Wrike vs Trello: Compare project management software

Project management tools share several features, but you can narrow your choices by evaluating how well their capabilities map to your company’s needs. Check out this comparison of two strong project management software options.

In an increasingly hectic business environment, where keeping track of multiple crucial tasks is a must, project management software is no longer a luxury — it’s a necessity. But what type of project management tool you use depends on your company’s needs and priorities. Both Wrike and Trello, considered among the best project management tools available, feature highly customizable options that can be used in a variety of ways.

What is Wrike?

Wrike is a cloud-based project management software tool that features a highly interactive system of task charts that can be customized for use in various types of projects. Wrike can be used by all stakeholders, with assignments created and moved along through an easy-to-master workflow system that prioritizes team integration.

SEE: Wrike review (TechRepublic)

What is Trello?

Trello is a cloud-based project management tool that provides task assignment, project tracking and scheduling all within a kanban-style board system that is easily accessible and usable for all tiers of project stakeholders. Teams can be set up for multiple projects, from content development to website optimization, and users can share tasks and notify members when they are completed.

Wrike and Trello: Common features

Task management

The best project management software creates systems through which all project stakeholders can access their assignments and tasks and easily understand deadlines and deliverables at a glance. Both Wrike and Trello fulfill this function, but Wrike has some unique features that provide added value for corporate users.

Both platforms feature the creation of cards, which can be displayed on kanban boards for an easy overall view of project progress and individual assignment. However, Wrike also includes the ability to turn each project into an interactive Gantt chart, in which dependent tasks can be assigned, along with deadlines. Within Wrike, deadlines can be adjusted easily within the Gantt chart, which then automatically changes all subsequent workflow, a feature that assists other stakeholders in budgeting their time.

SEE: Feature comparison: Time tracking software and systems (TechRepublic Premium)

Trello features notification options within its kanban cards and allows users to upload content in various forms (JPEGs, PDFs, Word documents, etc.) to its cards to provide a one-stop look at all content as the project progresses.

Wrike features a template that can create assignments out of meetings and share notes and information, driving projects forward without the need for endless memos. In addition, Wrike has a free editorial calendar that can track content development from conception to publication.

Usage

Wrike and Trello both have free user packages that are attractive to small businesses and individuals. Wrike allows users unlimited projects and tasks. The Gantt charts are also part of the free package. Integrations with other apps are free as well.

But Trello has limits on the number of projects in its free package. Only 10 boards at a time can be opened, and users can be limited as well.

Even with the free package, though, a small company can take advantage of many of the features of Wrike and Trello. Larger firms will need to upgrade to expand usage. The ease of use for both makes them attractive for all project stakeholders.

Collaboration and task assignment

Wrike and Trello both feature strong collaboration tools that provide for the inclusion of multiple team members in the project. Wrike takes the step of assigning individual tasks within a project to team members, while Trello relies more on assigning tasks by dropping and dragging into other team members’ queues. Trello’s checklist function is useful for gauging the status of projects (for example, showing the percentage completed), while Wrike’s Gantt charts provide a quicker understanding of each team member’s role in the project while also showing the status of projects at a glance.

SEE: How to build a successful project manager career (free PDF) (TechRepublic)

Display

Wrike and Trello are quite similar with their drag-and-drop kanban displays. Cards can be easily moved from queue to queue and team members can plan their time accordingly.

Wrike’s display advantage is the Gantt charts, in which a user can adjust deadlines and connect tasks and all stakeholders can quickly see project progress. The ability to toggle from kanban display to Gantt charts is a huge plus.

Choosing between Wrike and Trello

Wrike and Trello can be useful as project management systems and content management tools for small and large firms, providing easy-to-use and customizable platforms that will save time and enhance communication.

Wrike’s unlimited projects within its free package makes it more attractive to larger organizations interested in basic functionality that don’t want to take on an added expense. Trello’s task checklists within the kanban cards provide a strong tool for teams as well as individuals, who can set goals within their own personal boards and cards. For company project management, though, Wrike’s Gantt interactive charts are invaluable. And its editorial calendar, along with a number of other free features, makes it a strong choice for both fledgling firms and larger companies.

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