If you ask representatives of large corporations or small companies about the most famous project management tool, many of them will recall Microsoft Project.
Indeed, this tool is well-known to many teams, including those using macOS.
However, some users often note that the classic interface of the program appears outdated, and its flexibility doesn’t always meet the needs of modern projects. In addition, the tool licenses seem expensive.
These factors explain why many Mac users look for more affordable, intuitive, and functional alternatives that will allow them to work without compromise.
Would you like to explore the list of the best Microsoft Project alternatives for macOS to choose the right solution?
In this article, you will definitely find your one and only.
8 effective tools for Mac users to replace Microsoft Project
Dozens of interesting sources describe the leading online solutions that can replace the popular product designed by the Microsoft team. For example, it’s easy to find an appropriate Microsoft Project alternative in this article.
But if you don’t have time for research and want to quickly explore the most powerful solutions right now, follow the list below.
1. GanttPRO
If you are looking for a reliable and multifunctional Microsoft Project alternative for macOS, start your search with GanttPRO. There is a high probability that after testing this tool, you will not need to try anything else.
GanttPRO is a solution for those who value simplicity and power in one interface.
The main focus here is on an online Gantt chart. It allows you to visualize each stage of a project and track the connections between tasks.
Unlike MS Project, the Gantt chart creator doesn’t provide overloaded menus. All processes here are managed intuitively, and they are suitable even for beginners. Teams involved in any sphere can create projects, add participants, delegate tasks, and monitor their implementation in minutes.
The software also supports resource allocation. Managers see which employees are overloaded with work and who can take on additional tasks. Particular attention is paid to collaboration: comments, mentions, notifications, and the ability to attach files save time on communication.
All this is available in a browser on a Mac without restrictions and complex installations.
2. OmniPlan
This MS Project alternative perfectly fits into the standards familiar to all Mac users. It was created specifically for the Apple ecosystem.
With this tool, you can plan detailed projects with phases, dependencies, and critical paths. It makes the software convenient for complex scenarios.
One of the unique features is “scenario planning”: managers can model several project development options and compare their results. In addition, OmniPlan supports automatic resource leveling, which helps to avoid employee overload.
Many companies that value high reliability and deep integration into the Apple ecosystem choose this tool. It’s suitable for anyone who wants to invest in professional capabilities and the stability of this tool.
3. Merlin Project
Many Mac users know Merlin Project as a stunning planning and work management system.
The software offers many useful features: planning on a Gantt chart, reports, scenario modeling, resource management, ready-made templates, and more. It allows you to build not only plans but also detailed budgets, taking into account costs and forecasts.
In Merlin Project, you can switch between a diagram, a task list, a network schedule, and a calendar, choosing the most convenient view. Another strong characteristic is the integration with the macOS calendar and different Apple apps.
You can apply ready-made templates, accelerating the start without unnecessary effort.
4. Plane
Another modern open-source solution that is rapidly gaining popularity among teams is Plane.
It comes with a classic Gantt chart, Kanban boards, and a handy task system that makes this tool universal.
This Microsoft Project replacement has a minimalist and intuitive interface. Its cross-platform nature ensures that it easily works on macOS, Windows, and Linux. Therefore, many startups and remote teams rely on this solution.
Overall, it looks perfect for those who need a balance between functionality and freedom.
5. Office Timeline
The next program in this list of the best Microsoft Project alternatives for Mac users is Office Timeline.
This system specializes in visualization. It helps to turn complex projects into simple and clear diagrams. Initially created as an add-in for PowerPoint, the tool is now available in a web version that is fully compatible with Mac.
Even inexperienced users can put together a schedule in Office Timeline in a few minutes. It can be easily shown to clients or management.
For those who often prepare presentations, Office Timeline will become an indispensable assistant. There is flexible customization of colors, shapes, and signatures, which makes the diagrams visual and professional.
6. ProjectManager
ProjectManager combines several approaches to project management. As a user, you can switch between Kanban boards, a bar chart diagram, a task list, and a calendar, depending on your needs.
The strong point is its flexible dashboard. Project teams see the overall status of tasks, progress, and workload in real time. Collaboration is realized through comments, file sharing, and automatic notifications.
ProjectManager integrates with Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, Jira, and more services. It works entirely in the cloud. Therefore, Mac users don’t need installation.
7. Markwhen
Markwhen stands out for its minimalist approach. The system allows for creating projects considering its text description. You just specify tasks, deadlines, and dependencies using simple commands, and the system automatically converts them into a Gantt chart. This approach appeals to developers and technical specialists who value speed and the absence of unnecessary clicks.
Markwhen works directly in the browser and fully supports macOS. Despite its simplicity, the tool allows you to share projects with colleagues and work on them together. It doesn’t have an overloaded interface, but it is flexible and open to modifications.
For large corporate tasks, its capabilities will not be enough, but as a light addition to other systems, it serves well.
8. Pagico
This is not just a PM tool, but a full-fledged information organization system. It combines tasks, files, notes, and contacts into a single database, allowing you to store all project-related information in one place.
Unlike classic programs, where tasks exist on their own, in Pagico, they are closely linked to the context, be it documents, links, or correspondence.
Here you can visualize projects in the form of a calendar or Gantt chart. An additional plus is synchronization between devices: users can work on Mac, iPhone, iPad, or Windows. Pagico also supports reminders and notifications.
The most important features you may need in Microsoft Project alternatives for macOS
When choosing the right program, it’s important to consider the key features without which project management on macOS will be incomplete.
Here’s what you need to pay attention to when choosing any Microsoft Project replacement:
- Visual planning. For example, a Gantt chart helps track deadlines, milestones, dependencies, and see the whole picture of a project.
- Real-time collaboration. Mentions, comments, co-editing, and notifications increase the transparency of communication.
- Resource management. This is about the ability to distribute tasks between employees and track the team’s workload.
- Cross-platform functionality. The ability to work not only on macOS, but also on Windows or in a browser is an important factor for distributed teams.
- Reliable reporting system. Automatic report generation saves managers’ time and makes control transparent.
- Flexibility in settings. Your team should adjust the chosen tool to their business processes.
- Integrations with other services. Connecting to GitHub, Slack, Google Workspace, or other services makes working connected and convenient.
That’s all.
Determine the best solution to replace Microsoft Project on Mac and reach new project heights
The users of macOS aren’t limited to choosing Microsoft Project exclusively. Modern alternatives come with more flexible settings and intuitive interfaces.
GanttPRO, OmniPlan, Merlin Project, and other tools from the list above allow you to create projects of any scale and work in a convenient ecosystem.
The choice will depend on your tasks and workflow preferences. The main thing to remember is that today, project teams have the freedom to select a tool that will fully match their work style.
