# How Developers Can Leverage Online Tools for Project Planning

Effective project planning is the backbone of any successful software development process.

For developers, leveraging the right online tools can simplify complex projects, enhance collaboration, and boost time management – whether you’re a small startup or an established company.

This article discusses the advantages project planning tools offer for developers and some of the best options on the market.

## Key benefits of using online tools for project planning
There are around [67.8%](https://blog.supersaas.com/remote_work_statistics_for_2024) remote workers in the tech industry. This has a lot of benefits for businesses and workers.

Companies don’t have to pay for office space, while employees save time and money by avoiding daily commutes and expenses like gas.

However, this can lead to collaboration issues. There could be employees from different time zones who can’t speak the same language as their co-workers.

Project management (PM) tools bridge the gap that these problems create. They allow for easy asynchronous work, as you can use these tools for real-time communication, [file sharing](https://flippingbook.com/blog/marketing-tips/tools-to-share-a-pdf-online), and task tracking.

For example, [secure code scanning](https://www.wiz.io/academy/code-scanning) tools can be integrated into the planning phase to identify and address vulnerabilities early in development. This ensures that security isn't an afterthought but a continuous part of the process, giving developers peace of mind as they plan and execute their projects.

This approach helps with better workload management.

Project management platforms allow users to create task lists with deadlines and assign them to team members. These tools enhance collaboration by enabling both real-time and asynchronous communication, giving everyone clear visibility into their assigned tasks and timelines.

## How can project planning tools help developers


Rather than having a group chat with dozens of developers and tracking their progress individually, you can have a centralized platform for task assignments. This ensures accountability and transparency in development.

Many project management apps support integrations with other software. For example, you can integrate your customer relationship management (CRM) or communication tools with them if you’re working in marketing.

However, for developers, these integrations are even more critical.

Many tools support integrations with version control systems, CI/CD pipelines, and bug-tracking software.

A good example would be Notion, which you can integrate with Visual Studio Code through specific plugins.

The possibility of tracking tasks allows for better reporting. Developers can write relevant reports in the descriptions or comments of their completed functions. This also allows for easier bug tracking and fixing.
Top features to look for in project management software

One of the most important features to look for in project management software is Agile and/or Scrum support. It’s common for development teams to follow Agile methodologies.

On the other hand, built-in support for Scrum and [Kanban boards](https://hackmd.io/@pulp/SJfnMBDWo) simplifies sprint planning, backlog management, and task tracking.

Tools like Jira, Trello, and ClickUp support this feature, making them a great option for developer teams. You’d also want to look for platforms that support integrations with development tools.

This feature allows automatic task updates based on CI/CD pipeline results and bug reports. Bitbucket is a Git-based code optimized for companies using Jira as PM software.

Many platforms now help teams weave security validation throughout their development timeline, with some even incorporating [TTPs cybersecurity](https://cymulate.com/cybersecurity-glossary/tactics-techniques-procedures/) concepts to help developers think like security professionals from day one.

Seek out platforms that combine project management with security considerations. Rather than treating security as a last-minute checklist item, teams can now spot potential vulnerabilities and plan defensive measures right alongside their regular development tasks, making for more substantial, more secure applications from the ground up.

Explore options that empower developers to access, manage, and analyze data efficiently during project planning.

## Best project management software
There are some of the project management platforms that developers can use:
### 1. Trello


Trello is a great choice if you’re looking for a tool centered around Kanban boards. It’s the best option for small and medium-sized teams, allowing them to track project progress visually.

Through Kanban boards, developers can organize tasks into stages like "To Do," "In Progress," "Code Review," “Fixing Bugs,” and "Done," providing a clear visual representation of the workflow.

Each task card can store essential details like descriptions, file attachments, due dates, checklists, and comments, enabling the team to stay organized and work more efficiently."

Trello has excellent integration capabilities, allowing you to connect with [GitHub](https://hackmd.io/@vivek-blog/github_article), Bitbucket, Slack, and more. This allows developers to link commits, track code changes, and streamline communication.
### 2. Asana


Many engineering teams use Asana. It’s ideal for task prioritization and workflow visualization for development teams, and it has all the necessary features to make tasks look good.

Timeline view is one of Asana’s key features for medium and large [software development](https://www.growth-hackers.net/steps-to-successful-software-development-process/) teams. This allows you to visualize dependencies and timelines to prevent bottlenecks in complex projects.

If your company is new to project planning software, Asana's pre-designed templates for sprint planning and bug tracking can be handy, which can help your team save onboarding time.

You can connect Asana with Zapier and Jenkins to automate repetitive tasks. You can also integrate Asana with GitHub for version management.

Asana is great if you’re working on multiple projects simultaneously. It also has a mobile app, which can be convenient if you’re away from your computer.
### 3. Jira


Jira is a powerful tool designed for development teams working in Agile environments.

Developers and project managers can use Jira to create boards tailored to their workflows. These include tracking user stories or features through Scrum and Kanban boards.

Jira has a dedicated system for logging, tracking, and resolving bugs, with robust filtering and tagging options.

Jira also has regular PM features such as sprint planning, task scheduling, and everything else you need for good project planning.

You can integrate Jira with multiple tools, including Bitbucket, Bamboo, and Jenkins.
### 4. Notion


While Notion lacks the advanced features of other project management tools, it’s great for documentation. It can create detailed documentation for APIs, codebases, or processes in an easily accessible format.

Regarding task management, Notion supports Kanban boards, to-do lists, and calendars to track development tasks. It’s also great for note-taking and sharing insights with team members.

Like other tools, Notion supports integration with GitHub, Slack, and Zapier. It also offers several templates for streamlining project management tasks. You can also create dynamic databases to track bugs, features, or even developer skill sets with customizable views
### 5. ClickUp


Team managers love ClickUp because it’s an all-in-one project management tool. It supports Kanban boards, Gantt charts, timelines, or calendar views depending on your team's preferences.

You can also use ClickUp to create sprints and monitor milestones. However, this tool stands out because it also supports time tracking. You can integrate it with tools such as Toggl to monitor employees.

This makes creating and paying invoices for employees and freelancers easier. ClickUp’s API allows you to create custom workflows – AI-powered features help generate product ideas and roadmaps efficiently.

ClickUp also allows for streamlined bug and issue reports. You can collect them with intake forms and then later assign them as tasks.

## Project management is essential in IT
Project management apps can’t guarantee that your business will become the next Google. Yet, some of its advanced features are essential for continually growing and delivering the best possible results.

When selecting project management software, focus on tools that align with your company’s specific needs. Some are tailored for small teams, while others cater to large enterprises.

Remember, adopting a project management tool isn’t just a one-time task. It requires ongoing effort, whether that’s upskilling your developers to handle project management or hiring experienced project managers to lead the way.

## About the author: Veljko Petrović

Veljko is an IT student who has successfully combined his passion for technology with his exceptional writing skills. As an emerging specialist in cybersecurity, he has completed several courses and has been published in notable blogs in the industry. In his free time, Veljko enjoys weightlifting, reading, and programming