When choosing a project management tool for a small business, Microsoft Planner and Asana often come up as popular options. Both offer unique features, but which one is better suited for small businesses? Let’s break it down.
1. Ease of Use
Microsoft Planner:
A simple, straightforward tool designed for users who are familiar with the Microsoft ecosystem. Its interface integrates seamlessly with other Microsoft 365 tools, making it a good choice for small businesses already using Microsoft services.
Asana:
While slightly more complex, Asana offers a user-friendly interface with various views (list, board, calendar) that make project management intuitive. Asana might require a short learning curve but offers flexibility in how teams manage their tasks.
2. Features and Functionality
Microsoft Planner:
Offers basic project management features like task assignments, due dates, file sharing, and checklists. However, it lacks some advanced project management functionalities found in other tools.
Asana:
Provides more robust features such as task dependencies, advanced reporting, time tracking (with integrations), and automated workflows. Asana’s free plan also includes many of these features, making it ideal for growing small businesses.
3. Integration with Other Tools
Microsoft Planner:
Works best within the Microsoft ecosystem, making it easy to integrate with Teams, Outlook, and other Microsoft apps. However, it doesn’t have as many third-party integrations as Asana.
Asana:
Offers integrations with a wide range of third-party apps, including Google Drive, Slack, Zoom, and many others. This makes Asana a versatile choice if your business relies on multiple tools beyond one ecosystem.
4. Pricing
Microsoft Planner:
Included in Microsoft 365 plans, making it a cost-effective option if your business already subscribes to Microsoft services. The tool is free with the subscription and doesn’t have a standalone cost.
Asana:
Offers a free version with essential features, but to unlock more advanced features, you’ll need to pay for a premium plan. While this may be an added cost, the value comes in the tool’s robust functionality.
5. Collaboration and Team Management
Microsoft Planner:
Collaboration features are limited compared to Asana. While you can assign tasks and set due dates, team communication and collaboration tools are not as comprehensive.
Asana:
Asana excels in this area, offering team collaboration features like project conversations, task comments, and the ability to assign tasks to multiple people. Its shared calendars and real-time updates are perfect for teams working together.
6. Scalability
Microsoft Planner:
Ideal for small teams with basic project management needs. As your business grows, you may find that its simplicity becomes a limitation.
Asana:
Asana offers scalability, making it a great long-term choice for businesses that anticipate growth. Its variety of plans ensures it can support larger teams with more complex projects.
Conclusion
For small businesses, Microsoft Planner is a solid choice if you’re already embedded in the Microsoft ecosystem and need a simple tool. However, if you’re looking for advanced project management features, better collaboration tools, and scalability, Asana is likely the better option. Both tools offer value, but Asana’s flexibility and powerful capabilities may make it more suitable for small businesses planning for future growth.
