10 Best Government Project Management Software

Microsoft Project: Best for Microsoft users

Before we dive in, you should know that Microsoft Project is not currently FedRAMP® authorized. However, many other Microsoft apps  — including Microsoft Office 365 and Azure Government — are FedRAMP® authorized, so we wanted to include Microsoft Project on the list. Microsoft Project is designed to be used in conjunction with other Microsoft products, such as OneDrive and Teams, so it’s the best choice for departments that are already committed to the Microsoft ecosystem.

Pricing

Microsoft Project offers six total plans: three for the cloud-based subscription and three for the on-premises solution. A 30-day free trial is available for the cloud-based solution.

For cloud-based subscriptions:

• Project Plan 1: $10 per user per month. Users can pay monthly or annually.
• Project Plan 3: $30 per user per month. Users can pay monthly or annually.
• Project Plan 5: $55 per user per month. Users can pay monthly or annually.

For the on-premises platform:

• Project Standard 2021: $679.99 per user per month. Users can pay monthly or annually.
• Project Professional 2021: $1,129.99 per user per month. Users can pay monthly or annually.
• Project Server: Contact Microsoft for pricing information.

Features

• Resource management capabilities included (Figure A).
• Native time tracking included.
• Reporting feature is easy to use.
• On-premises deployment option.

Pros

• Suitable for managing very long, complex projects; the tool can be configured to fit multiple project management methodologies.
• Interface will be familiar to Microsoft users.
• Excellent customer support and user forum.

Cons

• Lacks native file management and team collaboration tools.
• High learning curve makes this most suitable for power users.
• Doesn’t integrate well with non-Microsoft products.

Integrations

Microsoft Project’s integration capabilities extend to the entire Microsoft ecosystem, including examples like Office 365, SharePoint and Teams.

Why we chose Microsoft Project

Aside from its extensive project management features for complex, large-scale projects, we chose Microsoft Project for its seamless integration with Microsoft’s suite. Knowing how Microsoft products are already household names, Project gives its users a unified platform for users, streamlining project management tasks.

For more information, read the full Microsoft Project review.

Google Workspace: Best for document management

If you’re attached to your personal Google apps, you’ll be happy to hear that Google Workspace is FedRAMP® authorized. This means that all your favorite Google apps — Gmail, Calendar, Docs, Sheets, Slides and so on — can be used for and adapted to governmental purposes. While you can make certain Google apps work for more robust project management, we recommend using these tools mainly for document and file management, then syncing them with a dedicated project management tool of your choice.

Pricing

• Business Starter: $6 per user per month billed annually, or $7.20 per user billed monthly.
• Business Standard: $12 per user per month billed annually, or $14.40 per user billed monthly.
• Business Plus: $18 per user per month billed annually, or $21.60 per user billed monthly.
• Enterprise: Contact sales for a quote.

Features

• Cloud-based software ensures documents are always backed up.
• Documents update in real time to aid team collaboration.
• Templates make it easy to build documents, spreadsheets and presentations from scratch.
• Users can upload and convert other document formats.

Pros

• Excellent document management and file storage capabilities.
• The Google Workspace interface will be familiar to many people (Figure B).
• Syncs with a wide variety of project management apps.

Cons

• Not suitable for standalone project management.
• The Sheets app isn’t as robust as Excel.
• Must download each mobile app individually.

Integrations

Some of the top integrations that enhance the project management experience in Google Workspace include Asana, Trello, Slack, Salesforce and Zoom.

Why we chose Google Workspace

We included Google Workspace because of how it offers document management and collaboration tools within a secure, FedRAMP-authorized environment. The platform’s real-time collaboration capabilities across Docs, Sheets, and Slides, along with its familiar interface enhance productivity. And, similar to Microsoft Projects and the Microsoft ecosystem, with Google Workspace, you’ll enjoy seamless integration into the Google ecosystem.

For more information, read the full Google Workspace review.

Smartsheet: Best for spreadsheet lovers

Smartsheet is a project management tool that bases its design interface on the familiar spreadsheet format. If you’ve been trying to make Excel or Google Sheets work for your project needs, Smartsheet is the solution you’ve been waiting for. The Smartsheet Gov offering is both FedRAMP® and DoD IL4 authorized, making it a great choice for government organizations.

Pricing

• Free: No cost for up to one user and two editors.
• Pro: $9 per user per month billed annually, or $12 per user per month billed monthly.
• Business: $19 per user per month billed annually, or $24 per user per month billed monthly.
• Enterprise: Customized pricing.

Features

• Grid view combines a spreadsheet interface with project management features.
• Other project views include Calendar, Gantt and Card (kanban board) (Figure C).
• WorkApps feature lets you build apps to connect external tools with Smartsheet.
• Users can set up task dependencies to improve efficiency.

Pros

• More than 350 native project templates.
• Great reporting and analytics tools.
• Solid upgrade choice for legacy spreadsheet users.

Cons

• Spreadsheet interface can feel outdated compared to alternatives.
• Not all pages update in real time.
• Autosave feature doesn’t always work.

Integrations

Smartsheet integrates effectively with tools like Trello, Jira for agile project tracking, Asana, Wrike and Azure DevOps for software development projects.

Why we chose Smartsheet

Smartsheet’s spreadsheet-like interface sets it apart as it appeals to users familiar with Excel or Google Sheets. This is in addition to its FedRAMP authorization and DoD IL4 compliance for government security standards. It’s a versatile platform, with multiple project views and a rich template library.

For more information, read the full Smartsheet review.

Clarity by Broadcom: Best for financial management

While Broadcom is known for manufacturing semiconductors, it also offers numerous SaaS products. One of those is Clarity, a FedRAMP® authorized portfolio and project management solution that is designed for enterprise-level teams. Not all project management software includes features for financial management and resource support, but Clarity does, making it an excellent choice for government organizations that need these capabilities.

Pricing

Clarity does not publicly disclose its pricing information; contact the sales team for more information.

Features

• Checklist feature for simple task management.
• Multiple project views are available.
• Unique roadmap (Figure D) functions assist with project planning.
• Idea management tools help you decide which projects to work on next.

Pros

• Offers a high level of security and compliance thanks to the Microsoft Azure platform.
• Resource management and financial management capabilities are included.
• Users can set up task dependencies.

Cons

• Interface is outdated compared to alternatives.
• Too complex for some team’s needs.
• High learning curve due to the number of features included.

Integrations

Broadcom Clarity’s frequently integrated systems include Meisterplan, Microsoft Active Directory, PeopleSoft and SAP for enterprise resource planning, and Xtime for time and attendance management.

Why we chose Broadcom (Clarity)

We recognized Broadcom’s Clarity for its exceptional financial management capabilities, which are a good fit for government projects with intricate budgeting needs. It has FedRAMP authorization, meaning it guarantees high security. It also has the capacity to manage large-scale, multifaceted projects, plus advanced analytics and reporting features for critical insights into project performance and resource utilization.

Trello: Best for kanban boards

Trello Enterprise Cloud is currently the only Atlassian product that is FedRAMP® authorized for government use. Trello is known for its intuitive, visually appealing Kanban boards, which are extremely easy to use. This beginner-friendly app is a good choice for teams that want to get started with Kanban project management but don’t need a tool meant for power users or complex projects.

Pricing

• Free: $0 for up to 10 boards per workspace and unlimited users.
• Standard: $5 per user per month billed annually, or $6 per user billed monthly.
• Premium: $10 per user per month billed annually, or $12.50 per user billed monthly.
• Enterprise: Between $7.38 and $17.50 per user per month billed annually, depending on user count.

Features

• Butler automation tool helps you build custom workflows.
• Many templates and pre-designed board layouts (Figure E).
• Checklist format for task management.
• 180+ integrations with popular work apps.

Pros

• Drag-and-drop kanban boards are easy to use.
• The visual interface is easy to navigate.
• Low learning curve makes this a beginner-friendly tool.

Cons

• Not suitable for complex projects.
• Other project views aren’t as robust as the kanban boards; for example, no native Gantt charts or time tracking views are available.
• Could use more customizations.

Integrations

Trello’s top integrations feature Google Sheets, Google Calendar, Dropbox, Slack and Evernote.

Why we chose Trello

Simply, Trello’s Kanban boards are a visual treat. Its user-friendly Kanban boards make project management as easy as can be. Its FedRAMP authorization ensures it meets government security standards, while the platform’s simplicity, coupled with powerful automation and customization options, facilitates effective project tracking and management.

For more information, read the full Trello review.

ProjectTeam: Best for construction projects

ProjectTeam is a construction project management information system (PMIS) that is currently under review for FedRAMP® authorization. It is designed to assist government organizations and private-public partnerships in planning, designing and executing construction projects. Because of its focus on construction, it is not suitable for more general project management use cases.

Pricing

• Small Teams: $700 per user per year, sold in blocks of five.
• Enterprise: For more than 25 users, contact the sales team for a quote.

Features

• Generate custom forms to track unique construction processes.
• Combine data from multiple projects into centralized reports and dashboards (Figure F).
• Review detailed history on every form or file for audit purposes.
• Unlimited non-paid contributor seats.

Pros

• Easy to learn and use.
• Quick Start service is available for an extra fee.
• Frequently releases new features.

Cons

• Not suitable for managing projects outside of construction.
• Customizations can take a while to set up.
• System is sometimes slow to load.

Integrations

ProjectTeam integrates with popular construction management software like Autodesk, Procore, and Bluebeam, enhancing document control and project tracking, while also connecting with financial systems such as QuickBooks and Oracle.

Why we chose ProjectTeam

We chose ProjectTeam because of its specialized focus on construction project management, which aligns well with the needs of government infrastructure projects. Its pending FedRAMP authorization and robust integration capabilities with construction and financial software make it worth considering for managing complex construction projects.

ClickUp: Best for affordability

If you are looking for a tool that combines robust project management with affordable pricing, ClickUp should be at the top of your list. While not currently FedRAMP® authorized, ClickUp offers an impressive array of features that will satisfy many teams, especially considering that paid plans start at only $7 per person per month.

Pricing

• Free Forever: $0; best for personal use.
• Unlimited: $7 per user per month billed annually, or $10 per user billed monthly.
• Business: $12 per user per month billed annually, or $19 per user billed monthly.
• Enterprise: Contact the sales team for a custom quote.

Features

• Choose from more than 15 project views (Figure G).
• Connect third-party apps with more than 1,000 integrations.
• Message teammates using the built-in chat tool.
• 24/7 customer support for all plans.

Pros

• Affordable and transparent pricing plans; even the free plan offers a high level of functionality.
• Suitable for managing complex projects.
• Interface is colorful and easy to navigate.

Cons

• Free plan only offers 100 MB of storage.
• System can lag and glitch occasionally.
• High learning curve due to the number of features.

Integrations

Some of ClickUp’s most common integrations are Slack, GitHub, Google Drive, Trello and Zoom.

Why we chose ClickUp

We listed ClickUp for its affordability without compromising on a robust feature set. For government agencies that want a thorough feature-packed project management tool without having to break the bank, ClickUp is every bit worth considering. Its wide range of integrations and customizable features offer a bespoke tailored project management experience that’s adaptable to various workflows and team sizes.

For more information, read the full ClickUp review.

monday work management: Best for teams of all sizes

monday work management is not currently FedRAMP® authorized, but we wanted to include it on this list anyways because it’s widely considered one of the best project management tools on the market today. It combines robust project management features with relatively affordable pricing plans and a nice user interface that isn’t too intimidating.

Pricing

• Free: $0 for up to two seats.
• Basic: $8 per seat per month billed annually, or $10 per seat billed monthly. A free trial is available.
• Standard: $10 per seat per month billed annually, or $12 per seat billed monthly. A free trial is available.
• Pro: $16 per seat per month billed annually, or $20 per seat billed monthly. A free trial is available.
• Enterprise: Contact the sales team for a custom quote.

Features

• Native chat feature for in-platform team communication.
• WorkForms tool for creating and sharing surveys.
• Pre-built automations.
• Advanced reporting and analytics.

Pros

• Robust project management features.
• Wide selection of integrations and many customization options (Figure H).
• Colorful interface is easy to navigate.

Cons

• Certain features like Gantt charts and time tracking are limited to higher-tier plans.
• Higher learning curve than some project management alternatives.
• Default notification settings can be overwhelming.

Integrations

monday.com enhances its project management capabilities with integrations like Slack, Google Drive, Microsoft Teams, Salesforce and Zoom.

Why we chose monday

Its adaptability to teams of all sizes and its user-friendly interface are the reasons we chose monday. Its lack of FedRAMP authorization is offset by its extensive customization options and integrations, making it a versatile tool for government agencies with varying project management requirements.

For more information, read the full monday review.

Lucid Software: Best for creating visualizations

Lucid Software is the creator of Lucidchart (intelligent diagramming application), Lucidspark (virtual whiteboard) and Lucidscale (cloud visualization solution). Lucid’s government software offering is currently FedRAMP® authorized at Moderate impact level. While it doesn’t provide traditional project management software, Lucid offers tools that are powerful resources for helping your team brainstorm ideas and visualize processes.

Pricing

Lucidspark and Lucidchart offer the same a la carte pricing options to users:

• Free: $0 for up to three boards or charts; best for personal use.
• Individual: Starting at $7.95. A free trial is available.
• Team: Starting at $9 per person per month. A free trial is available.
• Enterprise: Contact the sales team for a custom quote. This plan option allows users to bundle Lucidspark and Lucidchart together.

Lucidscale is available in two pricing plans:

• Individual: $2,000 per year; includes one Creator license.
• Team: minimum Starting at $2,400 per year; depends on the type of number of licenses purchased.

Features

• Freehand drawings and sticky notes are visual options on the Lucidspark virtual whiteboard.
• Users can add sticky notes to the board and sort by category to create a clear plan of action.
• Create diagrams in Lucidchart to visualize team processes.
• A variety of templates and team collaboration features (Figure I).

Pros

• Unique visualization capabilities that aren’t matched by other PM tools.
• Many native integrations with external tools.
• Lucidspark and Lucidchart sync together.

Cons

• Not a standalone project management solution.
• Connectors don’t disappear when you delete ideas.
• Big, complicated diagrams may cause performance lags.

Integrations

Lucid’s suite of tools, including Lucidchart and Lucidspark, integrates with platforms such as Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, Slack, Atlassian and Zoom.

Why we chose Lucid

We chose Lucid for its unique ability to create visualizations and diagrams that facilitate complex project planning and brainstorming sessions. Its integration with many productivity and collaboration tools makes it a valuable asset for government project teams looking to enhance their planning processes with visual tools.

Wrike: Best for project portfolio management

If you were intrigued by the project portfolio management abilities of Clarity but the rest of the tool sounded like overkill for your needs, then you might want to check out Wrike. Wrike is not currently FedRAMP® authorized but does include a host of features that are designed for power users who need to manage multiple complex projects at once.

Pricing

A free trial is available for each of the following plans:

• Free: $0 per user per month.
• Team: $10.00 per user per month.
• Business: $25 per user per month.
• Enterprise: Contact the sales team for a custom quote.
• Pinnacle: Contact the sales team for a custom quote.

Features

• Customize request forms to meet company needs.
• Forecasting tools for visualizing project risk.
• Interactive Gantt charts to plan and visualize project timelines (Figure J).
• Video and file proofing.

Pros

• Interface is well-designed and organized.
• Premium security and data privacy features will appeal to government entities.
• Two-way sync with 12 other apps is available as a paid add-on.

Cons

• Team plan only supports up to 25 users; users also must upgrade to the Business plan for time tracking and template creation.
• Storage space is limited.
• Learning curve is higher than some competitors.

Integrations

Wrike offers integrations to tools like Salesforce, Google Drive, Microsoft Teams, Slack, and GitHub.

Why we chose Wrike

We chose Wrike for its strong project portfolio management features, which are designed to cater to power users managing multiple complex projects. While not currently FedRAMP authorized, its premium security features and extensive integrations make it a compelling consideration for government agencies.

For more information, read the full Wrike review.