, clients, or executives, need to be kept in the loop. Project management tools streamline communications, allowing for regular updates, feedback loops, and ensuring that all parties are well-informed about project status and developments.
• Improved Productivity: One of the most tangible benefits of using a project management tool is the uptick in productivity. With tasks clearly defined, resources properly allocated, and timelines set, team members can focus on their work without unnecessary disruptions. The structured approach minimizes downtime and enhances overall efficiency.

An essential aspect to consider is that a comprehensive project management software solution enables efficient resource management.

This means not just allocating human resources efficiently but also ensuring that equipment, budget, and other critical resources are utilized optimally. This holistic approach ensures that projects run smoothly from inception to completion.

What is the best project management software?

The best project management software includes but are not limited to Zoho Projects, Trello, Basecamp, and Asana. If you want a project management tool that costs you a reasonable price and has a simple user interface, you should take Zoho Projects for a spin.

What software do project managers use?

Project managers use Asana, Trello, Basecamp, and other software project management software that fulfill their requirements. As there is no one-fits-all kind of project management tool, you will come across a variety of project management apps used by project managers.

What is the easiest project management software?

The easiest project management software package, in our opinion, is Trello. You can manage various projects with Trello using visual task boards. However, you may find any other project management app easiest. So, it is imperative that you should try several project management solutions before you buy one.

What is the best free project management software?

The best project management software package, in our opinion, is from Asana. It is an easy-to-use tool that allows your teams to know what to do, how to do it, and why it matters. For rich project management features and reporting tools, you can opt for Asana Premium.

Does Google have project management software?

No, Google doesn’t have project management software. However, you can use Google Sheet to create project plans and Gantt chart timelines.

What are the 5 stages of project management?

The five stages of project management include:

• Initiating
• Planning
• Executing
• Controlling
• Closing

(Source: PMI)

Image: Depositphotos

This article, "Best Project Management Software Tools to Manage Deliverables" was first published on Small Business Trends

The best way to protect your small business from data loss is to always back-up your data. However, sometimes, data loss just sneaks right on you. It could be as a result of incompatible software, data corruption, hacking, accidental deletion or even a simple power surge or outage. Whatever the case, there are some free data recovery tools that could help you get back your lost files.

What is Data Recovery Software?

Data recovery software is a specialized program designed to retrieve and restore data that has been lost, deleted, or corrupted from various storage devices. These devices can include hard drives, solid-state drives, USB drives, and memory cards. The software employs advanced algorithms and techniques to scan the storage device, identify the lost data, and recover it to a safe location. Whether it’s due to accidental deletion, formatting errors, or system crashes, data recovery software can be a lifesaver for small businesses facing data loss.

Types of Data Loss

Data loss can strike in many forms, each with its own set of challenges. Common causes include:

• Accidental Deletion: Files or folders are mistakenly deleted.
• Formatting Errors: Storage devices are formatted or reformatted, erasing all data.
• File Corruption: Files or file systems become corrupted and inaccessible.
• Physical Damage: Storage devices suffer physical damage, making data retrieval difficult.
• Virus or Malware Attacks: Malicious software corrupts or deletes data.
• System Crashes: Software failures or system crashes lead to data loss.
• Human Error: Mistakes or negligence result in data being lost or deleted.

Understanding these causes can help in choosing the right data recovery tool and taking preventive measures.

Benefits of Free Data Recovery Tools for Small Businesses

Free data recovery solutions offer a range of benefits for small businesses, which often operate with limited resources and tight budgets. These benefits include:

A free data recovery program can assist users in recovering lost or deleted files by offering features such as scanning capabilities and file organization. However, these programs often have limitations, such as data recovery caps, which can significantly affect user experience.

1. Cost Efficiency: The most apparent benefit is the cost savings. Free data recovery tools eliminate the need for expensive software purchases or professional recovery services, which can be a significant financial burden for small businesses.
2. Ease of Use: Many free data recovery tools are designed with user-friendly interfaces, making them accessible even to individuals with limited technical expertise. This means small businesses can perform data recovery in-house without the need for specialized IT staff.
3. Immediate Availability: In the event of data loss, free recovery tools can be quickly downloaded and used immediately. This reduces downtime and allows businesses to swiftly address data loss incidents.
4. Versatility: These tools often support a variety of file types and storage devices, making them versatile for different data recovery needs, from hard drives to USB flash drives and memory cards.
5. Regular Updates: Free software often comes with regular updates, providing improvements and new features over time, which can enhance the data recovery process.

However, it’s important to note that while free data recovery solutions offer these benefits, they may not always provide the same level of sophistication or customer support as paid options. Small businesses should assess their specific needs and the criticality of their data before relying solely on free solutions.

How Data Recovery Software Works

Data recovery software operates through a series of methodical steps to retrieve lost or deleted data. Here’s a breakdown of the typical recovery process:

1. Scanning: The software initiates a thorough scan of the storage device to locate lost or deleted data.
2. Identification: It identifies the file types and their locations, even if the files are fragmented.
3. Recovery: The software then recovers the identified data, restoring it to a safe location.
4. Verification: Finally, the software verifies the integrity of the recovered data to ensure it is usable.

This systematic approach helps in efficiently recovering data while minimizing the risk of further data loss.

Choosing the Best Free Data Recovery Tools for Small Businesses: Our Methodology

At Small Business Trends, we understand the critical importance of data recovery solutions for small businesses. Data loss can be a significant setback, impacting operations, customer trust, and overall business continuity. When selecting the best free data recovery solutions, we consider several key criteria. Here’s how we evaluate these solutions using a scale of one to ten, with ten being reserved for the most important factors:

1. Effectiveness in Data Recovery (Scale: 10/10)
   • Ability to recover a wide range of file types.
   • Success rate in recovering data from different scenarios (accidental deletion, formatting, corruption, etc.).
2. Ease of Use (Scale: 8/10)
   • User-friendly interface for seamless navigation.
   • Minimal technical knowledge required for operation.
3. Compatibility (Scale: 9/10)
   • Support for various operating systems and file systems.
   • Compatibility with different types of storage devices.
4. Speed of Recovery (Scale: 7/10)
   • Time efficiency in scanning and recovering data.
5. Security and Privacy (Scale: 10/10)
   • Ensuring that the recovery process is secure and maintains data privacy.
   • No risk of further data damage or loss during recovery.
6. Customer Support and Resources (Scale: 6/10)
   • Availability of support for troubleshooting.
   • Access to helpful resources like guides or FAQs.
7. Software Updates and Maintenance (Scale: 7/10)
   • Frequency and quality of updates for improved functionality and bug fixes.
8. Limitations of the Free Version (Scale: 8/10)
   • Understanding the constraints of the free version, like data recovery limits or lack of advanced features.

By carefully evaluating these criteria, we aim to provide small business owners and entrepreneurs with reliable and effective data recovery solutions that cater to their unique needs.

Limitations of Free Data Recovery Software

While free data recovery software can be a valuable resource, it often comes with certain limitations:

• Limited File Size Recovery: Free versions may only recover files up to a specific size.
• Limited File Type Support: They might support only a limited range of file formats.
• Limited Storage Device Support: Some free tools may not support all types of storage devices.
• Limited Recovery Options: Free versions often offer fewer recovery options, such as restricted locations for saving recovered files.

Being aware of these limitations can help you set realistic expectations and decide when it might be worth investing in a paid solution.

Free Data Recovery Tools

Recuva

This is an incredibly powerful tool for recovering data. It is available in both free and paid editions, and it can recover files from external drives (USB drives, etc.), hard drives, BD/DVD/CD discs, memory cards. Use Recuva to recover data from Windows 10, 8.1, 7, Vista and XP. Including both 32-bit and 64-bit versions.

Pandora Recovery

Pandora Recovery has a paid edition that you can put on a USB disk to recover an operating system drive and a free version that you can use to recover data from secondary drives.

Stellar Phoenix Windows Data Recovery Software

While they also have paid options, Stellar Phoenix Windows Data Recovery solution offers a wide range of features, including the ability to recover lost or deleted files emptied from Recycle bin by identifying and managing recoverable files, recover data from lost or deleted partition, recover deleted emails, photos, audio and videos among many other features.

PC INSPECTOR

Expect thorough inspection and file recovery from this Windows compatible tool. PC INSPECTOR recognizes all types of data and you can use it to recover deletions and even total volume loss.

FreeUndelete

As the name suggests, FreeUndelete is a free tool that you can use to recover deleted files. This is a simple, efficient tool. Pressed SHIFT-DEL or emptied the Recycle Bin? No problem. This tool will recover your files.

ADRC Data Recovery Software Tools

The ADRC Data Recovery Software Tools contains a collection of data recovery tools that support a wide variety of file systems and drives. The tool zooms in to complete critical recovery functions like disk image backup, undeleting files, disk cloning, editing and restoring boot parameters and restoring backup image, among other roles.

NTFS Data Recovery Toolkit

The NTFS Data Recovery Toolkit is built specifically for NTFS volumes. This toolkit comes loaded with data recovery tools, partition manager and disk editor. All tools contain instructions on how to use them.

EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard

This is another great recovery tool that features both free and paid versions. Use EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard to undelete files from optical drives, memory cards, hard drives, and pretty much anything else that Windows recognizes as a storage device.

Wise Data Recovery

The Wise Data Recovery Tool allows you to get back deleted documents, videos, photos and emails from your removable or local drives for free.

CD Recovery Toolbox

CD Recovery Toolbox is a free tool that is designed to recover files from damaged or corrupted optical drive discs — CD, Blu-Ray, HD DVD, DVD, etc. This tool should help you recover files from discs that have surface spotting, chipped or scratched.

UndeleteMyFiles Pro

UndeleteMyFiles Pro is another amazing free tool that allows you to recover accidentally deleted files from SD cards, hard disks, USB flash drives and other storage media.

MiniTool Power Data Recovery

The MiniTool Power Data Recovery tool is a data recovery tool that’s available in both free and paid editions. The Free edition will help you to recover lost, deleted, formatted and corrupt files with ease.

TOKIWA DataRecovery

TOKIWA DataRecovery is an effective, standalone data recovery program. It is easy to use, featuring a single program window where you can sort and scan files and undelete them. This tool recovers files from memory cards, USB drives, hard drives, and other external drives.

Bplan Data Recovery

This free data recovery tool can help you to recover lost data even after you have formatted your Laptop or desktop computer hard drive. Bplan unfortunately only works with Windows 7, 8 and XP.

TestDisk

TestDisk is designed to repair drives that are no longer bootable and recover lost partitions. This tool is able to repair most file systems (FAT, NTFS, EXT). It runs under most versions of Linux, BSD, Windows and Mac operating systems.

Active UNERASER

Active UNERASER is a freeware software that you can use to recover deleted files as well as damaged folders located on Unix UFS/XFS, Apple HFS+, Linux Ext2/Ext3/Ext4/BtrFS, NTFS, FAT and exFAT fikle systems.

SoftPerfect File Recovery

SoftPerfect File Recovery is a free tool that you can use to rescue and restore data that was accidentally deleted from USB flash disks, floppy disks, SD cards, hard disks and other storage media.

Undelete 360

This is one of the best programs to use when recovering accidentally deleted files. Undelete 360 is built on a fast and efficient algorithm that will allow you to browse, search, and recover files.

PhotoRec

This is one of the best data recovery tools. This free to use software is widely applauded for its powerful recovery abilities. Use PhotoRec to recover data like videos, pictures and documents from a wide range of devices ranging from digital cameras to hard disks.

Restoration

This is an easy to use and straight forward tool for undeleting files that were directly deleted from Windows or removed from the recycle bin. Restoration does not require installation and works with NTFS and FAT as well as digital cameras cards.

Final Thoughts

Data recovery software is an essential tool for any small business looking to recover lost or deleted data from various storage devices. While free data recovery software can be effective, it often has limitations that may not meet all your needs. Therefore, it is crucial to choose a reputable and reliable data recovery software that aligns with your specific requirements and provides the best possible recovery results. By understanding the capabilities and constraints of these tools, you can make an informed decision and ensure the continuity of your business operations.

This article, "Free Data Recovery Solutions for Small Businesses" was first published on Small Business Trends

Anxiety, depression, and stress have become common in everyday modern life, impacting relationships, families, communities, and even the workplace. In fact, mental health problems have an impact on employers and businesses directly through increased absenteeism and a negative impact on productivity and profits. According to Mental Health America (MHA), managing stress and balancing professional and personal demands continue to be a prominent issue for employees.

In 2021, some 80% of employees agreed that the stress from work aff­ects their relationships with friends, family, and co-workers. A further 71% of employees say that they find it difficult to concentrate at work -up by 6% from 2020. Very often anxiety manifests itself in the form of increased heart rate, rapid breathing, restlessness, trouble concentrating, insomnia, and others.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it may be beneficial to consult a trained mental health professional. In the meantime, you might want to explore some mental health apps that can help alleviate your anxiety.s to help relieve your anxiety.

What is an Anxiety App?

Anxiety apps are tools that help users focus on improving different aspects of their mental health and well-being. They employ a variety of behavioral exercises and relaxation techniques to help you break free from anxious thoughts and feelings. These may include meditation sessions, calming tracks, breathing exercises, mood monitors, sleep therapy, goal setting, courses, and more. With anxiety apps, all you need is your mobile device and a few minutes to focus. Anxiety apps not only help you overcome panic attacks but also help you receive therapy in the comfort of your own home. They make it easier for people to reach out for help and are easily accessible for anyone trying to cope with mental health problems.

Why You Should Download an Anxiety App

Anxiety apps can help you find the right mental health services that suit your needs. They also can help ease any apprehensions when it comes to seeking to address a mental health issue in person. There are many potential benefits of using anxiety apps for alleviating depression and anxiety, including:

• Affordability: Unlike therapy with a mental health professional, anxiety apps come at a relatively low price. However, they may not be the best substitute for treatment if you are dealing with anxiety at work or serious mental health issues.
• Supplement existing therapy: Anxiety apps can supplement treatment as they help to offer compliance to routine treatment through worksheets and tools.
• Convenience: Anxiety apps come in the palm of your hands making it easy for you to access some tools to help you cope with depression, anxiety, and insomnia. They also offer convenient ways of practicing strategies learned in face-to-face therapies and include reminders that can be set to increase treatment and continuation of therapy.
• Gathering data and trends: Some anxiety apps can generate data through graphs or tables showing improvements or areas that need improvement. This can help therapists determine which interventions are working best and which ones should be changed.

Read More: Relaxing Games

Choosing an Anxiety App: Our Methodology

When it comes to selecting an anxiety app, it’s crucial to consider various factors that cater to their specific needs and well-being. Here are the key criteria we take into account, with each rated on a scale from one to five, with five representing the most crucial elements:

1. Effectiveness (Importance: 5/5):
   • The primary criterion is the app’s ability to effectively help manage and reduce anxiety. Its track record in aiding anxiety relief is paramount.
2. User-Friendly Interface (Importance: 4/5):
   • A simple and intuitive user interface ensures that users can easily navigate the app and access anxiety relief tools when needed.
3. Accessibility (Importance: 4/5):
   • The app should be readily available on both iOS and Android platforms, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
4. Evidence-Based Techniques (Importance: 5/5):
   • The app’s anxiety management techniques should be grounded in evidence-based practices, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or mindfulness.
5. Customization (Importance: 3/5):
   • The ability to customize anxiety-relief exercises and strategies allows users to tailor their experience to their unique needs.
6. Offline Access (Importance: 3/5):
   • The app should offer offline access to anxiety relief tools, ensuring users can use them even without an internet connection.
7. Privacy and Data Security (Importance: 4/5):
   • Ensuring user data privacy and security is essential, especially when dealing with sensitive mental health information.
8. Community and Support (Importance: 3/5):
   • Features that facilitate connecting with a supportive community or accessing professional support can be beneficial.
9. Cost (Importance: 2/5):
   • The app’s pricing structure should be reasonable and align with the user’s budget, with free or affordable options available.
10. Reviews and Ratings (Importance: 4/5):
    • Checking user reviews and ratings can provide insights into the app’s effectiveness and user satisfaction.

Best Free Apps for Anxiety

If you need help coping with anxiety, depression, or insomnia, try one of the free anxiety apps below:

Mindshift

MindShift CBT helps users manage their anxiety and stress using effective, evidence-based anxiety management strategies based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). This free self-help anxiety relief app helps to reduce stress, learn more about anxiety, develop more effective ways of thinking, be mindful, and relax. It comes with a user-friendly intuitive design, tools based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) designed for anxiety relief and self-management; daily check-in to keep track of your anxiety levels and mood tracking; facts and tips to overcome general worry, social anxiety, perfectionism, panic attack, and phobias; goal setting tools to keep users accountable; coping cards and statements to help users deal with anxiety; guided relaxation and mindfulness meditations; tips and tricks for incorporating healthy habits into your life and minimizing anxiety naturally; the ability to share data to streamline sessions with your counselor, therapist, or psychologist; and more.

 Available on iOS and Android.

Smiling Mind

Smiling Mind is a free app for meditation and mindfulness developed by psychologists and educators to help bring balance to users’ lives. The user-friendly interface is designed to assist people in dealing with the pressure, stress, and challenges of daily life. It has dedicated sleep programs for adults, teens, and even kids. The app offers guided meditations that help users wind down at night to assist with both getting to sleep and improving overall sleep quality. It also touts being able to help increase productivity and attention, help in anxiety reduction and stress management, offer clearer and more focused thinking, and increase positive emotion, life satisfaction, and self-esteem beyond the workplace.

Available on iOS and Android.

Dare: Panic & Anxiety Relief

Dare app offers users an interactive experience that helps users overcome anxiety, panic attacks, worry, and insomnia. It comes with evidence-based information on anxiety, panic attacks, and other topics. It has exercises to help users work through their anxieties and offers several meditations too. Users can also download the free audio guides to help them meditate and tackle insomnia. In addition to its free version, its robust paid subscription comes at a price tag of $9.99 a month.

Available on iOS and Android.

Stop Panic & Anxiety Self-Help

Stop Panic & Anxiety Self-Help app helps users monitor and manage symptoms of panic. The app includes articles about anxiety and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and includes effective tools for relaxation, mindfulness, and teaching audios. With it, users have access to a mood log and analysis, cognitive diary, healthy goals, and more.

Available on: Android.

Bearable

Bearable is a simple, customizable health tracker that helps users track trends and patterns in relation to their moods and symptoms through the use of calendars and graphs. With it, users can understand the impact of different treatments and medications on health issues such as anxiety, depression, pain, fatigue, and mood disorders. Users can also use Bearable to identify triggers, find the cause of flare-ups, help with medical appointments, manage existing health conditions, and understand correlations between their habits and health. Users can customize reminders for diary entries, medication, and more while being able to sync their health data from Apple Health and Apple Health Kit. The free version comes with a basic version, while subscriptions start at $4.49/month,

 Available on iOS and Android.

Shine

The Shine app can help you start your mental wellness through daily meditation and Self-Care Courses. It helps users to log and track their mood, get support from a diverse community, and explore an audio library of over 800 meditations, bedtime stories, and calming sounds to help you shift your mindset or mood. Its free version offers daily meditations, a daily article and the ability to log your gratitude its more robust paid version comes with a $14.99 a month subscription.

 Available on iOS and Android.

Best Apps for Anxiety Disorders (Paid)

If you are looking for anxiety apps that offer robust features and enhanced tools, you might want to look towards paid apps where you pay upfront for the app or through subscriptions. Below are our picks of best-paid anxiety apps:

Calm App

Calm is an easy-to-use meditation app that helps to relieve anxiety. It achieves this by offering nature sounds and sleep stories to help users get into a relaxed sleep. The app is designed to cater to anyone, whether you’re new to meditation or a seasoned expert. It’s also for anyone who needs a mental break, a soothing sound, or a peaceful night’s rest. It comes with guided meditations that are available in lengths of three to 25 minutes. Additional features include sleep stories narrated by well-known voices like Matthew McConaughey, a music library with exclusive tracks from top artists like Keith Urban and Disney, short videos with mindful movement and gentle stretching for every body type, and Masterclasses taught by world-renowned experts in the field of mindfulness, soundscapes, and nature sounds to use during meditation or to help you sleep, breathing exercises to help you relax, and more.

Available on iOS and Android.

Pricing: Calm comes with a $6.99 a month subscription while with the free version, the app offers a limited number of guided exercises and meditative audio to help relieve stress.

Sanvello

Sanvello, formerly known as Pacifica, is a health and wellness app that focuses on stress, anxiety, and depression. Users’ journey with Sanvello journey is customizable, meaning the app checks in with how you’re feeling so you can track your emotions and progress over time. As patterns are identified, Sanvello will provide customized tools rooted in cognitive behavioral therapy to keep you on the path to feeling better. The app focuses on mindfulness and Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and comes with audio exercises that focus on meditation, deep breathing, and other activities. Users can also access tools that include a mood tracker, daily challenges, goal tracking, and a health tracker.

Available on iOS and Android.

Pricing: Sanvello comes with a $3.99 monthly subscription while offering a limited free version.

Insight Timer – Meditation App

Insight Timer app offers meditation solutions to calm the mind, reduce anxiety, manage stress, sleep deeply and improve happiness. It comes with free guided meditations for both beginners and experienced practitioners. It also offers short meditation sessions when you are on the go, helping you to build a daily habit in addition to thousands of music tracks and ambient sounds to calm the mind, focus, sleep better and relax. This app also offers statistics and milestones for tracking your progress.

Available on iOS and Android.

Pricing: Insight Premium Meditation comes with a $9.99 monthly subscription while offering a free version as well.

InnerHour

The InnerHour app is created by mental health professionals that offer a self-help tool, which provides users with a digital experience of therapy. The easy-to-use app has specific programs to help with worry, stress, sleeplessness, depression, and anger. It comes with self-help courses on depression, anxiety, sleeplessness, stress, anger, and happiness. Users can also access therapists through the app.

Available on iOS and Android.

Pricing: InnerHour comes with a $4.99 monthly subscription while offering a limited free version.

HeadSpace

The Headspace app helps users to meditate and sleep soundly. It offers guides on how to practice mindfulness in your everyday life. With it, you learn how to relax, manage stress, and focus your energy to become more centered and well-rested. Its features include daily meditations, sleep meditations, stress relief, coping meditations, and more. It offers over 40 effective meditation courses on topics that include stress and sleep.

Available on iOS and Android.

Pricing: Headspace comes with a $ 12.99-a-month subscription while offering a seven-day free trial.

BetterMe: Mental Health

BetterMe mediation app helps users by offering simple meditations and guided courses for mental well-being. The app is a product of a collaboration with mental health specialists to offer tools and coping strategies from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help you tune in to the world surrounding you. The tools available include guided meditations, stress-relief practices, breathwork, and sleep meditations.

Available on iOS and Android.

Pricing: BetterMe comes with a $ 9.99-a-month subscription while offering a free version as well.

Take Steps to Improve Your Mental Health Today

Mental health issues are a very serious matter, as they affect how we think, feel, and behave in our daily lives. They also affect our ability to cope with stress, overcome challenges, build relationships, and deal with life’s setbacks. Strong mental health isn’t simply about the absence of mental health problems but also about being emotionally resilient.

Emotionally and mentally resilient people can cope with difficult situations and maintain a positive outlook. This helps them remain focused, flexible, and productive during both good and bad times. Mental health is not only about mental health issues such as generalized anxiety disorder or elevated anxiety levels but also about making continuous improvements in how we deal with issues and strive to be better versions of ourselves.

Speaking to a Mental Health Professional

If you regularly have anxious thoughts or experience anxiety symptoms, seeking the help of a mental health professional can help you better understand yourself and your feelings and generally make sense of everything going on in your life and how that makes you feel. They can also help you resolve complicated feelings or find ways to cope with them.

What is the best app for anxiety?

Calm is considered the best app for anxiety. It helps tackle insomnia that comes with feeling anxious. Through sleep, meditation, relaxation, and other tools, Calm helps you not only deal with anxiety but remain productive and emotionally resilient.

Is there an app for people with social anxiety?

Headspace can help people deal with social anxiety. It offers guides on how to practice mindfulness in your everyday life. With it, you learn how to relax, manage stress, and focus your energy to become more centered and well-rested.

Is there a free app to help with anxiety?

MindShift helps users manage anxiety and stress using evidence-based anxiety management strategies based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). This free self-help anxiety relief app helps to reduce stress, learn more about anxiety, develop more effective ways of thinking, be mindful, and relax.

What is a good game for anxiety?

SuperBetter is an app designed by Jane McGonigal and is inspired by her book SuperBetter. It helps to incorporate Role Playing Gaming (RPG) in real life to address challenges such as anxiety, depression insomnia, willpower, and others by offering activities to do to overcome them.

Image: Depositphotos

This article, "Best Anxiety Apps for Small Business Owners" was first published on Small Business Trends

Ready to level up your business game? Here are 20 live-streaming apps that can make it happen.

Benefits of Live Streaming for Businesses:

• Direct communication with consumers.
• Real-time feedback and engagement.
• Higher brand authenticity and trust.
• Access to a global audience.
• Cost-effective marketing strategy.
• Enhanced brand visibility and awareness.

What Makes a Live Stream App Essential?

Live streaming isn’t just a trendy feature; it’s a potent asset for businesses aiming to maintain a genuine connection with their clientele. Real-time interaction enables businesses to address queries, demonstrate product usability, or even orchestrate virtual showcases.

This digital method not only humanizes a brand, making it more relatable, but it’s also often more cost-effective than traditional advertising approaches.

The Rise of Live Streaming Platforms

Live streaming isn’t new, but it’s getting more popular every day. With the rise of platforms teaching how to go live on TikTok, businesses are joining in too. They’re finding out that live streams, especially with the power of Instagram, can reach lots of people quickly.

It’s a fast, effective way to get your message out there.

As more businesses embrace this trend, it’s becoming a valuable tool for product launches, virtual events, and even customer support. The rise of live streaming platforms is transforming how companies connect with their audiences, making it a trend to watch in the business world.

Factors Driving the Popularity of Live Streaming:

• Increasing smartphone penetration.
• Better internet connectivity and speeds.
• The rise of influencer culture.
• Growing preference for real-time content.
• Ability to monetize content quickly.

Challenges Businesses Face While Live Streaming:

• Ensuring consistent internet connectivity.
• Managing trolls and negative comments.
• Keeping content engaging throughout the stream.
• Handling technical glitches during the stream.
• Maintaining a regular streaming schedule.

Current Live Streaming Insights

Right now, live streaming is hotter than ever. With tools offering marketing video tips and techniques for maintaining social media content on brand, businesses are discovering its potential.

We’re talking about more users, more time spent watching streams, and a big slice of the market share. Let’s get into the details.

Live Streaming App Metrics

People really engage with live streams. They not only watch but also chat, share, and even buy things. Platforms that teach users about LinkedIn live have shown that they not only watch but also chat, share, and even buy things.

Folks around the world spend about 482.5 billion hours on live-streaming apps. That’s a 35% jump from the previous period. And here in the U.S., out of the 13 hours we spend each day on digital media, a good chunk is on live streaming.

Key Metrics to Track for Business Live Streams:

• Viewer peak times and durations.
• Engagement rate (likes, comments, shares).
• Conversion rates (if promoting products).
• New followers or subscribers gained.
• Audience demographics.

Evolving Business Models Through Streaming Platforms

Businesses are cashing in on this live-streaming trend. Platforms with green screen capabilities and others that highlight top influencers are adding a special touch to product launches, Q&A sessions, and virtual tours.

This new way of connecting is helping businesses grow their revenue and keep their audience engaged.

https://youtube.com/watch?v=mpBXUGoM0VA%3Fsi%3Dp5U_qpcXUKbAJ_Tn

Mobile Live Streaming Apps

In today’s digital age, mobile live-streaming apps are revolutionizing the way we communicate and share experiences. They offer the incredible ability to broadcast in real-time, regardless of location, using just a smartphone.

This level of immediacy and accessibility makes them indispensable for businesses looking to keep their audience constantly engaged. The spontaneity it introduces allows brands to capture and share moments as they unfold, fostering a deeper connection with their audience.

Features to Look for in Live Video Streaming Apps

Selecting the perfect app for live video streaming isn’t merely about broadcasting; it’s about ensuring a superior experience for your audience. High-definition video and clear audio are just the basics. The real game-changers are those additional features that enrich the viewer’s experience.

Can you add engaging captions, dynamic filters, or interactive polls? An ability to monitor viewer statistics, understanding who’s tuning in, and from where, provides invaluable insights that can shape your future live streaming strategies. These add-ons elevate the live-stream and make it memorable.

The Usability and Interface Design of a Live Streaming Platform

For any software or platform, design and usability are crucial for user retention and satisfaction. An ideal live streaming platform should be intuitive and user-friendly, allowing users to easily discover and interact with content.

The goal is to reduce any potential friction, ensuring that users can focus on the content they love rather than navigating cumbersome menus or interfaces.

A well-designed interface not only draws users in but also keeps them engaged, making it a crucial element for anyone exploring live streaming apps.

Security and Privacy Measures of a Live Streaming App

In a digital landscape where data breaches are increasingly common, the security of your live streams becomes an absolute necessity. Companies need to prioritize platforms that emphasize stringent security measures, such as advanced encryption and password safeguards.

Beyond basic protection, the provision to control access is invaluable. Does the app allow you to dictate who views your content, perhaps limiting it to a select audience or membership tier?

Such features ensure that businesses can maintain the exclusivity of their content, safeguarding against unwanted viewers and potential breaches, ultimately creating a safe and secure broadcasting environment.

Our Methodology: How We Chose the Best Live Streaming Apps for Business

In today’s digital age, live streaming has emerged as a powerful tool for businesses to connect directly with their audience, share updates, or host virtual events. Choosing the right platform can determine the quality of the broadcast and the level of engagement.

With a plethora of live streaming apps available, here’s how we selected the best for businesses:

Streaming Quality (10/10)

High-definition, interruption-free broadcasts are paramount. We prioritize apps that offer robust streaming quality across various network conditions.

User Experience and Interface (9/10)

A user-friendly interface can make the streaming process smoother for both the broadcaster and the audience. We look for apps that are intuitive and require minimal setup.

Engagement Tools (9/10)

Interactivity boosts viewer involvement. We value apps that incorporate features like live chats, polls, or Q&A sessions, fostering two-way communication.

Multi-Platform Support (8/10)

Reaching a wider audience often means streaming across multiple platforms simultaneously. Apps that offer integrated multi-platform broadcasting rank high on our list.

Customization and Branding (8/10)

For businesses, brand consistency is crucial. We appreciate apps that allow for logo overlays, custom graphics, and themed backgrounds.

Analytics and Insights (8/10)

Post-stream data can provide valuable insights. We favor apps that deliver detailed analytics on viewer demographics, engagement rates, and peak viewing times.

Monetization Features (7/10)

For businesses looking to generate revenue from their streams, apps offering pay-per-view, subscription models, or ad integrations are particularly relevant.

Integration Capabilities (7/10)

Seamless integration with other business tools or social media platforms can enhance the streaming experience. We seek out apps that offer easy integrations with CRM systems, email marketing tools, or social networks.

Security and Privacy (7/10)

Confidential business streams require robust security measures. We evaluate live streaming apps by their encryption standards, password protections, and privacy controls.

Mobile Responsiveness (6/10)

The ability to stream or view on the go can be essential. We prioritize apps that provide a consistent experience across desktops and mobile devices.

Support and Resources (6/10)

A hiccup during a live stream can be detrimental. We value apps backed by reliable customer support and resources like tutorials or community forums.

Live streaming offers businesses a unique avenue to directly connect and engage with their audience. By applying our detailed methodology, businesses can identify apps that not only ensure a high-quality broadcast but also provide tools that enrich the live streaming experience for both the host and the viewers.

The Best Live Streaming Apps for Business

Ready to boost your business with live streaming? Here are the top live-streaming apps that can make you a streaming superstar:

Big Names in Live Streaming: Established and Reliable

First, we’ll dive into the world of live streaming with the big players. Here are the established and reliable names you can trust…

Streamlabs

Streamlabs isn’t just for gamers; it’s also a fantastic choice for businesses. With its user-friendly interface, you can add custom widgets and overlays to elevate your live streams. Its monetization features make it a versatile tool for various business types.

IBM Video Streaming

IBM Video Streaming is a leader in enterprise streaming solutions. It stands out for its robust analytics and high-level security features. Ideal for webinars and internal communications, it’s a reliable choice for large businesses.

Facebook Live

Facebook Live makes it super easy to engage with a broad audience on a platform they already use daily. Live polls, comments, and reactions help you interact with your viewers, making your brand more relatable.

YouTube Live

YouTube Live offers a wide reach, robust analytics, and various monetization options. It’s a fantastic way to engage with both current followers and new audiences. The platform is user-friendly, even for streaming beginners.

Brightcove

Brightcove is tailored for businesses, offering everything from marketing automation to detailed analytics. This platform provides high-quality streaming and is known for its reliability and professional-grade features.

Instagram Live

Instagram Live is perfect for a younger, mobile-focused audience. The app allows for instant live streaming and interaction with viewers. It’s excellent for quick announcements and impromptu Q&A sessions.

Vimeo Livestream

Vimeo Livestream focuses on delivering quality and customization. It provides high-definition streaming along with a range of tools for engaging viewers. This platform is ideal for businesses seeking a more tailored live streaming experience.

JW Player

JW Player gives you a high degree of control with its customizable player and in-depth analytics. It’s a solid pick for businesses needing detailed insights and specific streaming requirements.

Uscreen

Uscreen sets itself apart with a focus on monetization. With features like ticket sales and subscription models, it’s the go-to platform for creators and businesses aiming to earn from their content.

Restream

Restream is the ultimate tool for reaching multiple audiences simultaneously. It allows you to live stream to multiple platforms at once, which increases your online presence and maximizes viewer engagement.

Emerging Stars: New and Noteworthy Live Streaming Apps

Looking for fresh ways to connect with your audience? Check out these noteworthy stars in the live-streaming app scene…

Dacast

Dacast is designed for professionals who require a versatile and secure live-streaming solution. It offers features like video monetization and real-time analytics, making it a great pick for businesses that need to go beyond basic streaming.

TargetVideo

TargetVideo is a comprehensive platform that combines user-friendliness with versatility. It enables high-quality streaming across multiple platforms, including mobile devices. With features such as in-stream ads and real-time analytics, it is tailored for broadcasters aiming to engage their audience while optimizing revenue.

Muvi

Muvi offers a one-stop solution for video and audio streaming. With no coding required, businesses can create, manage, and monetize their live streams, making it a straightforward choice for those without technical expertise.

Panopto

Panopto is a go-to for educational and corporate live streams. With features for live quizzes and detailed analytics, it’s built to engage and inform. It’s particularly useful for training sessions and webinars.

Notified

Notified provides robust analytics and offers unique ways to engage with your audience. From interactive polls to Q&A sessions, it’s designed to make your live streams as interactive as possible.

Socialive

Socialive lets you produce and distribute engaging live video content with ease. You can invite guests into your live streams and also cross-publish content across different channels, making it a versatile option for businesses.

Kaltura

Kaltura provides an open-source live streaming app that is highly customizable. It includes a variety of features such as real-time analytics and interactive polls, making it an ideal choice for businesses seeking a personalized experience.

StreamShark

StreamShark provides high-quality streaming services, including 360-degree video and VR capabilities. If you’re looking for a platform to deliver an immersive experience, StreamShark is worth considering.

Wowza

Wowza offers high-performance, reliable streaming. It has a range of features like low-latency streaming and is ideal for businesses requiring a robust, high-quality service.

Twitch

Twitch is not just for gamers anymore. This live-streaming platform is becoming a go-to space for small businesses keen on engaging their audience in real-time. With its interactive features and diverse community, it offers unique ways to showcase products and conduct live Q&A sessions. Twitch can be a creative way for businesses to build brand loyalty.

Live Streaming Features: Tips to Select the Perfect Live Streaming App

Picking the right live-streaming app for your business is a big deal. The wrong choice can waste your time and money. But the right app can make you shine. Let’s look at some key things to think about when you’re making your pick.

Compatibility and Integration Potential

Your live streaming app needs to play nicely with other tools you use. Maybe you have a customer relationship system or an email marketing tool.

Ensure that the app you choose is compatible with these. Compatibility simplifies your life and helps your business operate more efficiently.

This seamless integration also allows for better data collection, helping you understand your audience better, which ultimately boosts your marketing efforts.

Pricing and Subscription Models

Money matters, right? Different apps have different costs. Some might offer basic features for free, while others might charge monthly or yearly.

Check what features come with each price level. Make sure you’re not paying for stuff you don’t need but also that you’re getting what will really help your business.

Additionally, look for apps that offer a free trial or a money-back guarantee. This way, you can test out the platform before fully committing your budget to it.

How to Broadcast Live Videos: A Quick Guide

Live streaming for your business can feel tricky at first. But it doesn’t have to be. With a few easy steps, you’ll be ready to go live and wow your audience. Let’s break it down.

Essential Equipment for Professional Live Streaming:

• High-quality camera (DSLR or webcam).
• External microphone for clear audio.
• Lighting equipment (ring lights or softboxes).
• Green screen for a customizable background.
• Reliable streaming software or platform.

Setting Up Your Environment

A messy background can be a distraction. Keep things tidy and professional. Good lighting makes everything look better. Also, use a good-quality microphone such as a Blue Yeti to make sure people can hear you clearly. A little setup goes a long way.

Be sure to verify that your internet connection is stable, and think about using a dedicated camera to enhance your video quality. Taking these additional measures can significantly improve the look and sound of your livestream.

Engaging with Your Audience in Real-Time

While you’re live, chat with your viewers. Answer their questions and ask some of your own. Give shout-outs to people who join in. Interaction keeps viewers glued to your stream. Plus, it makes them feel special and heard.

You can also use interactive features like polls or live Q&A sessions to encourage audience participation. By creating this two-way dialogue, you build a stronger connection with your viewers and leave a lasting impression on them.

https://youtube.com/watch?v=iFbAttgHw30%3Fsi%3DWuSx6Rwh9w1AHK_A

FAQs: Live Streaming Apps

Is it possible to use marketing tools in live-streaming apps?

Certainly! A significant number of live-streaming apps have embraced the integration of various marketing tools. These integrations allow users to gather email addresses, display targeted promotions, or even broadcast short advertisements during the live stream itself.

This synergy between live streaming and marketing provides an enhanced opportunity for businesses to not only engage with their audience but also to promote their products or services more efficiently in real-time.

What is the future of live streams in business?

The importance and utility of live streaming in business are only growing. It’s not merely a passing phase but a robust tool gaining traction each day.

As technology advances, businesses are identifying innovative ways to leverage live streaming, enhancing how they introduce new products, conduct events, and interact with customers.

Given its increasing popularity and the value it provides, the role of live streaming in business seems set to expand, paving the way for even more immersive and interactive customer experiences in the coming years.

Which is the best live-streaming platform?

Choosing the “best” live-streaming platform isn’t straightforward because it often depends on individual preferences, business objectives, and specific needs. Each platform brings its unique set of features to the table.

While one option may provide an outstanding user experience, another might excel because of its robust analytics and third-party integrations. As a result, it is crucial to assess your main needs, comprehend your target audience’s preferences, and evaluate your budget limitations.

Through thorough research and perhaps some trial and error, you can find the platform that aligns best with your goals.

Image: Envato Elements

This article, "Best Live Streaming Apps for Businesses to Connect with Audiences" was first published on Small Business Trends

This guide introduces top manufacturing software choices, tailored to meet the diverse needs of small manufacturing businesses.

Dan Taylor, content analyst at business software review and research platform Capterra offered some tips in an email to Small Business Trends, “It’s got to have good financial and inventory management tools. It needs to allow the user to do material requirements planning (MRP) to manage the manufacturing process. It should have a safety management feature. All of these features together provide a holistic manufacturing management solution.”

Introduction to Manufacturing Software

In the fast-paced world of the manufacturing industry, staying ahead of the competition requires more than just hard work and dedication. This is where manufacturing software comes into play. Designed to optimize every facet of your operations, manufacturing software is a digital powerhouse that enhances inventory management, streamlines production planning, and tracks orders with precision. By providing actionable insights, it fosters collaboration among team members, empowering small manufacturers to achieve operational excellence and maximize productivity. With real-time visibility into your business operations, manufacturing software enables data-driven decision-making, automates processes for increased efficiency, and offers a competitive edge in the market. Whether you’re looking to improve your inventory management or refine your production planning, the right manufacturing software can transform your business.

Types of Manufacturing Software

Navigating the landscape of manufacturing software can be daunting, given the variety of options available. Each type of software caters to specific needs and industries, making it crucial to choose the right manufacturing software that aligns with your business goals. Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems are comprehensive solutions that integrate various business processes, including inventory management and resource planning. Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) focus on monitoring and controlling the production process on the shop floor. Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) tools manage the entire lifecycle of a product from inception to disposal. Statistical Process Control (SPC) solutions ensure quality control by monitoring manufacturing processes. Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) software automates manufacturing processes using computer technology. Lastly, Inventory Management Solutions are specialized tools designed to track and manage inventory levels efficiently. Each type of software has its unique features and functionalities, making it essential to choose the one that best fits your specific needs.

Our Methodology: How We Chose Software Products to Make Your Small Manufacturing Business More Efficient

For small manufacturing businesses, the right software can significantly enhance efficiency, streamline processes, and improve productivity.

Our methodology for selecting software products for such businesses employs a scale from 1 to 10, focusing on key criteria that are essential for optimizing manufacturing operations.

Higher scores, closer to 10, are given to features that are crucial for small manufacturing businesses, such as integration capabilities, ease of use, and scalability.

Integration with Manufacturing Processes (10/10)

Software that seamlessly integrates with existing manufacturing processes and workflows is given the highest priority.

Ease of Use and User Interface (9/10)

User-friendly software with an intuitive interface is essential to minimize training time and facilitate quick adoption.

Scalability (9/10)

Software that can grow with the business, supporting increasing complexity and production demands, is highly valued.

Inventory Management (8/10)

Inventory management software plays an essential role in effectively managing stock levels for businesses, particularly in the manufacturing sector, by automating stock tracking, product reordering, and warehouse management.

Effective inventory management features, including tracking of raw materials and finished goods, are crucial for maintaining production efficiency.

Cost-Effectiveness (8/10)

Affordable software solutions, offering substantial functionality at a reasonable price, are important for small businesses with limited budgets.

Production Planning and Scheduling (7/10)

Tools that aid in efficient production planning and scheduling are crucial for optimizing efficiency throughout the entire manufacturing process. They help maximize throughput and minimize downtime.

Quality Control and Compliance (7/10)

Features that support quality control processes and ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations.

Reporting and Analytics (6/10)

Comprehensive reporting and analytics capabilities for insightful decision-making and continuous improvement.

Customization Options (6/10)

The ability to customize the software to fit specific manufacturing needs and preferences adds significant value.

Customer Support and Training (6/10)

Accessible customer support and training resources are vital for resolving issues and maximizing the software’s utility.

Integration with Other Business Systems (5/10)

Software that can integrate with other business systems, such as accounting and HR, streamlines overall business operations.

Automation Capabilities (5/10)

Automation features that reduce manual tasks and enhance efficiency in manufacturing processes.

Our methodology is designed to guide small manufacturing businesses toward software products that not only enhance operational efficiency but also integrate seamlessly with their existing processes.

By focusing on aspects such as ease of use, scalability, and comprehensive manufacturing functionalities, we aim to identify software solutions that are ideally suited to the unique needs of small manufacturing businesses.

Manufacturing Software Options

While different manufacturers are likely to have different needs in terms of software, here are a few popular options to help you in your search.

E2 Manufacturing System

The first program that Taylor recommends is E2 Manufacturing System. From Shoptech Software, this tool includes a full array of management features, from order and inventory processing to job tracking and shipping.

The company offers a list on its website of the specific types of manufacturing shops that can most benefit from its software, including assembly shops, mold shops and wood shops. You can also request a demo to see if it would be a good fit for your business.

SAP ERP

From the well-known German enterprise SAP, this manufacturing suite includes cloud-based and on-premises enterprise resource planning solutions.

There’s one that’s made specifically for small businesses, one for medium sized businesses and an enterprise version. The small business solution offers functions for managing supply chains, purchasing and even accounting.

JobBOSS

JobBOSS is another software that Taylor says is especially popular with manufacturers. It’s a customizable solution. JobBOSS is a job shop management software tailored for small to medium-sized manufacturing firms, enabling them to manage various operational tasks such as sales, inventory, and production scheduling without the high costs associated with larger ERP systems.

So you can pick and choose the functions that you want included, from the basics like quote processing, inventory control and shipping to optional add-ons like quality control and payroll. The company also offers both cloud and on-premises options and a free demo.

NetSuite Manufacturing Edition

NetSuite Manufacturing Edition includes an integrated platform that includes options for managing inventory, warehouse, finances, orders and customer relationships. Proper warehouse management within this platform automates processes and improves accuracy in inventory handling. A cloud and web based solution, NetSuite helps you manage all of these various functions in real time.

TrueERP

The manufacturing software from TrueERP comes with a wide selection of different modules, including marketing, job costing, training, servicing, shipping and more. Cost estimating software plays a crucial role in streamlining the estimating process and ensuring consistent and accurate pricing across various manufacturing processes.

You can create your own processes and resources and take advantage of real-time reporting and payments to manage almost every aspect of your business.

Fishbowl Manufacturing

An inventory management and automation tool made specifically for small manufacturers, Fishbowl Manufacturing lets you easily manage inventory and materials. It also offers integrations with many popular business tools, including QuickBooks and Xero.

Priority Manufacturing

Priority’s manufacturing software solution offers a comprehensive ERP tool for production management and control. Manufacturing companies can significantly benefit from utilizing ERP systems to streamline operations and manage day-to-day activities. The module is made to support the entire supply chain, from materials to shipping. And it’s made specifically for small and medium sized businesses.

Global Shop Solutions

Global Shop Solutions actually offers a number of different software programs and tools specifically for manufacturers that you can manage from one central dashboard. You can use it for managing inventory, job costing, shop floor display, project management and even your website.

Realtrac

Specifically for machine shop manufacturing businesses, Realtrac offers solutions for shop management, scheduling, purchasing and inventory, accounting and more.

It also boasts a relatively low cost of implementation, though the exact cost varies depending on your company and the solutions you need.

xTuple Manufacturing Edition

xTuple is actually an open source platform for ERP and CRM. The company’s manufacturing option offers modules for products, inventory, orders, scheduling, sales, CRM, purchasing and accounting.

Prices are calculated by which licensing options are needed, depending on the type of modules you need and the number of users you need to access the software.

Customer Relationship Management

In the manufacturing industry, maintaining strong customer relationships is as important as optimizing production processes. This is where Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software comes into play. CRM software enables manufacturers to manage customer interactions, track sales, and analyze customer behavior, all in one place. By integrating CRM with your manufacturing operations, you can improve customer satisfaction, enhance customer loyalty, and ultimately increase sales. CRM software helps you identify new business opportunities, streamline sales processes, and make data-driven decisions that benefit your bottom line. Whether you’re tracking a customer’s order history or analyzing sales trends, CRM software provides the tools you need to build and maintain strong customer relationships.

Accounting and Financial Management

Effective financial management is the backbone of any successful manufacturing operation. Accounting and financial management software helps manufacturers manage financial transactions, track expenses, and analyze financial performance with ease. By integrating these functions with your manufacturing operations, you can improve financial accuracy, reduce errors, and make informed decisions that drive your business forward. Accounting software automates routine tasks, streamlines financial processes, and ensures compliance with regulatory requirements, freeing up your time to focus on strategic initiatives. Whether you’re managing payroll, tracking expenses, or analyzing financial reports, accounting and financial management software provides the tools you need to maintain financial health and stability.

Comparing Software Products for Small Manufacturing Businesses

To assist small manufacturing business owners in selecting the right software, here’s a comparison table showcasing the key features and specialties of each software product mentioned in the article.

Bullet Points: Key Considerations When Choosing Manufacturing Software

When selecting manufacturing software for your business, it’s crucial to find a solution that aligns with your specific needs and enhances operational efficiency. Here are some key factors to consider in your decision-making process:

• Specific Industry Needs
• Functionality and Features
• Customization and Flexibility
• Integration Capabilities
• Deployment Options
• Ease of Use and Support
• Cost-effectiveness

Specific Industry Needs

Each manufacturing sector has unique requirements. It’s important to choose software designed for your specific type of manufacturing process, whether it’s mold shops, assembly lines, textile production, or any other.

This ensures that the software will effectively address the particular challenges and nuances of your industry.

Functionality and Features

Essential features like inventory management, job tracking, production scheduling, and financial management tools are fundamental. The software should facilitate seamless workflow management and provide comprehensive insights into your manufacturing process.

Customization and Flexibility

The ability to customize the software to fit your unique business processes and workflows is crucial. Flexible software can adapt to your evolving business needs and can accommodate specific requirements that might be unique to your operation.

Integration Capabilities

Ensure the software can integrate with the other systems you use, such as accounting software like QuickBooks, CRM systems, or supply chain management tools. Seamless integration can significantly improve data consistency and operational efficiency.

Deployment Options

Decide between cloud-based and on-premises software solutions based on your business needs. Cloud-based solutions offer accessibility and lower upfront costs, whereas on-premises solutions provide more control over the data and might be necessary for specific regulatory compliance.

Ease of Use and Support

A user-friendly interface can greatly reduce the learning curve and increase adoption among your staff. Additionally, reliable customer support is critical for resolving issues quickly and ensuring minimal disruption to your operations.

Cost-effectiveness

Finally, consider the cost of the software in relation to the features and benefits it offers. Assess the pricing structure, including any recurring costs for updates or support, to ensure it fits within your budget and provides a good return on investment.

While these are some of the most popular software solutions on the market that can be helpful especially for small manufacturers, Taylor stresses that there is no single solution that’s right for everyone.

You have to be willing to try out different options to find the best features and capabilities that work for your specific business, either through a trial period or at least a demo. He says, “You never know if software is right for you until you’ve tried it. Fortunately, most software developers have a free trial option.”

By thoroughly evaluating these factors, you can choose a manufacturing software that not only meets your current needs but also supports your business as it grows and evolves.

Final Thoughts: Benefits of Implementing Manufacturing Software

Implementing manufacturing software can bring a multitude of benefits to businesses in the manufacturing industry. It optimizes operations, enhances inventory management, improves production planning, and tracks orders with unparalleled accuracy. By providing actionable insights, manufacturing software fosters collaboration among team members, empowering small manufacturers to achieve operational excellence and maximize productivity. With real-time visibility into business operations, manufacturing software enables data-driven decision-making, automates processes for increased efficiency, and offers a competitive edge in the market. By choosing the right manufacturing software, businesses can improve customer satisfaction, enhance customer loyalty, and increase sales. In a competitive industry, the right manufacturing software is not just a tool; it’s a strategic asset that can propel your business to new heights.

Photo via Shutterstock

This article, "Top Manufacturing Software Solutions to Boost Efficiency and Growth" was first published on Small Business Trends

Criteria for Choosing the Best Remote Access Software

GoToMyPC

Chrome Remote Desktop

With Chrome Remote Desktop you can use a mobile device or PC to access apps and files on another computer across the internet. You can give remote team members access to your computer with Chrome Remote Desktop, so they will have complete access to your files, apps, emails, history and documents.

Chrome Remote Desktop can be used for free.

Splashtop Business Access

Splashtop provides fast, simple and secure remote computer access for teams spread about in remote locations. Some of the key features of Slashtop Business Access include file transfer, remote print, chat, access from any device, remote alarm clock, group view, robust security, user management, amongst other.

Costing just $5 a month per user, Splashtop offers an affordable remote access solution for small businesses on a budget.

VCN Connect

VCN Connect is screen sharing and remote access software that provides multi-platform support to businesses of different sizes and industries. Depending on which package you opt for, you can benefit from VCN Connect’s feature-rich systems, which include file transfer, cloud connectivity, full session encryption for optimal security, team management capabilities, a dedicated support channel, and much more.

VCN Connect’s Professional package stars from $40 a year for one remote computer with discounts for volume and duration.

Photo via Shutterstock

This article, "The Best Remote Access Software Solutions for Your Small Business" was first published on Small Business Trends

Here are legit apps that you can easily download to earn money, including ways to get paid to take surveys, play games, lose weight, work a side gig, and even sell your stuff, in addition to a host of other activities you can perform from your favorite internet browsing device.

Our Methodology: The Best Money Making Apps

In the digital age, where our smartphones govern much of our lives, it’s no surprise that many entrepreneurs and savvy individuals turn to money-making apps to increase their incomes.

These apps can serve as a practical means to leverage your spare time or augment your main income. Our methodology for selecting the best money-making apps is comprehensive, considering various user needs and market conditions.

To assist individuals in selecting the most suitable and effective money-making apps, we’ve considered a range of factors. These criteria are rated on a scale from 10 (most important) to 1 (least important), ensuring that our recommendations cater to those looking for legitimate and practical ways to earn extra income.

1. Earning Potential: Importance 10/10
   • Realistic earning opportunities offered by the app.
   • Clarity on potential earnings and effort required.
   • Balance between time invested and financial return.
2. Legitimacy and Trustworthiness: Importance 9/10
   • Verification of the app’s credibility and legal standing.
   • Positive reviews and testimonials from users.
   • Lack of hidden fees or misleading earning claims.
3. Ease of Use and Accessibility: Importance 8/10
   • User-friendly interface and straightforward operation.
   • Minimal technical glitches or issues.
   • Accessibility across various devices and platforms.
4. Variety of Income-Generating Activities: Importance 7/10
   • Diversity in tasks or activities available (surveys, watching videos, playing games).
   • Suitability for different skills and interests.
   • Opportunities for both passive and active income.
5. Payment Methods and Thresholds: Importance 6/10
   • Multiple reliable payment options (PayPal, gift cards, bank transfer).
   • Reasonable thresholds for cashing out earnings.
   • Transparency and timeliness in the payment process.
6. User Privacy and Data Security: Importance 6/10
   • Measures to protect user privacy and personal data.
   • Clear policies on data usage and sharing.
   • Compliance with data protection laws.
7. Customer Support and Resources: Importance 5/10
   • Availability of customer support for inquiries and issues.
   • Access to resources like FAQs and user guides.
   • User community or forums for tips and advice.
8. Flexibility and Convenience: Importance 4/10
   • Ability to use the app according to the user’s schedule.
   • Suitability for different lifestyles and time commitments.
   • Option to earn from anywhere at any time.

Our analysis’s depth ensures we recommend apps that are not only legitimate and secure but also worthwhile for your time and effort. The aim is to empower you with side hustles that complement your financial goals efficiently and enjoyably.

The Best Money Making Apps to Earn Passive Income

Passive income apps are ideal if you don’t have lots of time to do extra work but want to earn passive income. Choose from tons of income ideas, including apps that help you make money with cryptocurrency, commercial real estate investments and even online content.

The following are the best money-making apps for passive income:

Swagbucks

Swagbucks is a nice app that allows you to make convenient money through your usual online activities. You can earn SB (reward points) as you create an internet browsing history, shop online, and spend time watching videos. You can also find many in-app shopping deals to save money.

Compatibility: Android and iOS

Average Payout: $1 to $5 per day

Payment Method: Gift cards, PayPal cash or check

OnMyWay

The OnMyWay app pays you to drive without texting, making it convenient and easy to use. It starts keeping track of the miles when you’re driving over 10MPH and pays OnMyWay Cash points, which can be converted to cash at certain levels. OnMyWay disables the message alerts, but you can answer calls via Bluetooth.

Compatibility: Android and iOS

Average Payout: $0.05 for every safe mile you drive without texting or looking at your phone

Payment Method: Gift cards, PayPal, or credit card payments

Public.com

Public.com is one of the best investing apps for investing and earning income. You can invest as little as $1 and buy parts of shares, ETFs, and cryptos on one of the best apps for investing. Public.com also helps you connect and interact with fellow investors.

Compatibility: Android and iOS

Average Payout: Depends on the investments

Payment Method: ACH, wire transfer or check

Fundrise

Fundrise provides straightforward access to real estate investment opportunities. You can invest small amounts in multiple large projects without needing to purchase an entire property. This allows you to earn genuine dividends and returns on a regular basis. However, be aware that the investment terms for Fundrise are generally 5 years, and a 1% penalty applies for early withdrawals.

Compatibility: Android and iOS

Average Payout: Depends on the investments

Payment Method: Deposit to a bank account

Airbnb

Airbnb enables you to earn income by becoming a host and renting extra space in the home to guests. The app has tons of brand trust, user reviews, and streamlined features. You can delegate and automate regular cleaning and maintenance so service providers will take care of those tasks.

Compatibility: Android and iOS

Average Payout: $41,026 per year

Payment Method: Payoneer prepaid Mastercard, PayPal account, Fast Pay to credit or debit card, international wire or direct deposit to a bank account

Medium

Medium is an open online publishing platform where writers can showcase their voices and expertise on any topic. Writers who join Medium’s Partner Program are paid for their content based on how much time people spend reading it. And there are tons of subjects you can cover to earn legitimate money. Publishing content is a great source of passive income for those interested in making money on Medium since readers can continue to consume it weeks, months, or even years later.

Compatibility: Android and iOS

Average Payout: $15 to $30 for every 1,000 views, depending on the read time

Payment Method: Stripe

Soundcloud

Wondering how to make money on Soundcloud? It’s an easy-to-use platform for both musicians and listeners. You can even make money listening to music. Soundcloud is an online platform where musical artists can find audiences for their creations. Musicians can monetize their Soundcloud accounts and earn money every time listeners stream their audio files.

Average Payout: Between $0.0025 and $0.004 per stream

Payment Method: PayPal

Best Cash Back Apps that Make You Money

Cash-back apps pay rewards in the form of points or money when you make a qualifying purchase from partner retailers, either online or in-store. The following apps are popular to earn points or cash rewards:

Shopkick

Shopkick provides you with easy cash back for online shopping as well as in-store purchases. You earn Kicks (reward points) to go to stores or buy products from within the app. Then, the points can be redeemed for gift cards.

Compatibility: Android and iOS

Average Payout: $2 for 500 Kicks

Payment Method: Gift cards or PayPal

Capital One Shopping

Capital One Shopping app gives you credit points to shop from its partners, which can be redeemed for gift cards. Capital One Shopping also provides price comparisons, cashback deals and discount coupons to help users save money.

Compatibility: Android and iOS

Average Payout: Up to 15% of the shopping amount

Payment Method: Gift cards

Rakuten

Rakuten lets you earn rewards and savings when you shop from its app. It has links to hundreds of partner online stores from which you can shop and rake up cashback points. These points are paid out quarterly.

Compatibility: Android and iOS

Average Payout: Up to 40% of the shopping amount

Payment Method: Check or PayPal

Dosh

Dosh provides cash back when you shop, dine or book accommodations with its partners. You earn points when paying with the card linked to the Dosh app. You can redeem these points for actual cash.

Compatibility: Android and iOS

Average Payout: 2% to 10% of the shopping amount

Payment Method: PayPal, Venmo or bank deposit

Fetch Rewards

Fetch Rewards gives you points every time you click and upload a grocery shopping receipt, as well as receipts from certain other locations. Because Fetch Rewards accepts your gas station receipts, it even doubles as one of the more popular gas-saving apps. It also gives points for eReceipts in your email, so you can earn more by buying products from its affiliated brands and not just in-store purchases.

Compatibility: Android and iOS

Average Payout: $15 to $50 per year

Payment Method: Gift cards

Ibotta app

Ibotta is a free app that can be downloaded from the iOS App Store or Google’s Play Store. Like other cash-back apps, it offers users cash back on every qualifying purchase, including from restaurants, groceries, and online shopping. To make money with the Ibotta app, just sign up, activate offers on your device before shopping at participating merchants, and start making money.

Compatibility: Android and iOS

Average Payout: $20 per month

Payment Method: Gift cards, PayPal account, or bank deposit

Best Side Hustle Money Making Apps

As the name implies, side hustle money-making apps enable you to earn extra cash while keeping your current job. Whether you’re looking to leverage a unique skill for a side hustle or discover ways to make money using a pickup truck, you’ll encounter opportunities with some of the top gig apps.

Let’s explore these side hustle apps to make money:

TaskRabbit

TaskRabbit connects you with individuals who want to outsource their everyday tasks. So, you can set your hourly rate and earn extra cash in your free time. The simple tasks include grocery shopping, furniture assembly, lawn mowing, and more. If you’re looking to make money with your car, you can probably find an errand that needs to be completed on TaskRabbit.

Compatibility: Android and iOS

Average Payout: $36 per hour

Payment Method: Bank deposit

UrbanSitter

UrbanSitter is a money-making app for you if you like to spend time with kids. It connects you with parents looking for nannies, babysitters or tutors. You also can find pet care and senior care tasks on UrbanSitter.

Compatibility: Android and iOS

Average Payout: $17 to $19 per hour

Payment Method: Bank direct deposit

Rover

Rover helps you find pet owners who want someone to take care of their dogs/cats. You can even offer boarding facilities for pets. But daycare, walking and house sitting are among the common tasks available.

Compatibility: Android and iOS

Average Payout: $15 to $30 per hour

Payment Method: Stripe

Upwork

Upwork is a platform for finding creative freelance projects. Designing, accounting, and marketing are among the hundreds of categories available on Upwork. So, you can find many tasks within your skill set to do in your free time. Want to make money typing? You can find data entry gigs on Upwork, as well as content writing, social media management and so much more.

Compatibility: Android and iOS

Average Payout: Depends on the projects

Payment Method: PayPal or ACH

Fiverr

It’s easy to see how to make money on Fiverr. The global marketplace for freelancers differs from competing platforms. Instead of bidding on projects and being selected by clients, Fiverr freelancers list their available services so prospective customers can shop for them. The variety of services offered on Fiverr ranges from writing or proofreading to website design or marketing and everything in between.

Compatibility: Android and iOS

Average Payout: Varies based on project and experience

Payment Method: PayPal

Best Money Making Apps that Pay You to Play Games

Do you love playing games on your phone? Can you believe you can get paid while playing the games you love? You’ll definitely want to explore the following gaming apps that pay.

If you happen to find any game of your interest, you can make money fast.

Mistplay

Mistplay is like a loyalty program app exclusively for gamers. Users earn reward points, known as units, to test and review games. So, they can discover fun games and earn rewards for playing them.

Compatibility: Android

Average Payout: $14 to $50 per month

Payment Method: Gift cards

Bananatic

Bananatic is another online gaming app that allows users to play games to earn reward points. It is called Bananatic and is called bananas. Here, players test games, finish quests, and write reviews. Watching ads is another way to earn additional reward points with Bananatic, which you can redeem for legitimate cash.

Compatibility: Android or iOS

Average Payout: Up to $5 per task

Payment Method: Gift cards, Steam Wallet or PayPal

Gamehag

The Gamehag app also pays you to play games. It provides reward points called “soul gems” for playing games and completing quests. You can earn more by writing game reviews and interacting in the forums.

Compatibility: Android and iOS

Average Payout: Up to $2 per hour for gameplay

Payment Method: Gift cards, PayPal, Steam Wallet and Robux

PlaytestCloud

PlaytestCloud is a money-making gaming app that allows you to participate as a game tester and earn money. The tests you receive are tailored to your demographics and devices. Each testing session typically lasts around 10-15 minutes.

Compatibility: Android and iOS

Average Payout: $9 per session

Payment Method: PayPal

Twitch

One of the most popular ways to make money playing video games is live streaming gameplay on Twitch. Twitch content creators accrue viewers and followers by showcasing their gaming skills and commentary. The more people who watch a video – and the more ads that they view – the more money the Twitch user earns by playing games.

Compatibility: Android and iOS

Average Payout: $50 to $1,500 per month

Payment Method: ACH, PayPal, wire, or check

Best Mystery Shopper Apps that Pay You for Shopping Online and In-Store

Do you like shopping? Do you always have an opinion about how a store owner can improve customer experience?

If your answer is Yes to those questions, then you can get paid handsomely as a mystery shopper. Businesses are constantly seeking visitors who will evaluable their experiences, and they are willing to pay good money for your opinions when using the following apps:

Field Agent

Field Agent provides a money-making opportunity to those who love shopping. When you sign up as an agent, you can get paid to try products and complete tasks. The cost of products is reimbursed upon the task’s completion.

Compatibility: Android and iOS

Average Payout: $6 to $30 per hour

Payment Method: Bank direct deposit

EasyShift

The EasyShift app lists auditing tasks, called shifts, at local shops and retailers. In the EasyShift app, you get tasks like taking product photos, checking prices and reviewing promotions. It usually takes about 15 minutes to complete a “shift.”

Compatibility: Android and iOS

Average Payout: $7 per task

Payment Method: PayPal

GigWalk

GigWalk is a mystery shopping app where users apply to complete listed tasks. You can undertake them upon the client’s approval. The tasks are simple and include activities like location checks, shopping experience reviews, property inspections and more.

Compatibility: Android and iOS

Average Payout: $4 to $12 per task

Payment Method: PayPal

Marketforce

The Marketforce mystery shopping app is an excellent choice for food enthusiasts. The tasks available on this platform primarily focus on restaurants, fast-food chains, and delivery services. Users assess cleanliness and food quality while also performing various related tasks.

Compatibility: Android and iOS

Average Payout: $5 – $10 per task

Payment Method: PayPal

PrestoShopper

PrestoShopper is a money-making app that aggregates tasks from different mystery shopping companies. You can easily pick the task you’re interested in and then connect with the company that posted it.

Compatibility: Android and iOS

Average Payout: $5 – $10 per task

Payment Method: Gift cards or PayPal

Money Making App Options – Losing Weight

Millions of people around the world wish they could drop at least a few pounds, but motivation continues to deter their efforts. What if you could get paid to lose weight? You can, with some of the best weight-loss apps. The following apps not only can help you lose weight but also earn money for your success:

HealthyWage

The HealthyWage app offers a weight loss challenge program that rewards participants with cash prizes for achieving their weight loss goals. You can choose to make a personal weight loss bet or create a team fitness challenge.

Compatibility: Android and iOS

Average Payout: Up to $24 per pound lost

Payment Method: Check or PayPal

DietBet

DietBet rewards you with cash if you succeed in the weight loss bet you make for yourself. The app offers various game types tailored to different health objectives. You can join an upcoming game challenge or start a new one of your own.

Compatibility: Android and iOS

Average Payout: 1.5- to 2-times the bet amount

Payment Method: Check or PayPal

Evidation

The Evidation app helps you earn points by tracking your activities. You can connect the app to your fitness tracker and log your biking, running, walking time, etc. You even earn points to log sleeping and meditation, too. So it’s an easy experience that you can fit into your daily habits.

Compatibility: Android and iOS

Average Payout: $20 per year

Payment Method: Gift cards or PayPal

StickK

StickK pays to do activities you commit to. In StickK, you bet on yourself and commit to a health goal, which can be either short-term or long-term. You’re then assigned a “referee” to track and verify your progress.

Compatibility: Android and iOS

Average Payout: Varies based on the bet amount

Payment Method: PayPal

Best Apps to Sell Your Things

Do you have piles of stuff lying around that you no longer use? Or perhaps you’re in possession of antique, rare, or collectible items, but you don’t know where to sell them. Fortunately for you, there’s also an app for that.

The following selling apps will help you market your things and earn money. Some will even offer sellers with a pre-paid shipping label to help with delivery. These money-making apps are completely legit.

OfferUp

The Offerup app can help you sell anything. It has an easy-to-follow posting template to upload item details and set your offer price. Offerup offers local selling as well as nationwide shipping.

Compatibility: Android and iOS

Average Payout: The offer price (minus a 12.9% service charge)

Payment Method: Bank deposit or In-person transaction

Poshmark

Poshmark is a marketplace for fashion and home decor products. You can sell dresses, shoes, makeup products and so much more, all in an easy-to-use mobile app. Poshmark is a superb option if you’re looking forward to cleaning and updating your wardrobe.

Compatibility: Android and iOS

Average Payout: The offer price (minus a 20% service charge)

Payment Method: Check, bank deposit, Venmo or check

NextDoor

Nextdoor is a handy app that allows you to sell your things locally via a mobile device. It’s a neighborhood-specific social media platform where users can easily post items for sale. Once you list products to sell, others in the local area can see them in their feeds.

Compatibility: Android and iOS

Average Payout: The offer price

Payment Method: As negotiated with the buyer

Facebook Marketplace

Facebook Marketplace helps users connect with people willing to buy products locally, regionally or anywhere. The items appear in Facebook Marketplace feeds for everyone in your geographic location, as well as anyone else searching a broader area. Just strike a deal and negotiate the delivery and payment methods.

Compatibility: Android and iOS

Average Payout: The offer price

Payment Method: As negotiated with the buyer

Decluttr

Decluttr is a money-making service designed for selling old tech products, including phones, computers, media players, smartwatches, and more. When users upload details, the app gives them a valuation of the items. On Decluttr, you can sell old gaming consoles, used tablets, and all of your other used electronics.

Compatibility: Android and iOS

Average Payout: Depends on the item and condition

Payment Method: Check, PayPal or direct bank deposit

Other Legit Money-Making Apps You Should Consider

If none of the money-making apps mentioned above appeal to you, here are some additional apps for you to consider:

Redbubble

It’s easy to see how to make money on Redbubble. The print-on-demand online marketplace displays designs submitted by independent artists and designers, then Redbubble customers can pay to have those the artwork printed on a large variety of products, including shirts, phone cases, notebooks and canvases. Artists are paid a portion of the Redbubble sales that incorporate their designs.

Compatibility: Android and iOS

Average Payout: 20% of the product’s base price

Payment Method: PayPal or bank deposit

Doordash

Doordash is another reliable app for starting a side hustle and making money. It pays you to deliver food from local restaurants to customers’ homes and workplaces. You can choose your own hours with Doordash and the orders you want to deliver. However, drivers can earn extra money by making deliveries during Peak Pay times when offered by the company.

Compatibility: Android and iOS

Average Payout: Up to $25 per hour

Payment Method: Bank deposit

Instacart

Instacart is another delivery app that pays you to shop in store and deliver groceries. It provides a flexible schedule for drivers to work when they want. You even can choose to sign up as an Instacart delivery partner only.

Compatibility: Android and iOS

Average Payout: $13.88 per hour plus tips

Payment Method: Check or bank deposit

Uber

Uber is a ride-sharing platform that allows gig workers to earn money by driving during their free time. With the Uber app, you can create your own schedule and even choose a destination to pick up and drop off passengers along your route. Additionally, Uber now offers qualified drivers free tablets to help them increase their earnings through ad revenue sharing.

Compatibility: Android and iOS

Average Payout: Up to $25 per hour

Payment Method: Bank deposit or debit card deposit

Rocket Money

It’s easy to save money when you use the Rocket Money app. The financial management application helps users lower their bills and optimize their budgets with a variety of useful tools. By connecting all of your financial accounts, Rocket Money can help you save enough money it will be like adding extra cash into your bank account.

Compatibility: Android and iOS

Average Payout: $512 saved each year

Payment Method: N/A

TikTok

It’s hard to use the internet these days without recognizing how to make money on TikTok. The global platform hosts user-submitted short-form videos on any topic. Users can share their content, view others’ videos and follow their favorites. You can monetize your TikTok account once you achieve 10,000 followers and 100,000 video views, and then you’ll get paid when people stream your videos.

Compatibility: Android and iOS

Average Payout: 2 to 4 cents per 1,000 views

Payment Method: PayPal or Zelle

Best Survey Apps

Companies around the world are extremely interested in consumers’ thoughts and opinions, and so they frequently seek people interested in answering surveys for money. Completing relevant surveys online with apps like Survey Junkie is a great way to earn extra cash in a few hours of your spare time, but it’s important to make sure the app is legitimate.

Check out some of the best survey apps that are totally legit:

Survey Junkie

Hundreds of thousands of users access Survey Junkie each day to trade their opinions for cash payments. To start, just create a profile and specify your interests, then start taking surveys and earning points that can be redeemed for cash. Some Survey Junkie users even can earn extra money by testing products.

Compatibility: Android and iOS

Average Payout: $1 to $3 per survey

Payment Method: PayPal or e-gift cards

InboxDollars

With the InboxDollars app, you can make money by taking online surveys, watching videos, playing video games, redeeming coupons and even shopping online. This free app offers legit money-making opportunities, and it’s quick and easy to use. The best part, InboxDollars users earn actual cash for completing tasks instead of points that must be converted and redeemed.

Compatibility: Android and iOS

Average Payout: Up to $5 per task

Payment Method: Gift cards or PayPal

Branded Surveys

Another app that lets users earn money by taking surveys is Branded Surveys. An online community where companies pay for consumers’ opinions, the program will match users to relevant surveys, then send daily updates with polls, challenges and other offerings that can be completed to earn points.

Compatibility: Android and iOS

Average Payout: A few dollars per survey

Payment Method: PayPal or Dwolla

Google Opinion Rewards

The Google Opinion Rewards program allows users to participate in a mobile panel as they spend time taking surveys and earning rewards that can be converted into cash payments or credit in Google’s Play Store. Just answer questions asked by market researchers from the Google Opinion Rewards app to start earning credits. Topics include opinion polls, hotel reviews, merchant satisfaction surveys, and more.

Compatibility: Android and iOS

Average Payout: Up to $1 per survey

Payment Method: PayPal or Google Play Store credits

Here is a quick snapshot of the moneymaking apps and their key details in an easily-referenced comparison table.

Apps Not Worth Your Time

All of the apps mentioned above offer legitimate ways to make some extra money, but there are plenty of others out there amounting to little more than scams. How can you make sure you’re choosing an app that’s worth your time? Be aware of the following red flags:

• Cost – Legitimate money-making apps won’t charge you to try them, or they will base their service fee on your earnings. Be aware of apps that want you to pay upfront without even a free trial for new users.
• Privacy – No money-making app should require private information such as your Social Security number unless you’ve earned at least $600 and it’s needed for tax purposes. You also might want to investigate the app’s data collection policy to ensure you’re comfortable when the company decides to collect data from you. Of course, your bank account details will need to be provided if you opt for direct deposit.
• Ratings – Review what other users are saying about the app. Take a few minutes to read product reviews and customer ratings in Google’s Play Store or the Apple App Store.
• Awards – What sort of rewards does the app offer? Can you earn enough to make it worth your time?
• Qualifications – Does the app require users to meet significant qualifications to complete tasks? If so, new app users might end up spending too much time answering surveys only to discover they aren’t qualified for a reward.

Optimizing Your Earnings with Money-Making Apps

While the list of effective money-making apps provides a solid foundation, understanding how to maximize their potential is key to boosting your earnings. Here’s how you can enhance your strategy using these apps:

• Diversification of Income Sources: Don’t rely on a single app. Each app offers different ways to earn money, so by diversifying your sources, you increase your chances of a steady income. Use a combination of apps like Uber for active income and Airbnb for passive income to balance your earnings.
• Maximizing App Features: Take full advantage of the unique features each app offers. For instance, utilize the promotional tools on Facebook Marketplace to reach a wider audience, or leverage peak times on DoorDash for higher earnings.
• Efficient Time Management: Time is a precious resource. Focus on apps that yield the highest return for the time you invest. For instance, apps such as TaskRabbit or Nextdoor allow you to complete quick tasks for immediate payment, making them effective choices for short-term earnings.

Critical Considerations When Using Money-Making Apps

• Verifying App Legitimacy: Always conduct thorough research to confirm the legitimacy of an app. Check for user reviews, ratings, and online discussions to avoid scams and ensure a secure earning experience.
• Understanding the Payout Process: Get to know the different payout methods and their requirements. Some money making apps may provide instant payouts, whereas others may impose certain conditions or minimum thresholds that need to be satisfied.
• Balancing Effort with Returns: Assess the effort required for each app and its corresponding potential earnings. While some apps may require more active involvement, others can offer passive income with minimal effort.
• Protecting Your Privacy: Be cautious about the personal information you share on these platforms. Ensure you are comfortable with the data you provide and understand how it will be used.
• Smart Use of Gaming Apps for Earnings: While gaming apps can be fun and potentially profitable, choosing a game that aligns with your interests is crucial. The more you enjoy the game, the more likely you are to dedicate time to it, which can lead to better-earning potential. However, keep realistic expectations about the amount of money you can make through gaming apps.

Start Increasing Your Bank Account Balance Today

If you’re looking for ways to get extra cashback and increase your bank account balance, you can find plenty of apps that let you earn free gift cards, free stock, and even cash back. Some of these free apps require new users to spend time completing surveys, tasks, and activities for making money, while other apps offer passive income opportunities for users to boost their earning potential.

The effectiveness of money-making apps depends largely on how you use them. By diversifying your app usage, maximizing its features, managing your time wisely, and being mindful of privacy and legitimacy concerns, you can enhance your ability to earn additional income.

Remember, these apps are tools to supplement your income, and a strategic approach can make them more beneficial for your financial goals.

Here’s a quick word from PaidfromSurvey that you can check out after reading the article.

Can you earn money from the Google Play Store?

There are so many ways to make money on your phone. Sometimes, users can even get cash back directly from Google’s Play Store. If you have the right skills, you can create an app and sell it from within the online store, but you also can earn rewards by watching YouTube videos promoted within many games and apps. Google will reward participants with credits toward other Play Store purchases or even cash in their PayPal accounts.

What is the best app to earn money?

The best app to earn cash is Upwork, as it is completely legit, and you will get paid timely. However, this app is best for freelancers.

Following are a few best money-making apps to cater to a diverse audience

• Uber (for drivers)
• DoorDash (for food delivery contractors)
• Facebook Marketplace (for sellers)
• Airbnb (for house owners to rent their properties)

The above apps are completely legit and known to pay on time.

Do money-making apps really work?

Yes, money-making apps can work, and many people have found success using them. However, you should download apps that pay on time and are completely legit. Popular apps like Survey Junkie, Uber, and Capital One Shopping, as well as the others listed above, can be considered trustworthy.

Unfortunately, there are many fake money-making apps in the market. So, you should be extra careful when downloading a legitimate app to make money. It’s also important to understand that these apps aren’t a quick fix for financial woes. While they can provide a source of extra income or savings, they’re not typically a pathway to quick riches.

Things to Consider When Using Money-Making Apps

1. Legitimacy: The internet is rife with scams, and the world of money-making apps is no exception. Before downloading an app, do some research to ensure it’s legitimate. Look for reviews and ratings on app stores, as well as discussions about the app on online forums or social media.
2. Payout: Consider the potential earnings and payout methods. Some apps might offer enticing potential earnings but make it difficult to actually get your money. Make sure to understand how and when you’ll be paid before you start using an app.
3. Time and Effort: Some apps require a substantial time investment for a relatively small payout. Consider whether the potential earnings are worth your time.
4. Privacy: Many money-making apps require access to personal information, such as your location or shopping habits. Make sure you’re comfortable with the information you’re sharing and understand how it will be used.

What apps pay you cash instantly?

Airbnb, Facebook Marketplace, TaskRabbit, and Nextdoor pay you instantly. Sometimes, there is a minimum threshold amount you have to touch before getting paid. Usually, apps that help you sell something (products/services) offer quick pay.

Which game is best for earning money?

The best game for earning money is the game that you’re crazy about. It’s a tough job to earn cash by playing a game. So, if you don’t like the game, you will not be able to earn much money, regardless of how great the game is.

Image: Depositphotos

This article, "Best Money Making Apps: Uncover Profitable Opportunities" was first published on Small Business Trends

What is Sales Automation Software

Sales Automation Software makes sales easier by automating tasks and improving efficiency. This can help teams make more sales, save money by reducing the need for sales outsourcing, and freeing up employees to focus on other impactful tasks.

Essential Features of Sales Automation Software Tools

Sales Automation Software is a set of tools that make selling easier. They can do things like finding potential customers, keeping track of contacts, and reporting sales data. These tools also automate emails, integrate with customer databases, provide helpful information, and streamline workflows. The goal is to save time and help sales teams work more effectively.

The Role of Sales Automation Tools in Business

In today’s competitive world, sales automation tools are essential for businesses. They help companies sell their products or services in a smarter way. These tools manage leads, keep track of customer interactions, and build relationships. By automating repetitive tasks and giving useful insights, they let sales teams focus on connecting with customers and closing deals. Ultimately, they help businesses make more sales, earn more money, and keep customers happy.

The Impact of Sales Automation on the Sales Process

Sales Automation significantly impacts the sales process, enhancing lead generation, improving sales forecasting, boosting productivity, and empowering sales reps.

Enhancing Lead Generation

Sales automation software optimizes lead generation by streamlining processes, improving lead quality, and increasing the number of potential customers. It automates lead capturing, nurturing, and scoring tasks, enabling businesses to efficiently identify and prioritize valuable leads.

Improved Sales Forecasting

Sales automation tools utilize data to enhance sales forecasting. By analyzing past sales data, customer behavior, and market trends, these tools provide valuable insights for predicting future sales trends and identifying potential opportunities. This helps businesses make informed decisions and allocate resources effectively.

Boosting Sales Productivity

Sales automation software boosts sales productivity by automating repetitive tasks like data entry, email follow-ups, and scheduling. By eliminating time-consuming manual work, sales reps can focus more on strategic efforts like building relationships, qualifying leads, and closing deals. This leads to increased efficiency and better utilization of their time.

Empowering Sales Reps

Sales automation software empowers sales reps by eliminating repetitive tasks and providing them with valuable tools and insights. With automated workflows, CRM integration, and real-time data access, sales reps can concentrate on engaging with customers, understanding their needs, and providing personalized solutions. This improves their effectiveness and enables them to deliver exceptional customer experiences.

Choosing the Best Sales Automation Software Programs: Our Methodology

Choosing the appropriate sales automation software can greatly improve the efficiency and effectiveness of a small business’s sales process. Below is our approach to assessing sales automation software, which we rate on a scale from 1 to 5, where 5 indicates the highest importance:

1. Ease of Integration (5/5):
   • Compatibility with existing CRM and business tools
   • Simple integration process with minimal downtime
   • Data sync across platforms without errors
2. Automation Capabilities (5/5):
   • Advanced automation for repetitive tasks (email campaigns, follow-ups)
   • Trigger-based actions for timely engagement
   • Customizable workflow automation to match sales processes
3. User Interface and Usability (4/5):
   • Intuitive and clean user interface
   • Minimal learning curve for new users
   • Availability on various devices (desktop, mobile)
4. Lead Management (5/5):
   • Efficient lead capture and organization
   • Scoring and segmentation for prioritization
   • Tracking interactions and engagement history
5. Reporting and Analytics (4/5):
   • Comprehensive reports on sales activities and outcomes
   • Customizable dashboards with key metrics
   • Insights for data-driven decision-making
6. Scalability (4/5):
   • The ability of the software to expand alongside the business
   • Flexible pricing plans for different business sizes
   • Ability to handle the increased volume of leads and clients
7. Customer Support (4/5):
   • Availability and quality of customer service
   • Access to training resources and tutorials
   • Responsive technical support
8. Email Integration and Marketing Tools (3/5):
   • Integration with email platforms for seamless communication
   • Resources for developing and monitoring email campaigns
   • Templates and personalization options
9. Collaboration Features (3/5):
   • Resources for collaboration and communication among teams
   • Shared views and reports for alignment
   • Access controls for different team roles
10. Security and Compliance (5/5):
    • Data encryption and secure storage
    • Compliance with data protection laws
    • Regular backups and reliable system uptime

By meticulously assessing sales automation software against these criteria, we aim to recommend solutions that not only streamline the sales process but also contribute to higher conversion rates and improved customer relationships.

The Best Sales Automation Tools

The best sales automation platforms below encompass a range of solutions designed to enhance sales processes, boost productivity, and optimize customer engagement. Let’s take a look at them…

HubSpot

HubSpot’s Sales Hub is a robust sales software that streamlines the sales process by consolidating tools and data within an easy-to-use CRM platform. It provides features such as email templates, call tracking, and automation capabilities. Users appreciate its effectiveness and benefit from round-the-clock customer support and educational resources.

Zapier

Zapier connects your tools to streamline processes. It offers free access and supports more apps than any other platform. Build custom workflows, automate tasks, and integrate AI tools. Join over 1.8 million businesses and experience the power of Zapier.

EngageBay

EngageBay is an affordable, all-in-one software for marketing, sales, and support. It includes a free CRM and offers various tools like email marketing, automation, and lead generation. Designed for small businesses, it helps acquire, engage, and convert visitors into satisfied customers.

Zoho CRM

Zoho CRM is a customer relationship management platform that helps small business owners manage sales, marketing, and customer interactions in one place. It offers tools for lead tracking, task automation, and real-time insights, enabling businesses to streamline operations and build stronger customer relationships.

Sender

Sender is an email marketing platform that helps businesses connect with customers and boost revenue. It offers easy-to-use tools for creating branded emails, responsive templates, and advanced features like automation. With flexible pricing plans and integrations with popular platforms, Sender is trusted by over 180,000 companies worldwide.

SalesBlink

SalesBlink is an AI-driven sales automation software that is relied upon by over 1,000 teams. It provides features such as ChatGPT email writing, multi-channel sequences, meeting scheduling, and B2B lead search. Enhance your outreach, boost deliverability, and monitor performance with SalesBlink.

Process Street

Process Street is a user-friendly process management platform relied upon by leading companies. It provides features such as workflows, AI-driven design, forms, data sets, and pages to enhance process efficiency and encourage knowledge sharing. Utilizing AI-driven workflows, teams can automate tasks and make informed decisions based on data.

Outreach.io

Outreach.io addresses the challenges faced by sales leaders, such as the need for increased productivity, adapting to new obstacles, and embracing technology. It streamlines sales activities, provides insights, and increases revenue while reducing costs and risks. The platform integrates with many tools and ensures data security.

Bigin

Zoho Bigin is a simplified CRM solution designed specifically for small businesses to manage their sales pipelines efficiently. It offers easy-to-use tools for tracking deals, automating tasks, and managing customer interactions, helping businesses stay organized and close more deals without the complexity of larger CRM systems.

Mailchimp

Mailchimp is a top email marketing brand offering tools for revenue growth. With AI, segmentation, and integrations, it enables targeted messaging. Founded in 2001, it was acquired by Intuit. They support small businesses and invest in nonprofit organizations.

InsightSquared

InsightSquared offers powerful sales forecasting and analytics tools with 350+ pre-built reports. It provides automated sales forecasting, revenue analytics and dashboards, interactive pipeline management, activity capture, conversation intelligence, and guided selling. Users highly rate its revenue solutions.

Lemlist

Lemlist helps book meetings with 17% of leads by collecting and enriching targeted leads, personalizing messages, conducting A/B tests, and improving email deliverability. Users access resources, templates, and expert advice. Try it free without providing credit card information.

Picreel

Picreel is a popup builder tool that boosts leads, conversions, and sales. It offers targeted offers, A/B testing, and easy installation with 700+ integrations. Suitable for any business, it provides free customer support and advanced features like audience targeting and analytics.

Mailshake

Mailshake is a sales outreach tool trusted by 49,000+ companies. It increases reply rates by landing in inboxes, automates personalized campaigns across multiple channels, and provides analytics to improve performance.

Integrately

Integrately offers eight million+ automation for 1,000+ apps, enabling one-click automation. Recognized as a top productivity tool, it won ProductHunt Golden Kitty Awards and has highly rated live chat support. It’s a user-friendly Zapier alternative with 500+ positive G2 reviews.

Aritic

Aritic is a comprehensive automation platform designed for B2B businesses, featuring marketing, sales, service, and productivity software. It delivers customized tools for success, seamlessly integrates with existing services, and includes a free trial. Aritic is trusted by more than 2,500 customers around the globe.

Datanyze

Datanyze offers a Google Chrome Extension for obtaining contact info from LinkedIn profiles and websites. They guarantee accurate B2B contact data, provide market reports, and have upcoming features like icebreakers and contact list management. They serve sales teams of all sizes.

Sales Creatio

Sales Creatio is an end-to-end sales management platform recognized in the Gartner Magic Quadrant for Sales Force Automation. It offers efficient sales process automation, customer profile building, and tools to manage sales of any type. With features like sales performance analytics and low-code customization, it helps accelerate sales operations.

Pega Sales Automation

Pega Sales Automation was the highest-ranked vendor by Gartner in 2022. It optimizes sales, predicts customer needs, simplifies processes with AI, and offers features like lead management. Used in insurance, finance, and healthcare.

Woodpecker

Woodpecker provides custom products for cold emailing and lead generation, automating follow-ups, ensuring deliverability, and integrating with existing systems. Trusted by 13,000+ professionals, Woodpecker helps scale outreach and drive deals.

Chargebee

Chargebee is a subscription management platform for eCommerce businesses, simplifying recurring billing and offering seamless customer experiences. It automates check-out, integrates with existing systems, and provides analytics for data-driven decisions.

Zendesk Sell

Zendesk Sell is a modern sales CRM that maximizes productivity, enhances customer experiences, and drives revenue growth. It offers contact and deal management, pipeline visibility, personalized interactions, and reporting. Trusted by businesses worldwide.

ZoomInfo

ZoomInfo is a B2B data and software company trusted by 30,000+ businesses. Their RevOS platform offers sales intelligence, marketing automation, candidate engagement, and data management tools. They align sales and marketing teams and integrate with CRM, MAT, ATS, and sales acceleration tools.

Pipedrive

Pipedrive is a CRM platform centered on sales, relied upon by more than 100,000 companies across the globe. It offers features such as visual pipeline tracking, customizable stages, and team collaboration. With over 350 integrations, it streamlines task automation and lead generation for businesses.

Salesmate

Salesmate is a CRM software for sales teams. It offers personalized experiences, prospect engagement, sales pipeline tracking, automation, sales intelligence, integrations, and built-in communication tools. It provides a 15-day risk-free trial and personalized support.

Lead IQ

LeadIQ is a prospecting platform for SaaS sales teams, helping book more meetings. It identifies prospect data, tracks sales triggers, and composes personalized messages. Highly rated and used by top sales teams, it integrates with many popular tools.

Yesware

Yesware is a free sales tool for Gmail and Outlook that helps sales teams improve email outreach. It offers features like email tracking, templates, and analytics. With over 1.4 million users, it’s easy to set up and trusted by sales professionals.

Growbots

Growbots is an AI-powered outbound sales platform that identifies prospects, sets up campaigns, and optimizes outreach. It offers a vast database, tailored prospect lists, and self-service or concierge options.

Leadfeeder

Leadfeeder converts website visitors into leads by identifying companies, providing insights, and integrating with tools like Pipedrive. Trusted by over 60,000 users, it offers quality leads and data filtering options. Start generating leads from your website traffic now.

Keap

Keap is a small business CRM and automation platform. It helps businesses grow revenue, save time, and engage customers through lead collection, personalized automation, marketing, and more. It caters to various industries and offers expert help and resources for learning.

Autoklose

Autoklose is a sales platform that helps businesses target prospects with verified B2B leads, engage them through tailored emails, and analyze campaign performance. Trusted by market leaders like DHL and Microsoft.

Overloop

Overloop is a Sales Engagement Platform designed for small and medium businesses. It enhances revenue by enabling personalized outbound campaigns, such as cold emailing and LinkedIn automation. You can efficiently manage your sales pipeline, monitor performance, and benefit from outstanding support.

PredictLeads

PredictLeads provides structured company intelligence data via APIs, helping businesses identify growing companies, personalize outreach, and understand target prospects. It offers valuable insights on job openings, news events, technographic, and key customer data.

GMass

GMass is a comprehensive mass email and mail merge tool designed for Gmail. It provides a range of features including unlimited contacts and emails, personalized mail merges using Google Sheets, high deliverability rates, automated follow-ups, and detailed campaign-level reports.

Rollworks

RollWorks is a top account-based marketing platform designed for B2B sales. It enables businesses to increase revenue by targeting the most relevant accounts at the optimal time. RollWorks provides features such as target identification, cross-channel engagement, and impact measurement, achieving over 5x ROI compared to other ABM vendors.

MixMax

MixMax is a user-friendly sales engagement platform that boosts revenue by streamlining processes. It offers personalized email sequences, task automation, interactive dashboards, easy scheduling, and Salesforce integration. Customers praise its effectiveness, while industry accolades validate its success.

Reply.io

Reply is an AI-powered sales engagement platform trusted by 2,500+ businesses. It automates personal communication, handles customer responses, and books meetings. With a B2B contact database, intelligent response handling, and integrations, Reply streamlines the sales cycle.

Choosing the Right Sales Automation Platform for Your Small Business

To pick the right sales automation software for your small business, think about its specific needs. Look at things like if it can grow with your business, how easy it is to use if you can customize it, the cost, and if it works well with other tools you use.

FAQs: Sales Automation Software

What is Sales Automation Software?

Sales automation software is a group of tools that help make selling easier. It automates tasks and makes sales processes more efficient. It manages leads, and communication with customers, and keeps track of sales data to help businesses sell better. These tools should be part of your company’s one page marketing plan and sales strategy.

How Can Sales Automation Software Benefit My Small Business?

Sales automation software brings many benefits to small businesses. It saves time by automating tasks, boosts productivity, helps find and manage leads, makes accurate predictions about sales, and improves how businesses handle relationships with customers. This all leads to more sales and better profits.

Can Sales Automation Software Help with Managing Customer Relationships?

Yes, sales automation software can be a big help in managing customer relationships. It organizes customer information, gives insights into target market behavior, and lets businesses communicate with them more effectively. This builds stronger relationships, makes customers happier, and keeps them coming back.

Which Sales Automation Tool is the Best Value?

When deciding on how to choose the best CRM or sales automation software, your choice should align with your business needs and budget. Consider the features offered, usability, customer support, pricing, and the software’s ability to scale with your business. Aim to find the tool that provides the best value for your investment.

This article, "Sales Automation Software: Top Picks for Small Businesses" was first published on Small Business Trends

Strong and complex passwords offer the first-line defense against unauthorized access to your computers and online accounts. However, creating strong passwords for multiple accounts is not easy, let alone remembering all your passwords. With the availability of free and paid password apps, it has become easier for business owners to create strong passwords and store them securely.

We have compiled a list of the top password managers to assist you in selecting the ideal password app for creating strong passwords, securely storing them, and sharing them safely.

What Is a Password App?

A password app allows you to create, store, and manage passwords for both local applications and online accounts in a single secure location. This means you won’t need to remember numerous passwords for different logins. Additionally, you can access a reliable password manager from various devices.

Here are some key advantages of using a password manager app:

• You can quickly generate strong passwords and save them in an encrypted form
• A reliable password manager actively monitors the dark web to determine whether your password has been compromised in any data breach.
• You can share passwords securely with your team members
• A convenient auto-fill feature of a password app can save you a significant amount of time

Last but not the least, you don’t have to remember multiple passwords when you use a password app.

• READ MORE:  Sharing Business WiFi Passwords Doesn’t Have to Be Hard, Use QR Codes Like This

Why Use a Password Manager?

Password managers are invaluable tools in today’s digital age, offering a wide range of benefits for both individuals and businesses. Here’s why you should consider using a password manager:

1. Enhanced Security: Password managers help you create strong, unique passwords for each of your accounts. This reduces the risk of unauthorized access and protects your sensitive information.
2. Convenience: You don’t have to remember multiple complex passwords. A password manager stores them securely and automatically fills them in when needed.
3. Dark Web Monitoring: Many password managers proactively monitor the dark web for any signs of your passwords being compromised, giving you early warnings of potential security breaches.
4. Secure Sharing: For businesses, password managers offer secure ways to share passwords among team members without compromising security.
5. Time Savings: The auto-fill features of password apps save you time by automatically entering your login credentials on websites and apps, making your online experience more efficient.
6. Cross-Platform Access: Password manager apps are available on multiple devices and operating systems, allowing you to access your passwords wherever you go.

One Master Password to Rule Them All

You will need to create a master password to log in to your password manager. Then, your password app can create, store, and manage passwords for all your online accounts.

Most password managers now employ two-factor authentication, meaning you have to submit an additional authentication factor along with your master password to access your password app.

Selecting the Optimal Password App: Our Approach

1. Security (9/10):

• Encryption: Ensure the app uses strong encryption methods to protect your stored passwords.
• Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Look for apps that support 2FA for an extra layer of security.
• Biometric Authentication: Check if the app offers biometric login options like fingerprint or facial recognition.

2. Compatibility (9/10):

• Cross-Platform Support: Verify that the app works seamlessly across various devices and operating systems, including desktop, mobile, and web browsers.
• Browser Extensions: Consider apps that offer browser extensions for easy password autofill.

3. Password Generator (9/10):

• Strong Password Creation: Ensure the app has a robust password generator that can create complex, unique passwords.

4. Dark Web Monitoring (7/10):

• Check if the app provides dark web monitoring to alert you if your passwords are compromised in data breaches.

5. Ease of Use (7/10):

• User-Friendly Interface: Look for an app with an intuitive and easy-to-navigate interface.
• Auto-Fill Feature: Consider apps that offer automatic password filling to save time.

6. Sharing and Collaboration (7/10):

• Password Sharing: Check if the app allows secure password sharing with team members or family.
• Collaboration Features: Evaluate apps that support team collaboration features for managing shared passwords.

7. Cost (5/10):

• Subscription Pricing: Compare pricing plans to ensure they fit your budget, especially if you’re a small business.
• Free Versions: Look for apps with free versions or trial periods to test their features.

8. Backup and Recovery (5/10):

• Backup Options: Check if the app offers secure backup and recovery options for your password data.

9. Customer Support (5/10):

• Availability: Consider the availability of customer support, including email, chat, or phone support, in case you encounter issues.

10. Offline Access (3/10):

• Check whether the app enables you to access your passwords offline, particularly when you are not connected to the internet.

The Best Password Managers

We have done thorough research to prepare the following list of best password managers:

1Password(Overall Best Password Manager)

1Password is one of the leading paid password managers. With 1Password, you can securely store your passwords and private documents in an encrypted vault. It also alerts users about password breaches and other security problems.

• Cost/Service plan: Team starter pack costs $19.95 monthly for up to 10 members
• Compatible with: 1Password is available for all leading operating systems, browsers, and devices

You can try 1Password free for 14 days.

Dashlane (Best For Small Businesses)

Used by 18,000+ companies worldwide, Dashlane employs zero-knowledge security architecture to securely manage passwords. It allows your employees to securely share encrypted passwords with individuals or groups. Dashlane also offers a free version for individuals to save up to 50 passwords.

• Cost/Service plan: Its business plan costs $8/month/employee if billed annually
• Compatible with: Dashlane supports Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and leading web browsers

You can use a free trial to assess Dashlane.

LastPass (Best for Software Industry)

With local-only encryption, the password vault of LastPass offers encrypted file storage. You can save passwords, usernames, payment information, and sensitive data in its encrypted digital vault.

LastPass also does proactive dark web monitoring and let you know if you have compromised passwords.

• Cost/Service plan: A business plan of LastPass starts at $6/user/month if billed annually
• Compatible with: It works with all devices and has extensions for Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Opera, and Edge

LastPass offers a 14-day free trial.

• READ MORE: How to Create a Secure WIFI Password

KeePass (Ideal For Tech-Savvy Business Owners)

If you’re looking for a completely free password manager with no strings attached, KeePass can be the right option.

However, you need to be tech-savvy to use this password management software.

• Cost/Service plan: It is completely free to use this secure password manager
• Compatible with: KeePass works on Windows, macOS, and Linux. You can get unofficial ports of Android, Chrome OS, and iOS devices.

KeePass also offers third-party browser extensions for Chrome and other leading browsers.

RoboForm (Best For Being Economical Yet Reliable)

RoboForm For Business comes with powerful features, such as multi-factor authentication, complex password generation, and safe storing.

With RoboForm, you can share passwords securely. The free version of RoboForm offers unlimited password storage.

As the master password is not saved on the password manager’s servers, so you don’t have to worry about any data breach.

• Cost/Service plan: RoboForm For Business licensing costs $39.95/year/user for a team of 1-10 employees
• Compatible with: RoboForm supports Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and all leading browsers

RoboForm offers a 14-day free trial.

NordPass (Best for Ease of Use)

Using NordPass Business can help you access powerful features, such as a data breach scanner, password health checker to spot weak passwords, company-wide settings, two-factor authentication, secure password sharing in groups, and more. Its free version for personal use offers storage of unlimited passwords.

• Cost/Service plan: Its business plan starts at $3.59/user
• Compatible with: It works on macOS, Windows, Linux, iOS, and Android

NordPass offers a 30-day free trial.

Keeper (Best For Security)

Keeper claims to be the most secure password manager in the world. With Keeper, your business can have private password vaults for each employee, secure file storage, role-based access, and much more.

The company offers the highest-rated web, mobile, and desktop apps.

• Cost/Service plan: Keeper Business price starts at $45 annually
• Compatible with: Works on all platforms

Every Keeper Business plan comes with free access to the Family plan for all users.

ZohoVault (Best For Being Low Cost for Business Use)

Zoho Vault password manager offers many advanced features that are affordable. Its powerful security dashboards alert you about poor passwords that you can quickly change in a few clicks.

With Zoho Vault, you can track users’ behavior and actions conducted in your vault account through exclusive reports.

• Cost/Service plan: Basic pricing for business starts at $10.80/user/year
• Compatible with: Zoho Vault has iOS and Android apps, and you can have a browser extension for leading browsers

You can try a business plan of 15 days.

• READ MORE: Password Generator Options

RememBear (Best For Friendly Design)

RememBear, one of the popular password managers, comes with a friendly, approachable design. Though RememBear doesn’t have many state-of-the-art features other password managers have, it’s super user-friendly. And it provides secure cloud storage of your passwords. It can automatically fill in credit card information on shopping sites to offer faster checkout.

• Cost/Service plan: It costs $6/month
• Compatible with: It has an app for iOS, Android, macOS, Windows, and extensions for Safari, Chrome, and Firefox

Bitwarden (Best For Being Free Password Manager for Personal Use)

Bitwarden is among the most popular password apps available. Its core features encompass Bitwarden‘s zero-knowledge encryption, unlimited vault items, username and password generator, basic two-step login, event and audit logs, and a variety of additional functionalities.

Bitwarden provides one of the top free password apps for individuals seeking secure password storage.

• Cost/Service plan: Teams organization plan starts at $3/month/user
• Compatible with: Biwarden has a desktop app for Windows, macOS, and Linux. You can also get a mobile app for iOS and Android. Bitwarden has a browser extension for all leading browsers

You can have a 7-day trial of Bitwarden Enterprise to assess its features.

Enpass (Best for Offline Use)

With EnPass, you can save passwords and sensitive data locally on your devices. Its key features include biometric authentication, breach monitoring, smartwatch support, and more.

• Cost/Service plan: Its standard plan costs around $3/user/month if billed annually
• Compatibility with: Enpass has apps for macOS, iOS, Windows, Android, Linux, Chrome OS

Enpass offers a free trial.

LogMeOnce (Best for All-In-One Security Platform)

A password manager account with LogMeOnce entitles you to access many powerful features, such as Single Sign-On (SSO), multi-factor authentication, mobile device management, and much more.

• Cost/Service plan: Team and business plan starts at $3/user/month
• Compatibility with: It works seamlessly with Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS

LogMeOnce offers a 14-day free trial.

Blur (Best for Protecting Privacy)

If you just want to use a password manager, Blur won’t justify its cost.

However, it is a powerful tool to protect your privacy. It will create and save passwords for all your accounts, mask your credit card, mask your email, and much more.

• Cost/Service plan: Blur’s unlimited plan costs $99 yearly
• Compatibility with: All leading operating systems, mobile devices, and browsers

mSecure (Best for UI)

If you’re looking for a good user interface (UI), mSecure can be the right choice. This password manager features a secure password generator, seamless syncing for managing passwords on the go, industry-standard AES-256 bit encryption for stored passwords, and much more.

• Cost/Service plan: Essentials plan starts at $1.66/month if billed annually
• Compatibility: It offers browser extensions for major web browsers and provides mobile apps for both iOS and Android devices.

mSecure offers a 30-day free trial.

Norton Password Manager (Best for Being No Cost)

If you’re looking for a straightforward password manager without any extra features, Norton Password Manager is a suitable option. It identifies weak passwords that you should update.

• Cost/Service plan: Free
• Compatibility: Extensions for leading browsers and mobile apps for Android and iOS devices

Which Password App is the Best?

Choosing the best password app depends on what features you want in your dedicated password manager. We have found 1Password overall a good password app if you want to buy a paid version. For a free version, Bitwarden offers the most advanced features.

READ MORE: 

• What is Cybersecurity
• How to Create a Secure WIFI Password
• Password Generator Options
• Fantastic Password Ideas
• Sharing Business WiFi Passwords Doesn’t Have to Be Hard, Use QR Codes Like This

Image: Envato Elements

This article, "Best Password Apps for Managing and Protecting Your Data" was first published on Small Business Trends

What is Sales Management Software

Sales management software is like a Swiss Army knife for your sales team. It’s a digital tool that helps you handle all sorts of tasks in one place. Think of it as a super-smart assistant that takes care of things like tracking leads, managing customer information, and creating sales metric reports.

Sales Forecasting

Have you ever wished for a crystal ball to glimpse into your sales future? Sales forecasting within sales management software comes close to that. It analyzes historical data to estimate what your sales could be in the upcoming weeks or months. This insight enables you to make informed decisions for your business.

Sales CRM (Customer Relationship Management)

Imagine you have hundreds of friends, and you want to remember everyone’s birthday. Tough, right? Sales CRM is your memory booster for customer info. It keeps track of all interactions, so you know exactly when to send that special deal or say a quick ‘hello.’ Moreover, when choosing a CRM, picking the best CRM for small business is crucial for your sales success.

Sales Reporting

Sorting through sales data can feel like finding a needle in a haystack. Sales reporting makes it easy. It pulls all the info together into neat charts and graphs. This gives you a clear picture of how well you’re doing so you can give yourself a pat on the back or make changes.

Lead Management

Leads resemble seeds; they require careful nurturing to develop into paying customers. Lead management tools, frequently incorporated in sales training, assist you in monitoring potential customers and prompt you to follow up at the optimal moment to finalize the sale.

Inventory Management

Running out of your top-selling item? Not good. Having too many of a slow mover? Also, it’s not great. Inventory management helps you find that sweet spot. It tracks what you have and what you need and even suggests when to place new orders.

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Types of Sales Management Systems

Not all sales management software is created equal. Different sales management system types focus on specific tasks, making your life easier in unique ways. Let’s dive into some of the most common types and see how they can give your small business a big boost.

Sales Performance Management Software

If you’re a coach, you want to see your players’ stats, right? Sales performance management software is like your team’s scoreboard. It keeps track of quotas, targets, and how everyone’s doing. That way, you can give high-fives or figure out where to improve.

Sales Lead Management Software

You know that feeling when you have a good fishing spot, but you’re not catching anything? Sales lead management software is your expert fishing guide. It helps you identify and track possible customers so none of them slip away.

Sales Order Management Software

You got the sale, awesome! Now what? Sales order management software is like a super-efficient mailroom. It makes sure all orders go where they need to, from start to finish. No more lost orders or angry customers.

Sales Pipeline Management Software

Think of your sales process as a car assembly line. Sales pipeline management software is the boss who makes sure everything moves smoothly. It shows you every step a deal takes, helping you know when to tighten bolts or add some polish.

Sales Team Management Software

Managing a sales team can feel like herding cats. Sales team management software is your digital shepherd’s whistle. It helps you assign tasks, set goals, and keep everyone on the same page. No more wild goose chases, just a well-oiled sales machine.

The Best Sales Management Software

Ready to take your sales game to the next level? Here’s our handpicked list of 20 top-notch sales management tool options that can supercharge your small business.

HubSpot CRM Suite

HubSpot CRM Suite is a powerhouse in the sales management arena. This platform excels in ease of use and is super versatile. This sales management solution is perfect for small businesses wanting to integrate sales, customer service, and marketing under one roof. With features like sales forecasting, lead management, and automated emails, HubSpot makes managing your sales cycle a breeze.

Salesforce

https://youtube.com/watch?v=xx2sK-QiBjw%3Fsi%3D7Gal7jgMXZsbUsnv

Salesforce is like the big kid on the playground everyone knows. It’s robust and comes loaded with features for businesses of all sizes. Its customization options are practically endless, making it a great pick for companies with specific needs. Plus, it has powerful analytics to help you make data-driven decisions.

Pipedrive

Pipedrive focuses on making your sales process as streamlined as possible. It’s especially great for businesses that are all about closing deals fast. Its visual sales pipeline makes it easy to see where each potential sale stands, so you know exactly where to focus your efforts.

Close

Close is designed for startups and small businesses with an emphasis on inside sales. The software comes with built-in calling and emailing features, making it a one-stop shop for customer engagement. Its intuitive interface helps sales teams spend more time selling and less time navigating software.

MindTickle

MindTickle is a bit different as it’s more focused on sales readiness and training. It’s like a training camp for your sales team, offering onboarding, skills development, and coaching tools. If you’re looking to level up your team’s skills, MindTickle might be the software for you.

Gamifier

Gamifier turns your sales process into a game, making it fun and engaging for your team. Think of it as turning work into play. It uses game mechanics like points, badges, and leaderboards to motivate your salespeople. This can help boost productivity and make achieving those sales targets a lot more enjoyable.

Copper

Copper is tailored for users who appreciate Google Workspace, offering seamless integration with Google applications. This functionality allows for easy data retrieval from Gmail, Google Calendar, and other Google services. Additionally, Copper automates numerous time-consuming tasks, enabling your team to foster stronger relationships and secure more deals.

Salesflare

Salesflare is perfect for small businesses that want a simple yet effective CRM. It automates a lot of the data input, which is a relief when you’re juggling multiple tasks. Its user-friendly interface ensures you don’t waste time trying to figure out complex features.

Bitrix24

Bitrix24 offers a ton of features like email marketing, telephony, and task management, all wrapped in one software. Its free plan is surprisingly robust, offering a range of CRM and project management tools. It’s versatile and can be a good match for businesses looking for an all-in-one solution.

Leadsquared

Leadsquared focuses on automating sales and marketing activities, making it easier to capture and nurture leads. It helps you keep an eye on every stage of the customer journey. From sending personalized emails to tracking website visits, it ensures you’re always one step ahead.

Flowlu

Flowlu is an all-in-one business operating system that includes sales management tools. It takes care of everything from project management to invoicing. For sales teams, it offers features like a sales funnel, revenue forecasting, and client profiles. This makes it a solid choice for businesses that need more than just a basic CRM.

Workbooks

Workbooks provides cost-effective CRM and business applications tailored for small and medium-sized businesses. With powerful features such as lead scoring, marketing automation, and customer support ticketing, it serves as a comprehensive solution designed to ensure your entire team stays aligned.

LevelEleven

LevelEleven zeroes in on performance metrics to motivate your sales team. It uses real-time leaderboards and instant recognitions to celebrate wins and keep everyone focused. If you’re looking to bring a competitive spirit to your sales floor, LevelEleven might be what you’re searching for.

ZOHO Free CRM

ZOHO Free CRM is a fantastic option if you’re on a budget but still want powerful features. It’s easy to use and offers essential CRM capabilities like lead management and analytics. If you’re a small business looking to get into the CRM game without a big investment, ZOHO Free CRM is worth a look.

Gryphon

Gryphon specializes in enhancing sales acceleration and customer engagement. It emphasizes analytics and delivers actionable insights to boost your team’s efficiency. With Gryphon, you can monitor calls, automate dialing, and receive real-time coaching during customer interactions. The goal is to ensure that every sales call is effective.

VanillaSoft

VanillaSoft is a sales engagement platform designed to enhance productivity through its queue-based lead routing and auto-dialing capabilities. This software is particularly beneficial for inside sales teams aiming to connect with more leads efficiently. By automating repetitive tasks, it allows sales professionals to focus more on actual selling.

Ambition

Ambition leverages gamification to enhance engagement and motivation within your sales team. It organizes contests and offers real-time scorecards, encouraging everyone to strive for their best performance. If your team excels in a competitive environment and values rewards, Ambition can maximize their potential.

Kiite

Kiite focuses on providing intelligent sales enablement solutions. The platform is designed to help sales teams learn from each other and share best practices. It acts like a personal assistant that can pull up documents, case studies, or pricing info right when your team needs it.

Zendesk Sell

Zendesk Sell is about making life easier for sales teams. Its visually appealing and intuitive interface simplifies complex tasks. With features like email tracking, task automation, and in-depth analytics, it’s all about helping sales reps focus on building relationships and closing deals.

Freshsales

Freshsales is a CRM solution from Freshworks that provides a comprehensive set of tools for sales teams, including email tracking, lead scoring, and detailed customer profiles. Its design focuses on organization, ensuring that no potential sale is overlooked. This makes it an excellent option for businesses seeking a harmonious mix of features and user-friendliness.

How to Choose the Right Sales Management Software Tools

Picking the best sales management tool can feel like a maze. But don’t sweat it. Focus on features that match your business needs, like lead tracking or inventory control. The right tool can turn your sales process from a rickety bike into a sleek racing machine. It’s all about finding a system that lets you work smarter, not harder. Your future sales numbers will thank you.

FAQs: Sales Management Software

Is there any free sales management software available?

Absolutely, there are free sales tools out there, like Zoho’s free CRM software. While free options might not have all the bells and whistles of paid versions, they can still be a big help. These freebies often cover basics like contact management and task tracking. It’s a good way to dip your toes in without breaking the bank.

How can sales management software benefit customer service teams?

Customer service and sales go hand in hand. With the right software, customer service teams can access client history and preferences easily. This means they can solve problems faster and even suggest new products that the customer might like. It’s a win-win for everyone.

How do the best sales management systems differentiate themselves?

The best systems aren’t just packed with features; they’re also easy to use. They may offer advanced analytics, automated tasks, or even AI-driven insights. Plus, they usually play well with other software, making it easier to fit them into your existing setup. It’s all about saving you time and effort.

How does sales management software streamline the sales process?

Imagine cutting through a jungle with a machete. Now, imagine doing it with a chainsaw. That’s what good software does—it turns a challenging process into a breeze. It organizes leads, manages customer info, and even automates emails. All of these help you focus on what you do best: selling.

Can sales management software help with sales forecasting?

You bet! Sales forecasting tools in the software use past sales data to make educated guesses about your future sales. This can help you prepare for busy seasons, manage your inventory better, and set realistic goals. It’s like having a weather forecast but for your sales.

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This article, "Sales Management Software: The Best for Small Business" was first published on Small Business Trends