Category: Tools

What to look for in a Free business phone number?

Utilizing a business phone number is an effective means of maintaining a professional standard for your work communications. The functionality of the phone system is contingent upon the volume of both incoming and outgoing calls and the size of the business.

Consider the following crucial factors when choosing a provider for a free business phone number:

• Plans: Numerous providers offer free basic and affordable plans tailored for small business owners and solopreneurs. Given the wide range of pricing, it is essential to discern your specific needs and budget.
• Phone Number Provider: Seek a phone system that provides a diverse selection of numbers. While some may only offer local numbers, others enable you to choose between toll-free, local, and vanity business phone numbers. For a larger-scale business aiming for a national presence, toll-free numbers are likely necessary.
• Call Quality: Call quality is a paramount concern in VoIP phone calls. Ensure thorough research into the quality of calls to facilitate smooth communication between your organization and clients.
• Multiple Lines: A business VoIP phone service should offer one or more virtual phone numbers, enhancing communication and productivity among colleagues and customers.
• Customer Support: The business phone system should ensure reliable customer support. A responsive technical team available 24/7 is essential to address concerns and answer queries promptly.
• Features: The phone system should furnish basic features like voicemail, call transfer, call queues, and ring groups. Additionally, it should allow users to port existing phone numbers without incurring additional charges.

How to get a Free Business Phone Number?

When you explore online options, you’ll come across various free business phone apps offering virtual phone services, complete with free local calls and texts. While the allure of cost savings may be tempting, these free options often fall short of meeting the robust needs of business use.

The term “free” can be deceptive, as even with a free virtual phone number, you’ll still incur charges for your internet and existing cell service. Typically, free apps come with limitations on the number of minutes, and the phone number may only be free for an initial trial period.

Conducting thorough research is crucial before selecting a business phone service, even if a company presents you with a free account. Look for providers offering a diverse selection of numbers, customization options, overall flexibility, reliability, and security measures, as well as comprehensive call management tools and integrations.

In most cases, if you want more than the basic features, you’ll need to start paying—and those costs can add up quickly. For a sustainable business solution, invest in a complete virtual phone system from a reputable service like Google Voice, TextFree, Callcentric, LINE, and Dingtone.

Why Get a Free Business Phone Number?

Even if you have plans to expand your business in the future, beginning with cost-effective measures can keep your initial expenses low and facilitate easier growth. Having a dedicated business number is beneficial, ensuring that important work calls remain separate from personal calls with friends and family.

Even for a sole proprietorship, having a distinct phone number for customers or clients is essential, allowing them to seek answers through phone calls if they prefer. Cost savings are crucial, especially as businesses require multiple points of contact, with websites playing an increasingly significant role. Strategic spending in the early stages sets the foundation for future success.

Many of these services offer additional features and paid services for scalability. Starting with a free business phone number allows you to assess customer communication preferences and helps determine where to strategically invest time and money.

Types of Business Phone Numbers

Toll-Free Numbers

A toll-free number starting with 1-800 carries the perception of an established business for many customers. This format is familiar to a wide audience due to decades of exposure through TV commercials, phone books, and various advertisements. While obtaining a free 1-800 number has become more challenging in recent times, there are still many other available toll-free prefixes, such as 888, 887, and so forth.

How To Get a Toll-free Number?

You have the option to register for a toll-free number for your business through your regular phone provider. Furthermore, you can redirect calls to an existing line, allowing you to manage incoming calls through a familiar number.

For businesses catering to customers and clients in the United States, having a toll-free number is the optimal way to project a professional image. Besides being a recognizable business number, anyone across the country can call without incurring fees. The typical cost for your business is around $10 per month.

It’s worth noting that international callers may face higher calling costs. If your business has global expansion plans, exploring a different phone number strategy to be more inclusive internationally becomes crucial.

Vanity Numbers

A vanity phone number isn’t just about its appearance; it can serve as an effective tool for integrating marketing into your business. It enhances the memorability of your phone number compared to a typical string of ten digits. For instance, a car repair service using a vanity phone number might opt for a sequence that spells out “FIX UP” rather than relying on random numbers.

How To Get a Vanity Phone Number?

You may explore the possibility of obtaining a vanity phone number with a local area code through your regular phone provider, depending on their available options. Alternatively, you can pursue a toll-free vanity phone number, starting with prefixes like 1-800 or 1-888.

The challenge with vanity phone numbers is that the most straightforward ones are often already in use, such as 1-800-FLOWERS. Nevertheless, the ones you can devise that are still available are likely to be more memorable than the obvious choices. If you find a fitting one for your company, having a distinctive or attention-grabbing vanity phone number could significantly benefit your business.

Given their specificity, vanity phone numbers generally come with a cost ranging from $10 to $50 per month.

Local Numbers

A local phone number is characterized by an area code that corresponds to a specific region in the U.S. For instance, area code 212 is linked to Manhattan in New York, and 323 is associated with Los Angeles, California. Such phone numbers often convey a sense of trustworthiness to local customers, as they appear to originate from a neighbor or a nearby business.

Where To Get a Local Phone Number?

Any business, including a sole proprietorship, can acquire a dedicated business phone number through any phone company or cable provider. Opting for a business phone number with a local area code enables even small businesses to position themselves as trustworthy local entities.

Apart from exploring business phone number options with your local phone company, Google Voice provides a free setup for individual business phone numbers. A Google Voice number, offering basic call and message capabilities, comes at no cost. Local phone numbers for businesses can range from $0 for single-user setups to $30 per month.

VoIP phone numbers

VoIP, short for voice-over Internet protocol, allows users to make phone calls over the Internet instead of traditional phone lines. The popularity of VoIP has increased over the past fifteen years, largely due to the widespread use of smartphones, tablets, and laptops. All of the options listed use the VoIP protocol.

VoIP has many advantages over traditional phone lines. First, users can make calls from any location with a reliable internet connection. While certain VoIP providers may restrict calls outside their network, many providers, including those mentioned above, do not. So.

Many VoIP providers offer a free basic plan. For example, Google Voice offers unlimited calling and texting for free as part of its consumer plan. It is essential to be mindful of cybersecurity concerns and potential hacking risks associated with VoIP, as with any internet application.

How do you tell if a number is a VoIP?

A reverse lookup service can provide information about whether a caller is using a VoIP number, details about the number owner, and their address. If you have a VoIP phone, you can ask your provider to perform a CNAM lookup for more information about the caller.

According to our research, the simplest approach is to ensure that the caller ID feature is enabled on your phone. Businesses often display the business name instead of a phone number. If you see a name like “ABC Company” on the caller ID, you can easily identify the source of the call.

Another method is to use reverse phone number lookup services available online. Some services are free, while others may charge a fee. A reverse lookup service can reveal whether a caller is using a VoIP number, provide information about the owner, and provide their address.

In the case of VoIP phones, you can ask your provider to conduct a CNAM lookup to get more detailed information about the caller. Most providers will usually assist with this if there is evidence of malicious intent from the caller, and they can also help you block the number.

Free Phone Number Services

1. Google Voice

Standing in the first position, we would like to introduce to you the free phone number services of Google Voice. This service is very popular due to the large number of Gmail users worldwide. Google Voice stands out as a free business phone service that allows free texting and calling on Android, iOS, and any computer via a web app. Additionally, Google Voice provides basic transcription of voicemails. Although it only offers toll-free local area code numbers instead of toll-free numbers, the features are powerful enough to initiate business communications. If you want your own Google Voice number, you can refer to our guide on this topic.

Google Voice plans, when linked to a personal Google account, come at no cost. For freelancers or solo entrepreneurs seeking a dedicated business phone number, the free plan might suit your needs. Google Voice offers three business plans, each providing fundamental features such as voicemail transcription, call forwarding, unlimited SMS within the U.S., and round-the-clock support.

The optimal plan for you hinges on your distinctive business requirements. For instance, if your business operations extend internationally, the Premier plan is likely the most suitable choice. The comparative chart below dissects the key features and expenses associated with each Google Voice plan.

2. TextFree

Send text/SMS messages from your computer using a free phone number from Pinger via textfree.us. The user-friendly web app provides you with a phone number and allows you to send text and SMS messages, with the additional option to purchase minutes for making calls.
TextFree is an application accessible on the iOS and Google Play app stores. As it is an app, it can be utilized on phones, tablets, or computers. You have the flexibility to select a U.S. phone number that enables calling and texting with users who do not have the app.

Note: This service does not support 911 calls; Therefore, it is essential to rely on a cell phone or landline in case of emergency. If you want more features including voicemail, text, and more, it’s all available for a monthly fee of $4.99. Calls maintain clarity when using the speakerphone, consuming less power over WiFi than a cell tower connection. Furthermore, if you own another cell phone or iPad without cell service, they can all work seamlessly using the same local phone number. Just install the app on all your devices and you’ll have functional telephony in your home, even on locked phones and iPads.

3. Callcentric

Once you download their software and set up a telephone adapter, you can utilize the voice-over-internet-protocol (VoIP) service from any computer, kickstarting your communication. While calls to other Callcentric users are free, there is a nominal charge for reaching traditional phone numbers. This service is particularly advantageous for businesses with minimal daily customer service call requirements.

CallCentric is designed for user-friendly operation and offers a variety of plans to cater to diverse customer needs. The service is compatible with major SIP Compliant Platforms, including ATA Adaptors, IP Phones, and IPPBX Systems like Asterisk, Trixbox, and 3CX. It supports various third-party ATAs from manufacturers such as Grandstream, Obihai, Linksys, Cisco, and D-Link. Mobile applications are also available for Android and iOS devices, facilitating on-the-go calling and enabling cost-effective international calls from your smartphone, displaying your CallCentric number as the outgoing caller ID.

The service provides crisp and clear, land-line quality communication and allows users to customize services based on their actual needs and usage patterns. It offers both Flat-Rate Unlimited and Pay-Per-Use service models with transparent pricing and no hidden fees or taxes. Free calls to other CallCentric users are available, regardless of their location.

CallCentric boasts knowledgeable customer support available 365 days a year for both free and paid customers. Additional value-added services include free NY phone numbers, telemarketer block, IVR (Automated Attendant), SIP URI calls, fax reception feature, T38 support, custom CNAM update requests via the portal, Callcentric Android/iPhone app, free vanity toll-free number searches, and more.

For those considering number portability, CallCentric provides a Local Number Portability (LNP) tool to test if your existing number can be transferred. The service has an extensive footprint for LNP and offers new DIDs in the US, Canada, Toll-Free, and over 48 international countries.

4. LINE

Video calls have become essential for numerous startups and small businesses, and this service recognizes that by offering video calls in addition to traditional phone calls. As it operates as an app utilizing internet connectivity for calls, you can also make free international calls with a capacity of up to 200 participants. LINE is available on Google Play and iOS, allowing seamless use on both phones and computers with synchronization between the two.

The setup process is straightforward. Once installed and launched, LINE guides you through the registration, which is completed via your phone number. It’s important to ensure the accuracy of the provided number and then verify the registration by entering a code sent to your phone.

During registration, LINE seeks permission to access your contacts, but you have the option to deny this access. Granting permission allows LINE to scan your device’s contacts, create a friends list in the app based on those contacts, and display which of your contacts are also on LINE.

For Windows and Mac systems, LINE prompts you to register your email address, and a verification code is sent to your email. If you change your phone number or device, you can use your email address to log in and access your account information. When logging in again, you can select “Email/QR code login” beneath the login fields to access your account via email.

As part of the setup, LINE also asks you to create a display name with a limit of 20 characters. You can then choose whether others can add you as a friend; if not, you can uncheck the corresponding box at the bottom.

5. Dingtone

Exclusively tailored for iOS devices, this cutting-edge service unlocks a diverse spectrum of telephony features, seamlessly integrating fundamental texting and calling functionalities. Going beyond the conventional, Dingtone not only furnishes users with a complimentary phone number but also empowers them to orchestrate conference calls and dispatch faxes, all at zero cost—imparting a touch of sophistication to the burgeoning landscape of your business expansion.

Dingtone’s prowess extends to enabling users to initiate limitless free phone calls and dispatch text messages effortlessly, harnessing the power of WiFi or cellular data without dipping into any allocated cell minutes. A safeguard for personal privacy, Dingtone equips users with a secondary phone number, fortifying the shield around their personal contact details. The application unfolds a tapestry of authentic phone numbers spanning diverse countries, affording users the flexibility to connect with any destination across over 230 countries, all at remarkably affordable rates. Dingtone goes a step further by streamlining cost-effective international calls and SMS, playing a pivotal role in augmenting users’ fiscal prudence. The feature-rich app encompasses a suite of additional functionalities, including caller ID, call blocking, call forwarding, voicemail services, a walkie-talkie feature, and instant messaging capabilities—ushering in a holistic communication experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How can I get a free 800 number for my business?

Most companies providing free numbers typically offer complimentary local area code numbers. Acquiring a toll-free number involves an upfront investment, so if you aim to provide this service to your customers, there are affordable options available.

2. How can I get a free U.S. phone number?

The majority of these services offer free U.S. phone numbers (except iNum, which provides international phone numbers if needed). Possessing a phone number with a local area code can assist in establishing a presence in your selected market.

3. Why get a business phone number?

Enhanced Professionalism: A dedicated business phone number is crucial for presenting a professional image to clients, vendors, and contractors. This not only facilitates communication but also meets the requirements of many social media platforms.

Efficient Communication: A direct phone line enables quick and streamlined communication with clients, preventing potential delays and dissatisfaction associated with slower communication methods like emails or customer service bots.

Increased Productivity: The efficiency of phone calls allows for information-dense exchanges, contributing to heightened productivity. This is especially beneficial for addressing sudden questions and concerns, surpassing the limitations of email communication in resolving conflicts swiftly.

4. What are the different types of free phone numbers that are available to businesses?

The sought-after types of free phone numbers for most businesses encompass local phone numbers, international phone numbers, toll-free phone numbers, vanity phone numbers, and virtual phone numbers. Local phone numbers enable businesses to establish a local presence in a specific city or region by featuring a phone number with a local area code. International phone numbers facilitate receiving calls in international cities without the need for a physical location in that city. Toll-free numbers enable callers to contact you without incurring any phone charges, utilizing prefixes like 800, 888, 877, and so forth. A vanity number provides your company with a memorable phone number, often incorporating your name into the digits. For instance, a delivery service could have a phone number like (877) 268-7437 or (877) COURIER. A virtual phone number can be either a toll-free or local phone number routed through a standard phone line (landline) or an internet-connected device, often serving as a secondary business or personal phone line.

5. What are the most important factors when choosing a free phone number for my business?

Considerations in selecting a phone service include the type needed—mobile, landline, or a combination. Evaluate whether long-distance or international calling is necessary in the plan accompanying your free phone number. Determine if multiple numbers are required for your business and identify essential features like voicemail, call forwarding, or a local phone number.

What Is VoIP?

A VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) system serves as a communication platform utilizing devices such as computers, smartphones, VoIP phones, or WebRTC-enabled browsers for making phone calls and transmitting information across different locations. This is achieved through an internet connection. Its operation contrasts with that of a conventional landline phone, which relies on copper wires to transmit analog signals.

In contrast to landlines, VoIP employs a broadband internet connection to transfer data. The original analog data is converted into digital form for transmission and then reverts to an analog signal to facilitate comprehension.

VoIP systems often function as comprehensive office solutions, providing features like voicemail, call recording, custom caller ID, and voicemail-to-text. Many offices leverage VoIP technology to establish a unified communications system, facilitating seamless interaction between teams and enhancing communication with both customers and internal collaborators.

SIP vs. VoIP

SIP and VoIP are two acronyms frequently encountered in the realm of phone systems:

• SIP, short for Session Initiation Protocol, serves as a technology that facilitates numerous VoIP sessions. This open-source communications protocol is known for its speed between two points, enabling various data transfers such as voice, file sharing, instant messaging, video conferencing, and multimedia sessions.
• VoIP, technically representing the voice component of a system’s capabilities, is the protocol responsible for enabling voice telephone calls over an internet connection. Its usage is not confined to specialized VoIP phones; you can make calls from a computer or mobile device with an internet connection.

VoIP technology can operate independently when only phone call capabilities are required. On the other hand, for additional data-sharing functionalities, a SIP system is necessary. However, the market often labels more comprehensive solutions as VoIP solutions, leading to potential confusion among consumers.

How To Choose the Best VoIP Provider

Are you having difficulty finding a reliable VoIP service provider? The abundance of competing VoIP service providers can be confusing. With many options available, it can be difficult to discern the most suitable choice, especially considering that some providers even offer free VoIP services. Here are the key factors to consider when evaluating the best business VoIP services.

VoIP Cost

VoIP expenses can vary based on several factors, encompassing service type, user quantity, and included features. Providers may employ flat-rate pricing, usage-based charges, or a fee structure related to the number of required phone lines.

Key cost-influencing factors include:

• Service Type: Cloud-based VoIP systems are often more cost-effective than on-premises solutions.
• Number of Users: Service costs tend to rise with an increasing user count, although negotiating bulk pricing might be possible with certain providers.
• Additional Features: Some providers levy extra charges for features like call recording, call forwarding, and voicemail.

To mitigate costs, consider these strategies:

• Negotiate Pricing: Engage in negotiations with your provider to explore potential cost reductions.
• Opt for Flat-Rate Pricing: Choose a VoIP service that offers a straightforward, flat-rate pricing model.
• Explore International Calling Options: Seek providers offering free or cost-effective international calling plans.
• Avoid Unnecessary Features: Forego features and services that aren’t essential for your business needs.

When deciding between costlier and more economical options, assess the following:

• Feature Requirements: Consider whether a pricier option includes features beyond your necessities, while a cheaper alternative might lack critical functionalities.
• Budget Constraints: Evaluate whether a higher-priced option exceeds your budget, and if a more affordable alternative is financially viable. Consider potential cost-saving measures to afford your preferred choice.
• Service Quality: Cheaper alternatives may compromise on reliability and customer service compared to their more expensive counterparts. Researching consumer reviews can provide insights into real user experiences with VoIP services.

Call Quality and Uptime

Several factors can affect the quality of calls and the uptime of VoIP services. These factors include:

• Network Congestion: Slow or unreliable internet connections can lead to delays, jitter, and dropped calls.
• Quality of Service (QoS): QoS is a method that prioritizes internet traffic, ensuring that VoIP calls receive priority over other types of traffic.
• Codecs: Codecs are responsible for compressing and decompressing audio data, and the choice of codecs can impact call quality.
• Hardware: The quality of the user’s hardware, such as their microphone and speakers, can also influence call quality.
• Service Provider’s Network: The Quality of Service and reliability of the service provider’s network are crucial for maintaining call quality and uptime.

To evaluate a provider’s call quality and uptime during the selection process, consider the following steps:

• Request References and Case Studies: Ask the provider for references and case studies from current customers.
• Read Online Reviews: Check online reviews and ratings of the provider to gather insights from other users.
• Inquire About Network Architecture: Ask the provider about its network architecture and the measures it employs to ensure call quality and uptime.
• Utilize Free Trial: Test the service using a free trial period to assess its performance firsthand.
• Review Service Level Agreements (SLAs): Inquire about the provider’s SLAs, which outline guaranteed levels of uptime and call quality—often, providers offer a 99.99% uptime guarantee.

Popular VoIP Phone Service Features

Consider the following key features when selecting a VoIP phone provider:

1. Customer Support: Assess the availability of 24/7 support, as some providers may offer it only during business hours or charge extra for phone support. Choose based on your business needs.
2. Toll-Free Numbers: Verify whether the providers under consideration offer toll-free numbers, a feature valuable to certain businesses.
3. Automated Attendant: Streamline call transfers without a receptionist using an automated system. This may include an Interactive Voice Response (IVR) system.
4. Caller ID: Set the tone for calls by identifying the caller, particularly crucial in sales and service industries.
5. Call Holding: Enable the placing of callers on hold to address other matters before attending to their needs.
6. Call Queuing: Automatically places callers on hold, organizing them in a queue based on the order of their initial call, also known as Automatic Call Distribution (ACD).
7. Music on Hold: Retain caller interest during holds with background music, enhancing the waiting experience.
8. Custom Ringback: Customize what inbound callers hear while waiting, typically a message or jingle.
9. Hot Desking: Allow employees to sign in to any connected device for access to messages and calls.
10. Call Flipping: Also known as call pulling, this enables switching calls from one device to another while maintaining the connection.
11. Conferencing Tools: Facilitate audio or video conferencing with employees or custom groups.
12. Call Monitoring: Empower managers to listen to calls for training purposes, often accompanied by a notification of monitoring for quality assurance.
13. Call Whispering: Technology enabling managers to provide real-time coaching by whispering into the ear of a phone representative during a call.
14. Call Barging: Allows managers to take over a call if the representative struggles to meet customer needs.
15. Transcriptions: Provide written records of calls for training or evidentiary purposes.
16. Call Recording: Allow managers to review not just the content but also the tone and inflection of calls.
17. Speed Dial: Time-saving functionality enabling employees to quickly dial frequently called numbers.
18. Call Forwarding: Redirect calls to another device, facilitating communication from locations beyond the office.
19. Digital Faxing: Eliminate the need for traditional fax machines, enabling faxing from computers.
20. Integrations: Evaluate the compatibility of VoIP systems with other software, such as CRM platforms, to enhance business functionality.
21. Call Analytics: Provide managers with essential data on call times and insights for improved decision-making.
22. Live Chat: A contemporary alternative preferred by many consumers, offering real-time communication without the need for callbacks.

Selecting VoIP Phone Features for Your Business

Beyond the twenty popular features mentioned earlier, there are numerous other considerations when selecting a VoIP system. Therefore, thorough research is crucial in determining the most suitable service plan and features for your organization.

When deciding on the VoIP system features to include in your service plans or as add-ons, it’s advisable to consider the following:

• User Accessibility: Determine how many individuals will have access to the service tool.
• Collaboration and Communication: Assess whether the feature facilitates collaboration and communication within your organization.
• Value for Money: Evaluate if the feature provides good value for the investment made.
• Productivity and Efficiency: Consider whether the feature enhances overall productivity and efficiency.
• Business Impact: Determine if lacking the feature would adversely affect your business operations.
• Feedback from Clients or Staff: Gather insights from clients or staff who may have suggestions or feedback regarding the use of specific features.

Once you can address similar considerations regarding which VoIP features to invest in, proceed with selecting the options that best align with the needs and goals of your business.

Benefits of VoIP

In our assessment, VoIP stands out as a reliable system, utilizing a robust infrastructure of fiber optic and broadband cables for transmitting internet data. In contrast, the utilization of copper wire in traditional landline phones frequently results in reduced efficiency, leading to numerous instances of dropped calls or line interference.

Upon embracing a VoIP phone system, users gain access to a plethora of features. It’s important to highlight that many of these benefits stem from SIP (Session Initiation Protocol) technology but seamlessly integrate into VoIP systems.

Despite their extensive functionality, VoIP systems often offer a more cost-effective solution compared to acquiring a landline for an equivalent number of phones.

Drawbacks of VoIP

VoIP offers numerous advantages, but it comes with certain drawbacks that warrant consideration before making the transition. A primary disadvantage is the system’s dependence on internet connection quality—call quality is directly proportional to the strength of the internet connection. If the internet connection fails for any reason, your phone will also be non-functional. Lower-speed internet connections may lead to call issues such as dropped calls or jitter on the line.

Another concern with VoIP is that the connection is not always secure, potentially allowing unauthorized access to calls. It is crucial to inquire with the VoIP service provider about the use of high-level encryption to safeguard both personal and company data.

A final drawback of the VoIP system pertains to its handling in emergencies. Numbers may not always be local, as businesses expand their presence across specific regions while callers may be in different locations. In emergencies, responders typically rely on the telephone number to locate the caller for prompt assistance. Without an E911 emergency address linked to the VoIP line, the response time for aid may be prolonged.

How Does VoIP Work?

VoIP relies on an internet connection to operate, requiring specific hardware to support data transmission. This hardware typically includes a personal computer and a cable modem. If making calls from a traditional phone, a phone adapter is required or a VoIP-enabled phone can be used. The converter converts analog signals into digital signals, facilitating transmission over the internet. During the call, the data is converted back into an analog signal for the other party to understand.

When using VoIP from a mobile phone, a wireless internet connection allows data transmission. Data is stored in the cloud and can be accessed through a dashboard on a computer or mobile device. This stored data may include contacts and business phone numbers.

Types of VoIP Services

Many business owners assume that all VoIP systems are identical, but there are variations in the types of VoIP services available.

Hosted VoIP

Distinguishing between a hosted VoIP service and an on-premises VoIP solution is crucial. In an on-premises setup, the company deploying the system is responsible for installing and maintaining everything, including equipment and connections. Conversely, with a hosted VoIP system, the provider takes on the maintenance responsibilities, and the business deploying the phone system only needs to provide phones and an internet connection. The provider covers all other significant hardware costs.

Cloud-Based VoIP

Cloud-based VoIP phone systems utilize the internet for making calls and host all data on the provider’s server network. Opting for this phone system type means businesses can forgo managing hardware; they only need to plug in the phones and start dialing.

UCaaS

Unified Communications as a Service (UCaaS) is a cloud-based communications technology that relies on six essential functions:

• Telephone capacity
• Audio, video, and web conferencing
• Unified messaging
• Instant messaging
• Mobility
• Business processes enabled by communications

UCaaS extends beyond traditional VoIP solutions by incorporating SIP (Session Initiation Protocol) solutions. These systems can be tailored to meet specific business requirements, and top UCaaS providers contribute to enhancing processes and optimizing daily operations for businesses.

CPaaS

Communications Platform as a Service (CPaaS) delivers personalized, cloud-based communication services for unified communications systems. Its adaptable nature allows seamless customization to suit any business and its specific needs. All components are integrated to operate in real-time within the platform, eliminating the necessity to access external systems.

Fixed vs. Non-Fixed VoIP Services

According to our research and evaluation, fixed VoIP services use a dedicated Internet connection, such as DSL or cable, providing enhanced reliability, consistent call quality and uptime. They provide a more secure environment because the internet connection is not shared with other users. Examples of fixed VoIP services include residential VoIP services, business VoIP services, and hosted PBX services.

In contrast, non-permanent VoIP services operate through a shared internet connection, such as Wi-Fi or cellular networks. These services tend to be less reliable, with the possibility of dropped calls or reduced call quality due to network congestion. They are also less secure due to the shared nature of the internet connection. Examples of non-stationary VoIP services include mobile VoIP services, WebRTC services, and SIP trunking.

From the above analysis, we conclude: Fixed VoIP services are very suitable for businesses that require high reliability and security, while non-fixed VoIP services are more suitable for individuals. or businesses that prioritize mobility and flexibility.

VoIP Hardware and Equipment

VoIP hardware and equipment refers to the devices and peripherals needed to make and receive VoIP calls. While this varies by provider, there are four main types of equipment.

The types of equipment needed for VoIP typically include:

• IP phones: These are specialized phones that connect to the internet and work with VoIP systems. They often have similar features to traditional phones, such as a keypad and display.
• Adapters: These devices allow traditional analog phones to work with VoIP systems. They plug into the phone and convert the analog signals into digital signals that can be transmitted over the internet.
• Headphones: Some VoIP services require the use of a headset or headphones with a built-in microphone. This allows for hands-free operation and better sound quality.
• Conference phones: Some VoIP services also support conference calls, in which case a conference phone is needed.

Service providers typically offer a variety of equipment options and some providers include the cost of the equipment as part of their plans, while others may charge extra for the equipment or require the customer to purchase it separately.

Companies can also use their existing equipment, such as analog phones, with an adapter. However, the quality of the call may not be as good as it would be with an IP phone designed specifically for VoIP systems.

Setting Up Your VoIP System

Setting up a VoIP system involves several key steps, starting with the selection of the right VoIP provider. Opt for a provider that not only offers the necessary hardware support, such as office phones but also provides E911 calls, which furnish emergency responders with the caller’s callback number and location.

Determine the number of lines required for your business and address additional needs, such as porting over an existing number to the new system. If maintaining consistent numbers is crucial, communicate this requirement to the provider during the service sign-up process.

Once you’ve selected a provider and they’ve completed the initial setup on their end, the next step is to plug in the system. This involves connecting the communication device (phone or computer) to the internet. The provider will guide you through the configuration steps to ensure proper call transfer across the network. Conduct tests to identify and troubleshoot any issues that may arise during the setup process.

VoIP Use Cases

VoIP technology offers a range of applications and advantages across various industries and business scenarios. Some prevalent use cases include:

• Remote Workers: VoIP enables remote workers to conduct calls as if they were in the office, fostering productivity and collaboration. This proves especially valuable for companies with employees dispersed across different locations or working remotely.
• Customer Service Centers: VoIP facilitates the establishment of virtual call centers, allowing customer service representatives to operate from any location with an internet connection. This can lead to cost reduction and enhanced service quality.
• Healthcare: VoIP technology connects doctors and nurses with patients, enabling remote consultations and reducing the necessity for in-person visits.
• Education: VoIP supports the creation of virtual classrooms, enabling students to attend classes remotely. This proves beneficial for students in remote areas or with mobility challenges.
• Retail and E-commerce: Virtual call centers powered by VoIP technology efficiently handle customer inquiries and support, contributing to cost reduction and improved service quality.

Beyond these, VoIP technology finds applications in industries such as construction, finance, nonprofits, government agencies, and more. As the technology continues to advance, the potential use cases for VoIP will expand further.

VoIP Regulatory Concerns

According to our research, VoIP is subject to various regulations, especially in the United States, where the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has established regulations to govern VoIP services. These regulations are intended to ensure consumers have access to reliable and affordable VoIP services while promoting market competition. Key legal concerns with VoIP include:

• Emergency Services: The FCC requires VoIP providers to provide the same emergency services as traditional telephone companies. This includes the ability to dial 911, access emergency services, and provide the caller’s location information to responders.
• Accessibility: The FCC requires VoIP providers to provide services that are accessible to people with disabilities, incorporating features such as text-to-speech and translation services. Phone service with subtitles.
• Number portability: The FCC requires VoIP providers to allow customers to retain their phone number when switching to another provider.
• Interoperability: The FCC actively promotes the interoperability of various VoIP networks and services.
• Call records: The FCC requires VoIP providers to maintain records of all calls made and received, providing these records to law enforcement under request.

It is important that companies stay up to date on these regulations and ensure compliance to avoid possible penalties or fines. The FCC provides detailed information and guidance on its website, and companies should regularly check for updates because regulations may change over time.

Best VoIP Services of 2024

1. RingCentral: Best for Comprehensive Features

RingCentral earns our top recommendation for the best VoIP phone service due to its excellent combination of features and pricing. With a starting point of $20 per user per month (or $30 per user for monthly payments), the basic plan provides unlimited calling in the U.S. and Canada, along with features like voicemail-to-text, call log reports, document sharing, and team messaging.

For users requiring additional features such as international calling or toll-free numbers, there are higher-priced plans available for upgrade. RingCentral also offers various add-ons, including extra vanity numbers for a one-time fee of $30 and high-volume SMS at 0.0085 cents per message sent/received.

During our testing of RingCentral, our expert was notably impressed with its user-friendly interface and seamless usability across multiple devices. The service stood out for its simplicity and had an interface suitable for users with varying levels of familiarity with VoIP and UCaaS service providers.

Features:

• Audio Conferencing
• Business SMS
• Seamless Device Switching and One-Click Call-to-Video
• Call Logs and History
• Call Screening and Blocking
• Caller ID
• Multi-Site Management
• Hot Desking

2. Zoom Phone: Best Budget VoIP Service

While Zoom is commonly associated with video conferencing, it also provides cost-effective phone calling solutions for businesses. Its three budget-friendly plans cover calling and texting in the U.S. and Canada, and users can opt for an upgrade for affordable unlimited domestic and international calling. By combining Zoom Phone with the already free-to-use Meetings, businesses can enhance communication and collaboration without concerns about exceeding their budget.

Zoom seamlessly integrates with numerous popular apps, including Slack, HubSpot, Google Workspace, and Salesforce. Additionally, Zoom Phone offers Hardware as a Service, starting as low as $5.99 per device per month.

For those requiring toll-free numbers, Zoom provides them as an add-on starting at $60 per year. However, if you prefer this to be included in your service plan without additional charges, you may want to explore other service providers. While there are VoIP service options with a broader range of features, we believe that very small teams could derive significant savings from Zoom Phone’s service plans.

Features:

• Standard capabilities like call forwarding, call hold, call transfers, shared contact directory, incoming call notifications, caller information, and voicemail options.
• Customizable call parameters for selective U-M number notifications.
• Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) for U-M number calls on chosen devices, eliminating the use of personal cell phone numbers.
• U-M Presence on softphones indicating online, offline, busy, or in a meeting status for effective communication within the university community.
• Effortless conference calls with easy participant addition and call merging.
• Quick call switching between devices using the softphone application.
• Seamless transition from voice calls to Zoom Meetings without manual participant joining.
• E911 Emergency calling through Zoom Phone Mobile App, Desktop App, or deskset.
• Customized business, closed, and holiday hours.
• Unique call handling options for busy, on another call, unanswered calls, with the ability to forward to internal numbers, external numbers, or voicemails.
• Call Delegation allows another user to handle calls on your behalf, such as administrative assistants managing calls for executives.

3. Dialpad: Best for Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Coming in at number 3 on the list is Dialpad – a cloud based VoIP service that offers unlimited calling, customizable voicemail greetings, unlimited SMS and MMS, transcription voicemail, call forwarding, and seamless integration with Google Workspace and Microsoft Office.

The Pro plan includes CRM integration with Salesforce or HubSpot and support for integration with Zapier, Zendesk, and Slack. For advanced customization, users can take advantage of its API and webhooks. The dial pad features Voice Intelligence, actively listening to calls, taking notes, and managing tasks. Voice intelligence can create call highlights and videos as well as identify unknown numbers.

In addition to its comprehensive VoIP features and user-friendly software, our expert highlighted Dialpad’s unique sense of humor and meta approach to its service. Despite the growing use of AI, Dialpad maintains a human touch that customers can appreciate.

Features:

• Voicemail: Voicemail with accurate transcriptions and custom greetings
• Business Phone App: A versatile business phone app compatible with iOS, Android, PC, and Mac
• Porting Numbers: Retain your phone numbers seamlessly when transitioning to Dialpad
• Visual Voicemail: Save time with Dialpad Ai transcribing your voicemails
• Local Presence: Utilize a local number to target prospects outside your region effectively
• Caller ID: Safeguard your personal number with custom caller ID on your cell phone
• Simultaneous Ring: Direct incoming calls to all connected devices simultaneously
• Virtual Phone Number: Obtain a virtual phone number for your business within minutes
• Business Phone Number: Set up a local number for work quickly and easily
• Business Text Messaging: Communicate via SMS, MMS, and group messaging for business purposes

4. Nextiva: Best for Ease of Use

Ranked 4th in the list of Best VoIP Services is Nextiva. It stands out as the best VoIP service in terms of ease of use. The company offers a range of features, such as unlimited calling in the US and Canada, a toll-free number, unlimited internet faxing, and seamless Outlook/Google contacts integration, along with the ability to share screen sharing.

What sets Nextiva apart is its user-friendly interface, which offers a dashboard that simplifies account management and user adjustments. With an impressive 99.999% uptime, users can count on the reliability of their calls. Nextiva’s plans start at $23.95 per user per month.

However, it’s worth noting that during testing we observed differences in Nextiva’s feature availability between desktop and mobile. Specifically, certain team collaboration features accessible on desktop computers are not available when using the app on smartphones.

Features:

• Call Screening: Evaluate incoming calls to filter spam and prioritize customer needs.
• Auto Attendant: Streamline call routing with instant automated greetings for quicker connections.
• Anonymous Call Rejection: Enhance privacy by rejecting calls from blocked or private numbers.
• Conversational AI: Improve caller experience with advanced IVR and natural language interaction.
• Nextiva Chat Widget: Enable real-time interactions, and swift responses, and gain insights into customer experience.
• Convert Chats to Cases: Streamline support by converting chat interactions into unified “Cases” for efficient management.

5. Intermedia Unite: Best All-in-One UCaaS

Ranked 5th is Intermedia Unite. It goes beyond standard VoIP service, providing a comprehensive solution for businesses. The Unite Pro plan includes unlimited calling, business SMS, group messaging, HD audio/video conferencing, and web fax, making it an all-in-one hub. With just two plans, Unite Pro and Unite Enterprise, customers have access to a variety of collaboration and phone system features without upgrading. While the standard plan lacks some features included by competitors, Intermedia Unite’s upfront price and efficient UCaaS setup make it a worthy option.

Features:

• Contact Management: Organize and manage your contacts efficiently.
• Call Recording: Capture and store audio recordings of phone conversations.
• Call Center Management: Tools for effectively managing and optimizing call center operations.
• Call Monitoring: Supervise and assess live phone calls for quality control and training.
• Inbound Reporting: Receive detailed insights and analytics on incoming call data.
• IVR / Voice Recognition: Implement Interactive Voice Response for automated call handling.
• Outbound Reporting: Obtain comprehensive analytics on outgoing call activities.
• Voice & Data Integration: Seamlessly integrate voice communication with data systems.
• VoIP: Make phone calls over the internet, enhancing communication flexibility.
• Encryption: Secure communication by encrypting voice data for privacy.
• Auto Dialer: Automate the dialing process for increased efficiency.
• Call Parking: Temporarily hold calls in a virtual parking space for later retrieval.
• Unified Communications: Integrate various communication tools for streamlined collaboration.
• Ring Groups: Group incoming calls to specific numbers for efficient call distribution.
• Voice Quality Enhancement: Implement features to enhance the clarity and quality of voice communication.

6. 8×8: Best for Medium Businesses and Up

In recent years, 8×8 has undergone significant evolution while maintaining high scalability. The X2 plan boasts a comprehensive set of business phone essentials, featuring unlimited chat, content sharing, video conferencing, visual voicemail, unlimited domestic calling, A/V conferencing for up to 500 participants, and meeting recording and transcription. Notably, users can now stream meetings publicly or privately on YouTube.

Initially recommended for small businesses on a budget, our recent review positions 8×8 as particularly well-suited for medium to enterprise-level companies. While smaller businesses could still utilize 8×8, our list includes more cost-effective options with simpler setups that align well with smaller team dynamics.

The standout feature noted by our expert reviewer was 8×8’s exceptional customer service, ranking as the best among all tested products. The sales team facilitated a smooth sign-up process, and when assistance was later required, the support representative exhibited friendliness, expertise, and efficiently guided the expert back on track.

Features:

• Key Calling Features
• Call Analytics
• Unlimited Calling
• HD Voice
• Setup of Virtual and Toll-Free Numbers
• Conference Calling
• Auto Attendant
• Mobile and Desktop Apps
• Voicemail-to-Email Transcription
• Online Faxing
• Video Meetings
• SMS Messaging
• CRM Integrations
• Team App Integrations

7. Ooma Office: Best No-Contract VoIP Service

Offering over 50 features in its standard tier, Ooma Office provides competitive pricing without any contract requirements. Enjoy unlimited calls within the United States, Puerto Rico, and Canada, with the added benefit of free calls to Mexico. Whether you opt for a toll-free number or choose to port an existing business phone number, Ooma Office caters to your communication needs.

With Ooma’s app, you can seamlessly receive calls on any device. The service also includes a virtual receptionist and the flexibility to ring multiple extensions. Despite these impressive phone system features, Ooma Office falls lower on our ranking because its standard tier lacks video conferencing tools and several popular integrations. Other competitors typically include these features as standard, setting Ooma apart in this aspect.

Features:

• Record Calls: Capture and save phone conversations.
• Advanced Ring Groups: Organize and manage incoming calls with sophisticated grouping options.
• Video Conferencing on Any Device with an Internet Connection: Conduct video meetings seamlessly across various devices with internet access.
• Caller Info Match: Match incoming calls with relevant caller information.
• Dynamic Caller ID: Display dynamically changing caller IDs for enhanced identification.
• Hot Desking: Facilitate shared workspaces with flexible desk assignments.
• Enhanced Call Blocking: Strengthen the ability to block unwanted calls.
• Voicemail Transcription: Convert voicemail messages into text for easy review.
• Call Queuing: Efficiently manage and organize incoming calls in a queue.
• Call Analytics: Access detailed insights and analytics related to call activities.
• Salesforce Integration: Seamlessly integrate the system with Salesforce for enhanced workflow.
• Find Me, Follow Me: Enable a feature that ensures calls reach you wherever you are by following your designated locations.

8. Google Voice: Best Free VoIP Service

Google Voice is a user-friendly VoIP service that comes at no cost and is accessible to anyone with a Google account and an existing phone number. While this setup is suitable for entrepreneurs and very small businesses aiming to conceal personal contact information, the premium business phone plans offered by Google Voice address certain limitations. The Starter tier, starting at per user per month, provides unlimited calling and texting within the U.S., as well as covering calls to Canada and most of Europe.

It’s essential to note that Google Voice is primarily a phone plan and lacks the direct inclusion of video and chat features found in comprehensive plans offered by competing VoIP providers. Despite this, Google Voice’s free and budget-friendly plans can serve well for businesses seeking a cost-effective means of communication, particularly when establishing connectivity on a tight budget.

However, it’s crucial to be aware of some drawbacks associated with Google Voice. These include a notably brief window of time to answer calls and the occasional occurrence of dropped calls.

Features:

• Applications for Desktop, Mobile, and Web: Access the service through dedicated applications on desktop computers, mobile devices, and web browsers for a versatile user experience.
• Voice Calling: Make and receive voice calls using the provided communication platform.
• SMS Texting: Send and receive text messages through the service.
• Ring Groups: Organize and manage incoming calls by grouping them based on predefined criteria.
• Auto Attendant: Employ an automated system to handle incoming calls and direct them to the appropriate extensions or departments.
• Local Phone Numbers: Acquire phone numbers with local area codes to establish a local presence.
• Integrations with Google Meet and Google Calendar: Seamlessly connect and synchronize with Google Meet for video conferencing and Google Calendar for scheduling and organization.
• Voicemail Transcription: Convert voicemail messages into text for easy review and retrieval.

9. Aircall: Best for Enterprise-Level Companies

Coming in at number 9 on the list is Aircall, which offers access to over 100 integrations and includes unlimited calling within the US and Canada. However, it boasts the highest starting price of the VoIP options we reviewed for this list, and it lacks access to popular UCaaS features like video conferencing; Its audio conferencing feature is limited to five participants.

For companies operating at the enterprise level or close to a flexible budget, Aircall can be a valuable investment. However, for smaller teams looking for essential features without a significant budget commitment, Aircall may not be the most suitable choice.

Features:

• Phone Numbers: Aircall offers business numbers in 100+ countries.
• Call Routing: Utilize intelligent routing for efficient call management.
• IVR (Interactive Voice Response): Enhance customer service with self-guided call menus.
• Queueing and Callbacks: Manage wait times with call queuing and automated callbacks.
• Agent Collaboration Tools: Ensure teamwork for seamless call queue operation.
• SMS Business Texting: Two-way messaging in the US, UK, Australia, and France.
• After-Call Work: Provide agents dedicated time for post-call tasks.
• Real-Time Modifications: Adapt to changing scenarios instantly.

10. Grasshopper: Best for Small Businesses

Ranked last in the list of Best VoIP Services is Grasshopper. This tool uses a flat monthly fee structure of (when billed annually), avoiding per-user fees, which is beneficial for small businesses and the self-employed. This service includes business messaging, call forwarding, custom greetings, extensions, call forwarding, and virtual fax.

During the testing of the Grasshopper, the speed of sending and receiving calls impressed us, minimizing the risk of missed calls. User-friendly interface on both desktop and mobile enhances navigation. Although call quality was a bit blurry, the audio was clear enough to support effective communication.

Notably, since plans are categorized based on quantity, users will receive the complete feature set regardless of payment tier. However, it lacks the integration and video features found in our top two picks, making it especially suitable for smaller teams.

Features:

• Call Routing: Direct incoming calls efficiently to designated extensions or numbers.
• Call Recording: Capture and store audio from phone conversations for later reference.
• Call Monitoring: Supervise and assess ongoing calls for quality and training purposes.
• IVR / Voice Recognition: Implement an Interactive Voice Response system for automated call interactions.
• Call Logging: Record and track details of incoming and outgoing calls.
• Mobile Access: Enjoy access to Grasshopper’s features on mobile devices for on-the-go management.
• Call Transfer: Seamlessly transfer calls between different extensions or team members.
• Employee Directory: Maintain an organized listing of team members for quick reference and connectivity.

Common VoIP Add-Ons

As VoIP is a holistic solution commonly provided by most service providers, additional features are available for customization to tailor your business communication system to its specific requirements.

Virtual and Vanity Phone Numbers

When inquiring about a phone number, you have the option to request either a virtual phone number or a vanity phone number. A virtual phone number enables you to possess a number from a geographic region outside your current location, facilitating enhanced customer service worldwide. On the other hand, a vanity phone number is memorable as it incorporates letters with the numbers, often reflecting a segment of the company name or slogan.

Video Conferencing

Businesses have the option to utilize video conferencing for internal meetings or to facilitate virtual face-to-face interactions with customers. This practice has become an integral aspect of the evolving business model, especially in the post-pandemic landscape, and is increasingly considered a desirable addition for most businesses. VoIP seamlessly incorporates top-notch video conferencing software alongside essential calling functions.

Conference Calling

Conducting conference calls is a crucial method for organizing virtual meetings or seminars. Leading VoIP providers employ state-of-the-art conference call technology to ensure a smooth and seamless experience.

CRM

Many businesses seek phone systems that seamlessly integrate with their customer relationship management (CRM) software. This integration ensures that phone representatives can access relevant client details and purchase information during calls, offering an efficient way to equip your team with valuable data. Leading VoIP providers collaborate with top-tier CRM systems to facilitate this integration.

2024 VoIP Trends

Unified Communications as a Service Is on the Rise

VoIP technology stands as the cornerstone for models like Unified Communications as a Service (UCaaS), gaining popularity, particularly after the upheaval caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The transition to remote work has underscored the significance of VoIP-based systems, facilitating efficient communication among employees through diverse channels, and eliminating the need for a physical connection.

UCaaS has evolved to encompass a spectrum of communication tools—voice calls, instant chat, video calling, email integration, and file sharing. These functionalities are pivotal in global communication, and VoIP technology underlies them all. In a competitive environment, UCaaS providers offering an array of connection methods to partners and customers position themselves for future success.

Our analysis indicates the UCaaS market is poised to sustain its growth trajectory into 2024 and beyond. In 2020, the market value reached approximately $38.74 billion, with forecasts pointing to a substantial surge to $210.07 billion by 2028.

Integration Into Existing Tech Stacks

Integrating VoIP systems into established business operating systems and tech stacks has become more seamless than before. Cloud-based systems enable the addition of extra components to the current system with minimal effort. VoIP tools that are easily adaptable and complement existing systems will hold a clear advantage in the years to come.

Smarter VoIP Assistants

Advances in language processing and machine learning have led to more intelligent and efficient voice assistants. AI quickly classifies and redirects incoming messages, provides accurate responses to basic customer queries, and decodes user behavior and emotions based on conversation content and tone . The assistant automatically transmits interaction data back to the system for analysis, enhancing future interactions. The development of AI voice assistants is expected to continue to improve in 2024 and beyond.

Increased Focus on Security

Similar to any internet-based entity, VoIP faces susceptibility to cyber threats and attacks, posing significant risks to the businesses it serves. Security breaches can disrupt business operations and potentially lead to litigation from affected parties. Common risks to VoIP systems encompass phishing, DDoS attacks, call tampering, malware and viruses, Voice Over Misconfigured Internet Telephones (VOMIT), and Spam Over IP Telephony (SPIT).

In 2019, 38% of small businesses lacked systems for managing cybersecurity threats, and around 46% of illegal calls originated from VoIP systems. In 2024, we anticipate companies leveraging VoIP technology to allocate increased resources to secure the networks crucial for business operations. This proactive approach ensures uninterrupted business functionality and the continued protection and service to customers.

Here’s a guide to ensure your security:

• Encryption: Opt for VoIP providers using encryption methods like AES or SSL to safeguard voice and data transmissions.
• Authentication: Ensure VoIP providers employ authentication methods, such as usernames, passwords, digital certificates, or biometric authentication, for authorized system access.
• Firewall: Utilize a firewall to prevent unauthorized access to your VoIP system, either through providers offering firewall services or allowing the use of your firewall.
• Antivirus and Antimalware: Safeguard your VoIP system from malware and viruses by choosing providers offering antivirus and antimalware protection.
• Network Monitoring: Detect security breaches and issues with network monitoring; select providers offering monitoring and reporting capabilities for enhanced security tracking.
• Regular Software Updates: Opt for VoIP providers that regularly release software updates, addressing security vulnerabilities and providing automatic updates for easy system maintenance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best business VoIP service?

The leading VoIP phone services for businesses in the current market are RingCentral, Dialpad, and Zoom Phone. These providers deliver sought-after VoIP features like toll-free numbers and voicemail transcription at budget-friendly rates starting from as low as $10 per month.

What do I need for a VoIP phone system?

For VoIP usage, a dependable and high-speed internet connection is essential. As a cloud-based tool, the absence of online service would impede its functionality.

Is VoIP the same as Wi-Fi calling?

VoIP and Wi-Fi calling share similarities. VoIP transmits digital data packets over the internet, which are then transformed into analog phone signals at the recipient’s end. Wi-Fi calling establishes a phone call through the internet instead of relying on a cell tower.

Are VoIP phones secure?

In general, using a VoIP phone, including a VoIP cellphone, is highly secure. However, there are measures you can implement to further enhance security. These include ensuring your VoIP provider offers an encrypted connection, deploying a Session Initiation Protocol (SIP)-capable firewall to filter all incoming calls for potentially risky content, and having your Information Technology (IT) staff create a Virtual Local Area Network (VLAN) for internal calls, safeguarding them from external threats. It’s crucial to maintain staff vigilance in using VoIP phones to mitigate risks such as voice phishing, also known as vishing.

Are all phones VoIP compatible?

Not every phone is compatible with VoIP. Some phones might necessitate an adapter to function with VoIP service. If you use a conventional landline phone, it’s essential to inquire with your VoIP provider about the necessity for an adapter or whether it offers IP phones that align with its service.

How do I get VoIP phone service?

To obtain VoIP phone service, you must locate a VoIP provider that extends service to your area and complete the sign-up process. You can conduct an online search, seek recommendations, or inquire with your internet service provider. After selecting a provider, they will dispatch the required equipment along with instructions for setting up and utilizing the service.

Can I fax over VoIP?

Faxing over VoIP is achievable using a fax machine or a computer equipped with a fax modem. Certain VoIP providers provide fax-to-email services, enabling the sending and receiving of faxes through email. Nonetheless, it’s crucial to verify with the provider for any extra costs or prerequisites associated with this service.

Can I port an existing number to VoIP?

The majority of VoIP providers permit you to transfer your current phone number to their service. This enables you to retain your existing phone number when transitioning to a VoIP service, offering convenience for both businesses and individuals. Consult the provider for any additional costs or requirements associated with the number porting process.

Do VoIP phones work without the internet?

VoIP phones rely on a steady and reliable internet connection. In the absence of a web connection, placing or receiving calls becomes impossible. Therefore, it is imperative to have a fast and stable internet speed to prevent any hindrance to VoIP performance—an essential factor in ensuring seamless communication between your business and its stakeholders every time.

What is an E-Commerce Platform?

In the era of technological development, especially the Internet, online business is an indispensable service. Online shopping is increasingly prioritized by many customers when the world has just experienced the COVID-19 epidemic (online shopping has become a habit). E-commerce platforms act as software solutions, helping businesses set up and operate their online stores. Its functionalities include aspects such as hosting, payment processing, website design, and more. Essentially, it offers a comprehensive set of tools to manage your store seamlessly. Notable examples of e-commerce platforms include Shopify, WooCommerce, Wix, and Squarespace.

Premium e-commerce platforms boast a wide range of features and integrations, empowering users to tailor their store exactly to their requirements. Furthermore, these platforms prioritize user-friendliness, ensuring a quick and hassle-free setup process for your store.

Let’s join SiSu Freedom to learn about the 10 best e-commerce platforms today!

What are the types of E-commerce Platforms?

• Software-as-a-Service (SaaS):
  E-commerce solutions from SaaS platforms such as Shopify and BigCommerce are delivered exclusively through the Internet, relying solely on software. This proves to be an accessible entry point for smaller businesses, as the infrastructure is pre-configured and ready for use. Customization involves theme adjustments or the integration of extensions through apps.
• Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS):
  Distinguishing itself from SaaS, PaaS platforms involve both software and hardware components. Similar to SaaS, PaaS typically levies a monthly usage fee and offers setup and support, making it a viable option for smaller companies. Magento stands out as a leading player in this domain.
• On-Premise Platform:
  Local hosting by the companies themselves characterizes on-premise e-commerce solutions, managed by their in-house IT staff. This approach grants established enterprises with ample resources greater control over their sites, making it a preferred choice for some.

Why do you need an E-commerce platform?

As design attracts a huge global audience numbering in the billions, creating an e-commerce platform that works for your business is paramount. The absence of this indispensable tool creates challenges for basic business functions. E-commerce platforms expertly manage critical operations, from navigating complex orders to facilitating seamless payment transactions.

Furthermore, the multifaceted capabilities inherent in e-commerce platforms, including aspects such as customer relationship management (CRM), inventory monitoring, website architecture, and warehouse handling, play a key role in not only streamlining operational processes but also driving improved scalability. The complex combination of these elements creates a path of development that enhances the business, ensuring a dynamic and unpredictable journey.

The Best E-Commerce Platforms of 2024

1. Shopify: Best for AI Functionality

At the top of the list, a very familiar name is Shopify. It is a leading e-commerce platform, known for its advanced feature set specifically designed for effective online selling. Its special strength lies in its series of dropshipping integrations, which facilitate easy online selling without the burden of maintaining inventory. The platform boasts a comprehensive onboarding process, which aims to help users generate enough revenue to offset the cost of their plan at the end of the three-day trial period.

In most cases, sellers find the Basic plan ($29 per month when billed annually) to be more than enough for their store’s needs. This plan includes benefits like up to two staff accounts, shipping discounts, POS access (via Shopify POS Lite, which is great for small events), and abandoned cart recovery.

In addition to the Basic plan, Shopify offers many other subscription levels, from a $5 monthly option to an enterprise-level plan that exceeds $2,000 per month. As the cost of the plan increases, transaction and credit card processing fees will decrease, along with significant discounts on shipping. The Starter plan costs $5 per month, and allows selling via social networks and messaging apps, but lacks a standalone online store to serve those who don’t require a dedicated website.

Features:

• Unified Order Management System for Your Entire Business
• Exceptional SEO Tools with Impactful Results
• Robust Analytics Tools for In-Depth Insights
• Customer Profiles, Accounts, and Groups Management
• Take Action on Abandoned Checkouts with Reviews
• Seamless Payment Integrations and Diverse Options
• Explore the World of Shopify Dropshipping
• Enhance In-Store Operations with Shopify POS

2. Wix: Best Drag-and-Drop Editor

Coming in at number 2 on the Best E-Commerce Platforms list is Wix – a leading all-in-one website builder that offers a highly customizable drag-and-drop website editor. Known for its intuitive interface and user-friendly experience, Wix offers a variety of high-quality online store templates that are free to use. Furthermore, it presents feature-rich plans designed to simplify the online selling process. These plans include valuable features like the ability to sell an unlimited number of products, implement an abandoned cart recovery strategy, and facilitate recurring payments.

However, something to note is that Wix has limits on storage capacity, capped at 50GB. Choosing unlimited storage comes with a higher price, specifically $159 per month with the Business Elite plan. This cost factor can pose a challenge for online stores with extensive inventory and content-heavy websites, especially those that rely on many product photos and incorporate blogs for marketing. Content.

Features:

• Dynamic Editor: A seamless Drag & Drop editor that functions flawlessly and allows you to relish the process of shaping your website according to your envisioned design.
• Diverse Templates: Choose from a collection of over 500 templates, easily customizable to cater to the unique needs of every user.
• Swift Performance: Experience exceptional speed as the entire platform operates with impressive efficiency, loading each element in the blink of an eye.
• Blog Management: Design and oversee your blog effortlessly through a straightforward and user-friendly dashboard.
• Personalized SEO Strategy: Allow Wix to assist you in crafting a personalized SEO plan, guiding you through the fundamentals of optimizing your website for search engines.
• Wix ADI: Harness the power of artificial intelligence as it walks you through every aspect of your site, providing guidance and insights.
• Mobile Optimization: Seamlessly work on the mobile version of your website independently for an enhanced user experience.
• Corvid by Wix: Elevate your site’s performance by utilizing Wix’s open development platform, Corvid, for advanced customization and improvements.

3. Shift4Shop: Best Free E-Commerce Platform

For those based in the U.S., your Shift4Shop plan comes at no cost if you utilize its credit card processor. However, you will incur standard credit card processing fees of 2.9% plus 30 cents per order. The plan offers robust features, including unlimited staff accounts, the flexibility to list as many products as needed and support for variations and digital downloads.

Opting for PayPal as your processor requires enrollment in a paid plan, with prices starting at $29 per month and scaling up to $299 per month. The number of staff accounts increases with the cost of the plan, providing greater flexibility and functionality as you move up the pricing tiers.

Features:

• Streamlined store design using a virtual store editor.
• Simplified product upload procedure.
• Assistance for recovering abandoned carts.
• Search engine optimization (SEO) assistance.
• Integration options for payment processing through Shift4 or PayPal.
• Mobile-friendly support.
• Efficient inventory management.
• Email marketing capabilities.
• Comprehensive reporting and analytics.
• Diverse shipping options.

4. Ecwid: Best for no Transaction Fees

Ecwid stands out as a premier e-commerce platform due to its absence of transaction fees (excluding standard credit card processing fees) and its provision of a free plan. Despite its unique name, which is a blend of “e-commerce” and “widget,” Ecwid caters specifically to existing websites, such as WordPress blogs. By incorporating Ecwid’s code into your site using HTML, you effortlessly transform it into a fully operational e-commerce store, eliminating the need to build a new site.

For those opting for the Venture plan, priced at $14.08 per month with annual billing, features include multichannel selling and point-of-sale (POS) capabilities. The Business plan, available at $29.08 per month with annual billing, offers additional perks like product variations, staff accounts, and abandoned cart emails. Moreover, with an annual subscription to the Unlimited plan at $82.50 per month, users gain access to their own branded iOS or Android shopping app.

Features:

• Seamless Integration: Easily integrates into existing websites, blogs, or social media pages (e.g., Facebook).
• Mobile-Friendly: Boasts a mobile-responsive design for a smooth shopping experience across devices.
• Cross-Platform Selling: Enables merchants to sell products on various platforms, including Instagram, Facebook, Amazon, and eBay.
• Flexible Payment Options: Supports multiple payment gateways, including major credit cards, PayPal, Stripe, and regional methods.
• Shipping and Tax Computation: Assists in calculating shipping costs and taxes, accommodating a variety of shipping carriers.
• Efficient Inventory Management: Provides tools for managing product catalogs, tracking stock levels, and handling product variations.
• SEO Optimization: Supplies SEO tools to optimize product listings for improved online store visibility.
• Responsive Storefronts: Designs storefronts to be responsive, ensuring consistency and appeal across different devices.
• Robust Security Measures: Employs security protocols, including SSL encryption, to safeguard customer and transaction data.
• App Integration: Allows merchants to extend store functionality through various apps in the Ecwid App Market.
• Customer Relationship Management: Empowers businesses to manage customer information, track order history, and implement discounts or loyalty programs.
• Product Filtering and Search: Supports product filters and search functionality for easy product discovery by customers.
• Analytics and Reporting Tools: Equips merchants with tools to track sales, monitor inventory, and generate reports for informed decisions.
• Automatic Updates: Automatically update to provide access to the latest features and security patches.
• Social Media Connectivity: Facilitates integration with various social media platforms, enabling direct sales through these channels.

5. Square Online: Best for Omnichannel Selling

Square is extensively utilized across diverse industries, be it a restaurant or a traditional brick-and-mortar boutique, owing to its chip reader and point-of-sale (POS) solutions. It earns a spot among our top recommendations due to its provision of a free plan, inclusive of multichannel selling options. This enables users to conduct sales on their e-commerce site, as well as on Facebook and Instagram. The platform’s inventory management feature facilitates seamless stock tracking, regardless of where a sale takes place.

However, the drawback of the free plan is the presence of Square ads. For those opting for paid plans, starting at $29 per month with annual billing, additional benefits include a free domain name for a year, an ad-free experience, and the ability to upload custom fonts. If a tailored plan to meet specific needs is desired, custom quotes can be requested.

It’s important to note that both the Free and Plus plans come with credit card transaction fees of 2.9% plus 30 cents.

Features:

• Website Dashboard: Provides a focused view for site-related activities upon login.
• Main Square Ecosystem Dashboard: Encompasses the entire Square ecosystem with dedicated sections for various services.
• Multiple Dashboards: Square Online features several dashboards, meeting the standard for SaaS platforms.
• Navigation Complexity: The process of navigating through dashboards may not be immediately obvious, leading to potential confusion.
• Essential SaaS Feature: Square Online aligns with the SaaS standard, offering an anticipated Dashboard feature.
• Login Experience: Users are directed to the dashboard upon signing up, ensuring quick access to key functionalities.

6. BigCommerce: Best for Boosting Sales

Coming in at number 6 on this list is BigCommerce – designed specifically for online sales, offering plans with all the features needed for lead generation and sales. Starting at $29 per month (billed annually), plans include unlimited storage, bandwidth, and products. The platform supports flexible sales with multiple currencies for international transactions and diverse payment options such as Apple Pay, Google Pay ,and Amazon Pay.

Creating an online store with BigCommerce is relatively simple, similar to Squarespace and Shopify, with a manageable learning curve. However, unlike Squarespace, the domain name is not included in the package and not all themes are free.

One notable difference is that BigCommerce plans place a cap on annual revenue. The basic plan is capped at $50,000, requiring a higher plan, like the Plus plan at $79 per month, for up to $180,000 in annual revenue. While this may impact the affordability of scaling, the platform’s integrated sales and marketing tools contribute to its overall value, making it This has become a viable option for many businesses.

Features:

• Single Page Checkout: Accelerates the checkout process, minimizing the chance for customer reconsideration.
• Mobile Payments: Partners with PayPal for popular mobile payments, including Apple Pay and Google Pay. Compatible with Stripe, Authorize.net, and over 60 other gateways.
• Multi-channel Sales: Integrates with major platforms like Amazon, eBay, Google, Facebook, and Pinterest for extensive visibility. Simplifies management through the Channel Manager.
• Multiple Currencies: Handles diverse currencies, managing tax calculations and shipping costs for global sales.
• Unlimited Products: Comprehensive product entry and storage, including detailed attributes for automation.
• Ratings and Reviews: Enables customer reviews, leveraging social proof for enhanced reputation.
• Marketing Tools: Built-in tools for social sharing and proofing, with additional features like customer segmentation and customizable discounts/coupons.
• Abandoned Cart Recovery: Exclusive to Plus plans and above, aids in recovering abandoned carts, potentially justifying the upgrade cost.
• Dashboard Utilization: A thoughtfully designed dashboard offers guidance on login, with customizable features for a personalized and user-friendly experience.

7. Squarespace: Best for Beginners

Squarespace provides a diverse selection of appealing templates, including many free options. While it lacks a free plan, its Business package starts at just $23 per month (with annual billing). This plan allows for the sale of an unlimited number of products, customization with CSS and JavaScript, and includes a professional email address from Google. There’s a lower-cost plan starting at $16 per month (billed annually), but it does not include e-commerce features.

For $27 per month (annual billing), the Basic Commerce plan offers point-of-sale (POS) capabilities, ideal for brick-and-mortar stores or those selling at markets. It also includes e-commerce analytics and the ability to tag products in Instagram posts. The Advanced Commerce plan, priced at $49 per month (annual billing), enables subscription sales and automated emails for abandoned carts.

It’s important to note that without either of the Commerce plans, a 3% transaction fee applies to sales. These fees are in addition to the standard credit card fees charged on each plan.

Features:

• Designs: Dozens of modern and minimalistic templates easily customizable to suit your preferences.
• Rich Image Manager: Add and organize images effortlessly using a drag-and-drop builder. Edit images with simplicity.
• Blogging: Design and manage your blog seamlessly.
• Commerce: Sell products through an online store, utilize Point of Sale, manage subscriptions, and address other business needs.
• Analytics: Detailed analytics to track traffic, popular content, sales, and more.
• Connected Services: Extend Squarespace functionality by connecting with third-party services.
• SEO: No plugins are needed; Squarespace provides all the essentials for an SEO-ready site.
• Ad-Free: No forced ads unless you choose to monetize by placing your own.
• Support: Fast and friendly customer support.

8. Weebly: Best Value

Ranked 8th in our list of recommended Best E-Commerce Platforms is Weebly – a website-building tool that is highly appreciated for its simplicity and user-friendly interface. Despite having the same ownership as Square, these two e-commerce platforms offer different products. Weebly’s website plans cater specifically to the needs of online retailers on a budget.

In terms of price, Weebly offers excellent value, offering a free forever plan with unlimited products—a valuable option for those looking to launch an online store without an initial investment. head. However, this package does not support domain connection so it is not suitable for business use. The cost-effective Professional plan costs just $12 per month (billed annually) and includes features like a free domain, SSL, inventory management, shipping labels, a calculator, and a tax calculator.

Features:

• Drag & Drop Editor: Effortlessly move elements around with a simple drag-and-drop interface.
• Beginner-Friendly Templates: Choose from over 50 templates that are easily editable and modifiable.
• Responsive Themes: Ensure your site is automatically mobile-friendly with responsive themes.
• eCommerce: Swiftly launched an online shop with many features and options.
• Video Background: Easily add a video background to any element on your site.
• Site Search: Provide seamless site search functionality for your visitors.

9. WooCommerce: Best Free WordPress Plugin

Coming in at number 9 is WooCommerce, which works as a plugin that turns a WordPress website into an online store. The basic version is free, offering extensive customization through many extensions. These extensions support a variety of functions, including online booking, subscription sales, and recurring payments. With WooCommerce, you can integrate diverse shipping options, launch coupon referral programs, accept pre-orders, offer online courses, and more. Renewal prices range from $0 to approximately $249 each.

Note, however, that as a WordPress plugin, using WooCommerce requires investing some time to learn WordPress, which may not be the most user-friendly content management system (CMS). Despite this, WordPress is highly customizable and flexible. Additionally, you will need to purchase a domain name, SSL certificate, and web hosting separately. Many businesses also choose premium themes to simplify creating an impressive online store with fewer design customizations.

Features:

• Product Management: Easily add, manage, and customize products, including attributes, variations, and inventory.
• Order Management: Track orders, manage statuses, generate invoices, and notify customers about order updates.
• Payment Options: Support various payment gateways (e.g., PayPal, Stripe, credit cards).
• Integrate with local payment methods for flexibility.
• Shipping Options: Set up shipping zones, and methods, and offer flat rate, free shipping, or real-time calculations.
• Provide customers with shipping tracking information.
• Tax Management: Configure tax settings based on location and product type.
• Automate tax calculations for streamlined processes.
• Reporting and Analytics: View sales reports, monitor stock levels, and analyze product performance.
• Extensions and Add-ons: Extend functionality with diverse plugins and extensions.
• Seamlessly integrate with third-party services.
• Customization: Customize store appearance using themes and implement advanced customization with hooks and filters.
• Security: Secure payment transactions with SSL.
• Mobile Optimization: Responsive design for mobile devices.
• Mobile app options for convenient store management on the go.
• SEO-Friendly: Optimize product pages for SEO.
• Manage clean URLs and metadata for enhanced visibility.
• Community and Support: Join an active community for support and discussions.
• Multilingual and Multicurrency Support: Reach a global audience by supporting multiple languages and currencies.
• User Accounts and Guest Checkout: Allow customers to create accounts or checkout as guests.
• Coupons and Discounts: Easily create and manage discount coupons.

10. CoreCommerce: Best for Preexisting Websites

Ranked at the bottom of the Best E-commerce Platforms list is CoreCommerce. It excels in curating personalized e-commerce experiences for both emerging and well-established businesses. Offering a pricing spectrum from free to $229 per month, it accommodates companies across diverse growth stages. The highest-tier package transcends standard features, enabling intricate custom programming for a nuanced customer experience.

In the realm of cybersecurity, CoreCommerce takes the lead with Level 1 PCI Compliance—an indispensable feature in our security-focused era.

For businesses eyeing global expansion, CoreCommerce proves to be an invaluable ally. Facilitating transactions in multiple languages and currencies, it offers restricted access options for suppliers, streamlining inventory management. The platform’s mobile-centric administrative capabilities empower businesses to handle orders, add products, and track marketing efforts on the go, ensuring operations aren’t confined to a single location.

Features:

• Tailored E-commerce Experiences: Excels in crafting personalized online shopping experiences for both new and established businesses.
• Global Expansion Support: A valuable ally for businesses looking to expand globally, supporting transactions in multiple languages and currencies.
• Restricted Access Options: Provides limited access options for suppliers, streamlining inventory management.
• Mobile-Centric Administration: Empowers businesses with mobile-centric administrative capabilities, facilitating on-the-go order management, product additions, and tracking of marketing efforts.
• Operational Flexibility: Ensures operations aren’t confined to a single location, offering flexibility for businesses with diverse needs.

Other E-Commerce Platforms To Consider

1. Big Cartel

Big Cartel stands out as one of the most budget-friendly platforms for establishing an online store. Remarkably affordable, it provides free plans that uniquely enable you to link your own domain name and showcase up to five products. Primarily designed for online sellers in creative industries, it remains versatile for any online seller seeking an uncomplicated and economical solution to create an online store.

With Big Cartel, you can effortlessly sell products through your website, in person, or on Facebook. It encompasses essential features for online retailers, including order management and inventory tracking. While user-friendly, it lacks extensive customization options and isn’t tailored for those selling services or subscriptions online.

2. Zyro

Zyro distinguishes itself with a 30-day money-back guarantee, ensuring a full refund if the platform fails to meet your satisfaction. The added benefit of 24/7 customer support enhances its allure as a standout feature for any e-commerce platform.

For sellers, a singular plan is available at the affordable price of $3.59 per month. This plan includes complimentary email services for the initial three months and a free domain name for the first year. Standard features also encompass unlimited bandwidth and storage, providing a comprehensive package for users.

3. GoDaddy

For a GoDaddy e-commerce plan, the initial cost is $29.99 per month (billed annually) for the first year, and it renews at $44.99 per month (billed annually) thereafter. This plan allows you to connect to an unlimited number of social media platforms and send up to 100,000 emails per month.

With this plan, you can effortlessly list products and accept payments through PayPal, credit cards, Apple Pay, or Google Pay. Additionally, you have the flexibility to create banner displays and set promotional pricing. While GoDaddy does provide a free plan, an e-commerce plan is necessary to list any products.

How To Choose the Best E-Commerce Platform

With a plethora of e-commerce platform options available, it becomes crucial to focus on the features that matter most to your business. What suits one seller may not be suitable for all, especially if, for instance, you have a small inventory of only seven different items.

Consider the following key factors when selecting an e-commerce platform:

1. Pricing: Affordability is crucial for small businesses setting up their online store. Look not only at the monthly pricing but also at the processing fees. Some platforms may have low monthly fees but high processing fees, so evaluate the overall value based on your sales volume.
2. Ease of Use: The best e-commerce platforms ensure easy web design and online store management. Seek a platform with a user-friendly website editing interface and intuitive integrations.
3. Features and Inclusions: Each e-commerce platform offers a similar yet distinct set of features. Consider what matters most to you, such as free domain names, SSL certification, built-in email marketing tools, or drop shipping integrations.
4. Capabilities: E-commerce platforms vary in features and capabilities. Identify your unique needs, ensuring that the platform supports essential features like selling physical or digital goods, managing subscriptions, or offering online courses.
5. Design and Customization: Opt for e-commerce platforms that empower users without web design or coding knowledge. Assess the availability of prebuilt themes, templates, built-in features, and customization options for themes or templates.
6. Customer Support: Quality support is crucial when needed, so choose a platform that offers reliable support through your preferred contact method.

Essential E-Commerce Features

Regardless of the e-commerce platform you opt for, there are essential features that every business needs for online success. These include:

1. Payment Processing: Accepting payments online is essential. While all platforms offer payment processing, verify the types of payments they accept. Some may require your own payment processor or merchant account.
2. Shipping: Shipping integration is vital. Ensure the chosen platform aligns with your business needs, especially if you deal with large items requiring freight shipping.
3. Inventory Management: Effective inventory management prevents overselling or stockouts. While most platforms offer inventory management, the level of detail and features may vary.
4. Customer Management: A good e-commerce platform provides customer management features, including customer accounts, wishlists, order history, and loyalty programs. This enhances the customer experience and helps track orders.
5. Analytics: Detailed analytics are essential for business insights. Confirm that the platform provides analytics covering conversion rates, average order value, customer lifetime value, and more.
6. Marketing: Marketing features such as coupons, abandoned cart emails, and social media integrations are crucial for driving traffic and sales to your store.
7. Product Management: Efficient product management ensures accuracy and organization. Look for features like product variants, inventory management, and product reviews.
8. Mobile Optimization: Mobile optimization is key for a visually appealing and functional store on mobile devices. Choose a platform that is responsive and mobile-friendly.
9. Security: Security measures are vital to protect customer data and prevent fraud. Ensure the platform offers features such as SSL certificates, password protection, and PCI compliance.

Types of E-commerce Platforms: Self-hosted vs. Cloud-based

E-commerce platforms can be categorized as either cloud-based or self-hosted. With self-hosting, you manage your own server, providing greater control over aspects like security, uptime, and scalability. While it can be a hassle, it offers more autonomy.

On the contrary, cloud-based e-commerce platforms are hosted by the provider, relieving you of server maintenance concerns. However, this convenience comes at the expense of reduced control over your site.

Limitations and Challenges

E-commerce platforms come with certain limitations and challenges. Consider the following:

• Cost: E-commerce platforms can be expensive, especially with extensive features. Research needed features and compare platform costs for suitability. Beware of advertised free plans, often with limited features or higher processing fees.
• Complexity: Establishing and utilizing e-commerce platforms may involve intricate processes. Choose a user-friendly platform with features like 24/7 customer support, clear documentation, and an intuitive interface. Avoid overly complex platforms or those with limited support hours.
• Limited Customization: Some platforms offer limited customization options. If extensive customization is crucial, ensure the chosen platform can meet your needs. Otherwise, you may incur unnecessary expenses on workarounds and customizations.
• Lack of Control: The degree of control over your website varies between hosted and self-hosted platforms. Choose based on your autonomy requirements to align with your preferences before making a commitment.

Additional Considerations

Considerations Beyond Features and Limitations:

• Store Size: The scale of your store dictates the platform you need. Starting small? A basic, straightforward platform works. A large or intricate store requires a feature-rich platform.
• Inventory Turnover: High turnover demands a platform capable of handling substantial traffic and transactions efficiently.
• Payment Methods: Ensure the chosen platform supports your preferred payment methods. Some platforms are compatible only with specific payment providers.
• Shipping Methods: Like payment methods, ensure the platform aligns with your desired shipping methods. Incompatibility may necessitate workarounds or a different platform, especially for dropshipping.
• Localization: Selling globally? Opt for a platform supporting multiple languages and currencies to meet diverse customer needs.
• Omnichannel Capabilities: Planning to sell across various channels? Confirm that your chosen platform supports your omnichannel strategy, as not all platforms offer this feature.
• Scalability: Choose a platform capable of growing with your business. This ensures it can meet your evolving needs, preventing the hassle and cost of switching platforms later on.
• Integrations: Ensure the platform integrates seamlessly with other software you use, such as accounting and CRM tools. Incompatible integrations may require workarounds or necessitate a change in platform.
• Design and Customization: The degree of design and customization options varies among platforms. If you seek extensive control over your website’s appearance, choose a platform that aligns with your customization needs. While more flexible platforms may have higher upfront costs, they often save money in the long run by avoiding the need for workarounds.

How Much Does an E-Commerce Platform Cost?

The cost of an e-commerce platform varies significantly based on your required features and functionality. Simple platforms with basic features may start at $10 per month, while more sophisticated ones with advanced capabilities can exceed $500 per month. Enterprise-level businesses might incur costs in the thousands monthly.

Several factors impact e-commerce platform pricing:

• Number of Products: A larger inventory requires a platform that can handle it, typically incurring higher costs compared to platforms suited for smaller inventories.
• Size of Store: Larger or more complex stores necessitate platforms with more powerful features, often resulting in higher costs than those designed for smaller stores.
• Payment Methods: Supporting multiple payment methods may increase platform costs compared to those accommodating only one payment method.
• Payment Processing: Platforms processing payments for you usually involve a per-transaction fee, often a percentage of the total transaction amount plus a fixed fee.
• Search Engine Optimization (SEO): Some platforms charge a monthly fee for SEO optimization, either as a standard feature in higher-tiered plans or an add-on with a higher base price.
• Web Design: Premium platforms may offer custom web design services at an additional cost, varying from hundreds to thousands of dollars based on store size and complexity.
• Migration: Switching platforms might incur fees based on the complexity of the move. Enterprise-level stores often face these charges, while some small business platforms may charge a nominal fee or offer the service for free.

2024 E-Commerce Trends

E-commerce has significantly impacted businesses, either propelling them to success or causing setbacks in recent years. With an increasing number of consumers turning to online platforms for their shopping requirements, the digital landscape is saturated with choices across various retail sectors. Keeping up with e-commerce trends is essential for businesses aiming to thrive in any industry.

To assist you and your business in maximizing your online presence for profitability, we’ve gathered key e-commerce trends in 2024.

Increased Reliance on Online and Mobile

In a survey by eMarketer, global retail e-commerce sales surged to approximately $2.3 trillion in 2017, marking a substantial 24.8% rise from the previous year. Mobile sales accounted for $1.4 trillion, constituting 58.9% of digital sales—an 18.7% increase from 2015. With consumers increasingly relying on the digital realm, especially in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, these figures are anticipated to show continuous growth.

The convenience, ease, and contactless experience of online shopping, whether on desktops, tablets, or mobile devices, have become ingrained in consumer habits. Online shopping is now more user-friendly, accessible, and widespread than ever before. As technologies and algorithms progress, sustained growth in businesses through e-commerce is expected. If your business is not yet online or if your digital presence needs enhancement, adapting to the demands of today’s diverse shoppers across various platforms is crucial to navigating a swiftly evolving market.

Younger Generations

The Millennial Shopping Habits: Trend Report revealed that 80% of individuals aged 20 to 40 predominantly engage in online shopping. Enhancing online platforms to align with the preferences and interests of younger consumers can significantly elevate sales potential and conversion rates. A straightforward method to gauge your site’s attractiveness is by researching the demographics that resonate with your site’s design and functionality. Consider the reach of your marketing efforts—can adjustments to site design, user experience, or innovative approaches to social media marketing be implemented?

Social Media

Product marketing and shoppable ads have seamlessly become part of various social media platforms, including Facebook, X (Twitter), TikTok, and Instagram. Approximately 68% of users acknowledge making purchases through social media, with nearly all expressing the intent to make such purchases in the coming year. Establishing a robust social media presence for your business and adeptly marketing your products on these platforms can effectively connect you with these consumers, potentially boosting your sales. If your current social media strategy isn’t yielding the desired results, it might be worthwhile to explore alternative approaches.

Environmental Concerns, Sustainability and Business Values

People all over the world are showing increased environmental awareness. The growing trend in supporting businesses committed to sustainable practices signifies a consumer base eager to endorse positive business values. Concepts such as carbon neutrality, fair trade, sustainable and local sourcing, promoting positive company culture, and other environmentally and socially responsible movements have gained traction. considerable attention. Companies that practice thoughtful environmental management are receiving higher interest and business than their counterparts.

A study conducted by First Insight found that consumers of all ages now expect companies to adopt more sustainable practices. Shifting your company to a greener business model and aligning your company values with modern consumer expectations can enhance your sales potential and accelerate the growth of your base. loyal customers. Demonstrating accountability for your company may involve seeking B-Corp status and pursuing relevant certifications in your industry, such as organic or fair trade certification.

Visual Commerce and Video

As the e-commerce landscape continues to transform, the significance of delivering compelling product presentations becomes increasingly evident. Static images of products no longer suffice. Modern consumers, before making a purchase commitment, exhibit a growing desire to delve deeper into a product. Offering videos, reviews, and interactive content can significantly enhance a product’s marketability in the online realm.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best e-commerce platform?

The optimal e-commerce platform is the one tailored to your business, potentially differing from what suits other enterprises. To identify the most suitable platform, take into account your budget, inventory size, and specific requirements like POS or multichannel selling. Among our highly rated e-commerce platforms are Squarespace, Square, and Ecwid.

What is the best page builder plugin for WordPress?

Numerous excellent page builder plugins for WordPress can convert the standard page and post editor into an intuitive drag-and-drop interface. The most noteworthy solutions, known for user-friendliness, affordability, and high ratings, include Elementor, Beaver Builder, and WPBakery.

What is the best B2B e-commerce platform?

Each service mentioned in this guide offers features suitable for business-to-business (B2B) selling. However, for larger companies engaged in significant monthly sales volumes to other businesses, exploring enterprise-level platforms might be more advantageous.

What is a headless e-commerce platform?

A headless e-commerce platform separates the front-end of the website (the “head”) from the back-end (the “body”), where the e-commerce functionality resides. While this approach offers increased flexibility and customization, it may pose challenges in terms of setup and management.

What is an open source e-commerce platform?

Open-source e-commerce platforms provide access to and allow modification of your website’s code. This is beneficial for those seeking to incorporate custom features or integrations into their site. WooCommerce is a prominent example of a widely used open-source platform.

What is B2B e-commerce?

B2B e-commerce involves businesses selling products or services to other businesses online. Platforms like Shopify, designed for B2B selling, and transaction-based marketplaces like Alibaba, fall within this category.

Why do e-commerce sites fail?

An e-commerce website may face failure due to various factors. Insufficient traffic generation is a frequent cause, along with issues like lacking essential features or functionality, subpar customer service, and a failure to prioritize marketing and SEO efforts.

Which e-commerce platform is best for dropshipping?

In 2017, Shopify acquired Oberlo, a widely used dropshipping app. Together, they collaborate seamlessly to facilitate the importation of products into your store, available for customers to purchase.

How do I build an e-commerce website?

There are various approaches to constructing an e-commerce website. You can opt for an e-commerce platform like Shopify or BigCommerce, offering comprehensive solutions for a quick start. Alternatively, you may choose WordPress with either the WooCommerce or Ecwid plugin. Lastly, a do-it-yourself website builder like Squarespace is also an option.

What Is a Gantt Chart?

A Gantt chart is a horizontal bar chart used to show the start dates and duration of the individual tasks that make up a project. It stands out as one of the most widely used tools in project management, providing project managers with a quick overview of a project’s progress.

Although named after Henry Gantt, an American engineer and project management consultant, he is not the creator of this chart. The credit goes to Karol Adamiecki, a Polish engineer who came up with it in the 1890s for his steel manufacturing unit. While Adamiecki laid the foundation, Henry Gantt further customized the chart for his client. Nowadays, Gantt charts are widely used in project planning and control.

Let’s learn about the best Gantt Chart Software with SiSu Freedom in this article!

Gantt Chart Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Gain a quick overview of projects.
• Enhances managerial efficiency.
• Increases overall productivity.

Cons:

• Setting up can consume a significant amount of time.
• Priorities are not consistently assigned.
• The system may be intricate and bewildering.

How Do You Use a Gantt Chart?

The Gantt chart provides a comprehensive view of all project tasks that must be finished by the project deadline. It divides the larger picture into smaller, assignable tasks. Certain tasks are prerequisites for others, while some can be tackled simultaneously. Review the Gantt chart to assess if the project is progressing as scheduled and identify any bottleneck areas that may require more direct management attention.

Best Gantt Chart Software of 2024

1. Teamwork: Best Free Package

Ranked first on the list is Teamwork. It offers five-level plans for business owners to choose from as project management tools. The Free Forever plan, the starting point, includes various project views such as lists, tables, tables, and Gantt charts. Users can assign details as subtasks or tag them for tracking. While there are unlimited task list templates available, the Free Forever plan only allows two project templates. Users can also use up to 100 automation tools, which can be monitored on the dashboard.

To access intake forms and increase automation to 1,000, business owners can choose the Starter plan, which costs $5.99 per user per month, with a minimum of three users. This plan facilitates setting user rates to track costs per project and categorize project elements.

The Provisioning plan, priced at $9.99 per user per month with a minimum of three users, offers unlimited users and up to 20 proofs monthly. It allows creating five project budgets for time management and three project budgets for financial management.

The popular Grow plan, priced at $19.99 per user per month with a minimum of five users, unlocks advanced budgeting features to ensure projects stay on track and under budget. It includes company timesheets for comprehensive financial reporting as the project progresses. Managers can allocate resources effectively using resource planning tools across team members.

Features:

Role Assignment Features:

• Customize teams and subteams based on your plan.
• Assign names, handles, logos, and link teams to specific companies.
• Subteams are available in Premium/Grow plans.
• Streamline workflow by assigning teams to assignments and milestones.
• User roles: Standard, Client, Collaborator.
• Clients have nearly the same capabilities as standard users, except for form addition and admin access.
• Collaborators, not factored into subscription costs, function as observers.

Gantt Charts:

• Exclusive to paid versions, not available in the free version.
• Interactive view for project timeline adjustments and task/milestone additions.

Software Integrations:

• Supports 80+ integrations with popular tools.
• Some integrations prompt through regular use; others require admin initiation in profile settings.

Budgeting:

• Hourly or fixed-fee budgets for any project.
• Specify amounts, start/end dates, and billable/non-billable criteria.
• Set budgets to repeat with automatic notifications as they approach a certain percentage.
• Segment budgets based on task lists for granularity.
• Accurate tracking of hours within Teamwork is crucial for effective budget feature use.

2. ClickUp: Best for Small Teams

Coming in at number 2 on SiSu Freedom’s list is ClickUp – a leading Gantt chart software, receiving our highest rating in the project management tools sector. With a range of four-level plans, users can choose the plan that best suits their needs.

For those exploring the software’s suitability, the Free Forever plan is a popular choice. Designed specifically for personal use, it offers unlimited free memberships but limits task delegation to five places. This pack contains up to 100 lists and folders, allowing users to divide projects into more manageable components. However, the Free Forever plan has a storage limit of 100MB, and guests require full access without options for specific permissions.

Small teams may find the Unlimited plan more suitable, which offers a comprehensive plan with unlimited storage, integrations, dashboards, and Gantt charts. Additionally, the plan introduces resource management tools to ensure optimal use of team members’ resources, preventing overloaded workloads. Notably, the Unlimited plan enhances reporting capabilities with flexible metrics, providing insights into team performance for effective management.

The Business plan, priced at $12 per member per month, is the most popular ClickUp offering. It includes everything from the Unlimited plan while also adding features like Google single sign-on (SSO) and custom export. Advanced time tracking tools help team leaders manage time resources effectively, including detailed time estimating tools for accurate project planning. For businesses requiring even more advanced features, an Enterprise plan is available, and interested parties can contact sales for a custom estimate.

Features:

• Gantt Charts: Visualize and manage project timelines with interactive Gantt charts.
• Project Management: Comprehensive tools for planning, organizing, and executing projects.
• Task Delegation: Allocate tasks among team members for efficient project management.
• List and Folder Management: Organize projects into manageable components using lists and folders.
• Resource Management Tools: Ensure optimal utilization of team member resources and prevent overload.
• Agile Reporting: Measure team performance and showcase success through agile reporting.
• Advanced Time Tracking: Track and manage time resources effectively with advanced time tracking tools.
• Enterprise Plan: Customized plan for businesses with advanced needs; contact sales for a personalized estimate.

3. GanttPRO: Best for Teams with Detailed Projects

Ranked 3rd in the list of Best Gantt Chart Software is GanttPRO, which meets the project management requirements of more than 700,000 businesses. Its Gantt chart layout is designed to display multiple project details on one page, allowing project managers to accurately track project progress. A quick glance allows you to recognize which tasks are currently being worked on and identify the team members responsible.

Although GanttPRO doesn’t offer a free version, you can start your project management journey with a 14-day free trial. The Basic plan, priced at $7.99 per month, is for five or more users. Additionally, the Pro plan, priced at $12.99 per person per month, offers additional features such as custom project templates, tracking overdue tasks, and calendar exceptions. Individual plans start at $9.99 per month but require upfront payment for the entire year.

Regardless of the project view selected, GanttPRO efficiently consolidates a wealth of information on each page. Whether using a Gantt chart, grid view, Kanban board view, or portfolio view, you can gain comprehensive insight into the status of all your projects. GanttPRO facilitates team assembly for specific tasks by allowing the assignment of multiple individuals and granting different permissions corresponding to different project levels.

Features:

Critical Path Highlighting:

• In GanttPRO view, the critical path feature highlights the essential sequence of tasks in red.
• Identifies tasks crucial for the project’s forward progression, aiding project managers in preventing delays.

Time Tracking:

• Manual entry and timer-based time tracking within the application.
• Allows users to monitor and record the time spent on tasks for accurate project tracking.

Customization Options:

• The high degree of app customization, including Gantt chart details and team workday settings.
• Flexible options for setting workweeks, daily hours, and lunch breaks.

Mini Dashboard:

• Accessible from the left side menu bar, offering quick insights into project status.

Gantt Chart Design Customization:

• Ability to adjust Gantt chart details for a visually pleasing experience.
• Options include displaying avatars next to tasks and modifying the task name’s position.

Resource Management Summary:

• Presented at the bottom of the Gantt chart for easy resource tracking.
• Highlights workload distribution and resource allocation.

Baselines:

• Allows comparison of the current project state with previous projections.
• Aids in assessing project progress and deviations from the initial plan.

Saved History:

• Offers the ability to revert the project to a previous state at any time.
• Provides a history log for tracking project changes and versions.

Workload Management View:

• Displays work assigned to different resources.
• Highlights overload by turning numbers red for specific days or weeks.

Availability Marking:

• Enables easy marking of team members’ unavailability for work.
• Prevents scheduling tasks on days off, enhancing project planning efficiency.

Project Portfolio Management:

• Allows simultaneous viewing of multiple projects.
• Facilitates prioritization and distribution of work across various projects.

User-Friendly Design Details:

• Attention to design details for an enhanced project management experience.
• Includes features like adjusting the display of avatars and task names for improved aesthetics and user satisfaction.

4. Trello: Best for Teams That Need to Scale

Trello boasts a global user base in the millions, with many leveraging its Free plan, ideal for individuals and teams seeking efficient project organization to enhance productivity. Renowned for its Kanban-style boards featuring cards that oversee every project facet, Trello’s Free plan provides users with unlimited cards across a maximum of 10 boards. The plan also includes unlimited Power-Ups, enabling seamless integration of favorite apps directly into the board. Users can personalize boards with scenes and stickers, fostering a pleasant work environment filled with happy memories and positive vibes. The Free app facilitates the migration of work onto iOS and Android devices, ensuring maximum productivity on the go.

Ascending from the Free plan is the Standard plan, priced at $5 per user per month. Tailored for small teams anticipating collaborative scaling, it encompasses all Free plan features while offering unlimited boards with custom fields. While the Free plan offers unlimited storage, individual file size is capped at 10 MB, whereas the Standard plan elevates this limit to 250 MB per file. Guests gain access to a single board, and team members benefit from advanced checklists for enhanced organization.

The Premium plan, priced at $10 per user per month on an annual billing basis, enhances features for teams seeking novel project perspectives. It introduces visualizations through boards, timelines, and calendars, coupled with integrated admin and security features. Teams can also permit observers to track projects without direct team membership, complete with assignments. The Enterprise plan, scalable based on user numbers, builds upon the Premium plan by incorporating multi-board guests, public board management, and Power-Up administrations.

Features:

• Dashboards:
  • Visual insights into team activities.
  • Customizable for task prioritization and management.
• Time Tracking:
  • Utilize work logs to monitor project durations.
  • Identify potential bottlenecks in processes.
• Customization:
  • Highly customizable workspaces and boards.
  • Color-code categories for visibility.
  • Attachments on cards enhance task organization.
• Reporting & Analytics:
  • Integrations automate reporting.
  • Regular updates on project progress.
• Budget Tracking:
  • Templates facilitate seamless budget integration.
  • Link cards to financial tools for expense monitoring.

5. TeamGantt: Best for Teams With Multiple Projects

Ranked 5th on the list is TeamGantt, a proud Website Builder software boasting a user-friendly interface and employing a simple drag-and-drop format. The software enables effortless transitions between Gantt charts, Kanban boards, and calendar views, making it the preferred choice for many business owners seeking flexible workflow management.

The free version, limited to three users, offers basic features with no templates and permits only one project with 60 tasks. Upgrade to the Lite plan, priced at $19.90 per month (billed annually), to access up to 5 projects per manager and 150 tasks per project. The Pro plan, at $49 per month, unlocks advanced features such as unlimited tasks, time tracking, and hourly estimates for more efficient task management. Notably, the Pro plan includes a valuable feature that detects when work hours exceed the budget.

TeamGantt empowers users to review multiple projects simultaneously on one screen, providing a comprehensive overview of the company’s resources. This functionality aids in identifying project conflicts, facilitating optimal prioritization and personnel allocation across different projects.

Features:

Role Assignment Features:

• All TeamGantt plans offer role assignment capabilities.
• Managers can set permissions, providing collaborators with read-only access or full access for creating and editing tasks or projects.

Timelines:

• Automatic inclusion of timelines in all TeamGantt plans.
• Set project start and end dates, including milestones.
• Unique feature: Projected timelines vs. actual timelines for identifying time sinks.

Gantt Charts:

• Interactive Gantt charts are a key feature.
• Easily adjust task dates, and the project dynamically adapts.
• Intuitive interaction: Double-click on a Gantt chart bar to open a task or use the edit icon for quick access.
• Streamlined task commenting without opening the task.

Software Integrations:

• TeamGantt currently has five integrations available.
• Recent addition: Zapier, unlocking additional app integrations.
• Additional integrations in beta, suggesting future updates may bring more options.

Dependencies:

• Task dependencies streamline project management.
• Easily create clear dependencies by drawing links between tasks.
• Adjusting due dates may impact dependencies, with a red line alerting managers to potential issues.

6. Instagantt: Best for Sharing Progress With Clients

Coming in at number 6 on the list is Instagantt – a productivity tool designed to create Gantt charts for a variety of projects. It offers two subscription options: an Individual plan and a Team plan, with specialized integrations for Asana users. While Instagantt doesn’t offer a free version, it does offer a seven-day trial, allowing users to test the plan and confirm its suitability.

The Personal plan includes unlimited projects, allowing users to organize them efficiently. Users can create project portfolios to showcase their work and share project progress publicly through snapshots. Designed specifically for single users, the Personal plan costs $7 per month. For those requiring multiple users, the Team plan is available at $5 per user per month. This plan includes all Personal features and introduces license and workload management, preventing resource overload across teams.

Trusted by more than 25,000 brands, such as Disney, Coca-Cola, and Amazon, Instagantt is praised for its user-friendly drag and drop feature. Users appreciate its seamless integration with Asana, enhancing collaborative project management.

Features:

• Management of Tasks
• Budget Oversight
• Importing and Exporting Data
• Planning Projects
• Tracking Percent Completion
• Budgeting for Projects

7. Zoho Projects: Best for Existing Zoho Suite Users

The next Website Builder software we want to introduce is Zoho Projects – a component of Zoho’s office suite, providing a user-friendly solution, especially for those who have used the products. Other Zoho. The platform offers three distinct plans.

The free plan serves up to three users managing up to two projects, plus 5 GB of storage. However, it has limitations such as read-only chronological Gantt charts, lack of milestones, and resource usage charts.

For extended features, the Premium plan is available at $4/user/month. This plan provides unlimited project access, the ability to edit charts by timeline and milestones, and introduces resource utilization charts and advanced task reporting. The Premium plan is limited to 100 GB of storage and offers 20 project templates.

Choosing the Enterprise plan, which costs $9 per user per month, grants 120 GB of storage and includes 30 project templates. Both the Premium and Enterprise plans include time tracking, timesheet approvals, and detailed task planning to ensure meticulous project completion.

Features:

Task Automation:

• Zoho Projects automates tasks through its Blueprint Feature, streamlining workflows and eliminating repetitive work.
• It ensures timely reminders, notifies the right individuals, and enforces proper processes throughout the project.

Customizable Gantt Chart:

• The platform provides a customizable Gantt chart for visualizing task progress, including details like task lists, milestones, overdue tasks, completion status, and dependencies.
• Different categories can be assigned distinct colors for easy identification.

Project Planning:

• Zoho Projects facilitates breaking down tasks into manageable segments and centralizes access to all projects.
• It aids in creating project plans with a comprehensive view of upcoming deadlines.

Effective Reporting:

• Zoho Projects integrates seamlessly with Zoho Reports, allowing customized dashboards and tracking of essential metrics.

Document Management:

• The platform serves as a secure repository for files, enabling organization, sharing, and access to various file types.
• Previous file versions are saved, facilitating restoration or rollback if needed.

Google Integration:

• Zoho Projects easily integrates with Google Drive, Gmail, and Google Calendar for seamless task syncing, calendar updates, and file attachment.

Dropbox Integration:

• Recognizing the importance of Dropbox, Zoho Projects offers smart integration to enhance file management.

Chat and Forum Creation:

• Zoho Projects integration includes chat functionality for real-time communication, allowing the creation of private chat groups for task-related discussions.

Timesheet and Issue Tracker Module:

• The platform incorporates a timesheet and issue tracker module, simplifying the tracking of team working hours and project issues.

Mobile Application:

• Zoho Projects provides a mobile application for both iOS and Android, enabling on-the-go project management and tracking.

8. Jira: Best for Complex Project Management

Jira, an Atlassian productivity tool, provides business owners with a choice of four plans. The Free plan accommodates up to 10 users with unlimited project boards and 2 GB of storage. It features a backlog and timeline view for prioritizing time and resources, along with project reporting for efficient management of multiple projects.

The Standard plan, priced at $7.75 per user per month, caters to a maximum of 35,000 users. While lacking unlimited users, it allows leaders to assign roles and permissions, conduct project audits, and provides 250 GB of storage.

For an enhanced experience, the Premium plan, at $15.25 per user per month, offers advanced roadmaps, sandbox, and release tracks for task isolation. It includes project archiving for future reference, unlimited storage, and 24/7 customer support.

Features:

Powerful Agile View:

• Scrum Board: Unites engineering teams and consolidates sprint tasks, ensuring organized workload and smooth project progression.
• Kanban Board: Visualizes workflow with a drag-and-drop system, categorizing tasks as ‘to do,’ ‘in progress,’ and ‘done.’ Facilitates bug tracking, code reviews, and task monitoring.

Custom Workflows:

• Jira workflows represent processes with colored blocks and transitions, aiding in tracking software development progress.
• Users can create custom workflows from scratch or import templates from the Atlassian Marketplace.

Roadmap:

• A project roadmap in Jira, managed by the specialized integration Jira Portfolio, provides a clear vision and direction for the product being developed.
• Portfolio plans include timelines, product backlogs, and short- and long-term goals, benefiting team managers, agile development teams, and sales teams.

Detailed Reports:

• Jira generates Agile software development reports for progress tracking.
• Reports include User Workload, Average Age of unresolved issues, and Recently Created Issues, providing insights into team allocation, issue resolution time, and the rate of issue creation.

9. monday.com: Best for Customization

monday.com offers a range of Gantt chart software plans, starting with the Free plan, which provides basic project organization features. The Free plan includes mainboards with limitations, @mention communication with team members, a search function for tasks and team members, and file and forms views for easy assessment of uploads.

The Basic plan, priced at $8 per user per month, enhances the Free plan by upgrading storage to 5 GB, offering unlimited viewers, an unlimited number of mainboards, and prioritized customer support. Users can create a dashboard using one board. The Standard plan, the most popular at $10 per user per month, allows guest access to boards for client project progress visibility. It permits up to 250 automations and integrations per month and upgrades the dashboard to combine five boards into a cohesive manager.

Unlocking more advanced functionalities, the Pro plan is offered at $16 per user per month. This plan introduces features such as private boards, chart view capability, time tracking for managing personnel resources, and powerful automations and integrations (allowing up to 25,000 per month). The dashboard is capable of consolidating up to 10 boards. Users with needs surpassing the Pro plan can reach out to sales for a customized estimate on the Enterprise plan.

Features:

• Collaborative Team Functionality: monday.com facilitates effective teamwork, providing features to enhance collaboration and communication among team members.
• Diverse Views and Reporting Options: The platform offers a variety of views and reporting tools, allowing users to visualize and analyze data in different ways to gain insights into their projects and tasks.
• Customer Support Services: monday.com provides customer support services to assist users with inquiries, issues, or any assistance they may need while using the platform.
• Robust Security and Privacy Measures: Ensuring the confidentiality and integrity of data, monday.com implements strong security and privacy measures to protect user information and sensitive data.
• Administrative Control and Management: Users have administrative control, allowing them to manage and control various aspects of the platform, ensuring efficient and organized project management.
• Comprehensive Reporting and Analytics Capabilities: The platform offers extensive reporting and analytics features, empowering users to generate detailed reports and analyze data to make informed decisions about their projects.

10. Asana: Best for Large Teams

Coming in last on the list is Asana, a widely used productivity software that offers a Gantt chart view for seamless project management. The platform offers three plans, starting with the Basic plan, which is free. This powerful edition includes unlimited essentials like projects, tasks, and activity logs, as well as unlimited storage. Asana integrates seamlessly with Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, and Slack, ensuring smooth communication and data usage.

Choosing the Premium plan offers flexible Gantt chart views, along with lists, tables, and calendars. It has automated workflows, unlimited dashboard reports, extended security features for unlimited users, free guest viewing, and an admin console. Additionally, users have access to personalized customer success and support options.

The Business Plan, priced at .99 per user per month, empowers business owners to manage portfolios and goals for enhanced project control. Includes customizable templates and advanced reporting, integrated with Salesforce. Time tracking is also unlocked, allowing team members to record time spent on projects and tasks.

Features:

• Task Creation and Assignment: Generate and assign tasks effortlessly within the platform.
• Due Dates and Reminders: Set deadlines and receive timely reminders for task completion.
• Subtasks and Dependencies: Break down tasks into subtasks and establish dependencies for a structured workflow.
• Multiple Project Views (List, Board, Calendar): View projects in various formats, including list, board, and calendar layouts.
• Project Templates and Custom Fields: Utilize predefined templates and create custom fields to tailor projects to specific needs.
• Team Collaboration Features (Comments, Conversations, @mentions): Enhance collaboration through features like comments, conversations, and @mentions.
• File and Attachment Sharing: Share and attach files seamlessly within the platform.
• Project Progress Tracking (Status Updates, Milestones, Progress Reports): Monitor project progress with status updates, milestones, and progress reports.
• Search and Filtering Capabilities: Easily locate information through robust search and filtering options.

• Mobile App for On-the-Go Access: Stay connected and manage tasks on the go with the mobile app.
• Integration with Other Tools (Slack, Dropbox, Google Drive, etc.): Seamlessly integrate with external tools such as Slack, Dropbox, and Google Drive for enhanced functionality and collaboration.

How To Choose the Best Gantt Chart Software

Choosing the right Gantt chart software starts with understanding your business needs and overall project management requirements. According to SiSu Freedom, it is essential to identify a solution that is not only cost-effective but also provides the necessary features to propel your business ventures forward.

Essential Features

Depending on your chosen plan from any Gantt chart software provider, it’s crucial to prioritize features that are user-friendly and accessible. Key features include:

• Milestones: Ensure the ability to swiftly identify critical project milestones for a quick assessment of project progress and adherence to timelines.
• Auto-scheduling: Look for Gantt chart software that automates lead and lag time scheduling, providing flexibility for efficient planning without overwhelming complexity.
• Dependencies: Opt for a solution with integrated task dependencies, allowing a clear understanding of the sequential relationships between tasks.
• Task Progress: Choose software that facilitates easy comparison between actual and planned working hours, aiding in effective project management and future planning.
• Critical Path: A robust Gantt chart software platform should assist in identifying priority tasks crucial for advancing the project, and enabling strategic resource allocation.
• Export Option: Ensure the software allows for the export of key visuals, enabling project managers to share progress seamlessly with leadership or clients.

Pricing

We realize that the price of Gantt chart software is determined on a per-user basis. While some providers offer free subscriptions with limited options, prices typically range from $4 to $24.99 per month, depending on the plan chosen and unlocked features. Business owners should choose a plan that fits their budget while ensuring it incorporates the necessary features to effectively manage a project through to completion.

How To Build a Gantt Chart

Constructing a Gantt chart involves breaking down the chart into sequential steps and activities. Arrange them in order and designate milestones for the project, understanding that a major step might have its own milestone. Forbes Advisor offers a downloadable Gantt chart template for experimentation, available for free.

While assigning a timeframe to each task, it’s essential to remain adaptable and open to adjustments as work progresses and unexpected factors emerge, influencing the time required. Lay out these steps along a horizontal axis measuring days, weeks, or months for project completion. Each step should be represented by an empty bar that is filled in as the task advances. Milestones, marked by triangles, are completed by filling them in after the corresponding step is achieved. Adjust timelines as necessary based on resource availability and task completion.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is a Gantt chart used for?

For extensive projects, a Gantt chart proves invaluable in aiding goal attainment. It assists in pinpointing necessary resources, establishing completion timelines, and crafting a comprehensive plan for successful execution. Once the Gantt chart is finalized, it becomes a valuable tool for monitoring progress and obtaining a high-level overview of the project’s trajectory.

What are the advantages of a Gantt chart?

Gantt charts offer project managers a comprehensive snapshot of the essential components required for project completion and its current status. By breaking down the project into manageable tasks, they assist in pinpointing potential bottlenecks that could hinder the realization of overall project goals.

What are the disadvantages of a Gantt chart?

Due to their intricate design, Gantt charts, which break projects into small, manageable portions, may not always be practical to create. Many companies are transitioning to an Agile project management system, utilizing small sprints to accomplish specific tasks before reassessing the next set of tasks upon sprint completion. In such a system, the use of a Gantt chart may not always be feasible.

Can I create a Gantt chart in Excel?

To generate a Gantt chart in Excel, choose the data you wish to visualize and insert a bar chart. Utilize stacked bars to craft the Gantt chart.

What are some alternatives to a Gantt chart?

Instead of relying on a Gantt chart, project management can be effectively handled using timelines, checklists, Kanban boards, and Scrum boards.

Which Gantt chart software is best for you?

When choosing Gantt chart software to download and use, focus on understanding your particular requirements. Certain platforms may provide only basic project management options, making alternatives more beneficial for those seeking advanced tools. Higher-end software typically offers a variety of tools, underscoring the importance of having a clear understanding of the features you anticipate needing.

How we tested the best Gantt chart software?

In the process of evaluating the top Gantt chart software, we initiated an account setup on the respective software platform, whether downloaded or accessed online. Our testing involved exploring the software’s usability across various scenarios and purposes. The objective was to assess the effectiveness of each platform’s basic tools and evaluate the ease of mastering more advanced features.

What is a Website Builder?

A website builder serves as a platform equipped with a user-friendly drag-and-drop interface, facilitating the creation of websites for individuals with limited or no coding expertise. These platforms commonly include features such as integrated storage for images and videos, the option to incorporate a personalized domain, hosting capabilities, pre-designed themes, and more. Additionally, they often support third-party integrations, enabling the incorporation of elements like shopping carts and lead capture tools. Advanced subscription plans may offer features like customized email addresses and tools for SEO analysis, enhancing the potential for sophisticated marketing campaigns.

Website builders come in two main types: online and offline. Offline website builders are downloadable software that allows users to create websites on their personal computers. On the other hand, online website builders are web-based, enabling users to directly create and modify their websites on the company’s servers. This article will focus on introducing online website builder tools, such as Squarespace, Wix, and Weebly, with SiSu Freedom as the guiding source.

How Does a Web Builder Work?

Are you someone who doesn’t know how to program but wants to have a complete website? Don’t worry about it, the website builder will translate your drag-and-drop commands into code and your website can be hosted by the company or connected to your chosen hosting provider. Many website builders offer multiple themes or templates designed for many different types of websites; For example, a portfolio might use a different template than an e-commerce store template. Once you choose a template, you can customize many features, such as typography, layout, and size of text and images. Some builders also let you incorporate a contact form and video embedding.

While coding is often not necessary for many popular web builders, most platforms give users the flexibility to customize HTML and CSS to their specific requirements.

How Much Does it Cost to Build a Website?

When constructing a website, the platform selection is just one element of the larger picture. Additional factors, such as hosting expenses, domain names, SEO analytics, custom email solutions, graphic design, and more, must also be taken into account. Employing a content manager to ensure regular updates and a fresh appeal for new visitors is another consideration. It’s crucial to thoroughly research the costs associated with all aspects of web design to obtain a comprehensive understanding of the total expenses for your site.

The breakdown of costs includes:

1. Domain Name: Typically ranges from $12 to $60. This involves acquiring and maintaining an active registration with a domain registrar.
2. Hosting: Usually falls within the range of $100 to $500. A reliable web host is essential to keep your site live, and if you anticipate higher traffic, it’s important to select a plan capable of handling increased visitors.
3. Website Builder: Costs typically range from $100 to $500. The guide above illustrates that numerous top website builders offer options catering to various business and personal needs.
4. SSL (Secure Sockets Layer): Ranges from Free to $250. SSL certification enhances website security, and some web builders include it in their packages for free.

Total Estimated Cost: $212 to $1,350. These represent the fundamental expenses for building a website. Additionally, you should factor in extra costs for site plugins, SEO services, website management services, imagery licenses, and other potential necessities.

10 Best Website Builder 2024

1. WordPress.org: Best for Versatility

Ranked first on the list is WordPress – an open source free content management system (CMS) provided by WordPress.org, different from the website builder with the same name on WordPress.com. This widely used CMS stands out as one of the top website builders thanks to its exceptional flexibility and freedom.

It’s important to note that if you choose WordPress to build your website, you must secure your web hosting service independently. There are over 8,000 free WordPress themes available, alongside many paid options.

Although the WordPress website builder is user-friendly, it only provides the essentials. However, the platform supports a wide selection of plugins—tens of thousands, in fact—that can enhance your site’s functionality, and many of these plugins are free.

Notable Features: WordPress stands out as an incredibly customizable website builder. The only thing to consider is that you may need to enlist the assistance of a freelancer to code the website to your specifications or invest time in learning how to use the right combination of plugins to achieve the desired result.

WordPress isn’t too difficult to use but may require a bit more technical know-how than all-in-one website builders. If you’re tech-savvy and want a personalized website with the flexibility to choose web hosting, WordPress is the way to go—whether you’re aiming for an informational website or an online store.

Features:

• Simplicity: WordPress ensures a quick and hassle-free website setup and content publishing.
• Flexibility: Versatile platform for creating any type of website, customizable with themes and plugins.
• Publishing Ease: Intuitive tools for creating, formatting, and publishing content with a single click.
• User Management: Diverse user roles for effective website administration and community engagement.
• Media Handling: Effortless image and media uploads with drag-and-drop functionality.
• Standards Compliance: Code adheres to W3C standards for browser compatibility and future readiness.
• Theme System: Default and customizable themes for quick website makeovers.
• Plugin Integration: Extensive plugin directory for adding various functionalities to your site.
• Built-in Comments: Tools to facilitate discussion and moderation within the blog community.
• SEO Optimization: Inherent optimization for search engines, supplemented by SEO plugins.
• Multilingual Support: Available in over 70 languages for global accessibility.
• Installation and Upgrades: User-friendly processes with one-click installers and FTP options.
• Importers: Simplifies migration from various blogging and website platforms.
• Data Ownership: Complete control over website, content, and data.
• GPL License Freedom: Users have the freedom to use, modify, and distribute WordPress.
• Community Support: Vibrant and supportive community for assistance and knowledge sharing.
• Opportunities to Contribute: Encourages user involvement in building, supporting, and enhancing WordPress.

2. Shopify: Best for Dropshipping

If you are a businessman then Shopify is the top choice, it is designed primarily to build e-commerce websites. All paid plans include an integrated shopping cart and marketing features to facilitate online sales. While there are only nine free e-commerce templates, there are many premium templates accessible for around $100 each.

The editor operates more on point-and-click navigation than true drag-and-drop functionality, contributing to a gentle learning curve. However, it becomes user-friendly after some getting used to it.

Shopify Lite, priced at $9 per month, allows you to add a buy button to an existing website, Tumblr blog, or support direct sales using the Shopify point-of-sale mobile app.

Shopify is best suited for serious e-commerce small businesses that specifically focus on online stores rather than generic websites. It proves to be an ideal solution for traditional businesses looking to expand their sales to online platforms.

Features:

• User-Friendly Interface: Shopify’s builder allows easy customization of every online store aspect.
• Drag-and-Drop Efficiency: Effortlessly drag and drop text, images, and product listings into various layouts.
• Customizable Themes: Choose from diverse templates, and personalize with logos, colors, and fonts using drag-and-drop.
• Mobile Responsiveness: Ensure mobile optimization with Shopify’s drag-and-drop builder for different screen sizes.
• App Integration: Seamlessly integrate over 4,000 apps from Shopify’s store for enhanced website functionality.

3. Weebly: Best Overall

Weebly secures the 3rd position on our ranking—a standout website builder tool renowned for its cost-effectiveness, adaptability, and user-friendly interface. Post its acquisition by Square in 2018, Weebly’s merger integrates a user-friendly drag-and-drop editor with Square’s e-commerce proficiency. Whether crafting a small business website with Weebly’s editor or opting for Square’s e-commerce builder for an online store, the options are diverse.

Weebly not only provides the flexibility to incorporate shopping cart functionality later but also presents a plethora of mobile-responsive theme designs. While its grid-based design imposes some limitations on customization, it compensates with generous storage, bandwidth, and features tailored for audience growth through email and social media marketing.

A distinctive feature of Weebly is its seamless theme-switching capability without losing content—an uncommon trait among website builders.

Tailored for small businesses, entrepreneurs, bloggers, creators, and e-commerce sellers, especially those new to the field, Weebly stands out. Its intuitive editor and professional themes make it an excellent choice for crafting a refined website with a minimal learning curve.

Features:

• Intuitive Drag & Drop Editor: Rearrange elements effortlessly as the Weebly drag-and-drop editor precisely places them.
• User-Friendly Templates for Beginners: Choose from over 50 easily editable templates, perfect for beginners to customize.
• Responsive Themes: Ensure your site’s mobile-friendliness with automatically responsive themes.
• Efficient eCommerce Setup: Swiftly launch an online shop with numerous features and customizable options.
• Video Background Integration: Seamlessly add a video background to any element on your site.
• Site Search Functionality: Enable hassle-free site searching for your visitors.

4. GoDaddy: Best for Service Providers

Designing a website with GoDaddy’s website builder requires no technical expertise. Simply answer a few questions about your site’s purpose, and you’ll receive a prebuilt site ready for customization. Alternatively, choose a template, and use the drag-and-drop editor to add your content. While GoDaddy may not offer as many design options as some competitors, its templates are both clean and professional.

As an all-in-one domain registrar, web host, and site builder, GoDaddy includes features for marketing and SEO. Transitioning to an e-commerce site is seamless, starting at $14.99 per month with a long-term contract.

GoDaddy’s standout feature is its appointment booking tool, facilitating easy online bookings for service-based businesses. Additionally, GoDaddy uses technology to design a site tailored to your needs, even incorporating relevant stock images.

GoDaddy is ideal for small businesses and online stores, offering specific features for this demographic. While many marketing and SEO tools are integrated into the editor or dashboard, not all are included in the monthly plan.

Features:

• Storage/Bandwidth: GoDaddy offers scalable storage (25GB, 50 GB-100 GB) and unmetered bandwidth, monitoring only if it affects others.
• Extras: New accounts get a free domain (first term), SSL for a year, and daily backups.
• Ease of Use: GoDaddy simplifies setup, with an intuitive site builder or classic cPanel.
• Dashboard: Straightforward setup with options for both site builder and cPanel.
• Security: Basic security included; advanced plans (INR 349-999/month) offer malware scans, backup recovery, and more.

5. Squarespace: Best for Creatives

Next on our list is Squarespace, a standout website builder offering versatility for online stores, blogs, portfolios, small businesses, and membership sites. Its user-friendly editor blends drag-and-drop and point-and-click interfaces, though menu navigation may require a brief learning curve.

Squarespace is renowned for its award-winning, professionally crafted designs—minimalist, bold, and modern. All templates are mobile-responsive, eliminating the need for a separate mobile site.

A notable feature of Squarespace is the ability to enable accelerated mobile pages (AMP), optimizing blog page load times on mobile devices by reducing image sizes, utilizing specific fonts, and removing custom code.

Recommended for creatives like photographers and designers, Squarespace is also well-suited for online stores, offering distinctive features such as limited availability labels.

Features:

• Versatile Designs: Choose from dozens of modern, minimalistic templates easily customized to suit your preferences.
• Rich Image Manager: Utilize the drag-and-drop builder to seamlessly add, organize, and edit images with ease.
• Effortless Blogging: Design and manage your blog effortlessly.
• E-commerce Capabilities: Sell products through an online store, utilize Point of Sale, manage subscriptions, and address other business needs.
• Comprehensive Analytics: Access detailed analytics to track traffic, popular content, sales, and more.
• Connected Services: Extend Squarespace’s functionality by connecting with third-party services.
• SEO Optimization: Achieve SEO readiness without the need for plugins—Squarespace provides all the essential tools.
• Ad-Free Experience: Choose an ad-free environment, unless you opt to display ads for personal revenue.
• Responsive Support: Enjoy fast and friendly support for any assistance you may need.

6. IONOS: Best for Startups

IONOS, primarily recognized as a web host, competes with popular standalone builders through its website builder, MyWebsite. Boasting an intuitive interface and easy drag-and-drop functionality, it caters to users of all skill levels. New users benefit from a substantial discount in the first year, with reasonable renewals at $6 per month (if paid annually).

However, the lowest-priced plan includes IONOS ads, a feature typical in free website builder plans. To remove ads and access advanced features like multilingual translation, parallax scrolling, and photo galleries, an upgrade to the Plus plan is necessary. The basic plan lacks business apps, requiring an upgrade for additional functionalities like reviews or booking apps.

IONOS’ Pro plan allows the creation of personalized content for specific visitors, offering dynamic displays for different visitor types or based on events like sales or holidays.

IONOS’ website builder suits small business websites, especially for those willing to invest in mid- or top-tier plans for enhanced features and ad removal.

Features:

• Intuitive Drag-and-Drop Visual Editor: Utilize a user-friendly drag-and-drop visual editor for easy website customization.
• Code-Free Operation: Build your website without the need for any coding skills.
• Inclusive Hosting: Enjoy hosting services included with your package.
• Standard Email Inbox: Access a standard email inbox as a standard feature.
• Comprehensive Customer Support: Receive customer support via phone, email, and web chat.
• Ad-Free Website: Ensure an ad-free website experience—no IONOS adverts.
• Royalty-Free Image Library: Explore a library of royalty-free images for your website.
• Dedicated Mobile Design View: Access a separate mobile design view for optimized mobile responsiveness.
• SEO Tag Editing and Speed Optimization: Enhance your website’s visibility with SEO tag editing and speed optimization features.

7. HostGator: Best for Simplicity

Coming in at number 7 on the list is HostGator – one of the most budget-friendly options among the best website builders. Its user-friendly editor, featuring a true drag-and-drop interface, allows visual elements to be placed anywhere on the page.

HostGator goes beyond website creation by incorporating email marketing campaigns and lead capture form features. Even the lowest-priced plan allows the addition of an online store, although limited to only three products.

Although HostGator’s templates may seem a bit outdated compared to competitors, their simplicity provides a blank canvas for personalized design. A notable feature is HostGator’s comprehensive tutorial, which assists users in using the editor without relying heavily on customer support.

Recommended for personal projects, blogs, or simply small business websites, HostGator offers affordability and a simple editor, although there are fewer template options.

Features:

• Ad Credits: HostGator plans include $15 in Google ad spend credits and $100 in Bing ad credits, enhancing brand and site visibility through advertising.
• Unmetered Bandwidth: HostGator offers unmetered bandwidth, allowing your website to handle any volume of traffic without restrictions.
• Easy App Integration: Effortlessly integrate HostGator with various apps and operational tools, especially WordPress, through one-click installs for hosting pages created with the free CMS.
• Site Security & SSL: Each HostGator domain comes with a free SSL certificate, ensuring a secure and protected website for customer visits.
• Dedicated and Shared Servers: Tailor your hosting options based on site traffic needs. Opt for a dedicated server for large enterprises with significant monthly hits, or choose the cost-effective shared server option for most small- and medium-sized businesses.
• VPS (Virtual Private Server): Even on a shared server, HostGator maintains site privacy and security through Virtual Private Servers, digitally dividing the server into secure sections without the need for an entirely new server.
• Unlimited Storage: HostGator provides unlimited storage with its hosting plans, accommodating all your file storage requirements.
• Domain Registration: Purchase, transfer, and register your domain name seamlessly with HostGator, offering a centralized solution for all your domain needs.

8. Wix: Best For Code-Free Customizations

Standing at position htuws 8 in the list of 10 best Website Builders. Wix stands out as one of the most popular website builders, serving a wide audience. While the free plan allows website creation, it comes with subdomains and Wix ads. The basic level plan has limitations, but many free apps enhance the site’s functionality.

Higher-level plans offer analytics and SEO tools, an event calendar, and a logo maker. E-commerce plans offer additional features, albeit at a higher cost.

One notable feature is Wix’s extensive template library, which boasts over 900 designer-created templates. Although some may seem outdated, most are modern and suitable for a variety of industries.

Ideal for new small business owners, especially those venturing into online stores, Wix’s plans, which include e-commerce options, are competitively priced compared to their counterparts. in the industry.

Features:

• Powerful Editor: Experience the joy of designing your website with Wix’s flawless Drag & Drop editor, allowing you to bring your envisioned layout to life.
• Templates: Choose from over 500 templates that can be easily customized to suit the unique needs of everyone.
• Fast: Enjoy stunning speed as Wix’s platform rapidly loads every element, ensuring a seamless user experience.
• Blog: Effortlessly design and manage your blog using a simple and user-friendly dashboard.
• Personalized SEO Plan: Let Wix assist in creating a personalized SEO plan, providing guidance on optimizing your website for search engines.
• Wix ADI: Benefit from artificial intelligence as Wix ADI guides you through every aspect of your site, simplifying the website-building process.
• Mobile Optimization: Work on the mobile version of your website separately, ensuring optimal performance and user experience on mobile devices.
• Corvid by Wix: Enhance your site’s capabilities by utilizing Corvid, Wix’s open development platform, allowing for advanced customization and development.

9. Zyro: Best for Affordability

Zyro is a budget-friendly website builder with one of the lowest initial prices available, requiring a four-year commitment for the best deal. With a choice of over 100 free templates, it offers clean designs anchored by hero images.

The user-friendly drag-and-drop editor includes essential elements for building personal or professional websites. However, the entry-level plan has limitations, providing only 3 GB of bandwidth and 1 GB of storage. It lacks a shopping cart feature, but Zyro offers e-commerce plans.

Zyro introduces a tool enabling the seamless import of an existing website to its platform. This allows quick and easy content transfer for a new design.

Ideal for first-time website creators with minimal content needs, Zyro’s easy-to-use editor and attractive pricing make it suitable. However, obtaining the low price requires a long-term commitment, and domain registration is a separate process.

Features:

• Auto Update
• Data Import/Export
• Drag & Drop Functionality
• E-commerce Solutions
• Email Hosting
• Form Builder
• No-Code Interface
• Image Galleries
• SEO Optimization
• Pre-built Templates
• Real-Time Editing
• Responsive Design
• Web Hosting
• Website Analytics & Reports

10. Duda: Best for Agencies

Coming in last on the list is Duda – a tool with simplicity, flexibility, and exceptional features. The starter plan costs $14 per month without the introductory discount. Adding an ecommerce store costs an additional $7.25 per month, making it one of the more expensive options among the top website builders.

Similar to other small business website builders, Duda offers unlimited bandwidth and storage. The editor has drag and drop functionality and is user-friendly. It offers over 100 customizable pre-built templates, all of which are mobile responsive, with a modern, clean, and professional design.

Duda allows you to set rules for website visitors, such as showing specific content based on their geographic location. Content libraries make it easy to import existing website content into new designs.

Duda is recommended for freelance web designers or agencies due to its cost and specialized features. It may be too expensive for personal projects but is well suited to many business or agency situations.

How to Choose the Best Website Builder

Determine Your Needs

Pose these questions to streamline your decision-making:

1. Is it sufficient to present information, or do you want site visitors to engage with the pages?
2. Do you plan to sell products or services, or collect contact information from potential customers?
3. Will you manage your site independently or enlist a third-party service provider?
4. Are you open to paying extra for additional features?
5. How much customization do you desire in terms of layout and design?
6. Do you need to implement specific functionalities like quizzes, forms, or newsletters?

Contemplate these factors when comparing products, and you’ll soon identify a service that meets your needs.

Explore Key Features

A website builder simplifies many complex aspects of website management. Here’s a list of common features:

1. Drag-and-Drop Interface: Easily assemble web page components through a drag-and-drop interface, offering varying levels of customization.
2. Pictures and Video Storage: Conveniently upload, edit, and store images and videos, with storage capacity varying by subscription plan.
3. Hosting and Domains: Some builders provide hosting and domain services, essential for website functionality. Domain migration may be necessary when changing builders.
4. Third-Party Integrations: Seamlessly integrate third-party applications like social media feeds and shopping carts, enhancing website functionality.
5. Mobile Compatibility: Ensure mobile compatibility automatically or manually adjust elements for optimal viewing on different devices.
6. Business Email: Create email addresses with your domain extension, with plans varying on email features and pricing.
7. Analytics and Reporting: Most builders offer built-in analytics for traffic analysis, providing insights into traffic sources and viewer behavior.
8. SEO Functionality: Add meta tags, and descriptions, and optimize content for search engine result pages (SERPs) to enhance SEO performance.
9. Ease of Use and Customer Support: Choose a builder with user-friendly features, such as drag-and-drop or WYSIWYG editors. Live support and a comprehensive help center contribute to a positive experience.
10. Transferability: Consider the ability to transfer your site in case of platform changes. While domain transfer is standard, manual migration of content and structure may be required.

Evaluate these features to select a website builder that aligns with your specific needs.

2024 Web Design Trends

As a web designer, keeping up with design trends ensures you can effectively meet your client’s vision. Here are some key web design trends expected to take shape in 2024.

Accessibility and Availability

In our view, ensuring digital content is accessible and user-friendly is increasingly important for everyone. For example: When designing a website, it is important to consider the requirements of people with different preferences. If you are building a website aimed at children, you need to create an outstanding, attractive, colorful interface. On the contrary, if targeting adult users, you need to create a clear Website, that displays full information and is easy to use.

Content Loading

A website can load either in full upon arrival or employ smart loading, where only the accessed content loads. Smart loading allows a company website to operate faster and more efficiently than competitors without this feature.

Motion Design Trends

The predominant trend we see represents a shift towards designs that incorporate various forms of movement. Integrating dynamic design elements proves to be a great strategy to engage visitors, pique interest, and with endless options, explore elements that are both meaningful and fun to Seamless integration into your website.

Prioritizing Download Speeds

A Google study found that over 50% of mobile users will leave a website if it takes more than three seconds to load. Ensuring exceptionally fast download speeds enhances the user experience, encourages prolonged site engagement, and boosts sales potential.

Individualized Content

Leveraging user data trends and location services enables web developers to craft a personalized online experience for consumers, thereby enhancing the company’s potential for conversions.

Tips to Build a Successful Website

Add An SSL Certificate

An SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certificate is a file that encrypts data transmitted to and from a website. When a visitor accesses your secure website or provides information in various fields (forms, username, password, credit card details), the SSL certificate ensures the confidentiality of that data. Having this security feature not only benefits the end user but can also enhance your search engine ranking.

Consider Prebuilt Templates and Themes

The terms “theme” and “template” are typically interchangeable, representing prebuilt page designs featuring standard menu navigation (home, about, contact, blog), a header, and a footer. Themes often include sample imagery and text, which can be replaced with your own content. Global template customization is usually available to better suit your needs.

Site builders typically offer a range of free and premium themes, enabling you to establish a well-designed site more efficiently than starting from scratch. However, not all themes are of equal quality, so it’s essential to preview all pages to identify any inconsistencies or errors when adding your content.

Design for Desktop and Mobile Devices

A mobile-responsive website automatically adapts images, text, and design elements for quick and suitable display on mobile phones. With over 60% of traffic being mobile in the U.S., ensuring your site is mobile-responsive is crucial, as per Google Analytics data.

While most modern site builders are mobile-responsive, some may not be flawless. Always preview your designs on both desktop and various mobile screen sizes. If any errors are noticed, adjustments can be made by modifying element sizes or removing specific elements on particular screen sizes.

Monetize Your Website

There are various reasons to create a website, whether for informational purposes, directing local traffic to your physical business, building a brand, or selling products and services. If your goal is to generate income through your website, there are several avenues to explore.

E-commerce

One straightforward method is to sell products on your site. Opt for a reliable e-commerce platform or choose a website builder with e-commerce templates and built-in shopping carts. Utilize third-party plugins for building and marketing your online store. Consider selling on popular marketplaces like Amazon, eBay, or Walmart.com.

Affiliate Marketing

For those with influence in a specific industry, explore affiliate marketing. Review and recommend products or services on your site using affiliate links. Earn commissions for clicks or sales generated through your recommendations.

Sell Online Courses

Monetize your expertise by selling online courses or digital products. Offer courses, e-books, or guides at an affordable price, using them as a gateway to larger packages like tickets to events or comprehensive classes. Memberships for ongoing advice or courses are another option.

Offer Ad Space

As your site grows, consider selling ad space. Initially, focus on building your audience and page views. You can use automated platforms where advertisers bid on ad space, or directly sell your site’s space to companies.

Choose a website builder that facilitates the creation of password-enabled pages and online payment processing, especially if you opt for the membership model.

Transferring Your Site to a New Website Builder

Whether you’ve outgrown your current website builder or found a better deal elsewhere, you might need to move your domain name and website to a different provider. If you’re using a commonly supported content management system (CMS) like WordPress, many website builders offer migration services to seamlessly move your entire site.

For those using a DIY site builder, manual transfer is likely, and you may need to recreate your site from scratch with a new template. For instance, if your site is built on Squarespace, migrating it to a platform like Wix may not be possible.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to transferring your site to a new website builder:

1. Sign up for a new web hosting provider or website builder.
2. Download backup files, including the sitemap and images.
3. Create a list or snapshot of your website design for reference.
4. Find a similar template or design your website from scratch on the new site builder platform.
5. Transfer your email (if applicable) and domain to the new server, and go live.

Remember that domain transfers can take days or weeks, during which your website will be offline. Notify your visitors in advance and stay connected through social media channels. You can turn the transfer into a grand reopening to boost traffic to your relocated website.

Do I Need a Website Builder?

If you wish to create a website without coding experience, a website builder provides the easiest solution. The alternative is building it yourself, requiring coding knowledge or hiring a professional for full control over the website’s appearance.

Working with a website builder may present design challenges that the builder doesn’t support. For instance, if you desire a drop-down menu, but your theme lacks that feature, or if you want to change the color theme of a specific template, but it’s not customizable.

Every website builder and its themes have distinct limitations, often discovered during the process. However, if you don’t require absolute creative control, the best website builders offer ample features to construct a professional website.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are website builders secure?

Most website builders stay ahead in site security by incorporating cutting-edge technology. They prioritize the protection of their customers’ websites, utilizing top-end technology. As a result, these website building companies typically provide some of the most robust security options on the internet.

Is there a free website builder?

Several website builders provide free plans, such as Wix, SITE123, and Ucraft. However, these free options come with limitations. Your website may carry the builder’s brand names, visible as watermarks, in the domain, or in the footer. Additionally, free plans often have restricted storage and lack essential features for creating a fully developed website. Explore further details about the top free website builders.

What is the best website builder today?

The leading web builders currently in the market include Weebly, GoDaddy, and Squarespace. These platforms offer prebuilt themes and user-friendly drag-and-drop interfaces, providing a simple and cost-effective way to build a functional and aesthetically pleasing website.

How much should I pay for a website?

Creating a website for a personal project can be done for free, albeit with a subdomain and display ads. For a small business website, anticipate an initial investment of approximately $200 to $300, with ongoing maintenance costs ranging from $5 to $50 per month, depending on whether you incorporate an online store.

How scalable are website builders?

Website builders offer great scalability, allowing you to easily adjust your plan to accommodate the expansion of your team. If you surpass the capabilities of the highest-tier package, numerous providers offer enterprise-level features with tailored pricing. Contacting the customer service team of your chosen platform can provide valuable insights.

How long does it take to build a website?

The timeline for website creation varies based on the method you choose—whether it’s using a website builder, developing from scratch, or hiring a professional designer. On average, the process from ideation to completion takes 10 to 14 weeks. Opting for a website builder with a user-friendly editor can potentially allow you to build a site in less than a day, provided you have ready-to-add content.

How do I build an e-commerce website?

To create an e-commerce website, begin by selecting a CMS that supports e-commerce functionality or allows integration with shopping cart plugins and payment processing. Next, construct your e-commerce site using a suitable theme, add your products, perform link testing, and ultimately launch your website.

How do I host a website?

To initiate a website on the internet, you need a hosting service provider. Select a CMS via a web hosting provider or a website builder, and acquire the service. Numerous web hosts and website builders often provide a free domain name for the initial year, allowing you to register a domain through your hosting service. Subsequently, connect your domain to your web host and proceed to build or migrate your website.

How do I get a domain name?

Once you’ve chosen a domain name (or a few alternatives in case your preferred one is unavailable), visit a domain registrar to complete the registration process. While you have several options for registrars, it’s worth noting that you might also have the option to register a domain name through your web host. After purchasing and registering your domain, ensure to point it to the correct name server to ensure your website displays with the appropriate web address.

Should I build my own website or hire someone?

If your budget permits and you have intricate requirements, outsourcing the design of your website could be an option. However, building your website on your own is a more cost-effective alternative, and it’s a straightforward process with the assistance of a website builder. Moreover, many website builders offer all-in-one solutions encompassing domain registration, web hosting, and a site editor with free themes or templates, facilitating the initiation of your design and the launch of your site.

What is a CRM Software?

CRM software serves as a comprehensive tool for managing the sales process and nurturing customer relationships, used by both sales professionals and businesses. Its functionality allows organizing interactions with prospects, customers, and customers. The software facilitates the creation of a visual representation of the sales process, divided into stages that align with the overall sales process. It also provides additional features to track the progress of leads and opportunities through each stage, ultimately guiding them to close the deal successfully.

Start the process by establishing distinct stages in the sales process. Identify specific actions or benchmarks that the prospect must achieve to move from one stage to the next. Then, start generating leads through different methods, such as inbound or outbound strategies, and use CRM to systematically track these leads as they go through the process. different stages of the sales process. Additionally, some CRM tools offer account management capabilities to support post-sales customer relationship management after the transaction has been completed.

In addition to managing the core sales process, leading CRM software also integrates advanced features. These include reporting dashboards, workflow automation, collaboration tools, lead qualification, document management including e-signing capabilities, integrated telephony, and dedicated functionality for the industry tailored to appropriate use cases. Choosing the most suitable CRM software depends on the specifics of your sales process and your business’s unique requirements.

Join us to learn about the best CRM Software in this article.

Who should use a CRM?

CRM tools were traditionally perceived primarily as sales tools. Nevertheless, their functionality has expanded over time, making them essential for marketing, e-commerce, and customer service operations.

The potency of customer relationship management lies in the continuous collection and analysis of customer data. The derived insights are then utilized to strengthen relationships and enhance business outcomes. This empowers any customer-facing employee to communicate, “We understand you, and appreciate your value.”

A suite of data-driven CRM tools goes beyond merely supporting the sales process; it is pivotal for overall business performance. Leveraging profound insights into your customers enables you to:

• Introduce and sell new or complementary products at the opportune moment and in a manner that resonates.
• Assist customer service teams in resolving issues swiftly.
• Aid development teams in crafting superior products and services.

CRM: What is the goal?

CRM software facilitates the establishment of robust, productive, and loyal customer relationships by delivering informed and superior customer experiences. The overarching objective is to enhance both customer acquisition and retention, ensuring that customers are consistently drawn back by positive experiences. Customer relationship management serves as both a strategic approach and a tool, supporting these experiences in five key ways.

Answer the most basic customer questions

CRM aids in discovering new customers, facilitating sales, and fostering enduring customer relationships. By gathering diverse customer data and structuring it, these systems provide a deeper understanding of customers and prospects. This enables businesses not only to answer but also anticipate customer questions.

Manage customer data

Sound decision-making hinges on access to and interpretation of customer data. CRM systems that allow for the storage, tracking, and validation of customer data within an automated framework empower sales and marketing teams to optimize customer engagement strategies and forge stronger relationships.

Automate the sales process

Sales force automation, powered by artificial intelligence (AI) and unified customer data, streamlines the selling process. The most effective CRM systems leverage these technologies to automate sales tasks, guiding sellers with recommended next-best actions and facilitating quicker sales.

Personalize marketing campaigns

CRM systems bridge the gap between various customer channels, such as websites, social media, email, and events. This integration enables marketing teams to enhance conversions, fortify customer relationships, and maintain cohesive messaging across digital channels.

Align sales and marketing

Customer relationship management promotes synergy between marketing and sales, resulting in improved sales performance and increased revenue. When sales and marketing efforts are synchronized, there is a simultaneous boost in sales productivity and return on investment for marketing initiatives.

CRM features and benefits

Customer Relationship Management (CRM) solutions constitute one of the largest and rapidly expanding categories within enterprise application software. The market size for CRM was valued at $41.93 billion in 2019 and is anticipated to reach $96.39 billion by 2027, demonstrating a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 11.1% from 2020 to 2027.

Increasingly, businesses are turning to CRM solutions to augment their sales leads, enhance the sales pipeline, improve productivity, and elevate customer satisfaction. However, challenges such as cost overruns, integration issues, and system limitations have been encountered by many, even though these pitfalls can be avoided. Success is attainable through a focus on a customer-first strategy.

For businesses, it is imperative to have a unified, adaptable, and holistic perspective on the interests, service needs, and purchase history of both current and potential customers. A robust CRM system should offer this comprehensive view, consolidating all data in a single location accessible through optimized dashboards.

Furthermore, CRM solutions empower marketing teams to orchestrate personalized marketing and lead-generation campaigns. These systems facilitate the tracking of cross-channel interactions, covering engagement to purchase. Advanced cloud CRM solutions go beyond this, seamlessly integrating with back-office solutions to effectively support the entire customer journey.

Given that CRM manages engagement points across all channels, it becomes a central informant for all communication and marketing endeavors, providing the essential 360-degree customer view crucial for a genuinely connected omnichannel experience.

While numerous vendors offer diverse solutions, certain capabilities are non-negotiable:

• User-Friendly Interface: The system should be easy to use to ensure widespread adoption.
• Budget Compatibility and ROI: The solution must align with budget constraints while delivering an acceptable Return on Investment (ROI).
• Integration Compatibility: Seamless integration with existing software systems is crucial for streamlined operations.
• Data Accuracy for a Complete Customer View: The CRM should furnish accurate and consistent data, forming the basis for the much-needed complete 360-degree customer view.

Types of CRM

As you know in the introduction, CRM software solutions are designed to manage customer relationships and sales interactions. However, many businesses limit the use of these systems to serving only as a sales force automation tool. Notably, comprehensive solutions like Oracle’s go far beyond this, providing a wealth of valuable capabilities covering many different aspects of the marketing and sales function, including marketing, service customers, sales, and partner channel management.

From our research, modern CRM software has evolved to support the entire customer journey. However, the specific requirements of CRM systems can vary significantly between companies. To assist in choosing the most suitable CRM for your organization, you should know that there are three main types of CRM solutions: collaboration, operations, and analytics.

Analytical CRM

An analytical CRM system (CRMS) centers on integrated data, analysis, and reporting to enhance your comprehension of customers.

By linking customers’ behavioral and intent data, company data (particularly in B2B sales), and established customer data points, your CRM enables access to precise, comprehensive, and interconnected customer 360 profiles. These profiles can be utilized to deliver personalized and consistent customer experiences instantly. Regardless of how or when customers opt to engage or their position in the purchasing process, you’re well-prepared to meet and exceed their expectations.

Collaborative CRM

Sales is a collaborative process, implying that while your marketing and sales teams may not be physically together during sales calls, the data they work with should be unified. Collaborative CRM seamlessly integrates marketing automation, sales force automation, CPQ, and ERP data to ensure cohesive efforts in closing deals, offering each team a clearer understanding of customers’ needs and expectations.

Two prominent types of collaborative CRM systems (CRMS) are:

1. Contact Management:
   These systems are utilized by sales teams to monitor contact and account/company details along with every interaction with customers or prospects. Serving as the foundation for collaborative sales processes, contact management systems house essential first-party customer data.
2. Channel Management:
   Channel management systems encompass sales, customer service, and marketing functions. For instance, digital marketing and account-based marketing (ABM) campaigns span various channels to maximize reach. Both can be integral components of a cross-channel marketing strategy aimed at engaging with individuals, regardless of their location or preferred interaction method.

Moreover, customer service organizations should leverage a variety of assisted and self-service channels. Predicting which channels customers will use (such as chatbots, call centers, or knowledgebase searches) can be challenging. To deliver differentiated customer service experiences, it’s crucial to be present on all channels your customers may choose to use.

Channel management also extends its focus to distributors, wholesalers, and other partner relationships that can extend your marketing, sales, and service reach. Partner relationship management systems enable all sellers to share leads, register deals, create quotes, collaborate effectively, and achieve results collaboratively.

Operational CRM

If you are having difficulty in your business process, stop worrying. CRM will help you solve this problem. It is designed to streamline and simplify a company’s core business processes, spanning the areas of marketing, sales and customer service. CRM plays a vital role in generating leads, converting leads into contacts, and establishing the necessary infrastructure for customer service to improve satisfaction and retention. The basic components of an operational CRM include:

1. Marketing Automation:
   This involves streamlining diverse marketing processes across multi-channel digital marketing campaigns. It includes activities like email marketing, live chat, website monitoring, and lead management.
2. Sales automation:
   At its core, sales automation simplifies the manual, time-consuming tasks inherent in the sales process, improving efficiency and effectiveness.
3. Customer service software:
   This component automates various customer service processes, accelerating functions such as call center routing and information management. It also offers diverse self-service options for customers, including chatbot integration, tools for policy/compliance management and automation, and a knowledge base.

How Much Does CRM Software Cost?

CRM software providers commonly employ a tiered pricing structure, consisting of three to four tiers that offer diverse features at varying price points. Generally, the cost increases with the robustness of the feature set. Pricing is typically based on a per-seat model, encompassing both month-to-month options and discounted annual plans, with the latter requiring upfront payment for 12 months.

Many CRM providers present a free tier or a trial period lasting seven to 30 days. Paid tiers start at a minimum of $8 per month per user and can extend up to $300 per month per user for advanced tiers suitable for large businesses or teams. Some providers offer pricing models that encompass more than a single user; for instance, HubSpot’s highest-tier option is $500 month-to-month or $450 per month when paid annually and includes five users.

Here’s a breakdown of typical CRM pricing plans:

Entry-level Tier:

• Some providers offer their entry-level tier for free.
• Paid options start as low as $8 per seat and can go up to $50 per monthly user.
• Entry tiers include core CRM features like pipeline management but may lack some advanced features.

Mid-level Tier:

• Mid-level tiers range from approximately $12 per monthly user to $100 per user, per month.
• These tiers often include additional features such as custom reporting dashboards and basic industry functionality but may lack some advanced features.

Premium Tier:

• The highest-level CRM tiers can start as low as $20 per user, per month, but may exceed $300 for a monthly user.
• Advanced tiers offer full functionality, including team collaboration features and more.

When evaluating CRM costs, it’s crucial to assess the value in terms of the features provided. Utilizing free tiers or trials is essential to thoroughly test the product before making a purchasing decision.

10 Best CRM Software 2024

1. Salesforce: Best for reporting and analytics

According to our assessment, number one on this list is Salesforce. It stands out as a leading CRM system recognized for its powerful reporting and sales process management functions. Pricing starts at $25 per user per month when billed annually and can increase to $330 per user per month if billed annually. While Salesforce lacks a free option, it does offer a 30-day free trial for users to evaluate their capabilities before committing. Salesforce CRM boasts advanced workflow automation, team collaboration tools, lead scoring, and integrated AI across all subscription levels.

One of its standout features is its comprehensive reporting capabilities. Users can create customizable reports and dashboards to effectively track key performance indicators. Leveraging real-time data, sales activities can be forecasted and historical trends can be displayed through embedded charts and graphs. However, it’s important to note that certain advanced reporting features are exclusive to premium levels of CRM.

Features:

• Account and Contact Management: Salesforce’s account and contact management feature provides in-depth information about each customer.
• Opportunity Management: This functionality facilitates the effective tracking and management of sales opportunities.
• Salesforce Engage: Salesforce Engage enhances engagement and communication within the Salesforce platform.
• Sales Collaboration: This feature fosters collaborative efforts within the sales team, promoting effective communication and coordination.
• Sales Performance Management: Salesforce’s sales performance management feature enables the monitoring and improvement of overall sales team performance.
• Lead Management: This capability concentrates on the systematic tracking and management of sales leads.
• Salesforce Mobile App: The Salesforce mobile app ensures accessibility and functionality on mobile devices, enhancing user flexibility.
• Workflow and Approvals: This feature streamlines and manages workflow processes, including approvals, within the Salesforce platform.

2. Zoho CRM: Best for overall features and value

Ranked 2nd on the list is Zoho CRM. It’s a comprehensive and affordable customer relationship management system that offers powerful sales and marketing features and rich product customization capabilities. Zoho CRM offers a basic plan, free forever for up to three users, and offers paid plans ranging from $14 to $52 per user per month when billed annually. In addition to basic sales process management, CRM also includes advanced functions such as lead scoring, sales forecasting, lead assignment, email templates, bulk emails, and more.

In addition to CRM capabilities, Zoho has expanded its services to include a help desk, email service provider, and accounting platform. While these platforms require separate purchases, they integrate seamlessly with Zoho CRM, providing an attractive option for those looking for a comprehensive solution beyond core sales and marketing features. While Zoho CRM stands out as a great solution, some features like unlimited storage and quotes may incur additional costs or are only accessible at premium tiers.

Features:

1. Sales Automation:

• Powerful lead generation and scoring.
• Automated workflows based on logic.
• Tagging for efficient lead categorization.

2. Analytics & Reporting:

• Robust analytics with pre-built and custom reports.
• Advanced filtering for precise data searches.
• Visualization tools, including AI-powered insights.

3. Collaboration Tools:

• Omnichannel communication with features like Feeds and direct messaging.
• Custom tags and group organization for streamlined collaboration.
• Integration with project management (PM) software.

4. Mobile App:

• RouteIQ for optimized meeting schedules.
• Offline mode for data access in low-connectivity areas.
• Business card scanning for quick prospect data import.

3. monday.com: Best for project management and sale

The project management CRM from monday.com boasts an intuitively designed interface, visually appealing and user-friendly. Its paid tiers, priced between $10 and $24 per user, per month, are billed annually. However, a minimum of three seats is required for all plans, setting the starting cost at $30 per month for up to three users, paid annually. While a free option is available, its features are limited to basic task management, excluding the CRM platform’s capabilities. monday.com provides essential CRM features, including unlimited customizable pipelines.

Beyond these fundamental features, monday.com extends its offerings to encompass project management and account management functionalities, catering to both ongoing client relationships and internal projects. The tool’s unlimited boards enable organized project work using customizable templates. Additionally, monday.com’s account management features facilitate client onboarding and contract renewal management.

Features:

• Project Data Visualizations & Dashboards: Visualize relevant data for your key performance indicators (KPIs) through aesthetically pleasing graphics.
• Project Automation: Streamline common or recurring tasks with easy-to-use, app-integrated when/if/then statements.
• Deep and Extensive Integrations: Enhance functionality by seamlessly integrating with existing apps, incorporating features like a file library or email campaigns.
• Customer Support: Access a comprehensive pre-built knowledge base to address FAQs, with 24/7 email support available as an additional option.
• Apps Marketplace: Personalize your Monday.com experience with a range of free and paid apps, tailoring features to your specific needs while disregarding unnecessary ones.

4. Apptivo: Best for a suite of business apps

Next on the list of Best CRM Software is Apptivo – presenting an integrated CRM software solution that includes a suite of applications for sales, marketing, product management, human resources and finance. Starting with a minimal monthly cost per user for annual payments, paid plans extend to higher levels with higher monthly fees per user. Choosing to pay annually will unlock the discount. Apptivo’s capabilities include essential features such as lead management, account management, contact management, and sales planning and territory management.

Apptivo boasts 18 business apps, while the top tier upgrades the offering to over 50 business apps. While providing rich customization options, each level imposes customization limits for components such as dashboards, workflows, and fields.

Features: The Apptivo platform offers a comprehensive set of features across various categories.

Contact Management:

• Manages contacts and facilitates lead capture.
• Customizable customer apps for organizing contact lists.
• Duplication rules and contact conversion for data cleanliness.

Campaign Management:

• Simplifies marketing campaigns with templates and themes.
• Enables the creation of visually appealing ads with minimal effort.
• Target lists for precise audience targeting.

Email Marketing:

• Part of campaign management with auto-scheduling options.
• Provides email templates and campaign trackers for performance stats.
• Email quota tracker prevents exceeding limits.

Project Management:

• Individual task management, grouped by project or assignee.
• Timesheet tracking, Gantt chart dashboards, and project templates.
• Project billing and reporting tools.

Lead Management:

• Workflow scheduler for effective lead communication.
• Lead scoring to assess the probability of progressing to the sales pipeline.
• Customizable fields for organization.

Opportunities and Deals:

• Combines deal and opportunity management.
• Direct creation of opportunities from emails.
• Sales force automation, Kanban dashboard views, and pipeline reports.

Invoicing:

• Multiple apps, including expense reports, ledgers, and sales receipts.
• Key feature for Apptivo.

Supply Chains and Shipment:

• Distribution management with supply chain tools.
• Connects distributors with customers through workflows.
• Payment features and shipment transaction management.

Competitor Management:

• A unique tool to organize and track competitors.
• Detailed lists and custom fields for lost deals and competitor analysis.

Products, Goods, and Services:

• Approval flows for new product ideas.
• Tracking of ideas status and patent management.

Knowledge Databases:

• Apptivo Answers app for setting up knowledge databases.
• SEO implementation and instant notifications for new questions.

API and Integrations:

• Extensive library of integrations, including API/Webhook options.
• Categories like billing and productivity.
• Popular integrations with Office 365 and G Suite.

Mobile Apps:

• Dedicated mobile apps for iOS and Android.
• Manages contacts, finances, tasks, projects, and customer support.
• Real-time automated data syncing.

5. Agile CRM: Best feature-rich free option

Agile CRM presents a complimentary tier catering to up to 10 users, encompassing features like lead scoring, appointment scheduling, deal tracking, two-way telephony, and email tracking. Notably, several of these features, including lead scoring, are exclusive to paid plans when compared to other CRMs. The initiation of Agile CRM’s paid plans begins at $8.99 per monthly user for a two-year commitment, with the top-tier plan set at $47.99 per monthly user under a two-year contract.

The CRM provides functionalities for sales, marketing, and service. However, these modules are not available for separate purchase; to unlock these additional features, users must upgrade to one of Agile CRM’s premium tiers.

Features:

• Contact Management
• Project Management
• Deals
• Telephony
• Schedule Appointments
• Social CRM
• Landing Page Builder
• Calendar Management
• Help Desk
• Invoice Management
• Lead Generation
• Project Tracking
• Reporting and Analytics
• Document Management
• Task Management
• Lead Management
• Web Forms

6. HubSpot: Best CRM for sales, marketing and service

Ranked 6th in the list of best CRM Software is HubSpot. It is a customer-centric tool that offers integrated CRM, marketing and service platforms. CRM offers a basic free level for up to two users, which includes essential sales pipeline management features. Unlock advanced capabilities like task automation, sales forecasting, conversation routing, and e-signing software by moving to one of the paid tiers, with annual plans starting at $18 per month for up to two users.

When choosing HubSpot’s free CRM, you’ll gain immediate access to integrated marketing, service, and automation platforms in one unified interface. For advanced features like live chat, forms, and meeting scheduling, you can explore paid marketing or service tiers. It’s important to note that these additional features come at an additional cost and are not included with CRM plans.

Features:

CRM Database:

• Record of past interactions.
• Source of leads and lead score.
• Order history and customer spending.
• Any other relevant personal customer information.

Customized Dashboard:

• Current stage of each deal.
• Performance metrics and progress tracking.

Task Management:

• Task scheduling, alignment, and tracking.
• Communication activities with customers (calls, emails, meetings).
• Note creation for task details.

Gmail and Outlook Integrations:

• Seamless integration with Gmail and Outlook for enhanced communication.

Email Marketing:

• Utilize email marketing tools for effective communication.

Built-in Analytics:

• HubSpot CRM’s integrated analytics to monitor and analyze marketing activities.
• Identify the most effective driving factors and generate custom reports.

Reporting and Analytics:

• Store and analyze data for efficient reporting.
• Create quick ad-hoc reports.
• Forecast sales revenue based on marketing trends and historical data.

SEO Advisor:

• HubSpot CRM serves as a valuable SEO advisor.
• Receive suggestions to improve search engine rankings.
• Access SEO advice during the creation of blog posts, landing pages, and website pages.

7. Bitrix24: Best for paid social media marketing

Coming in at number 7 is Bitrix24 – a powerful CRM platform with basic sales process features and advanced capabilities for online marketing. Setting itself apart, it offers a free tier for an unlimited number of users, a rarity compared to its competitors. Annual plans start at $49 per month for up to five users, with the top-level annual plan priced at $199 per month for up to 100 users. While the price per month may seem higher in comparison, including a large number of users is cost-effective for larger teams.

Bitrix24 differentiates itself with specialized marketing features designed specifically for e-commerce and online business. CRM tool that helps build websites, create web forms, and manage paid Facebook and Google Ads campaigns. Additionally, it offers a customizable online store to showcase your products. Despite its strengths, Bitrix24 can be considered a bit cumbersome and difficult to navigate.

Features:

• Loaded with Features for Small and Medium Businesses
• Offers Tools for Enhanced Time and Task Management
• Facilitates Hands-On Task Supervision and Monitoring
• Supports E-Commerce Operations
• Provides Multiple Access Methods
• Enables Seamless Integration with Third-Party Software
• Enhances Communication with Central Inter-Company Messaging Features

8. Nimble CRM: Best for a simple pricing structure

Nimble provides a CRM with a single-tier pricing structure, starting at .90 per user per month when paid annually. This plan includes features like up to 25,000 contact records, integrations with Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace, and a sales prospecting browser extension for connecting with leads. Utilize the 14-day free trial to assess if Nimble suits your needs.

Leverage Nimble’s data enrichment features to fill in missing contact information and conduct personalized outreach at scale through group messaging. The CRM also offers an online form builder for generating inbound leads. While the one-tier pricing may be too costly for those seeking a more basic solution, committing to an annual payment upfront provides a per month discount.

Features:

• Contact Management: Nimble offers a unified contact management system that automatically syncs contacts from various business accounts, providing easy access and centralized control.
• Contact Segmentation: Users can categorize contacts into different segments, allowing for targeted activities such as sending specific emails and messages to particular groups.
• Lead Qualification: The tool enhances lead qualification through the Kanban board, helping users identify leads ready for conversion and improving overall deal closing rates.
• Pipeline Management: Nimble provides multiple customizable pipelines, automating processes and syncing team actions, events, and communications for each deal, ensuring everyone stays informed.
• Nimble Prospector: Utilizing AI and Enrichment Credits, Nimble Prospector updates users’ contact databases with the latest emails, contact numbers, locations, and company titles.
• Sales Forecasting: Users can generate crucial metrics and in-depth reports using the tool’s analytical capabilities, enabling accurate sales forecasting for informed business decisions.
• Email Tracking: This feature allows users to monitor sent emails and receive notifications upon opening, ensuring timely and appropriate follow-up actions.
• Email Marketing: Nimble facilitates easy sending of personalized bulk emails with reporting, analytics, and tracking features through its group messaging solution.
• Task Management: Users can effortlessly create, edit, or delete tasks such as meetings, reminders, follow-up calls, and messages using Nimble’s task management capabilities.
• Mobile App: Nimble CRM’s mobile app enables users to access contacts and deals from anywhere, enhancing efficiency in various business processes.
• Integration: The software seamlessly integrates with popular apps like Google Workspace and Microsoft 365, extending their features and capabilities.

9. HoneyBook: Best for full client management

Coming in at number 9 is HoneyBook – a comprehensive customer management platform designed to streamline end-to-end customer relationships. Besides basic sales process features for lead management, it also incorporates customer-focused functions such as invoicing, document and contract management, meeting scheduling, and Automate tasks. With paid plans ranging from $8 to $33 per user, per month (billed annually) and a 7-day trial period, HoneyBook serves independent or small business owners to monitor the entire sales process. row. The platform allows users to create profit and loss reports to monitor finances, although it may lack the advanced CRM features that larger businesses require.

Features:

• Invoices: Streamlined online payments with branded invoices. Transaction fees apply.
• Contracts: Customizable, e-signable online contracts for client protection.
• Proposals: Seamless combination of contracts and payments in client proposals.
• Scheduling: Custom scheduling link for clients to book meetings based on availability.
• Ease of Use: Intuitive, user-friendly dashboard for a professional client experience.
• Customization: Track leads with a customizable sales pipeline. Limited reporting options.
• Workflows and Automation: Efficient client management with automated messages and tasks.
• Third-Party Integrations: Seamless integration with tools like Zoom, QuickBooks, Calendly, Zapier, and Meta ads. All-in-one client management.

10. Salesmate: Best for built-in calling and text

Coming in last on the list is Salesmate – a user-friendly CRM with prices ranging from $12 to $40 per user per month (billed annually). Monthly plans are available at higher prices, and all paid plans come with a 15-day free trial. Salesmate’s clear dashboard provides essential sales process management features. The CRM includes an integrated phone dialer with calling and texting functionality at every level. Choose the premium tier for advanced calling features like autodialing and voicemail, plus additional benefits like product management, team management, custom dashboards, and workflows automatic. Note that Salesmate does not offer a free tier.

Features:

• Dedicated Account Manager.
• Personalized Onboarding.
• Priority Support.
• Dedicated Instance.
• Unlimited Dashboards.
• Elevated Workflow Limits.
• Unlimited Permissions.
• Expanded Sequence Limits.

How To Choose the Best CRM Software

The best CRM software should encompass essential and advanced features at a reasonable cost. When selecting a CRM provider, consider features, pricing, ease of use, and customer support. Here’s a guide on how to choose the right CRM for you:

Essential Features:

1. Contact Management: Organize sales and marketing contacts with customizable fields.
2. Pipeline Management: Visualize sales pipelines with customizable stages.
3. Customizable Dashboards: Tailor dashboards to fit unique needs.
4. Reporting and Analytics Tools: Track key performance indicators with reporting tools.
5. Document Management Library: Manage important documents and contracts within the CRM.
6. Third-Party Integrations: Connect with tools like Outlook or Gmail.
7. VoIP or Mobile Telephony: Make and receive calls within the platform.
8. Workflow Automations: Automate repetitive tasks and manage projects.
9. International Business Support: Manage multiple currencies for international businesses.

Advanced Features:

1. Team Collaboration: Facilitate collaboration within sales and marketing teams.
2. Generate Quotes and Estimates: Create quotes based on price books and more.
3. Sales Territory Management: Manage sales teams assigned to specific territories.
4. Client Portals: Secure areas for clients to log in, pay bills, and track documents.
5. Account and Client Management: Advanced features for ongoing client management.
6. Sales Forecasting Projections: Make detailed sales forecasts based on real data.
7. Lead Scoring: Automatically score inbound or outbound leads.
8. Deal Management: Track, maintain, and prioritize deals in the sales pipeline.

Industry-Specific Features: Explore industry-specific CRMs tailored to unique needs, such as call centers, financial advisors, and real estate agents.

Pricing: Choose a CRM that fits your budget, considering tiered pricing structures and available features. Look for free trials or free tiers.

Ease of Use: Select a CRM with an intuitive interface and a robust knowledge base for easy adoption.

Customer Support: Ensure the CRM offers sufficient customer support, including email, live chat, phone support, and knowledge base. Evaluate these factors to make an informed decision when selecting the best CRM software for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do I need a CRM for my business?

CRM software is valuable for a wide range of businesses, offering assistance from fundamental contact management to sophisticated sales pipeline management. If your business involves lead nurturing for products or services or requires ongoing client relationship management, a CRM is likely to be a beneficial tool for you.

2. How do I choose a CRM for my business?

When selecting a CRM for your business, start by evaluating your requirements. Then, seek CRM software with features that align with those needs. Consider factors like pricing, customer service, and ease of use to determine the overall value for the cost.

3. How much does a CRM cost?

The pricing for CRM software can vary significantly. Generally, CRM providers present a three-tiered pricing model, with paid plans starting from $8 per month per user and going up to $300 per month per user. Certain CRMs provide free tiers, while others offer free trial periods lasting from seven to 30 days.

4. Are there free CRMs available?

Yes, numerous CRMs provide a free tier. Nonetheless, these free plans may lack essential features for your requirements. Nevertheless, they serve well for evaluating the product, exploring aspects like user interface, and more. For additional details, refer to our guide on the top free CRMs.

1. What Is an LLC?

LLC, short for limited liability company, is a separate form of business entity. In contrast to sole proprietorship, according to our understanding, the main purpose of forming an LLC is to protect members from personal liability in the event of legal action or financial challenges, such as such as the inability to settle debts. This protection is intended to protect personal assets, even if an individual is the sole member of the LLC.

Another factor contributing to the widespread popularity of the LLC business structure is its associated tax advantages. As an LLC member, you have the flexibility to choose whether to be taxed as a business or an individual. Choosing the second option requires reporting income derived from the LLC as self-employment income. Additionally, electing entity tax will result in the LLC being taxed as an S corporation, allowing for potential savings on Medicare and Social Security taxes.

2. How To Start an LLC

This is the guide we offer if you are preparing to form an LLC. Hope it can help you!

1. Choose a business name: Choose an appropriate name for your business, making sure it is unique in your state. Conduct a name search on the website of the state agency responsible for business records to verify its availability.
2. Designate a Registered Agent: Designate a registered agent who receives official documents on behalf of your LLC. Options include yourself, an employee, or any individual in your state over the age of 18 who is available during regular business hours. Alternatively, you can use a registered agent service. If you act as a registered agent, your name and address will be published.
3. Obtain Your State’s LLC Articles of Organization form: Obtain your Articles of Organization form, which may have a different name depending on your state. This form allows you to form your LLC as an entity legally. You can find the form on the same state website where you conduct your business name search.
4. Complete and submit Articles of Organization: Fill in the form, providing basic information such as the business name, address, purpose, and contact details of your registered agent. In some states like New York, you may need to announce your intention to form an LLC in the newspaper before filing.
5. Draft Operating Agreement: Create an operating agreement to govern the terms of your LLC. Make sure it includes the necessary details about your business, member information, management structure, tax treatment preferences, and liability statements. You can draft it yourself or seek help from an online service or specialist.

While it is possible to begin the LLC formation process independently, it can be laborious and time-consuming. Using an LLC service proves beneficial because it can manage the process on your behalf, saving you time and money.

3. How does an LLC service work?

LLC Services primarily assists individuals in establishing a new Limited Liability Company (LLC). Typically, such services perform the following tasks:

1. Collect necessary information about the LLC and its owners as required by the state.
2. Collect application service fees.
3. Submit relevant forms to the Secretary of State.
4. Receive feedback confirming successful company establishment or provide information if company establishment is unsuccessful.
5. Notify the business owner of the successful establishment and send the charter of the organization or other official documents issued by the state to the limited liability company.

If you want to form an LLC but are having difficulty, these services will help solve the problem. In addition, LLC Services also has many different service packages that include additional services.

4. Why Use an LLC Service?

If you don’t use the LLC Service, what problems might you encounter?

• Potentially missed learning opportunities: Handling the process yourself can yield new insights into your business and contribute to a valuable learning experience.
• Legal advisor considerations: If your business operates in a high-risk industry or involves developing a new product, hiring an attorney may be a wiser choice.
• Limited Personalization: Depending on the LLC service you have chosen, you may not receive the level of personalized support you desire, which requires additional knowledge or insight to get started. Activate your business.

Here are the reasons you should use LLC Services:

• No Specialized Knowledge Needed: Extensive expertise in LLC formation is unnecessary; the service will take care of the process for you.
• Stay Informed about Future Requirements: A reputable service will keep you informed about any future actions your state may necessitate, helping you steer clear of unwanted consequences.
• Access to Supplementary Services: Depending on the chosen LLC service, you can avail yourself of additional services such as web design, marketing, and compliance reporting.

Please consider and give your own answer for yourself/your business!

5. 10 Best LLC Services Of 2024

1. LegalZoom: Best Variety of Services

LegalZoom commenced operations in 2001 and has since facilitated the formation of over 2 million business entities. The company boasts significant brand power, attributed to its consistent advertising efforts and extensive experience. Presently, LegalZoom is offering free LLC formations (plus state fees), but charges $199 per year for its registered agent service.

In terms of experience and brand recognition, LegalZoom stands out with millions of satisfied business customers. The company provides a 100% money-back satisfaction guarantee, allowing customers to avail themselves of a refund within 60 days of their purchase—a policy closely resembling the one offered by ZenBusiness.

LegalZoom extends its customer service hours until 10 p.m. ET on weekdays and 7 p.m. ET on weekends, ensuring accessibility for its clientele. Beyond LLC formation, LegalZoom offers a diverse range of business and personal services, surpassing many competitors in terms of service variety.

While LegalZoom provides a $0 (+ state fee) LLC formation package, it does have elevated prices for certain services. For instance, the registered agent service costs $199/year. Moreover, if opting to form a corporation instead of an LLC, LegalZoom charges a minimum of $149, whereas ZenBusiness continues to offer this service for free, with the requirement to cover only the state’s fee.

Services:

• Establish an LLC (Limited Liability Company): Navigate the process of forming a legal entity with limited liability protection for its members.
• Register a “Doing Business As” (DBA) Name: File the necessary paperwork to operate the business under an alternative name, also known as a “Doing Business As” or DBA name.
• Reserve a Business Name: Secure the selected business name by completing the reservation process to prevent others from using it during the formation period.
• Obtain a Federal Tax ID (EIN – Employer Identification Number): Apply for a unique identification number assigned by the IRS for tax purposes and to establish the business as a legal entity.
• Obtain a State Tax ID: Acquire a state-specific identification number required for tax compliance and other regulatory purposes within the state of operation.

2. Incfile: Best for Basic Legal Needs

Incfile began operations in 2004 and has since successfully formed more than 1 million LLCs and corporations. In 2018, Entrepreneur magazine recognized them as one of the 360 best startups in America.

One thing that surprised us is that they offer free LLC formation services, requiring only payment of state fees. With a wealth of experience, Incfile has formed more than 1 million businesses since its founding. Incfile offers a free formation package, an impressive feature since some competitors charge substantial fees for comparable services. Every LLC formation package from Incfile includes one year of registered agent service, a prerequisite for all LLCs. According to our research, Incfile has positive customer feedback, maintaining a high average review score with over 50,000 reviews available online.

While Incfile’s free LLC service is convenient, users may encounter more upsells and the overall price may be higher. For a simpler offering, ZenBusiness offers a free LLC formation service (with payment of state-mandated fees) with no recurring fees. It’s worth noting that Incfile’s customer support system isn’t always the most responsive, especially via email, with some support requests reportedly going unanswered.

Services:

• Form an LLC (Limited Liability Company): Navigate the process of establishing a legal entity with limited liability.

• Establish a C-Corp (C-Corporation): Organize the formation of a C-Corporation, a distinct legal and tax entity.

• Organize a Nonprofit: Structure the establishment of a nonprofit organization with specific tax-exempt goals.

• Establish an S-Corp (S-Corporation): Set up the formation of an S-Corporation, a tax election with specific requirements.

• Amend Organizational Documents: Make changes or updates to key organizational paperwork.

• Change Company Name: Navigate the process of altering the legal name of the company.

• Appoint a Registered Agent: Designate an individual or service responsible for receiving legal documents on behalf of the company.

• Obtain a Virtual Address: Secure a virtual business address for official communications.

• Acquire an Employer Identification Number (EIN): Acquire a distinctive identification number for tax-related purposes.

• Obtain a Certificate of Good Standing: Secure a document verifying the company’s legal standing and compliance.
• Register a “Doing Business As” (DBA) Name: File the necessary paperwork to operate under an assumed name.
• Qualify as a Foreign Entity: Register the company to do business in a state other than its state of formation.
• Change Registered Agent: Modify the designated individual or service responsible for receiving legal documents.
• Obtain Business License or Permit: Acquire the necessary licenses or permits for legal operation.
• Submit Annual Report: Fulfill the requirement of submitting an annual report to maintain compliance.
• Receive a Free Tax Consultation: Access a complimentary consultation to address tax-related queries or concerns.
• File an S-Corp Election: Complete the necessary documentation to elect S-Corporation tax status.
• Apply for a Trademark: Initiate the process of securing legal protection for the company’s intellectual property.
• Order a Corporate or LLC Kit: Procure a comprehensive kit containing essential documents and materials for corporate or LLC compliance.
• Manage Finances and Accounting: Implement systems for financial tracking and accounting procedures.
• Dissolve the Company: Navigate the formal process of closing down the business entity.
• Reinstate the Company: Undertake the necessary steps to revive a dissolved company and restore its legal status.

3. ZenBusiness: Best for New Business

In our perspective, ZenBusiness emerges as the optimal choice for entrepreneurs and small business proprietors seeking effective LLC services. The company ardently dedicates itself to streamlining the intricate process of business initiation, placing a strong emphasis on expediency and simplicity. What sets ZenBusiness apart is the myriad of subscription options it provides, delivering an unprecedented level of flexibility in the dynamic market landscape. A notable facet of the company lies in its unwavering commitment to social impact, actively championing businesses in historically underserved communities. For entrepreneurs on the lookout for a dependable and socially conscious LLC formation service, ZenBusiness unfurls itself as an exceedingly compelling choice.

ZenBusiness unfolds three distinctive plans crafted to cater comprehensively to a spectrum of business needs: Starter, Pro, and Premium. Each plan is intricately equipped with a unique array of features meticulously designed to provide indispensable assistance to entrepreneurs traversing different stages of their business journey.

ZenBusiness stands distinctly apart from its competitors by seamlessly fusing professionalism, reliability, and an inherently socially responsible approach. The company orchestrates a streamlined and hassle-free experience throughout the LLC formation process. The adaptive subscription options offered by ZenBusiness ensure a personalized and tailor-made experience that resonates uniquely with each entrepreneur.

Services:

• Formation of businesses (LLC, corporation, etc.)
• Service for reserving business names (includes availability search)
• “Worry-free” compliance services
• Preparation of operating agreements
• Services for registered agents
• Registration of EIN (Employer Identification Number)
• Library of business document templates
• Accelerated filing speeds
• Reports on business licenses
• Filings for amendments
• Issuance of Certificates of Good Standing

4. Rocket Lawyer: Best for Usability

Rocket Lawyer has been in operation since 2008, serving over 25 million customers to date, although the breakdown between business clients and individual customers is unclear. Nevertheless, it stands as the largest entity in the online legal services industry.

An interesting aspect of Rocket Lawyer’s business model revolves around its legal services subscription plan, priced at $39.99 per month. This plan encompasses access to a comprehensive legal document library, consultations with business attorneys, a complimentary formation service for new members, and additional discounts.

Rocket Lawyer garners positive feedback from its clients, with numerous favorable reviews available online.

They provide a legal services subscription covering various document filings, including LLC formation service at no extra cost for new members, coupled with access to attorney consultations and more.

Having amassed over 25 million customers since its inception in 2008, Rocket Lawyer stands out as the foremost online business services provider in the United States, surpassing even LegalZoom in customer volume.

Rocket Lawyer boasts extended customer support hours, available 12 hours every weekday, with service agents demonstrating helpfulness in our experience.

They offer a satisfaction guarantee that covers 100% of all fees paid to Rocket Lawyer if you contact them within 30 days of purchase. The resolution may involve resolving the issue, crediting your account for other purchases, or providing a full refund.

Opting out of Rocket Lawyer’s $39.99/month legal services program results in relatively high pricing for the services provided. Their $99.99 package for non-members offers fewer features compared to other LLC services that charge less. For instance, ZenBusiness provides free LLC formation; you only need to cover the state filing fee.

Services:

• Additional Information
• Standard LLC Filing Details
• Further Details
• 100% Accuracy Guarantee Information
• Additional Information
• Assurance of Worry-Free Compliance
• More Information on the Operating Agreement
• Additional Details on Our Fastest Filing Speed
• EIN (Employer Identification Number) Information
• More Details on Business Documents
• Information on Business Website Builder
• Details on Domain Name with Privacy
• Information on Business Email Addresses

5. Active Filings: Best for International Entrepreneurs

Active Filings operates as an online business incorporation service, providing a range of LLC formation packages priced from $0 to $250, exclusive of state fees.

Their complimentary name search service is included in each plan, with all packages incorporating the filing of Articles of Organization or Incorporation and registered agent services. However, beyond the initial year, a fee of $99 is applicable to maintain the registered agent service in addition to the annual plan cost.

Active Filings covers essential requirements, including a preliminary name check to ensure state approval of the desired business name, preparation of Articles of Formation filed with the Secretary of State, creation of the LLC’s Operating Agreement, and obtaining an EIN.

LLC formation attorney Zac Copp identifies these steps as core formation requirements for a new LLC. While Active Filings fulfills these essential steps, it is relatively basic compared to other LLC formation services. Notably, it lacks access to legal or tax experts, online chat support, and a domain name, even in the highest-paid plan. These additional services can prove invaluable, particularly for first-time business owners.

Services:

• Incorporation Service.
• Registered Agent Services.
• Annual Report Compliance.
• Privacy Protection.
• Business Address.
• EIN – Federal Tax ID Number.
• Corporate Book.
• Expedited Service.
• Corporate Seal.

6. Northwest Registered Agent: Best for Affordability

Northwest earns our top recommendation as the premier LLC service. Recognized for their highly knowledgeable customer service, their team of dedicated Corporate Guides® provides personalized assistance throughout the LLC formation process. This platform is especially well-suited for entrepreneurs who prioritize expert support tailored to their needs and seek budget-friendly pricing.

Northwest distinguishes itself with a clear and cost-effective business formation package. For just $29 (plus state fees), you’ll enjoy the following benefits:

1. One year of complimentary registered agent services
2. Privacy by default — ensuring your data remains off public records
3. Customizable operating agreement
4. Free VoIP phone service for 60 days
5. Free annual report reminders
6. Accessible online dashboard for convenient retrieval of important documents

Northwest achieves an unparalleled balance between affordability and high-quality service, leveraging their experienced corporate guides and a commitment to customer privacy. While they may lack some additional features like EIN registration and advanced legal services, their cost-effectiveness and the comprehensiveness of their core offerings position them as a formidable contender in the realm of LLC formation services.

Services:

• Service for the Formation of LLCs
• Provision of Registered Agent Services
• Privacy for Address (ensuring your address remains off public records)
• Lifetime Customer Support
• Reminders for Annual Reports
• Online Document Dashboard

7. Swyft Filings: Best Value for Basic Plan

Established in 2015, Swyft Filings operates as an incorporation service company with its headquarters located in Houston, Texas. Since its inception, the company has successfully served over 250,000 businesses, striving to simplify business compliance by assisting owners in the formation of companies and organizing all necessary paperwork. While lacking accreditation from the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Swyft Filings has garnered a noteworthy reputation, earning a commendable 4.42-star rating based on 347 customer reviews on the BBB and an impressive 4.8-star rating from 5,866 Trustpilot reviews.

Swyft Filings is well-regarded for its incorporation service, boasting a standout mid-tier plan in the competitive landscape. Despite the absence of BBB accreditation, the company has earned a stellar 4.8-star rating from over 6,400 Trustpilot reviews and a commendable 4.21-star rating from over 330 customer reviews on the BBB.

Services:

• Federal Tax Identification Number
• Minutes of Organization
• LLC Filing with Same-Day Processing
• Legal and Business Documentation
• Business Domain and Website
• Compliance Assistance Tools (including annual report filing support)

8. BetterLegal: Best for A’ la Carte Options

BetterLegal is an online service designed for forming limited liability companies (LLCs) or corporations, providing a simple and efficient process. Guiding you through every step, BetterLegal takes the hassle out of providing a transparent, all-inclusive pricing structure without upselling or distracting ads.

Upon receipt of your order, BetterLegal will promptly submit your business formation documents to the state, ensuring same-day processing for all business formation entities. Once the state approves these documents, BetterLegal will proceed to obtain your Employer Identification Number (EIN), draft your operating agreement, and submit all required documents, including additional information, via email.

What makes us appreciate BetterLegal over its competitors is its unique approach of offering a single fixed pricing plan. This approach aims to simplify the process, providing every customer with comprehensive services at the click of a button, without unnecessary upsells or confusing options. This makes BetterLegal an ideal choice for those looking for an affordable solution without having to independently navigate state filings or encounter complicated options and add-ons.

Services:

• State Incorporation Filing: Official establishment of your LLC as a separate legal entity in your state.
• EIN: Provision of an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS for business banking and employee purposes.
• Operating or Regulatory Agreements: Furnishing essential documents outlining organizational rules for your business.
• Bank Resolution: Official authorization document for LLC or corporation to open a bank account, specifying account access.
• Website: Complimentary website services by Square for creating a free website or online store with growth options.
• Tax Analysis: Complimentary Tax Analysis service by Taxfyle, a partner of BetterLegal.
• Insurance Review: Business insurance powered by Chubb is offered through a partnership with Sure.
• Fast Processing: Quick submission and processing of business establishment documents within two working days.
• Search for Name Availability: Access to a name search link on BetterLegal’s website for checking availability in the intended state.
• State Compliance Services: Additional service for processing state compliance reports at $90 per year or $10 per month.
• Registered Agent Services: Optional service for BetterLegal to act as your registered agent at $90 per year or $10 per month.
• Business Forms, Including S Corporation (S-corp) Election Forms: Inclusion of various business forms such as office designation changes, meeting minutes, and S-corp election instructions.
• Business Inspections: Inspection service provided by Mercury, BetterLegal’s partner, with no minimum balance or deposit requirements.
• Payroll and HR Benefits Platform: Service by Square, a BetterLegal partner, covering payroll, HR, invoicing, website/e-commerce, email marketing, and proactive credit lines.

9. Filenow: Best for Fast Processing

Established in 2018 with its headquarters in New York, Filenow is a provider of business development services, specializing in LLC filings. Behind the scenes, a collaborative team of tax experts, lawyers, entrepreneurs, and business professionals work together to expedite the process of helping customers establish their ventures promptly.

While the company has maintained an A rating with the Better Business Bureau since March 2019, it is notable that it only has three reviews on the site. Sparse customer feedback is also evident across reputable review platforms such as Trustpilot and G2, where competitors boast thousands of reviews.

Filenow distinguishes itself through a competitive premium LLC filing plan that surpasses the offerings of many competitors’ higher-tier plans. Noteworthy features include responsive customer service and an impressive 24-hour order processing time.

However, it’s important to note that the company’s basic plan comes at a cost of $49 per year, whereas other companies provide the same services covered in this plan for free. Additionally, the base plan’s features are somewhat limited, and the online educational resources for customers are not as comprehensive as those offered by some competitors.

Services:

• Registered agent service.
• Employer identification number/Tax ID.
• Operating Agreement.
• Banking resolution.
• Business contract templates.
• Same-day expedited filing.

10. Inc Authority: Best for Free LLC Formation

Headquartered in Reno, Nevada, Inc Authority brings over 30 years of business expertise to the table. Going beyond just LLC filing services, the company offers an extensive range of startup business services tailored to guide first-time entrepreneurs through the process of launching, managing, and expanding their businesses.

In our selection of the top 10 LLC services, Inc Authority stands out as one of the four that provide free LLC paperwork filing. Notably, smaller services such as Filenow and MyCorporation do not offer this feature, while Incfile, LegalZoom, and ZenBusiness do.

Inc Authority typically does not offer prepackaged plans unless you engage with a sales representative. Caution is advised with these plans due to their elevated price tag. Instead, the usual process involves navigating through Inc Authority’s sales pathway, allowing you to selectively choose the services you wish to acquire.

Despite lacking Better Business Bureau accreditation, Inc Authority boasts an impressive 93% approval rating from over 20,000 Trustpilot reviews. Customers consistently commend the company for its exceptional customer service and straightforward, hassle-free filing and preparation process.

Services:

• Verification of Business Name Availability in Your State
• Consultation with a Tax Planning Expert to Maximize Savings
• One Year of Registered Agent Services
• Acquisition of a Tax Identification Number (TIN)
• Access to a Private Banking Specialist
• Tailored Business Advice
• Accelerated Company Formation Filing

6. How To Choose the Best LLC Service

While forming an LLC is a straightforward process in many states and can be done without utilizing a service, there are often additional advantages to opting for an LLC service. Here are some key benefits to consider when refining your choices:

1. Registered Agent Services:
   These services, often available separately from an LLC filing service, can safeguard personal information by preventing its online exposure or public availability. Outsourcing paperwork filing not only saves time but also spares you the research effort required to navigate the process.
2. Operating Agreements:
   Some filing packages include operating agreements, relieving you of the time and effort needed to create your own version or customize a template.
3. Multistate Availability:
   This feature may be essential, particularly if you reside near a state border or anticipate living in one state while operating your LLC in another.
4. Tax Planning Consultations and Analysis:
   These services can guide you in determining the most effective strategies to minimize taxes.

Essential Features and Services

These features and services often justify the use of an LLC service.

1. Articles of Organization:
   Required in most states for LLC formation, these documents are frequently included in filing packages offered by many LLC services. It’s essential to ensure they are not subject to additional fees.
2. Operating Agreements:
   Provided as part of a filing package by some services, operating agreements save you the time and effort of creating your own or customizing a template.
3. Multistate Availability:
   Especially valuable if you reside near a state border or plan to live in one state while operating your LLC in another.
4. Registered Agent Services:
   Often available separately, registered agent services protect personal information from online exposure. Additionally, having someone else handle paperwork filing saves time in both the filing process and the necessary research.

Add-on Services

Some LLC services go beyond the basics and provide additional services, such as registered agent services and business licensing. Other supplementary offerings may encompass finance, marketing and branding, web design, and compliance reporting.

Choose a service that offers add-ons aligned with your priorities. For instance, if you’re a startup aiming to enhance visibility and attract new customers, marketing and branding services may be crucial. If managing finances in-house is a challenge and you prefer to alleviate that responsibility, finance and accounting services could prove valuable.

Evaluate which aspects of your business could benefit from external assistance. Then, seek out LLC services that offer add-on services catering to your specific needs.

Package Options

Certain LLC services provide flexibility for selecting the package or plan that aligns best with your specific budget and requirements. Some may even offer a free or remarkably inexpensive option. Conversely, other LLC services present a singular package that may or may not suit your distinct circumstances.

For instance, BetterLegal offers a single package but allows customization through a variety of a la carte options. On the other hand, FileNow provides the option to choose from several state-specific packages, including the Starter package and Premium package.

The Starter package encompasses fundamental features such as articles of organization filing and unlimited name searches. In contrast, the Premium package, although priced at more than triple the cost, includes valuable additions like an operating agreement, banking resolution, business contract templates, and expedited 24-hour order processing.

7. How Much Does an LLC Service Cost?

Service Provider	Annual Subscription Starting Price	Free Option	Registered Agent Services
ZenBusiness	$199	Free, plus state fees	N/A
LegalZoom	$249	Free, plus state fees	N/A
Incfile	State-specific package pricing	Free, plus state fees	N/A
Rocket Lawyer	$239.99	Free, plus state fees	Yes
Active Filings	Packages starting at $100	Free, plus state fee	N/A
Swyft Filings	Packages starting at $199	Free, plus state fees	N/A
Northwest Registered Agent	One package for $225	Free, plus state fees	N/A
BetterLegal	One package for $299	$299, plus state fees	N/A
Filenow	State-specific package pricing	$49 plus state fee	N/A
Inc Authority	Pricing not listed on the website	Free, plus state fees	N/A

8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is an LLC?

An LLC, or limited liability company, offers protection to its members from personal liability, safeguarding personal assets even if you are the sole member. Additionally, the LLC structure provides tax flexibility, allowing members to choose between self-employed income reporting or S-corporation taxation for potential savings on Medicare and Social Security taxes. The choice depends on what best suits your business needs.

2. Why do I need an LLC formation company?

Considering the initiation of an LLC may lead to the question of why an LLC service is necessary. While managing the day-to-day operations and ensuring legal compliance in registering an LLC are essential tasks, opting for the best LLC services can save you valuable time and energy in getting your business established. Though it’s possible to handle this process independently, utilizing top-notch LLC services can streamline the journey of getting your business off the ground.

3. What does an LLC service help with?

While LLC services may vary in their offerings, all the services listed on Forbes Advisor provide key features, including a name availability search, online document access, the option for a registered agent add-on, and the creation of articles of organization. Additional legal services are also included in the offerings. It’s worth noting that some, if not most, of these services might be accessible only through add-on fees or the more expensive packages, depending on the service provider.

4. What other legal classifications are there for my business?

Various legal classifications are available for companies seeking protection from liabilities. For instance, opting for a corporation can be beneficial if you desire partial ownership by external shareholders, a preferred arrangement for many business owners. For further insights, explore our comparison of LLCs and corporations.

5. What is an LLC operating agreement?

The LLC operating agreement is a crucial document outlining the functional and financial management of your business. It encompasses a set of rules, regulations, and provisions.

6. How long does it take to get an LLC?

The timeframe for LLC creation varies by state. Generally, the process takes between one week to 10 business days, with potential delays during the beginning and end of the year.

7. How much do LLC filing companies cost?

Numerous flexible options are at your disposal, and prices will differ based on the services required and your willingness to undertake tasks yourself. Every state mandates a filing fee at the minimum. With paid LLC services like ZenBusiness, there’s an “only pay for what you need” choice, allowing you to seek assistance when necessary. Some services provide extensive add-on options, enabling professionals to handle the work for you. It’s crucial never to assume that a package includes all the services you require.

8. Do I need an LLC service?

Every task that an LLC service performs can be undertaken by a business owner without incurring service fees (though fees must still be paid to the state or other entities for filing, and additional costs may arise). While opting for an LLC service may provide value for business owners who prefer not to handle the filing themselves and desire access to other legal services, a local business lawyer is also an option. Although this may involve higher costs compared to an online service, a lawyer can offer a personal relationship and assistance with various legal questions and issues.

9. Do I need an EIN for my LLC?

The necessity of obtaining an EIN for your LLC depends on the nature of your business and whether you have employees. In numerous instances, acquiring an EIN is advisable, particularly if you have plans for future business expansion.

10. Do I need a registered agent to start an LLC?

When registering your business as an LLC, a registered agent is a necessity. This individual or service is designated to receive all official and legal documents pertaining to your organization. You have the option to appoint yourself, as an employee, or choose a registered agent service.

11. Is an LLC the same thing as a corporation?

An LLC and a corporation provide certain benefits unique to each other, but they are distinct business entities and not interchangeable. Explore the differences between LLCs and corporations to identify the most suitable structure for your business.

12. Is it possible to set up an LLC for free?

The registration cost for an LLC varies across states, and registration in each state incurs a fee. While some companies promote “free” LLC formation, this typically means they will assist in completing the paperwork at no charge. However, you are still obligated to cover the state’s filing fee.

What Is a Payment Gateway?

The payment gateway emerges as a software application wielded by merchants to facilitate the acceptance of credit cards and various electronic payment modes. These gateways operate as formidable encryption systems, meticulously safeguarding sensitive information, including the sanctity of credit card numbers, during its transit from the customer to the merchant. Subsequently, this intricate web of gateways orchestrates the seamless transmission of transactional details, intricately routing the information to both the customer’s banking institution and the acquiring bank of the merchant (or the financial institution allied with the merchant to furnish credit card processing services).

The onus of authorizing the credit card transaction and overseeing the seamless transfer of funds from the customer’s account to the merchant’s account falls squarely on the shoulders of the payment gateway. It is customary for these gateways to levy charges, encompassing a monthly fee in addition to a fee per transaction. The nuanced dance of security, authorization, and financial orchestration underscores the multifaceted role played by payment gateways in electronic transactions.

10 Best Payment Gateways

1. Authorize.net: Best for fraud prevention

The primary objective of these solutions revolves around streamlining the payment process, and Authorize.net (affiliated with Visa) excels in achieving precisely that. Tailored to cater to businesses of all sizes, this platform, with its array of plans, equips you with the essential tools for selling items and facilitating online or in-person transactions at a physical store.

This solution empowers you to seamlessly accept payments from websites and promptly transfer funds to your merchant bank account. It boasts compatibility with all major credit cards, encompassing Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, Diner’s Club, and JCB. Additionally, the platform aligns itself with digital payment services such as Apple Pay, PayPal, and Visa Checkout.

While the software facilitates transactions from global customers, it necessitates your business to be registered in the US, UK, Canada, Europe, or Australia to avail of its services.

Maximizing the benefits of Authorize.net is best achieved through the acquisition of a merchant account. The range of plans initiates with the Payment Gateway Only option, entailing no setup fee but comprising a monthly gateway fee, a per-transaction fee, and a daily batch fee. On the other end of the spectrum, enterprise solutions cater to larger business needs, offering customized pricing for their specific requirements.

Features:

• Electronic check processing
• In-store payment
• Digital terminal and bulk upload
• Mail/phone-based payments
• Repetitive billing
• Customer data management
• Synchronization for QuickBooks
• Sophisticated fraud detection suite

2. Shopify: Best for e-commerce startups

In addition to furnishing a payment gateway, Shopify stands as a renowned and all-encompassing e-commerce system, offering a comprehensive suite of tools essential for initiating online sales.

Unquestionably, for Shopify users, Shopify Payments emerges as the optimal choice, seamlessly integrating your payment gateway with your website tools. Notably, during our testing, we discovered the absence of transaction fees, a boon for SMEs, especially those engaged in selling high-value items surpassing £100.

However, opting for a departure from Shopify Payments and integrating a third-party payment gateway provider onto your Shopify website comes with transaction fees ranging from 0.5% to 2%.

For existing Shopify account holders, incorporating the Shopify Payments tool into the backend is a swift process. Simply navigate to “Settings,” select “Payments,” click on “Activate Shopify Payments,” and input the relevant information. This ensures a streamlined and efficient integration process.

Brick-and-mortar establishments, complemented by an online presence, will find Shopify Payments to be an excellent option. For merchants utilizing Shopify, it is advisable to employ its integrated Shopify Payments app for sales transactions. This method incurs zero transaction fees and seamlessly integrates with a variety of Shopify’s hardware, including the popular Shopify card reader, along with software options like Shopify POS.

Through Shopify POS, you gain the capability to conduct in-person transactions using a mobile device or tablet. It also facilitates the synchronization of inventory information between online and physical stores, a valuable feature for businesses involved in both online and offline sales. This synchronization provides a comprehensive overview of your operations, streamlining the management of your physical and digital storefronts from a centralized platform.

By amalgamating attractive templates, search engine optimization tools, and an in-house payment gateway, Shopify offers a user-friendly and cost-effective solution for small businesses aiming to broaden their sales channels.

Features:

• E-commerce Platform: Shopify functions as an all-encompassing e-commerce platform catering to businesses of all sizes.
• Online Store Creation: Users can effortlessly construct and personalize their online stores using Shopify’s user-friendly tools and templates.
• Payment Gateway Integration: Shopify facilitates the seamless integration of various payment gateways, enabling businesses to securely accept payments.
• Shopify Payments: Serving as an integrated payment solution, Shopify Payments streamlines transactions, ensuring a smooth user experience.
• Security Features: Shopify places a high priority on the security of online transactions and customer data, creating a protected environment for e-commerce.
• Responsive Customer Support: Shopify provides responsive customer support to aid users with any inquiries or challenges they may encounter.
• Tax Calculation: Automated tax calculation tools within Shopify assist businesses in efficiently managing and calculating taxes based on location and relevant regulations.

3. Stax: Best for high-value transaction

Established in 2014 and headquartered in Orlando, Florida, Stax by Fattmerchant transforms the landscape of merchant services by presenting 0% interchange fee markups, access to wholesale credit card processing rates, fixed monthly subscriptions devoid of contractual obligations, and cutting-edge proprietary technology.

Offering a diverse array of services, encompassing integrations into existing systems, e-commerce solutions, and online, mobile, and virtual terminals, Stax empowers business proprietors of varying sizes to seamlessly accept payments—whether in-person, over-the-phone, on-the-go, or through e-commerce—from any location through an intuitively designed platform.

Moreover, Stax’s software platform provides comprehensive data analytics, seamlessly integrating with popular business tools such as QuickBooks Online and Google My Business. This integration facilitates merchants in gaining valuable insights into the health of their business. The payment processing company collaborates individually with each customer to customize a payment option aligning with their specific business requirements.

Features:

• Expense Control
• Invoicing and Activation
• Capability Analysis
• Monitoring Demand

4. Payline Data: Best for subscription-based businesses

Based in Chicago, Payline Data functions as a versatile payment processor, adept at handling a wide array of transactions, including credit and debit cards, e-checks, and ACH transfers. Its cost-effective and transparent pricing structure empowers business owners to precisely calculate their payment processing fees, offering a user-friendly interface tailored to the preferences of small-business owners.

For e-commerce merchants, the indispensable component for online payment acceptance is a payment gateway. Payline Data offers an in-house solution seamlessly integrating with diverse e-commerce platforms and shopping carts, such as Shopify and BigCommerce. This adaptable tool allows users to accept credit, debit, and electronic payments, manage invoices, and establish recurring payments. Furthermore, Payline Data extends its functionality by providing an API, allowing developers to seamlessly integrate its payment system into various additional software products.

Features:

• Subscription Billing
• Payline Gateway
• ACH Payments
• Chargeback Prevention
• Fraud Protection
• Data Security
• Business Loans

5. Helcim: Best for high-volume sellers

Helcim, established in 2006 and headquartered in North America with offices in Calgary and Seattle, provides a variety of transaction-processing options. The company supports invoicing, recurring payments, and international credit card processing, seamlessly integrating with QuickBooks, WooCommerce, and Magento shopping carts.

Utilizing a transparent interchange-plus pricing model, Helcim ensures clarity for its merchants, revealing the amount paid above the interchange rates and credit card brand fees. Helcim’s built-in tools encompass point-of-sale, virtual terminals, and a proprietary Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system.

The combination of functionality, user-friendliness, and affordability positions Helcim as a comprehensive credit card processing solution suitable for a wide range of businesses. The company’s straightforward pricing model, ease of initiation with a quick registration and application process, and the absence of monthly fees or long-term contracts make it an attractive option. Stores can cancel their contract at any time without incurring early termination fees. Helcim’s services are easily accessible through the Helcim app, and for in-store transactions, the $109 Card Reader connects to smartphones, tablets, and PCs, eliminating the need for additional hardware.

Features:

• E-commerce platforms and food delivery services
• Personalized QR codes
• Recurring invoicing
• Invoice generation
• Regular subscription payments

6. Elavon: Best for integrating with existing point-of-sale (POS) systems

Elavon, an international payment processing firm, extends its services to more than 30 countries as a subsidiary of Bank of America. Ranked among the top five global payments providers, Elavon handles over 6.6 billion global transactions annually. Despite its significant size and influence, the necessity of obtaining quotes to determine prices and fees raises concerns about transparency.

Impressively, with over 30 years of experience, Elavon functions as a commercial service provider under the auspices of Bank of America, a major financial institution. Acknowledged as a leading credit card processing company, Elavon collaborates with businesses of all sizes, delivering hardware and software solutions for in-person, contactless, and online transactions.

Renowned as a widely embraced credit card processing solution, Elavon empowers business owners to accept credit card payments, broadening their customer base beyond those who prefer cash transactions. Upon enrollment with Elavon, businesses receive the necessary hardware for swiping or tapping credit cards, coupled with access to the commerce portal for tracking payments and generating reports.

Furthermore, Elavon provides the “WorksWith Elavon” platform, facilitating essential integrations with various business tools, including Microsoft Dynamics 365, WooCommerce, Sage 50, Wix, NCR Aloha, and Oracle NetSuite. These integrations play a pivotal role in enhancing overall business efficiency, spanning from managing customer contacts to completing the payment process.

Are you impressed with this Payment Gateway? Please let us know, okay?

Features:

• Financial Strength: Elavon is backed by U.S. Bank, providing credibility and financial stability to reassure business owners.
• Integration Flexibility: Elavon’s “WorksWith Elavon” platform allows seamless integration with key software, enhancing convenience for business owners.
• Secure Transactions: Elavon prioritizes data security with a layered approach, ensuring PCI compliance and protecting customer information.
• Global Presence: Operating in 36+ countries, Elavon stands out by enabling transactions on a global scale for businesses with an international footprint.

7. Square: Best for retailers

Square, a pioneer in mobile payments, differentiates itself by avoiding monthly recurring fees for most card processing services. When purchasing a Square register or terminal, you can purchase the entire hardware or choose a monthly payment plan until the device is paid for in full. However, for transactions, you only incur fees for each transaction.

For transactions using the card, whether made in-store or at a mobile location, the cost is 2.6% plus $0.10 per transaction. Online payments have a fee of 2.9% plus $0.30 per transaction, while locked transactions are charged at 3.5% plus $0.15. Square invoices, when sent to customers, are subject to a fee of 3.3% + $0.30 for related payments. Compared to other Payment Gateways, Square seems to have a bit of a high cost, right?

Impressive with its range of capabilities in business management, in addition to in-person and mobile payment services, Square has expanded its services to include payroll, banking, inventory management, operations restaurant, retail inventory, and a diverse range of software solutions suitable for almost any industry.

Features:

• Square POS: Free POS system with complimentary magstripe Square Reader.
• Square Appointments: Free for individuals; $50/month for 2-5 employees; $90/month for 6-10 employees.
• Square for Restaurants: Free version for unlimited devices; plans start at $60/location with transaction fees.
• Square for Retail: Free version available; plans start at $60 for the first location, and $40 for subsequent ones, with transaction fees.

8. Stripe: Best for customization

Stripe is a great choice for businesses that have their own existing app or website and want to seamlessly integrate payment processing. Providing developer-friendly solutions, Stripe makes it easy to integrate into a variety of online payment systems and marketplaces through its application program interface (API). If your app or website is optimized for Stripe, linking is as simple as copying and pasting the code from Stripe.

Stripe’s standard online payment processing service costs 2.9% plus $0.30 per payment and has no recurring fees. The deal is impressive for volume sellers, who can potentially qualify for discounts through personalized pricing plans.

Features:

• Mobile Customer Interface: A user-friendly interface designed for mobile devices to enhance customer interaction and experience.
• Multi-Currency Payouts: Capability to process payouts in multiple currencies, facilitating international transactions and payments.
• Clean Canvas: An uncluttered and easily navigable platform or interface, that provides a clear and organized workspace.
• Collaboration Notes: Features allowing users to add and share notes, enhancing collaboration and communication within the platform.
• Payment Options: Diverse methods are available for processing payments, ensuring flexibility for both businesses and customers.
• Embeddable Checkout: The ability to seamlessly integrate and embed a checkout system into various websites or applications.
• Authorization: Processes and features ensuring secure and authorized access to the platform or system.
• Custom UI Toolkit: Tools and resources that allow for the customization of the user interface, tailoring it to specific preferences and needs.
• Dispute Handling: Mechanisms in place to effectively manage and resolve disputes, ensuring fair and efficient conflict resolution.
• Open-Source Plugin: A plugin or module that is openly accessible and customizable, allowing users to modify and extend functionalities.
• Consolidated Reports: Comprehensive and centralized reporting tools that aggregate data for a clear overview of relevant information.
• Accounting Integrations: Seamless integration with accounting systems, streamlining financial processes and record-keeping.
• Unified Payout: A centralized system for processing and managing payouts, ensuring consistency and efficiency.
• Financial Reporting: Detailed and comprehensive reporting tools specifically focused on financial data and analytics.
• Roles and Permissions: Features defining and regulating user roles and permissions within the system, enhancing security and control.

9. Clover: Best for restaurants

Clover serves as the primary payment processing service that businesses can access directly and is also available through a variety of banking partners, including Citi, PNC, SunTrust, and Wells Fargo, among more than 3,000 institutions. financial position.

Designed specifically for small businesses with a single location, such as retailers and restaurants, Clover’s payment system requires a significant initial investment. While some businesses can start with no upfront costs, many others can incur costs ranging from $2,000 to $4,000. Monthly charges vary from $14.95 to $114.85.

Industry-specific payment fees apply, with most businesses paying 2.3% to 2.6%, plus $0.10 for card purchases, and 3.5%, plus $0.10 for cardless purchases. Depending on the features needed, these costs may be reasonable.

According to our research, certain businesses may be eligible to save up to $1,400 off the initial cost, which is especially beneficial for purchasing card processing hardware.

Features:

• Merchant Account: Clover provides a necessary merchant account for credit card payments through parent company Fiserv.
• Fast Processing: Swift transaction processing, even on the go, ensures efficient cash flow management.
• Reporting: Clover offers comprehensive reporting, including sales analytics, inventory tracking, and customer preferences.
• Payments: Accept EMV chip cards, contactless, and mobile wallet payments to meet customer expectations.
• Customer Management: Set up customer profiles, send emails, and create rewards programs for enhanced loyalty.
• Gift Cards: Unique custom gift card templates set Clover apart in payment processing.
• E-commerce: Clover serves as a one-stop shop with integrations for major e-commerce platforms and website management.
• Merchant Cash Advance: Clover provides a cash advance option, beneficial for businesses requiring a cash flow cushion.

10. PayPal: Best for versatile payment solutions

PayPal, considered a “heavyweight” competitor in many Payment Gateways with extensive experience in online payments, facilitates quick business registration and accepts online payments quickly and effectively. In addition to online services, PayPal offers mobile and in-person payment solutions and many other financial services.

For online card payments, the typical cost is For online card payments, the typical cost is $0.49 plus 3.49%..49 plus 3.49%. QR code payments offer reduced fees at 1.90% for transactions over or 2.40% for transactions or less, in addition to a QR code payments offer reduced fees at 1.90% for transactions over $10 or 2.40% for transactions $10 or less, in addition to a $0.49 fee..49 fee. Other qualifying “standard” card payments are subject to a fee of Other qualifying “standard” card payments are subject to a fee of $0.49 plus 2.99%..49 plus 2.99%.

The notable advantage of PayPal is that most businesses do not have to pay recurring monthly fees. In-person payments will be charged 2.70% for card present transactions or 3.50% plus In-person payments will be charged 2.70% for card present transactions or 3.50% plus $0.15 for keyed transactions..15 for keyed transactions. For those who want to avoid recurring fees, whether due to low card processing volume or other reasons, PayPal is a suitable choice.

Features:

• Shopping Carts: Choose between PayPal’s free customizable shopping cart or integrate with existing ones.
• Subscriptions/Recurring Payments: Easily set up recurring payments, ideal for membership sites.
• Donations: Streamlined PayPal button for simple donations.
• Accept Multiple Currencies: Enable payments in various currencies, including USD, AUD, CAD, GBP, JPY, and EUR.
• Real-Time Payment Notifications: Stay informed with instant notifications for received payments.
• Test Transactions: Conduct test transactions in a controlled environment for assurance.
• Credit Cards Accepted: Buyers can use credit cards without requiring a PayPal account, saving on merchant account hassles.
• Customized Payment Pages: Personalize payment pages with your website’s colors and logos.
• Invoicing: Send detailed email invoices, and create up to 10 customized invoices using PayPal templates.
• Refunds: Offer full or partial refunds within a 60-day window.
• Integrated Shipping: Generate packing slips with integrated shipping and delivery tracking.
• Order Updates and Notifications: Automatically send updates and status notifications for orders.
• Mass Pay: Facilitate payments to large groups, such as affiliates.
• Auto Return: Redirect buyers to a specified URL on your website post-purchase for confirmation or thank-you pages.

How To Choose the Best Payment Gateway

For businesses that want to accept credit card payments online, payment gateways are indispensable. This technology facilitates the circulation of financial data, authorization of payments, and transfer of funds from customers to merchants. When choosing the optimal payment gateway, it is important to take into account factors such as price and fees, integration, security, and other considerations. Please follow us to choose the right Payment Gateway for you.

Pricing & Fees

Cost considerations for payment gateways include both registration fees and payment processing fees. The subscription fee represents the monthly fee imposed by the payment gateway, while the payment processing fee is a fee imposed per transaction. Some payment gateways waive the monthly fee but charge higher transaction fees in return.

Typically, subscription fees range from $25 to $50 per month, while payment processing fees range from 2.9% plus 30 cents per transaction. Deviations from these norms often indicate differences in characteristics.

When evaluating prices, you should pay attention to the following:

• Free trial available
• Existence of setup fees
• The presence of hidden fees
• Minimum monthly fee
• Reimbursement fee
• Refund fee
• International transaction fees

Types of Payment Gateways

We classify three main types of payment gateways:

1. Redirect:
   In this type, the payment gateway directs the customer to a payment processor, such as PayPal or Stripe, to complete the transaction.
2. Hosted (Off-site payments):
   Customers make purchases on your website or at your retail location, and payment information is sent to the payment provider’s server for processing. This is the operating model of systems like Stripe and Square POS.
3. Self-Hosting (Pay onsite):
   In this type, the entire transaction takes place on your server, providing a more localized and closed method of payment processing.

Security

When selecting a payment gateway, prioritize security as a primary concern. It is crucial to ensure that the gateway employs the latest encryption technology to safeguard your customers’ credit card information from potential theft.

Additionally, the payment gateway should adhere to PCI compliance. This entails following the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS), a set of security standards mandated for all businesses engaged in processing credit card payments.

Integrations & Customizations

Ensure that your payment gateway can seamlessly integrate with your shopping cart, accounting software, and any other essential business software. This integration facilitates automated accounting processes, ultimately saving you time.

Additionally, evaluate whether the payment gateway provides customization options. For instance, you might want the flexibility to add a logo or modify the color scheme of the payment page. While this can often be achieved through an API, not every gateway extends this customization option.

Payment Methods

Another factor to consider is the range of payment methods supported by the selected gateway. Beyond credit cards, you might desire the capability to accept payments through platforms like PayPal, Venmo, ACH, or eCheck. Additionally, providing customers with the option to pay through invoices could be a valuable feature to consider.

On-site or Off-site Transactions

Please note, that certain payment gateways allow transaction processing directly on your website, while others require redirecting customers to a separate page to enter credit card information.

Choosing an on-premises payment solution is necessary if you want to process transactions directly on your website. However, if it’s acceptable to redirect customers to a separate page to enter credit card information, you have the flexibility to choose an on-site or off-site portal.

How Do Payment Gateways Work?

The payment gateway involves the following key participants:

1. Seller: Refers to the business or individual conducting the sale.
2. Cardholder: Represents the customer making the purchase.
3. Issuing Bank: The financial institution responsible for holding the customer’s account, whether it’s a credit card or a checking account linked to a debit card.
4. Card Program: Managed by credit card companies like Visa, Mastercard, or American Express, overseeing the cards.
5. Acquiring Bank: The financial institution responsible for holding the seller’s account.

Payment gateways play a crucial role in facilitating secure online transactions by encrypting sensitive information, such as credit card numbers. This encryption ensures the secure transmission of data between the customer, the merchant, and the bank or payment processor.

Payment Gateway vs. Payment Processor

The term “payment gateway” is often confused with “payment processor” and “payment service provider”, but they represent separate entities.

Payment processors facilitate the transfer of information between issuing and acquiring banks, facilitating the transfer of funds to your merchant account. However, to communicate between different components and authorize transactions, it must rely on payment gateways.

In contrast, a payment service provider, such as PayPal, includes a payment processor, payment gateway, merchant account, and often additional features to manage all aspects of the transaction. pandemic.

Which Payment Gateway Provider Is Right for Me?

Countless payment gateway providers exist as each is suited to specific situations. The needs of traditional retailers and fast food restaurants are different from the needs of a real estate company or medical device manufacturer. Therefore, when choosing a payment gateway provider, it is important to evaluate your individual requirements. Below are some common questions to consider when making this decision.

How Do Your Customers Prefer to Pay for Goods or Services?

Customers have varying preferences, with some favoring credit cards while others opt for digital wallets. The preferred payment method should be a determining factor in selecting a service. Additionally, certain providers may offer superior pricing, features, or services, or even a combination of all three, to support the payment preferences of your customers.

Where Do Your Customers Prefer to Shop?

Rates for in-person and online payments differ, just as the costs for processing one credit card may vary from another. If your sales are predominantly in one realm over another, a specific provider might impact your margins less than another. Apart from pricing, certain payment gateway providers may excel in offering enhanced features and services tailored for handling payments in specific dimensions.

What Is Your Monthly Sales Volume?

The monthly sales volume, encompassing both the total number of transactions and dollar value, stands as a significant consideration for any business when choosing a payment gateway. Businesses with higher volumes may find an advantage in plans featuring a higher monthly fee but lower rates per transaction. Conversely, businesses with lower volumes might be more suited to paying a higher per-transaction fee without incurring a monthly fee.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1, What is the best payment gateway?

Authorize.net, Stax, and Payline data provide convenient solutions for accepting payments, supporting fast payment processing, and reducing the risk of fraudulent transactions. Authorize.net stands out for its top fraud prevention measures, Stax is especially suitable for high-value transactions, and Payment Flow Data proves to be a great choice for subscription-based businesses. Please consider carefully when choosing the right Payment Gateway for your business!

2. What is a multicurrency payment gateway?

A multi-currency payment gateway allows you to accept payments in different currencies and receive funds in your local currency. It is very useful for multinational businesses that want to accept payments from customers around the world.

3. How do I add a payment gateway to my website?

Begin by choosing a payment gateway provider. Afterward, sign up for a merchant account and acquire your API key. Subsequently, integrate the provided code into your website. Certain payment portals, like Braintree, offer a simple drop-in solution, allowing easy addition of payment processing with just a few lines of code. However, others, such as Stripe, may entail a bit more development work.

4. How does a payment gateway work?

A payment gateway serves as a secure portal that enables businesses to process payments by verifying the authenticity of the card and ensuring sufficient funds to cover the purchase. It integrates with your shopping cart or content management system (CMS) and securely transmits customer information to the payment processor. Subsequently, the payment gateway transfers the payment to the merchant’s account.

5. How to choose the best payment gateways for you?

Selecting the optimal payment gateway for your business hinges largely on its size. Smaller outlets or sole traders may not require a robust payment gateway setup, especially considering the flexibility and convenience offered by PayPal.

Offering the convenience of card payments is crucial for most businesses, and customers expect this option. Look for payment gateways that provide simplicity, value for money, and the capability to link to POS systems, while also offering integration into your accounting software.

Simultaneously, pay attention to the terms and conditions, as highlighted in our introduction. Fees can vary significantly among payment gateways, so factor this into your cost considerations. Processing and interchange fees can accumulate, so ensure to account for these.

For businesses anticipating higher sales volumes, opting for more advanced packages may be necessary, even though these typically come with a higher price tag.

6. How we test the best payment gateways

When evaluating payment gateways, our focus is always on identifying systems that help streamline business operations. It is important that any package is suitable for the specific type and size of the business it is aimed at. Therefore, some of the payment gateway options introduced are better suited to smaller stores with lower sales volumes.

Conversely, if your business involves processing significant volumes of credit card payments, you’ll need one of the more powerful options outlined in this guide. We aim to achieve a realistic balance between the system’s suitability for the target business market and a thorough comparison of the costs and fees involved.

Businesses look for good value and our testing ensures that each system delivers essential features without incurring unnecessary costs for unwanted functionality that may never be used. use. Our buying guide helps streamline your search by presenting the strengths and weaknesses of each major player.

7. Do I need a payment gateway?

While not obligatory, payment portals are widely adopted by most businesses due to the decreasing prevalence of cash transactions. Without the capability to process credit card payments, your business is likely to miss out on potential sales.

8. Can I build my own payment gateway?

Yes, it is possible to develop a custom, self-hosted payment gateway on your own servers. This approach grants you full control over the customer experience throughout a transaction, and it places the responsibility for security squarely on your shoulders rather than relying on a third-party payment provider.

1. What is Asana?

Asana emerges as a pinnacle in the realm of project management software, offering an extensive array of dynamic views meticulously crafted for seamless integration by team members of diverse roles.

Embarking on the voyage through its free iteration, a trove of capabilities unfolds, promising to weave convenience into the fabric of your daily existence. Within this realm, bask in the luxury of boundless storage, navigate the annals of past projects, and engage in platform-mediated conversations. For those steering small teams, the free version proves a beacon of enduring excellence.

Asana’s kaleidoscopic panorama of project views beckons exploration. Whether traversing the landscape in the form of Kanban-style cards, charting projects and their temporal boundaries on a calendar, or immersing in a comprehensive workload overview, the options unfurl abundantly. The fluidity to transition between these views bestows unparalleled flexibility upon your team, opening avenues to encompass an expansive spectrum of stakeholders.

Venturing deeper into the intricacies, Asana orchestrates a symphony of automatic processes and integrations, elevating your team’s operational prowess. By orchestrating the ballet of due dates, a cascade of automatic messages emanates through platforms like Slack upon the culmination of project segments. Thus, facilitating your team’s seamless transition into the next rhythmic stage of the project becomes an effortless choreography.

2. What Sets Asana Apart

Pros

Incorporating Asana into your workflow enables seamless integration with third-party services like Slack and Zapier. Centralizing all communication within the platform fosters enhanced productivity, a benefit further amplified by its in-app messaging feature. Given Asana’s capability to assign project deadlines and priorities to your team, consolidating discussions within a single platform proves logical.

Asana aligns itself with the principles of Agile project management, offering a comprehensive glossary of terms elucidated within its framework for Agile project management. Leveraging Asana for orchestrating sprints and orchestrating product launches emerges as a highly viable and efficient option.

Cons

With Asana, task assignment is limited to one team member per task. If a project section demands collaboration from multiple individuals, alternative communication methods must be employed.

Asana generates numerous email notifications, a potential source of inconvenience for certain users. Before diving into significant projects with Asana, the project manager should guide team members on adjusting their email notification settings. This ensures a tailored experience, where emails are perceived as directly relevant to their responsibilities rather than being viewed as spam.

As for Asana’s free plan, it offers unlimited accounts and three project views. The Premium plan, priced at $10.99 per user monthly (billed annually), encompasses everything from the free plan and more, including additional automation features. The Business plan, available at $24.99 per user monthly (billed annually), introduces advanced workflows and reporting. Lastly, the Enterprise plan caters to high-level businesses seeking unrestricted use of Asana, offering comprehensive features.

3. Asana Core Features

Role Assignment Features

A standout feature of Asana lies in its robust capability to allocate roles and responsibilities among team members. This includes task assignments, setting deadlines, and creating subtasks to systematically break down projects into more manageable components, fostering transparency and accountability within your team.

Gantt Charts

The Gantt chart feature in Asana enables a detailed and visual representation of project timelines and dependencies. Identification of critical paths, seamless timeline adjustments, and the ability to make well-informed decisions regarding project priorities are easily facilitated.

Timelines

Asana’s timeline feature enables the visualization of project deadlines and dependencies in a straightforward, easy-to-understand manner. Flexibility to adjust dates and milestones ensures projects stay on track.

Dependencies

The dependency feature in Asana empowers you to establish relationships between tasks, ensuring the completion of certain tasks is dependent on the fulfillment of others. This strategic feature keeps projects on track and ensures everyone is working on the right tasks.

Software Integrations

Asana seamlessly integrates with various software tools, facilitating its smooth incorporation into your team’s existing workflow. For instance, integration with platforms like Slack, Google Drive, and Microsoft Teams enables effortless file sharing and communication within your team.

Budgeting

Asana’s budgeting feature provides a comprehensive toolset to monitor project expenses and adhere to budget constraints. Real-time expense tracking, project-specific budget allocations, and the flexibility to make adjustments as needed contribute to effective financial management within the Asana platform.

4. Asana Pricing and Options

Asana Pricing

Asana presents three plans, accompanied by an Enterprise option. The Basic plan is complimentary for up to 15 users. The Premium plan is available at $10.99 per user per month when billed annually, or $13.49 billed monthly. The Business plan incurs a cost of $24.99 per user per month when billed annually, and $30.49 when billed monthly.

In addition to the monthly fees, any applicable state and local sales tax based on the billing address is an additional expense. Depending on the integration, there may be extra charges for third-party apps. Nonprofit organizations enjoy a 50% discount on Asana’s paid plans.

Asana Basic

The complimentary Basic plan from Asana facilitates team collaboration for up to 15 users. Although it imposes a task limit of 1,000 per team, this restriction is generally sufficient for small projects. Basic users enjoy unlimited access to projects, messages, teams, log activity, and file storage.

For smaller remote or distributed teams, Asana’s Basic plan provides full functionality at no cost. However, for those seeking an elevated experience, upgrading to Premium or Business is recommended.

Asana’s pricing structure positions the software attractively in comparison to similar solutions in the current market. The per-user rates align closely with industry averages, yet Asana surpasses competitors by offering a richer set of features out-of-the-box.

The noteworthy capability of using Asana for agile project management adds significant value. This feature is not universally available in project management tools within this price range.

For those undecided, starting with the Basic plan is a risk-free option. If you find it limiting, upgrading is always an option. Alternatively, those ready to dive into a paid package can opt for a free trial, experiencing Asana at no cost for 30 days.

Asana Premium

For teams surpassing 15 users, selecting Asana Premium becomes essential. Even for groups with fewer than 15 members, many organizations prefer the Premium package for its additional features and benefits.

A notable advantage of Asana Premium lies in the timeline view, as illustrated above. Serving as a comprehensive tool, it ensures the timely execution of deadlines and adherence to project schedules. This feature enables the tracking of dependencies and visualizes the connections between specific tasks and deadlines, empowering project managers to proactively identify issues and formulate solutions before conflicts disrupt the project.

Premium users also enjoy access to reporting tools and dashboards, facilitating swift insights through real-time charts and analysis of relevant project data.

Another crucial feature is the inclusion of status reporting, allowing users to provide quick updates without the need for time-consuming status meetings. These reports, easily customizable with charts to highlight key takeaways, can be updated within minutes.

With an upgrade to Asana Premium, users unlock benefits like unlimited free guests, private projects, private teams, milestones, forms, and an advanced admin console. This feature-rich package offers substantial value, commencing at an attractive price of $10.99 per user per month.

Asana Business

Asana Business is tailored for organizations seeking advanced features within their project management solution. This package proves to be the superior choice for mid-size teams and organizations overseeing multiple projects across different departments.

A notable aspect of Asana Business is the capability to establish strategic goals at the company level. This empowers managers to link goals directly to specific projects, ensuring comprehensive alignment.

The Business package introduces a project portfolio management tool, functioning as a mission control center. This tool provides a centralized view of all team objectives and projects, displaying essential details such as project name, status, completion percentage, due dates, and priority level.

Another standout feature of Asana Business is the workload management tool. Managers can assess team members’ bandwidth, distinguishing those with additional capacity from those overwhelmed with work. This capability proves instrumental in resource planning, ultimately enhancing overall efficiencies.

Asana Business facilitates advanced integrations with Tableau, Adobe Creative Cloud, Salesforce, and Microsoft Power BI. For organizations utilizing these tools, opting for the Business package becomes a logical choice.

Considering the price point of $24.99, Asana Business justifies its value for larger teams. The additional cost proves worthwhile as long as organizations leverage the advanced features, making Asana Business a prudent investment.

Asana Enterprise

Asana Enterprise stands as the premium product offering from this provider, specifically crafted for larger organizations requiring scalable project management.

An Enterprise subscription elevates Asana beyond mere project management, providing comprehensive work management tools. This includes features such as configurable member settings, advanced admin controls, SAML authentication, and heightened data control.

The plan encompasses enterprise-grade security, privacy controls, and data governance, ensuring compliance with standards like GDPR, PCI DSS, CCPA, and more.

Enterprise users also enjoy perks like custom branding and priority support.

Despite these advanced features, we still consider Asana a more suitable option for small to midsize teams. The Enterprise features might be considered excessive for the majority of businesses at this level, as they primarily focus on user provisioning, security, and enterprise-grade work management, offering limited additional benefits in the realm of project management.

5. Asana Setup and Customization

Commencing your journey with Asana is a swift and straightforward process that requires no app downloads, as Asana operates in the cloud. Creating an account and inviting team members to join your workspace is all it takes to kickstart your Asana experience.

Asana boasts an intuitive interface equipped with customizable settings and user-friendly navigation, offering a variety of project views, including list, board, calendar, and timeline views. Its user interface and adaptable settings simplify the onboarding process for new users, requiring minimal training.

Transitioning to Asana from another project management software is equally uncomplicated. Asana’s import tool facilitates the seamless transfer of projects from platforms like Trello or Basecamp. Moreover, its compatibility with everyday tools like Slack and Google Drive streamlines automation processes, easing the integration of Asana into your existing workflow.

6. Asana Ease of Use

Learning to navigate Asana, like many project management tools, may demand some initial effort. The abundance of features and customizable settings can appear overwhelming to new users in the beginning. Nevertheless, Asana’s intuitive interface and comprehensive documentation contribute to a smoother learning curve and adaptation over time. For a quick start, explore Asana Academy, a self-paced course available for users.

One notable advantage of utilizing Asana lies in its commitment to collaboration and communication. Asana’s platform fosters real-time collaboration and communication among team members, facilitating seamless teamwork on projects. The user-friendly interface and customizable settings within Asana simplify processes such as tracking progress, assigning tasks, and engaging in communication with team members.

7. Asana Security

Asana employs SOC 2 and SOC 3 security protocols and complies with GDPR, CCPA, FERPA, GLBA, and four distinct ISO codes of practice. As of October 2022, Asana is in full compliance with HIPAA. Enterprise subscribers have the additional option of utilizing two-factor authentication, SAML 2.0, and SSO for enhanced security measures.

8. Asana Customer Service and Support

Beyond detailed step-by-step guides, Asana provides a community forum and an Academy. Within the Academy, users can access interactive courses, training sessions, and webinars led by the Customer Success team. As part of its support resources, Asana offers a chatbot to address basic inquiries. For more intricate issues, the chatbot can assist in filing a ticket for users to connect with a customer support agent.

9. Asana Additional Features

The additional features provided by Asana enhance flexibility and offer various customization options, improving the effective management of intricate projects. Asana includes features like customizable templates, milestone tracking, expense tracking, Kanban board, billing and invoicing, and guest/client access, forming a comprehensive suite of tools for successful project management.

Customizable Templates

Asana furnishes adaptable templates, affording you the capacity to economize time and optimize your workflow. Crafting templates tailored to diverse project types becomes a seamless endeavor, simplifying the initiation of new projects by presenting them with a predetermined structure and a curated set of tasks.

Expense Tracking

Within Asana’s expansive capabilities, the expense tracking feature stands out as a guiding thread, providing a means to navigate the intricate maze of project expenditures and budget intricacies. Assigning expenses to specific tasks, closely monitoring your financial outlay, and orchestrating the symphony of data into insightful reports are the tools at your disposal to keep stakeholders informed in this dynamic journey of fiscal management.

Milestone Tracking

Asana’s milestone tracking feature empowers you to monitor significant project milestones and establish reminders for crucial dates. The capability to assign milestones to specific team members and track progress towards completion adds a valuable dimension to project management.

Kanban Board

Within the Kanban board view, you have the ability to visualize your project workflow and monitor progress as it transitions through various stages. The flexibility to drag and drop tasks between columns, assign them to team members, and incorporate due dates provides a dynamic approach to managing your projects.

Billing and Invoicing

Asana’s billing and invoicing features simplify the management of your billing and invoicing processes directly within the platform. Generate invoices based on time tracked in Asana and keep tabs on payments and outstanding balances with ease.

Guest/Client Access

Asana’s guest/client access feature enables you to extend invitations to external stakeholders, such as clients or partners, fostering collaboration on projects. You have the flexibility to control the level of access granted to guests, allowing them to engage in real-time collaboration while maintaining control over project information.

10. Top Asana Alternatives and How They Compare

Asana, Jira, and Basecamp prove to be valuable instruments for overseeing straightforward team projects. Asana distinguishes itself with its comprehensive features available in the free version, rendering it a budget-friendly choice. Although all three platforms facilitate guest access and client views, Jira mandates a paid plan for these functionalities. Notably, Asana offers an extensive array of integrations, augmenting its adaptability to various existing systems your business may employ.

Asana vs. Jira

As opposed to Jira, Asana is notably more user-friendly, especially for individuals without technical expertise. In the corporate setting, it’s common for IT and software teams to favor Jira for task management. Conversely, marketing teams are inclined to opt for Asana due to its intuitive user interface, enabling easy project organization through drag-and-drop functionality and providing a quick overview of project statuses.

Asana vs. monday.com

monday.com is an excellent alternative to Asana for larger teams handling numerous projects simultaneously. One of its key advantages is the provision of an unlimited number of integrations with other software. This proves beneficial for teams utilizing various software programs to streamline their workflow.

Asana vs. Basecamp

Basecamp is well-suited for small businesses and teams seeking a straightforward method to monitor projects. It boasts ease of use and provides a range of features, including lists, files, and calendar views. Asana, on the other hand, offers multiple views, including timeline, calendar, board, list, and workload, surpassing Basecamp in variety. Additionally, Asana provides over 50 templates, whereas Basecamp offers only custom templates. For a detailed comparison between Basecamp and Asana, refer to our side-by-side analysis.

11. Is Asana Right for You or Your Business?

If the total falls below the 15-user threshold, Asana’s free plan will emerge as the quintessential choice for businesses involved in multiple collaborative projects. Within the limits of this free plan, there are countless outstanding features that continuously contribute to improving project management efficiency.

If the number of users exceeds the 15-user mark, the requirement will increase to reach the higher levels of the Premium plan. However, amid this upturn, the appeal lies in its myriad of additional features, making it extremely useful in overseeing expansion projects. Asana generously extends a 30-day stay for a free trial to those on paid plans.

Embarking on overseeing complex projects and contemplating the applicability of Agile project management methods to your business, Asana emerges as the software of destiny for you and your team. Conversely, if you find yourself navigating the business landscape as a solo entrepreneur or part of a dynamic duo, an alternative to Asana, such as Trello, could be considered a more suitable choice.

12. Who Is Asana Best For?

When it comes to collaborative projects, Asana’s free plan stands out as a great choice for businesses with fewer than 15 users. Within the confines of this free plan, a wealth of beneficial features unfold, opening up a realm of enhanced project management efficiency. These include countless projects, tasks, activity logs, memories, and comments, along with rudimentary workflows, three project views, basic reporting, and community support.

For teams exceeding the 15-user threshold, upgrading to Asana’s Premium plan is a must, providing an increase in features that help justify the investment when overseeing monumental projects. The expanded catalog includes all aspects of the free plan, plus timeline views, automated workflows, and standard reports. Asana generously offers a 30-day free trial before users jump into paid plans.

The Business Plan, the pinnacle in the hierarchy, encapsulates all of the Premium tier’s offerings and is tailored for more expansive teams grappling with the exigencies of complex project management. . Its feature set includes advanced reporting, portfolios, goals, complex workflows, and resource management.

Asana, a great choice for businesses navigating multifaceted projects and planning to integrate Agile project management into their workflow. However, if you find yourself in the solopreneur space or leading a small team, an alternative to Asana, such as Trello, may be considered a more suitable choice. exactly your special needs.

13. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is Asana HIPAA-compliant?

As of October 2022, Asana has achieved full compliance with HIPAA. For additional information regarding HIPAA compliance in Asana, you can refer to the company’s fact sheet on the matter.

Is Asana free?

Asana provides its Basic plan free of charge, equipped with an extensive array of features. This encompasses unlimited tasks, projects, messages, activity log, and file storage. Additionally, users gain access to over 100 integrations, various project views, and the ability to collaborate with up to 15 teammates. For those opting for paid plans, the starting cost is $10.99 per user per month when billed annually, or $13.49 when billed on a month-to-month basis.

Is there a desktop app for Asana?

Yes, Asana offers a desktop application. It is available for download on their website and is compatible with both Macs and PCs.

Is Asana better than monday.com?

Determining whether Asana or monday.com is superior lacks a definitive answer, as it hinges on your team’s specific requirements and preferences. However, in a comparison of features applicable to a diverse range of businesses, Forbes Advisor assigned a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars to monday.com, while Asana received a rating of 3.9 out of 5 stars. These evaluations were based on hundreds of data points in our monday.com vs. Asana comparison.

Is Asana good for small businesses?

Yes, Asana proves to be a valuable tool for small businesses, providing a free plan tailored for teams of up to 15 individuals. Its extensive array of features and integrations, encompassing project management, task management, file sharing, and more, contributes to its suitability for the needs of small businesses.

Is Asana useful for Agile project management?

Yes, Asana proves beneficial for Agile project management, incorporating features like scrum sprints, timelines, and roadmaps. It’s important to note that as of the current writing, Asana does not have swimlanes, despite it being a frequently requested feature.

Is Asana difficult to learn?

No, mastering Asana is not a challenging endeavor. The platform is designed to be user-friendly, featuring a drag-and-drop interface. Abundant tutorials and resources are also at your disposal. Nevertheless, like any tool, acquiring proficiency in all its features and their effective utilization requires a certain investment of time.

What is a task in Asana?

A task represents the fundamental unit of action within Asana. When you assign a task to a team member, you can observe it in the right pane, either as the assignor or as the assignee.

Which is better, Asana or Trello?

In the comparison between Asana and Trello conducted by Forbes Advisor, Trello received a rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars, while Asana was rated at 3.9 out of 5 stars. These ratings were determined through the analysis of hundreds of data points. The choice between the two depends on the specific needs of your business. Trello is well-suited for small teams, while Asana is more suitable for larger teams requiring frequent communication.

Can Asana track time?

As of October 2022, Asana now includes built-in time-tracking capabilities. There is no longer a requirement for a third-party integration to monitor the time taken to complete tasks.

Can I use Asana off-line?

Yes, you can utilize Asana offline if you have the Asana iOS app. In the absence of an internet connection, you can create tasks, projects, and conversations. Additionally, while offline, you have the capability to review notifications, add comments, mark tasks as complete, and assign due dates and assignees.

Does Asana have a Gantt chart?

Within Asana’s Timeline view, you can access a Gantt chart format, facilitating the management of tasks with overlapping or unscheduled timelines. Asana also provides a Gantt chart template accompanied by a tutorial for user guidance.

Does Asana have a mobile app?

Asana offers a mobile app compatible with both Android and iOS. This app ensures synchronization of all your work across web, mobile, and desktop platforms. It empowers you to oversee projects, navigate your inbox, handle tasks, engage in conversations, and monitor portfolios and goals seamlessly.