Smartsheet, while powerful, has drawbacks that make it less appealing for certain users. Its interface, resembling spreadsheets, can feel outdated and unintuitive, especially for teams looking for a more visual and modern project management experience. The platform also lacks built-in advanced automation compared to competitors, requiring users to rely on third-party integrations.
Pricing can be a concern, as essential features often require higher-tier plans. Additionally, its rigidity in real-time collaboration and task dependencies can be limiting for agile teams.
Industries that require highly interactive dashboards, such as creative agencies, software development teams, and fast-paced startups, may find Smartsheet too restrictive.
Similarly, small businesses with limited budgets or teams that rely heavily on Kanban or Gantt views with deep customization might prefer more flexible alternatives.
Exploring Options Beyond Smartsheet
Many project management tools offer the same flexibility and collaboration features, making it easier to track tasks, manage deadlines, and streamline workflows. Some platforms focus on automation, while others provide simple, visual task management. Here are some top choices that work similarly to Smartsheet.
ClickUp
ClickUp is a highly customizable tool that lets teams manage tasks, track progress, and collaborate in one place. It offers multiple views, including lists, boards, and Gantt charts, making it easy to adapt to different workflows. Automation and integration with popular apps improve efficiency, while its free plan makes it a solid choice for smaller teams looking for a budget-friendly option.
Asana
Asana provides a flexible workspace for organizing projects and team tasks. It allows users to break down projects into steps, assign responsibilities, and track progress with visual tools like Kanban boards and timelines. Its integrations with other productivity apps make it a strong competitor to Smartsheet, offering an intuitive experience for teams of any size.
Trello
Trello is a simple, card-based task management tool that helps teams stay organized. It’s a great alternative for those who prefer a visual approach to project tracking. With easy drag-and-drop functionality, automation features, and a user-friendly interface, Trello is a strong option for businesses looking for something like Smartsheet but with a more lightweight setup.
Celoxis
Celoxis is a project management tool designed for businesses that need advanced features, including detailed reporting and resource management. It offers Gantt charts, real-time dashboards, and workflow automation, making it a powerful choice for teams that require deeper insights into project performance.
Microsoft 365 (Microsoft Project)
Microsoft Project, part of the Microsoft 365 suite, is a well-known tool for managing complex projects. It provides timeline tracking, task dependencies, and detailed reporting, making it a strong option for teams that need structured project management. Since it integrates with other Microsoft tools, it works well for businesses already using the ecosystem.
Wrike
Wrike is a flexible project management tool that allows teams to plan, track, and collaborate on work in real time. With features like task automation, file sharing, and custom dashboards, Wrike competes closely with Smartsheet. It’s ideal for businesses that need advanced reporting and workload management in a streamlined interface.
Teamwork
Teamwork focuses on project tracking and collaboration, offering time tracking, task prioritization, and workflow automation. It’s a good fit for agencies and businesses needing detailed client and project management features. Its ability to integrate with popular apps makes it a strong choice for teams looking for something similar to Smartsheet.
Monday
Monday provides a visual, intuitive way to manage tasks and projects. Its drag-and-drop interface and automation tools simplify workflows, helping teams stay organized. With multiple pricing options, including a free plan, it’s a strong competitor for teams searching for a free Smartsheet alternative with flexible features.
Airtable
Airtable blends spreadsheets with database functionality, making it a versatile tool for managing projects, tracking data, and organizing information. Its customizable interface allows users to create workflows that match their needs, making it a solid option for teams looking for something more dynamic than a standard spreadsheet-based tool.