The project management software industry is worth over $4.2 billion, and the task management software industry is worth over $2.35 billion.
Businesses all over the world are spending a lot of money on these kinds of tools and technologies. Are you thinking about doing the same? Are you having a hard time deciding what kind of product you want to invest in?
If so, keep reading. Outlined below are some of the key differences between task management vs. project management.
What Is Task Management?
Task management is all about planning, prioritizing, assigning, and executing tasks to ensure they’re completed.
Task management involves far more than writing up a to-do list. It involves setting clear deadlines, prioritizing tasks, assigning them to the right team members, tracking progress, and going above and beyond to avoid delays.
In most cases, task management is used when a person has to deal with repetitive and independent tasks as part of a larger project.
What Is Project Management?
Project management is similar to task management. However, it involves handling various aspects of an entire project (as opposed to one set of tasks) without losing track of the bigger picture.
Some key stages of project management include initiation, planning, execution, monitoring, and closure.
Project management is most often used when a person has to plan a project’s scope, keep track of resources, and monitor progress.
Task Management Pros and Cons
The task management process and task management tools offer a lot of pros and some important cons. Outlined below are some of the key ones to keep in mind:
- Pro: Maintain focus and avoid distractions
- Con: Calendar coordination is essential and can be time-consuming
- Pro: Keep track of smaller tasks more easily
- Con: Checking off tasks provides a false sense of accomplishment
- Pro: Easier prioritization and categorization
It does come with a few downsides. However, for those who struggle to stay organized or work independently, task management is a great tool.
Project Management Pros and Cons
Before you sign up for a PMI course or invest in a project management tool, it’s good to know about the pros and cons of project management. Here are some important ones to remember:
- Pro: Easier goal visibility and project planning
- Con: Not all app designs are user-friendly
- Pro: Centralized approach and easier information access
- Con: Some tools are difficult to access on various devices
- Pro: More effective communication
If you need help keeping larger goals in mind and making sure team members are on the same page, project management is a must.
Task Management vs. Project Management: Which Is Right for You?
Now that you understand the differences between task management vs. project management, do you have a better idea of what will work best for your team?
If you and your team need to handle many different aspects of a project without losing track of the big picture, project management tools might be a better fit. If you and your team need to manage specific aspects of a particular task, a task management guide or product may be more effective.
Need more task management or project management tips before you make some changes to your team? Head to the Business & Finance section of our site today.