Tuesday, 8 April 2025

Project Planning Checklist – Everything You Need to Know

Project planning is the backbone of successful execution. Without a well-structured plan, teams risk missing deadlines, budget overruns, and scope creep.

Whether you’re managing a small task or a large-scale project, having a clear roadmap is essential.

This Project Planning Checklist covers everything you need, from defining goals to risk management and communication strategies.

Follow these 10 key steps to ensure your project runs smoothly, stays on track, and delivers the desired results.

Read the full blog

Saturday, 5 April 2025

Project Planning Checklist – Everything You Need to Know

Project planning is the backbone of successful execution. Without a well-structured plan, teams risk missing deadlines, budget overruns, and scope creep.

Whether you’re managing a small task or a large-scale project, having a clear roadmap is essential.

This Project Planning Checklist covers everything you need, from defining goals to risk management and communication strategies.

Follow these 10 key steps to ensure your project runs smoothly, stays on track, and delivers the desired results.

Check the new infographic

Thursday, 3 April 2025

Presenting Orangescrum Work: The Smarter, Faster Way To Manage Projects

We are excited to launch Orangescrum Work. It is a streamlined project management software that is designed to focus only on the most essential features. It is built for teams and businesses who need an efficient, no-frills project management solution without unnecessary complexity.

Managing projects can become overwhelming if software is bloated with too many features that teams don’t need. Orangescrum Work helps teams by keeping it simple and effective and providing just what they need to plan, collaborate, and track work.

Project management

What is Orangescrum Work?

There are many project management tools that try to be everything at once, which results in a cluttered interface and features that are rarely used. On the other hand, Orangescrum Work takes a different approach; it focuses only on the most essential project management features.

It has a minimal learning curve and has a clean and intuitive interface, which enables businesses to get started quickly and achieve results without distractions.

Key Features of Orangescrum Work

1. Dashboard: A Centralized View

Get real-time updates, track deadlines, and manage your work effectively with powerful dashboard features.

2. Projects: Organize Work Efficiently

Manage multiple projects in a single place and ensure clarity in your work processes.

3. Tasks: Simple Task Management

Break down your work into manageable tasks, such as assigning tasks, setting due dates, and tracking progress without hassle.

Read the full blog

Monday, 31 March 2025

Billable vs. Non-Billable Hours: How to Track and Maximize Profitability

Time is money, especially in a service-based business, but not all hours are created equal. Some generate revenue (billable hours), while others support business operations without direct compensation (non-billable hours). The challenge? Striking the right balance between the two to boost profitability. This is where time-tracking software comes in, making it easier for project managers to track billable and non-billable hours.

If you’re spending too much time on non-billable tasks, your revenue suffers. But ignoring non-billable activities like business development, training, or client relationship management can stunt long-term growth.

That’s why accurate time tracking is essential. It helps businesses measure productivity, optimize workflows, and ensure every minute is used efficiently.

In this guide, we’ll break down the difference between billable and non-billable hours, explain how to track them effectively, and share strategies to maximize profitability.

Time Tracking

What Are Billable and Non-Billable Hours?

Billable Hours

Billable hours refer to the time spent on tasks that can be directly invoiced to clients. These include:

  • Client meetings related to project work
  • Project execution and deliverables (design, development, consulting, etc.)
  • Revisions and updates requested by the client
  • Research and planning specific to the client’s project

Thursday, 27 March 2025

Why Does Your Business Need Resource Management Software Today?



Today, companies are struggling to balance workloads and are unable to optimize human and material resources. This ensures that projects are delivered on time and within the budget. Without the right resource management software, businesses today are risking burdening their team members with a ton of work yet they miss deadlines while over-budgeting them.

This is where your project resource management software comes into play. It empowers your businesses to streamline operations, allocate resources effectively as well as gain real-time insights to drive efficiency.

Let’s explore the top reasons why businesses should invest in resource project management software today.

Resource Management Software

1. Optimize Resource Allocation for Maximum Efficiency

One of the biggest challenges to overcome in business operations is ensuring that resources are neither overutilized nor underutilized.

Project resource management software provides a centralized platform to allocate resources effectively.

Benefits of Optimized Resource Allocation:

  • Prevent overutilization by evenly distributing workloads
  • Ensure that the right resources are assigned to the right tasks
  • Reduce bottlenecks and delay the project execution
  • Improve project planning and project execution efficiency

You can also leverage various resource management tools where businesses can assign tasks based on employee availability, skill set and project priority which ensure smooth workflows.

Read the full blog

Tuesday, 25 March 2025

How to Handle Project Bottlenecks and Improve Workflow Efficiency


Project bottlenecks are one of the most formidable roadblocks that can stall progress, create inefficiencies, and also lead to missed deadlines.

There could be multiple reasons, such as resource constraints, proof communication, and unexpected delays, which significantly hinder workflow efficiency.

However, the good news is that with the right strategies and a robust project management tool, you can identify as well as eliminate bottlenecks, thereby ensuring a smooth project execution.

Today, in this blog, we will explore the most common causes of project bottlenecks, how to address them, and also take actionable strategies to improve workflow efficiency.

project management softwareWhat is a Project Bottleneck?

A project bottleneck happens in a workflow where tasks accumulate because of limited resources, slow decision-making, and inefficient processes.

These bottlenecks create a domino effect which eventually slows down the entire project lifecycle.

Read the full blog

Friday, 21 March 2025

Common Project Management Mistakes and How to Avoid Them?


Project management is essential for any successful initiative, but even the most experienced managers can fall into common traps that derail timelines, inflate budgets, and frustrate team members.

From poor communication to unrealistic deadlines, these mistakes don’t just slow projects down; they can lead to outright failure.

The good news? Most of these pitfalls are entirely avoidable. With the right strategies and project management software, you can navigate around them and keep your projects on track.

In this guide, we’ll break down the most common project management mistakes and show you exactly how to prevent them.

Whether you’re a seasoned project manager or just starting out, these insights will help you run smoother, more efficient projects.

Read the full blog

10 Essential Charts for Data-Driven Project Management



In today’s fast-paced business environment, managing projects efficiently requires more than just planning, it demands real-time insights and data-driven decision-making. That’s where project management charts come into play.

From tracking timelines to optimizing resources and mitigating risks, visual tools help teams stay on top of every project phase with clarity and precision.

Studies show that 80% of project managers believe visual data improves collaboration and project success.

In this guide, we explore 10 essential charts that drive smarter project management, boost efficiency, and ensure seamless execution.

Check the full blog


Monday, 17 March 2025

How to Implement the 80/20 Rule in Project Management


Project managers face various dilemmas and one of the most significant ones is that they have too many tasks at hand and very little time to execute. The secret to managing projects and executing them effectively isn’t about doing everything rather to focus on the most important ones. 

This is where the 80/20 rule comes in handy; it is also called the Pareto Principle. Its philosophy is that 80% of outcomes result from just 20% of efforts.

When it is applied to project management, this principle helps team members prioritize tasks, optimize resources, and maximize the impact.

Today, in this guide we will explore how you can leverage this 80/20 rule to streamline workflows, increase efficiency, and drive project success. 

Understanding the 80/20 Rule in Project Management

Originally the Pareto principle was an economic concept, however, its application later extended far beyond. In project management, this rule suggests that:

  • 80% of project delays come from 20% of bottlenecks.

  • 80% of the results stem from 20% of project activities.

  • 80% of project costs arise from 20% of the resources.

  • 80% of team performance issues come from 20% of the team members.

By recognizing these patterns you empower project managers to focus their efforts where it matters most.

Read the full blog


Monday, 10 March 2025

Why Time Tracking is Crucial for Productivity & Profitability

Time is the most valuable resource in any business. Yet, studies show that poor time management, untracked work hours, and inefficiencies lead to billions of dollars in lost revenue annually. 

Whether you're running a business, managing a remote team, or working as a freelancer, accurately tracking time is essential for productivity, profitability, and accountability.

Time tracking isn't just about monitoring hours; it’s about optimizing workflows, reducing wasted time, and making data-driven decisions.

From increasing billable hours to preventing project cost overruns, the right time-tracking system can transform how businesses operate.

This infographic presents powerful insights, key statistics, and industry trends that highlight the undeniable benefits of time tracking.

The Impact of Poor Time Management


  1. $7.4 billion lost annually due to untracked work hours.

  2. 40% of employees spend at least 30 minutes daily on non-work-related tasks.

  3. 50% of employees admit to time theft.

Read the full blog

Thursday, 6 March 2025

Top 10 Resource Management Strategies for Maximum Efficiency

Effective resource management is the cornerstone of operational success, enabling organizations to optimize human, financial, and technological assets. 

Research indicates that companies with robust resource management strategies can see project success rates improve by 20–30% and overall productivity increase dramatically. 

This infographic delves into the top 10 strategies, supported by compelling statistics and practical tips, to help you maximize efficiency and drive better outcomes.

1. Strategic Resource Planning and Forecasting

  • Description: Develop detailed forecasts of resource needs by analyzing historical data and anticipating future project demands.

  • Statistic: Organizations engaging in strategic resource planning report a 20–30% improvement in project outcomes.

  • Tips:

    • Use advanced project management software to map resource needs.

    • Review and adjust forecasts quarterly.

2. Implement a Centralized Resource Management System

  • Description: Adopt a centralized, cloud-based platform to streamline resource allocation and reduce conflicts.

  • Statistic: Companies using centralized systems experience up to a 25% reduction in resource conflicts and downtime.

  • Tips:

    • Evaluate solutions like Asana, Trello, or Microsoft Project.

    • Ensure integration with other enterprise tools.

Wednesday, 5 March 2025

Why Time Tracking is Crucial for Productivity & Profitability

 



Time is the most valuable resource in any business. Yet, studies show that poor time management, untracked work hours, and inefficiencies lead to billions of dollars in lost revenue annually.

Whether you’re running a business, managing a remote team, or working as a freelancer, accurately tracking time is essential for productivity, profitability, and accountability.

Time tracking isn’t just about monitoring hours; it’s about optimizing workflows, reducing wasted time, and making data-driven decisions.

From increasing billable hours to preventing project cost overruns, the right time-tracking system can transform how businesses operate.

This infographic presents powerful insights, key statistics, and industry trends that highlight the undeniable benefits of time tracking.


Monday, 3 March 2025

The Role of Resource Management Software in Agile Project Management

Agile project management is the go-to methodology for many businesses, especially in IT industries. Today, it has also made its way into other industries such as manufacturing and product management.

Agile emphasizes more on collaboration, interactive development, and flexibility in project development. It ensures that the product meets customer’s evolving needs as well as delivers based on market demands.

Managing resources within the agile framework can be a challenge because of the dynamic nature of the process. When requirements are constantly shifting there is a need for real-time decision making. This is where resource management software comes into play.

In this blog, we will dive into the role of resource management software in agile project management. We will focus on how it enhances team productivity and it’s an important tool for agile project managers.

What is Resource Management in Agile Project Management?

Before we get into how resource management software plays a significant role in agile project management, let’s understand the basics of resource management in an agile environment.

In agile project development, resource management refers to the process of allocating and utilizing resources. Here resources include team members, tools, time as well and budget, and aligning them to meet client requirements is the goal of the project.

Effective resource management ensures that the right resources are available at the right time, which also ensures that the teams meet their deadlines on time and avoid bottlenecks.

When it comes to agile management it is a continuous process since the project scope, team availability, and priorities continuously shift as the project evolves.

Read the full blog

Tuesday, 25 February 2025

Release Update: Better Team Utilization & Profitability Reports


At Orangescrum, we actively listen to user feedback and continuously refine our features to make project management more efficient.


This latest update brings key improvements to Team Utilization Reports and Profitability Reports, ensuring better accuracy and usability.

Team Utilization Report Enhancement

  1. What was the Objective?

Our esteemed customers wanted a Team Utilization Report that compares Spent Hours vs. Company-Defined Working Hours instead of just comparing Spent Hours vs. Estimated Project Hours (which was already available).

We introduced this capability, enabling project managers and admins to analyze discrepancies between actual logged hours and company-defined working hours (e.g., 45 hours/week). 

However, an inconsistency emerged when viewing the report across multiple projects.

Originally, company-defined working hours (e.g., 45 hours/week) were displayed separately for each project, which incorrectly implied that employees were expected to work 45 hours per week per project rather than across all projects collectively. 

This misrepresentation led to inaccurate utilization calculations.


Monday, 24 February 2025

Top 10 Resource Management Strategies for Maximum Efficiency

 



Effective resource management is the cornerstone of operational success, enabling organizations to optimize human, financial, and technological assets.

Research indicates that companies with robust resource management strategies can see project success rates improve by 20–30% and overall productivity increase dramatically.

This infographic delves into the top 10 strategies, supported by compelling statistics and practical tips, to help you maximize efficiency and drive better outcomes.

check the full infographic 




Thursday, 20 February 2025

Top 10 Pivotal Tracker Alternatives in 2025


Pivotal Tracker is the go-to project management software for agile teams which is reaching its end-of-life. It has left many project managers and users at a crossroads.

It is known for its seamless agile workflows and has been a trusted companion for product teams worldwide. With the closure of Pivotal Tracker, finding a reliable alternative is necessary.

Switching to a new project management tool can feel overwhelming. But the good news is that it opens up the opportunity to explore new software platforms that provide better features, flexibility, and more powerful integrations.

Pivotal Tracker is still active which gives you the advantage of a smoother transition and also reduces the risk of disruption. Whether you are looking for customizable workflows, advanced reporting, or scalable solutions, choosing the right tool can transform the way you work.

In order to help you navigate this change we’ve compiled a list of top 10 Pivotal Tracker alternatives in 2025.
These alternatives not only meet Pivotal Tracker’s functionalities but also bring an array of new features that enhance productivity and streamline workflows.

Ready to make the switch? Let’s explore your options.

  • Orangescrum

  • JIRA

  • Asana

  • Freshbooks

  • Zoho Projects

  • Teamwork.com

  • IBM Targetprocess

  • ClickUp

  • Pendo

  • Airtable

1. Orangescrum

Best For: Agile Project Management & Team Collaboration

Orangescrum is the all-in-one project management software that provides agile and Scaled-Agile features along with effective task management, resource allocation, and time tracking.

It also provides powerful features such as Kanban boards, Gantt charts, and custom workflows which makes Orangescrum the perfect tool for flexibility and efficiency.

Read the full blog


Thursday, 13 February 2025

Leverage Time Management to Enhance Employee Well-Being


Achieving a balance between employee well-being and productivity is crucial for both the employer and employees. Productivity greatly depends on employee easenes; when they feel overworked and stressed they become less productive which can lead to burnout and a decline in morale.

On one hand, there are businesses that prioritize employee well-being and experience enhanced creativity, commitment, and efficiency and on the other hand, there are those who feel overwhelmed by work leading to underperformance.

At the crux of these objectives is effective time management – which is nothing but a strategic tool to boost productivity and safeguard both the mental and physical health of the employees.

In the following blog, we will explore how effective time management can balance employee well-being and productivity. We will delve into its benefits, provide actionable strategies, and also provide insights into building a supportive work culture.

How Employee Well-Being and Time Management are interdependent



Time management is all about planning and executing tasks in an allotted time. It increases effectiveness, efficiency, and productivity. Moreover, it’s not about working long hours but working strategically to meet business goals.
Effective time management involves:

  • Prioritization: Determine which tasks need to be completed first. Implement the Eisenhower matrix to prioritize work.
  • Planning: Allocate time for both work and breaks.
  • Delegation: Determine the tasks that are Urgent but not important, you can simply delegate them.
  • Flexibility: Be flexible by allowing room for unexpected challenges without affecting productivity.
  • Focus: Breaks in a short interval also increases focus facilitating faster execution of tasks.

These aspects enable employees to create a daily routine that promotes productivity without affecting personal well-being.

Read the full blog