Does Google have a project tracker tool?
Google offers no project tracker tools to choose from. As we know, Google’s broad customer base relies heavily on Gmail, Google Calendar, Google Drive with Docs and Spreadsheets, and Google Meet. However, people are searching for a project tracker tool that would perform its basic functions well while also integrating with Google services.
Numerous companies have switched from sticky notes on a whiteboard to dedicated project tracking software over the past few years. So it’s no surprise that project tracker tools have become an essential part of the workflow for so many teams. For those just at the very beginning of their digital project-tracking journey, it is important to understand which key features a proper project-tracking tool should have.
Project tracker tool key features
There are several crucial features that a project tracker should have. Google Workspace users try to find workarounds with the apps available within the suite, and for some teams this may work. Some, however, may want more. We covered this in more detail in our guide to Google Workspace features.
Task management
The team should be able to add tasks, assign them, and choose from different categorization and prioritization options. Easy navigation is definitely very important.
Project scheduling
Google Calendar is a scheduling service for teams on Google Workspace. So a project tracker should be at least integrated with the Calendar. But the ability to see a project on a Gantt chart would be way better. The Gantt chart has proven to be an excellent tool for project planning as it shows project activities on the timeline.
File sharing
Easy access to files is an important aspect of any workflow. You definitely don’t want your teammate to spend precious time searching for a file instead of focusing on real work. Google Drive can serve as storage, while a project tracker tool can be your compass, leading you to specific files.
Also, never forget about security. Google allows users to set Viewer/Commenter/Editor access rights. The project tracker tool should never interfere and change these permissions.
Communication
Pretty sure, teams usually use Google Chat or Slack for communication. However, the option to have project-specific communication inside a project tracker tool is also great.
Reporting
Keeping track of project progress through reports is essential. How else will the team know that they are moving in the right direction? Google Data Studio can be used for this purpose. In this case, the team would have an opportunity to export a project to Google Spreadsheets. Even better if the data from the project tracker can be exported and added to Google Data Studio.
Google project tracker tool alternatives
Since there is no native Google project-tracking tool, alternatives are available on the market. Kanbanchi is the only tool that integrates with Google services seamlessly and meets all the key features of a project tracker tool.
Kanbanchi project boards behave as Google files in Google Drive. It is absolutely secure as it has no access to files in Google Drive. And even if a file is attached to a card, Kanbanchi can’t read its content but only creates a link between the interface and the file.
Such valuable tools as a Gantt chart, reports, and integration with Google Calendar are also present. And much more. Check it out!