Easy Projects - Detailed Review
Productivity Tools
Easy Projects - Product Overview
Introduction to Birdview PSA (formerly Easy Projects)
Birdview PSA, previously known as Easy Projects, is a comprehensive project management and professional services automation platform. Here’s a brief overview of its primary function, target audience, and key features.
Primary Function
Birdview PSA is designed to help professional services organizations manage their projects, resources, and finances efficiently. It serves as a single source of truth for all business operations, enabling organizations to plan, manage, and forecast resources, projects, and finances in one place.
Target Audience
The primary target audience for Birdview PSA includes professional services organizations, such as consulting firms, IT services companies, and other businesses that rely heavily on project management and resource allocation. This platform is particularly useful for project managers, team leaders, and executives who need to oversee multiple projects and ensure optimal resource utilization.
Key Features
Project Management
Birdview PSA offers collaborative project management tools, including the ability to create project plans, use interactive Gantt charts, and manage tasks using Kanban-style boards. It also allows for importing and exporting data from Excel or MS Project files.
Resource Management
The platform optimizes resource allocation by department skills and job roles, helping to build efficient and profitable teams. It also includes AI-based tools like the Team Builder, which matches job roles with available employees or contractors.
Financial Management
Users can track and monitor expenses, manage project budgets in real-time, and generate custom reports to analyze financial performance. The platform also supports billing practices and integrates with tools like QuickBooks for streamlined invoicing.
Communication and Collaboration
Birdview PSA facilitates communication within teams and with clients through features like messaging, file sharing, and a free client portal. It also allows for real-time approvals and feedback on work items.
Business Intelligence
The platform includes an integrated Business Intelligence engine with over 300 pre-configured dashboards and reports, providing instant insights into resources, projects, finances, time tracking, and forecasting.
Customization and Integration
Birdview PSA is highly customizable, allowing users to set up and customize views, fields, intake forms, and templates. It also integrates with various business tools such as MS Outlook, Jira, Salesforce, and Hubspot.
By consolidating the features of both Easy Projects and the original Birdview PSA into a single platform, Birdview PSA offers a comprehensive solution that streamlines the entire service delivery cycle, saving organizations time and money while helping them grow faster and increase profit margins.
Easy Projects - User Interface and Experience
User Interface Overview
The user interface of Easy Projects is crafted with a focus on simplicity, intuitiveness, and user-friendly design, making it an excellent choice in the productivity tools category.Interface Design
The new UI of Easy Projects features a clean, minimalist design that provides the necessary detail without clutter. The layout is optimized to maximize vertical screen space with a new collapsible side menu, replacing the old drop-down navigation options with direct links to relevant pages. This one-click navigation menu, now accessed via a white sidebar, makes it easier for users to find and access the most popular sections of the platform.Ease of Use
Easy Projects is known for its ease of use, with an interface that is clear and simple. The design ensures that users can quickly find what they need, with most features just one click away. The platform offers instructions that are easy to follow, making it accessible to users of all skill levels, whether beginners, intermediate, or advanced. There is no significant learning curve, allowing users to navigate the software comfortably from the start.Visual and Interactive Features
The interface includes interactive elements such as quick task editing via pop-up windows and drag & drop features for tools like Gantt charts, Work Breakdown Structures (WBS), and to-do lists. These features enhance the user experience by making project management tasks more intuitive and efficient.Dashboards and Data Visualization
Easy Projects offers a variety of customizable dashboards, including My Dashboard, Project Dashboard, Budget Statement, and Attendance Review. These dashboards are fully customizable and provide visual reporting with click-through graphs and charts, helping users to visualize and analyze data easily.Integrations and Customizations
The platform integrates seamlessly with other popular software tools like Gmail, Jira, Salesforce, Slack, and Outlook, keeping all these tools in one place. It also supports custom imports from CSV or XML, making it versatile for different organizational needs.User Experience
The overall user experience is enhanced by the consistent and intuitive design throughout the entire platform. The new UI ensures that users can access their favorite Activity Center views quickly and easily. The system and user menus are now accessed through a single user icon, simplifying the navigation process. This consistency and ease of access contribute to a smooth and productive user experience.Conclusion
In summary, Easy Projects offers a user interface that is both intuitive and user-friendly, with a focus on simplicity, ease of use, and interactive features that make project management more efficient and engaging. Easy Projects - Key Features and Functionality
Easy Projects Overview
Easy Projects, a comprehensive project management tool, offers a wide range of features and functionalities that are enhanced by AI integration. Here are the key features and how they work, along with the benefits of each:
Project Planning and Management
- AI Project Planner: This tool automates the project planning process, generating realistic timelines with Gantt charts, organizing tasks into a Work Breakdown Structure, and identifying potential risks. It provides ongoing status updates and a comprehensive project overview, all derived from contract documents. This automation saves around 80% of the time typically spent on project plan creation.
- Gantt Charts / Project Mapping: Visualize your project timelines and dependencies using interactive Gantt charts, helping you plan and manage projects more effectively.
- Kanban Board: Manage tasks using a Kanban board, which helps in identifying bottlenecks and focusing on critical tasks first.
Task Management
- Task Creation & Assignment: Easily create and assign tasks to team members. You can also prioritize tasks and manage subtasks, ensuring that all aspects of the project are covered.
- To-Do Lists: Organize tasks into to-do lists for better tracking and completion of tasks.
Time and Resource Management
- Time Tracking: Track time spent on individual tasks and projects, providing insights into productivity and resource utilization. The mobile app allows for time tracking on the go.
- Resource Management: Manage and allocate resources efficiently, ensuring that the right people are working on the right tasks. This feature helps in optimizing workload capacity and preventing overallocation.
Communication and Collaboration
- Discussions and Project Conversations: Facilitate team communication through discussions and project conversations, ensuring everyone is on the same page.
- Document Collaboration: Collaborate on documents in real-time, with features like file sharing, tagging, and instant messaging.
- Guest Access: Allow external stakeholders to access project information through guest access, enhancing transparency and collaboration.
AI Integration
- AI Project Status: This feature gathers and evaluates project activities, generating comprehensive status reports to keep the team and stakeholders informed. It ensures everyone remains coordinated and involved throughout the project lifecycle.
- Ethical AI Usage: Easy Project offers the first on-premises AI for project management, giving users control over their data and AI tools. This includes options for closed-source or open-source AI models, prioritizing data privacy without compromising on advanced capabilities.
Reporting and Analytics
- Real-Time Reporting: Generate detailed reports in real-time, including expense reports, portfolio reports, and resource workload reports. This feature helps in making informed decisions quickly.
- Real-Time Analytics: Use real-time analytics to monitor project progress, identify trends, and adjust strategies accordingly.
Notifications and Updates
- Email and In-App Notifications: Receive timely notifications via email or within the app, keeping you updated on project status, deadlines, and changes.
- Live Notifications: Stay informed with live notifications, ensuring you are always up-to-date on project activities.
Customization and Integration
- Custom Fields and Forms: Customize fields and forms to fit your specific project needs, allowing for greater flexibility in project management.
- Integration with Other Tools: Easy Project integrates with tools like Jira, MS Project, MS Excel, and MS Outlook, making it easy to import data and migrate projects seamlessly.
Mobile Project Management
- Mobile App: Manage projects on the go using the Easy Project mobile app. Features include task management, time tracking, and project overview, all accessible from your mobile device.
These features collectively enhance project management by automating routine tasks, improving communication, and providing real-time insights, all while ensuring data security and ethical AI usage.
Easy Projects - Performance and Accuracy
Performance
Easy Project is a comprehensive project management suite that integrates various functionalities such as project and work management, IT service management, and source code management. Here are some performance highlights:Resource Optimization
Easy Project helps in optimizing resource allocation across projects, preventing team overload, and matching tasks with the right skills for maximum efficiency.Hybrid Project Management
It allows combining both Waterfall and Agile methodologies, which can enhance project flexibility and adaptability.Automation and AI Assistance
The platform uses AI to automate project planning, streamline knowledge searches, and enhance helpdesk productivity. This automation can significantly improve the speed and accuracy of tasks, contributing to better project efficiency and profitability.Integration and Consolidation
Easy Project consolidates multiple tools into one suite, including project management, IT service management, source code management, time tracking, and CRM. This consolidation can reduce costs and foster seamless collaboration across teams.Accuracy
The accuracy of Easy Project can be assessed through its ability to provide precise data and analytics:Real-Time Monitoring
The platform offers real-time activity monitoring, which helps in identifying inefficiencies, tracking progress, and making timely adjustments to improve productivity.AI-Powered Tools
The use of AI in tools like time tracking and project planning ensures accurate data collection and analysis. This can lead to more accurate project estimations, resource management, and decision-making.Feedback Loops and Regular Updates
While not explicitly mentioned in the context of Easy Project, the importance of regular status updates, progress reports, and review meetings is crucial for maintaining accuracy and making timely adjustments. Easy Project’s integrated approach likely supports such practices.Limitations and Areas for Improvement
While Easy Project offers a wide range of features, there are some potential limitations and areas that could be improved:Customization and Specific Needs
While the platform is versatile and integrates many tools, it may not perfectly fit every specific industry or project need without some customization. Ensuring that the platform adapts to the management style and industry specifications of each user is crucial.Training and Adoption
The effectiveness of AI-driven tools depends on adequate training for employees. Ensuring that users are well-trained to utilize the full potential of Easy Project’s features is essential for optimal performance.Data Security and Privacy
Although Easy Project is certified to high security standards (ISO 27017 & ISO 27001 & ISO 9001) and offers on-premises deployment for enhanced privacy, continuous monitoring and updates are necessary to maintain the highest levels of security and data integrity.Conclusion
In summary, Easy Project demonstrates strong performance in resource optimization, hybrid project management, and AI-driven automation. Its accuracy is enhanced by real-time monitoring and AI-powered tools. However, ensuring proper customization, user training, and ongoing security measures are important areas to focus on for continuous improvement. Easy Projects - Pricing and Plans
To provide a clear and accurate outline of the pricing structure for Easy Projects, here are the key points based on the available information:
Pricing Model
Easy Projects operates on a subscription-based model with different tiers and editions.Editions
There are two main editions: PRO Edition and Enterprise Edition.PRO Edition
- Monthly and Annual Pricing:
- For 1-19 users: $24/month or $216/year (or $374 for a 2-year plan).
- For 20-49 users: $22/month or $198/year (or $343 for a 2-year plan).
Enterprise Edition
- Monthly and Annual Pricing:
- For 1-19 users: $29/month or $261/year (or $452 for a 2-year plan).
- For 20-49 users: $26/month or $234/year (or $405 for a 2-year plan).
Pricing for Larger Teams
For teams with 50 users or more, you need to contact Easy Projects directly to inquire about the pricing.Existing Clients
If you are an existing client, your current prices will be grandfathered, meaning you will not be charged more for your existing licenses. These new fees will only apply to new purchases.Features
While the specific features for each tier are not detailed in the sources provided, here are some general insights:- The PRO Edition and Enterprise Edition likely differ in the scope and depth of features, with the Enterprise Edition offering more advanced functionalities.
- Typical features in project management software include task management, collaboration tools, project tracking, reporting, and possibly more advanced features like resource allocation and budgeting in the Enterprise Edition.
Free Options
There is no mention of a free plan for Easy Projects in the sources. However, a free trial is available, allowing you to test the software before committing to a purchase. In summary, Easy Projects offers tiered pricing based on the number of users and the edition chosen, with no free plan but a free trial option available. For detailed feature comparisons and specific inquiries about larger teams, it is recommended to contact Easy Projects directly. Easy Projects - Integration and Compatibility
Integrating Easy Project with Other Tools
To integrate and ensure compatibility of Easy Project with other tools and platforms, here are some key points to consider:
Integration with Other Tools
Easy Project can be integrated with a wide range of applications to enhance its functionality and automate workflows. Here are a few examples:
- Using Make (formerly Integromat), you can connect Easy Project with over 2000 apps, such as Asana, HacknPlan, and Airtable. For instance, you can create tasks in Asana from new tasks in Easy Project or generate Easy Project projects from Airtable records.
- With Pipedream, you can integrate the Easy Project API with more than 2400 other applications. This allows for automations such as syncing project data, monitoring project updates, and managing resources. Specific examples include syncing project issues with Google Sheets and setting up Slack notifications for project updates.
Compatibility Across Platforms
Easy Project is adaptable and can be used across various platforms:
- Web Compatibility: Easy Project does not have specific web browser compatibility issues mentioned in the sources, but it is generally expected to work well with modern browsers like Chrome, Edge, Safari, and Firefox, similar to other web-based project management tools.
- Device Compatibility: Since Easy Project is a web-based application, it can be accessed from any device with a web browser, including desktops, laptops, tablets, and smartphones.
- Industry Compatibility: Easy Project is developed to match the specific needs of various sectors, such as IT and software, industry, services, education, and municipal sectors. This makes it versatile and suitable for different types of organizations.
API and Custom Integrations
Easy Project provides an API that allows for custom integrations. This API enables interactions with issues, time entries, and project structures, making it a versatile tool for project managers and teams. Developers can use platforms like Pipedream to create custom automations and workflows using the Easy Project API.
Conclusion
In summary, Easy Project offers extensive integration capabilities with a variety of tools and platforms, ensuring it can be seamlessly incorporated into existing workflows. Its compatibility across different devices and industries further enhances its usability and adaptability.
Easy Projects - Customer Support and Resources
Customer Support Options
Integrated Help Desk
Automated Ticket Assignment
Email Template Customization
Additional Resources
Performance Statistics
SLA Performance Reports
Ticket Updates
Resource Management
Support Process
Streamlined Support Process
Efficient Communication
Overall, Easy Projects provides a well-structured and efficient customer support system that is integrated with their project management tools, ensuring that customers receive timely and effective support.
Easy Projects - Pros and Cons
Advantages
Integrated Platform
Easy Project combines project management, IT service management, and source code management into one suite, eliminating the need for multiple fragmented tools.
Hybrid Project Management
It allows you to combine both Agile and Waterfall methodologies, providing flexibility in managing projects.
Resource Optimization
The platform optimizes resource allocation, prevents team overload, and matches tasks with the appropriate skills for maximum efficiency.
AI-Powered Assistance
Easy Project features AI assistants that can summarize discussions, streamline knowledge searches, automate project planning, and enhance helpdesk productivity. It also includes AI for on-premises deployment, ensuring full security and privacy.
Enhanced Collaboration
The platform fosters collaboration across IT, engineering, helpdesk, and development teams, ensuring smooth project delivery and efficient issue resolution.
Security and Compliance
Easy Project is certified to high security standards (ISO 27017, ISO 27001, ISO 9001), ensuring that your data is managed with utmost care.
Integration Capabilities
It integrates with over 1,000 apps via Make, adapting to various management styles and industry specifications.
Disadvantages
Cost and ROI
While not specifically mentioned in the context of Easy Project, general project management software can be costly with little ROI, especially if the software complicates simple projects.
Learning Curve
Implementing a comprehensive platform like Easy Project may require significant time and effort for teams to learn and adapt, especially if they are accustomed to simpler tools.
Dependence on AI
The heavy reliance on AI assistants might lead to issues if the AI does not perform as expected or if there are limitations in its capabilities, which could impact project efficiency.
Customization Limitations
While the platform is highly customizable, there might be limitations in how much it can be tailored to very specific or unique project needs, which could be a drawback for some users.
Given the information available, these points highlight the primary advantages and potential disadvantages of using Easy Project for your project management needs.
Easy Projects - Comparison with Competitors
When Comparing Easy Project with Other AI-Driven Productivity and Project Management Tools
Easy Project
- Easy Project is a comprehensive project management software that integrates various tools such as WBS, Gantt Charts, Resource & Task Management, Time Tracking, Kanban, SCRUM, and Earned Value Management. It is highly adaptable and can be customized to fit the needs of different industries and teams.
- It offers hybrid project management, combining both Waterfall and Agile methodologies, and includes AI-powered features like automated project planning, issue tracking, and a knowledge base with AI-driven contextual knowledge.
- Easy Project also integrates with Gitlab and Github, providing real-time visibility of commits and merge requests, which is particularly useful for software development teams.
- The software includes six AI-powered assistants that can summarize discussions, streamline knowledge searches, and automate helpdesk tasks, among other functions. Notably, it is the only project management suite offering AI assistants for on-premises deployment.
Birdview PSA
- Birdview PSA is another powerful tool that focuses on project and resource management, optimizing resource utilization, and increasing productivity. It provides a unified view of all projects, resources, and financial KPIs from a single screen.
- Birdview PSA includes AI-based features such as the Team Builder, which automatically matches job roles with available employees or contractors based on skills. It also predicts project completion times and automates project template creation using proprietary machine learning and AI algorithms.
- Unlike Easy Project, Birdview PSA has a strong emphasis on financial management, including budgeting, detailed analysis, and billing practices. It also integrates with various tools like QuickBooks, MS Outlook, Jira, and Salesforce.
Notion
- Notion is a versatile productivity tool that serves as a central hub for organizing and storing information. It includes AI integration that enhances productivity by generating text, autofilling databases, and summarizing pages.
- Notion’s AI can answer specific questions about the information stored within the platform, making it easier to find answers quickly. However, its AI features are more focused on document management and search rather than comprehensive project management.
- Notion is highly customizable and can be used for simple note-taking to complex database management, but it lacks the deep project management and resource allocation features of Easy Project and Birdview PSA.
Todoist
- Todoist is a task management tool that includes an AI Assistant to help manage and break down tasks. The AI Assistant provides tips, makes tasks more actionable, and breaks them down into smaller sub-tasks.
- While Todoist is excellent for personal task management and follows the GTD productivity method, it does not offer the same level of project management and resource allocation features as Easy Project or Birdview PSA. Its AI capabilities are more limited to task management rather than full-scale project management.
Key Differences and Alternatives
- Comprehensive Project Management: If you need a tool that integrates all aspects of project management, including resource planning, task management, and time tracking, Easy Project and Birdview PSA are stronger options. Easy Project stands out with its hybrid project management and on-premises AI deployment, while Birdview PSA excels in financial management and resource optimization.
- Customization and Versatility: Notion is highly customizable and can be used across various tasks, from note-taking to database management. However, it is more suited for document management and personal productivity rather than large-scale project management.
- Task Management: For individuals or teams focusing on task management, Todoist with its AI Assistant is a good choice. However, it lacks the broader project management features of Easy Project and Birdview PSA.
Conclusion
In summary, Easy Project is ideal for those needing a comprehensive, adaptable project management solution with strong AI integration. Birdview PSA is better suited for organizations that require robust resource management and financial tracking. Notion and Todoist are excellent for more focused productivity and task management needs.
Easy Projects - Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions about Easy Projects
What are the key features of Easy Projects?
Easy Projects is a comprehensive project management tool that offers multiple critical features. These include the ability to manage multiple projects, track tasks, and assign projects to different users. It also provides resource planning and management, ensuring accountability and focus on projects. The tool features a central location for task management, enhancing collaboration and efficiency, even for remote teams.How does Easy Projects enhance team collaboration and efficiency?
Easy Projects improves team collaboration by providing a central location for all task management operations. This allows teams to highlight tasks, increase accuracy with detailed instructions, and solve problems in real-time. The system supports multi-user, role, and responsibility-based access, ensuring each employee can work efficiently on their assigned tasks. Additionally, it offers features like Gantt charts, Kanban boards, and project calendars to efficiently manage tasks and projects.What are the pricing plans for Easy Projects?
Easy Projects offers various pricing plans. The cloud-based solution includes an Essentials plan at €5.90 per user/month, a Business plan at €11.90 per user/month, and a Platform plan at €23.90 per user/month. There is also an Enterprise plan available, which requires contacting the vendor for a custom quote. For on-premises solutions, the pricing starts at €5.90 per user/month, with options for yearly subscriptions or one-time payments.How does Easy Projects help with resource management and budgeting?
Easy Projects provides tools to optimize resource utilization and manage project costs effectively. The Project Resource Loading Simulator helps managers check employee availability and organize teams based on specific skills and availability, preventing scheduling conflicts and work overload. The software also includes expense tracking, budget setting, and real-time cost tracking against actual expenses. This ensures that projects stay within budget and helps in accurate billing and cash flow management.Is Easy Projects accessible from different locations and devices?
Yes, Easy Projects is a web application that can be accessed from anywhere, at any time. This flexibility allows employees to work from different locations, including from home, without disrupting project progress. The platform is also accessible via iPhone and Android apps, ensuring continuous productivity and communication within teams.What financial tools does Easy Projects offer?
Easy Projects includes a range of financial tools to help teams manage costs and billing. These tools include expense tracking, project budgeting, and time tracking for accurate billing of employees’ billable hours. The software allows managers to set budgets and track them against actual costs in real-time, preventing budget overruns. It also supports various billing options such as resource hourly, project, and task rates.How does Easy Projects use machine learning and AI?
Easy Projects utilizes machine learning and AI algorithms to predict project completion dates. These algorithms consider factors such as team members involved, their past performance history, and the speed at which tasks are completed within the project. This helps project managers anticipate and avoid overtime payments, missed deadlines, and client dissatisfaction.What kind of reporting and analytics does Easy Projects provide?
Easy Projects offers detailed reporting capabilities that help managers view and analyze project performance and profitability. The software allows for the creation of custom reports to track monthly expenses, project costs, and financial performance in real-time. This helps in identifying bottlenecks in activities and tasks, ensuring better project management and decision-making.Does Easy Projects support integration with other tools and systems?
While the provided sources do not detail specific integrations, Easy Projects does offer a range of features and extensions, including HelpDesk & Ticketing, B2B CRM, and various add-ons. For custom integration services, users can contact the vendor, especially under the Enterprise plan, which includes integration services and software modifications.What kind of security does Easy Projects provide?
Easy Projects ensures enhanced security, particularly important as more businesses shift towards web applications. The platform is designed to be secure and accessible, with options for on-premises solutions where users can retain complete control and security over their software and data.Is there a free trial available for Easy Projects?
Yes, Easy Projects offers a free trial. This allows potential users to test the features and capabilities of the software before committing to a purchase. The specifics of the trial can be found on the Easy Projects website or by contacting their support team. Easy Projects - Conclusion and Recommendation
Final Assessment of Easy Projects
Easy Projects is a comprehensive project management tool that leverages AI and various features to enhance productivity, efficiency, and project outcomes. Here’s a detailed assessment of who would benefit most from using it and an overall recommendation.Key Benefits
Multiple Project Management
Easy Projects allows users to manage multiple projects simultaneously, assigning tasks to different users and tracking project details and resources efficiently. This reduces the risk of inefficiency and errors, ensuring a streamlined process from project creation to completion.
Task Tracking and Collaboration
The tool offers a central location for task management, improving team efficiency and collaboration, even for remote workers. This system ensures that tasks are completed on time, enhancing customer service and increasing production while minimizing errors.
Resource Planning and Management
Easy Projects includes features like resource loading simulations, which help managers check employee availability, prevent scheduling conflicts, and maintain employee job satisfaction and productivity. This optimizes resource utilization and keeps project costs under control.
Financial Management
The software provides tools for expense tracking, budgeting, and accurate billing. It ensures uninterrupted cash flow and helps managers track planned and actual expenses, as well as bill clients accurately based on resource, project, or task rates.
AI-Driven Project Completion Forecasting
Easy Projects uses machine learning and AI algorithms to predict project completion dates. These predictions are based on factors such as team members’ past performance and task completion rates, helping managers avoid overtime payments, missed deadlines, and unhappy clients.
Who Would Benefit Most
Project Managers
Those responsible for overseeing multiple projects will find Easy Projects particularly useful due to its ability to streamline project management, track resources, and predict project completion dates.
Teams and Departments
Teams working on collaborative projects, especially those with remote members, will benefit from the central task management system and enhanced communication features.
Business Owners and Financial Managers
Individuals responsible for budgeting and financial management will appreciate the expense tracking, budgeting, and accurate billing features that help maintain uninterrupted cash flow.
Overall Recommendation
Easy Projects is a highly recommended tool for any organization seeking to improve project management efficiency, team collaboration, and financial control. Its comprehensive set of features, including AI-driven project completion forecasting, makes it an invaluable asset for project managers, teams, and financial managers.
The software’s ability to optimize resource use, track expenses, and ensure accurate billing can lead to significant time savings (up to 30%) and a substantial increase in productivity (up to 60%). Additionally, its intuitive interface and high uptime guarantee make it a reliable choice for managing projects effectively.
In summary, Easy Projects is a versatile and efficient tool that can enhance productivity, reduce errors, and improve overall project outcomes, making it an excellent choice for businesses looking to streamline their project management processes.