Free & Open Source Microsoft Project Alternative

Open Workbench is an open source desktop application that provides robust project scheduling and management functionality. OpenWorkbench project-management software has a schedule view that lets you fine-tune key schedule elements, such as resource availability and start and finish dates. Already the scheduling standard for more than 100,000 project managers worldwide, Open Workbench is a free and powerful alternative to Microsoft Project.

Some important facts about Open Workbench:

• Open Workbench can be used and distributed free of charge throughout an enterprise.
• Open Workbench is a stand-alone desktop application that provides robust project scheduling functionality
• Open Workbench provides the unique ability to generate project schedules based on resource constraints
• Open source developers will find a ready-made community of business users interested in their enhancements and extensions. The source code and other developer information are available on SourceForge.

Screenshots:

Dependency Definition

Gantt Chart

Some Open Workbench Resources

• Open Workbench Key Features
• Open Workbench: Microsoft Project Killer?
• Detail comparison between Open Workbench and Microsoft Project

My two cents

I believe Open Workbench is a good alternative for those who can’t afford Microsoft Project. It’s a great tool to get your projects managed. The best thing is that it’s free and there is an active community who are always working towards a better project management tool.

However, if your enterprise is already on the Microsoft platform, it may be easier to stick with Microsoft Project as it has a lot more integration features.

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