Backlog is a comprehensive project management software designed to streamline and enhance the workflow of virtual teams, particularly in software development and other collaborative projects. Here’s an overview of what the product does and its key features:
What Backlog Does
Backlog serves as an all-in-one collaboration tool that consolidates all project-related information, tasks, and files into a single, centralized hub. This platform aims to replace traditional methods such as spreadsheets and email chains with a more organized and efficient project management framework.
Key Features and Functionality
Task Management
- Users can create detailed tasks and sub-tasks, assign them to team members, and track their progress. This includes custom status levels to align with the team’s existing workflow.
Visual Project Management
- Kanban Boards: Visually manage projects with real-time Kanban boards, allowing teams to track task statuses and move tasks through different stages.
- Gantt Charts: Automatically generate Gantt charts to visualize project timelines for individuals and teams.
- Burndown Charts: Track progress and identify bottlenecks using burndown charts.
Code Collaboration
- Version Control: Integrate with Git and SVN for version control, allowing developers to manage code and documentation alongside their project work.
- Issue Tracking: Link issues with Git/Subversion commits, pull requests, and merges to track and resolve bugs seamlessly.
Documentation and Information Sharing
- Wiki: Each project has its own wiki for documentation, information-sharing, and collaboration.
- File Management: A central file management system where users can upload, organize, and search for files according to the team’s information hierarchy.
Communication Tools
- Comments and Notifications: Exchange comments, send notifications, and assign tasks to ensure clear communication among team members.
- Custom Fields and Templates: Administrators can create custom fields and issue templates using markdown formatting to ensure tasks are briefed in line with established processes.
Reporting and Analysis
- CSV/Excel Reports: Generate reports in CSV or Excel format for analysis and reporting.
- Rollup Progress: Display progress bars, counts of descendant work items, or totals of select numeric fields to track overall project progress.
Customization
- Custom Project Themes: Teams can customize the icons, backgrounds, and colors to match their project or company branding.
- Custom Status Levels and Issue Types: Create unique status levels and issue types to track projects in a way that aligns with the team’s workflow.
By integrating these features, Backlog helps teams plan less and do more, ensuring that all project work is consolidated, visible, and manageable from a single platform.