The Best 17 Production Workflow Software Tools for 2024

In this guide on production workflow software, we delve into the essential tools shaping modern business operations.

Efficient management of production processes is indispensable for organizations striving to maintain a competitive edge.

Selecting the right workflow software, from video production to manufacturing and beyond, can significantly enhance collaboration, streamline operations, and drive success.

Throughout this guide, we analyze a curated selection of industry-leading tools tailored to optimize workflows across various sectors.

Join us as we explore the transformative power of production workflow software and unlock new dimensions of efficiency and productivity.

• Top 17 Production Workflow Software
• Video Production Workflow Software
• Manufacturing Production Scheduling Workflow Software
• Production Planning and Control Software
• Free Workflow Software
• Accounting Workflow Software
• What is a Workflow in Software?
• What is a Production Workflow System?
• What is the Best Program to Create a Workflow?
• Does Microsoft Have a Workflow Tool?

Top 17 Production Workflow Software

Video Production Workflow Software

Frame.io

Frame.io is a leading collaborative video review and approval software designed to streamline the video production workflow process. Its main features include real-time collaboration, version control, feedback tools, and integration with popular editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro and Final Cut Pro. With Frame.io, teams can efficiently review videos, provide feedback, and iterate on edits seamlessly.

Pros:

• Intuitive user interface
• Robust collaboration features
• Integration with popular editing software
• Version control and history tracking

Cons:

• Pricing may be high for some users
• Advanced features may require higher-tier plans
• Learning curve for new users

Best for: Professional video production teams, film studios, advertising agencies, and content creators looking for a comprehensive solution to streamline collaboration and approval processes in their video production workflow.

Wipster

Wipster provides video review and approval software tailored to video production teams, offering customizable workflow templates to streamline the review process. Its features include task assignments, timeline tracking, and feedback tools, enhancing team collaboration and efficiency.

Pros:

• Customizable workflow templates
• Task management and timeline tracking features
• Simplified review and approval process

Cons:

• Limited integration options compared to some competitors
• Advanced features may require higher-tier plans

Best for: Video production teams seeking tailored workflow templates for efficient review and approval processes.

StudioBinder

StudioBinder offers comprehensive video production management software with script breakdowns, scheduling, and task management features. It enables seamless collaboration, script breakdowns, scheduling, and task assignments, optimizing the entire video production process.

Pros:

• Script breakdown and scheduling features
• Task management capabilities
• Integration with production elements

Cons:

• Advanced features may be overwhelming for smaller teams
• Pricing may be high for some users

Best for: Video production teams requiring a complete solution for project management, script breakdowns, and scheduling.

Shotgrid by Autodesk

Shotgrid by Autodesk provides production management software tailored for animation, visual effects, and game development studios. Its features include task tracking, asset management, and review tools, enabling efficient collaboration and project tracking in complex production environments.

Pros:

• Specialized in animation, VFX, and game development
• Task tracking and asset management features
• Review tools for collaboration

Cons:

• May be overly complex for simpler projects
• Higher pricing compared to some alternatives

Best for: Animation, visual effects, and game development studios requiring specialized production management software.

Manufacturing Production Scheduling Workflow Software

Process Street

Process Street stands out as a dynamic and user-friendly workflow management platform packed with essential features to empower your team’s productivity. Seamlessly create and manage recurring checklists and workflows with an intuitive interface that requires no coding expertise. Process Street allows you to standardize processes, track progress effortlessly, and collaborate in real-time, all within a single platform. With customizable templates, task assignments, and conditional logic, it adapts to your workflow needs, ensuring smooth operations every step of the way.

Pros:

• AI workflow builder
• User-friendly interface requiring no coding skills
• Customizable template gallery tailored to your workflow needs
• Real-time collaboration features for seamless teamwork

Cons:

• May be pricey for startups

Best for: Perfect for medium, large, and enterprise businesses looking for a comprehensive, all-in-one platform.

NetSuite ERP

NetSuite ERP offers manufacturing production scheduling as part of its comprehensive ERP solution, providing real-time visibility into production schedules and capacity planning. It integrates various aspects of manufacturing operations, including inventory management and financials, to streamline production processes and optimize resource utilization.

Pros:

• Comprehensive ERP solution covering various business functions
• Real-time visibility into production schedules
• Capacity planning capabilities

Cons:

• Implementation and customization may require expertise
• Higher cost compared to standalone scheduling software

Best for: Medium to large manufacturing businesses seeking an integrated ERP solution for production scheduling and overall business management.

JobBOSS

JobBOSS provides job shop manufacturing software with robust production scheduling and job tracking capabilities. It enables efficient job scheduling, resource allocation, and tracking of production orders, helping manufacturers optimize their operations and meet customer demands effectively.

Pros:

• Tailored for job shop manufacturing environments
• Robust production scheduling and job tracking features
• Streamlined production order management

Cons:

• May lack some advanced features compared to larger ERP solutions
• Integration capabilities with other software may be limited

Best for: Job shop manufacturing businesses looking for dedicated software to manage production scheduling and job tracking efficiently.

E2 Shop System

E2 Shop System offers manufacturing software with comprehensive production scheduling, job tracking, and inventory management features. It facilitates seamless coordination of production processes, from scheduling and job tracking to inventory control, enabling manufacturers to optimize their operations and maximize efficiency.

Pros:

• Comprehensive features covering production scheduling, job tracking, and inventory management
• User-friendly interface
• Scalable to accommodate growing manufacturing operations

Cons:

• Advanced features may require additional modules or customization
• Initial setup and implementation may require time and resources

Best for: Small to medium-sized manufacturing businesses seeking an integrated solution for production scheduling, job tracking, and inventory management.

Production Planning and Control Software

Oracle Production Scheduling

Oracle Production Scheduling offers robust production planning and scheduling software tailored for manufacturing operations. It enables manufacturers to optimize their production schedules, allocate resources efficiently, and minimize lead times. Integrated with Oracle’s comprehensive suite of ERP solutions, it provides end-to-end visibility and control over production processes.

Pros:

• Comprehensive production planning and scheduling capabilities
• Integration with Oracle’s ERP solutions for seamless data flow
• Real-time visibility into production schedules and resources

Cons:

• Implementation and customization may require specialized expertise
• Higher cost compared to standalone scheduling software
• Best for: Large manufacturing enterprises seeking an advanced solution for production planning and scheduling within an integrated ERP environment.

SAP Production Planning:

SAP Production Planning provides production planning software integrated with SAP ERP, offering efficient manufacturing planning and control capabilities. It enables manufacturers to optimize production schedules, manage resources effectively, and synchronize production with demand, ensuring timely delivery of products to customers.

Pros:

• Integration with SAP ERP for seamless data flow and process automation
• Advanced production planning and control features
• Scalable solution suitable for small to large manufacturing enterprises

Cons:

• Requires specialized knowledge for implementation and customization
• Higher cost compared to standalone planning software

Best for: Businesses already using SAP ERP or seeking a comprehensive solution for production planning and control within an integrated ERP environment.

MRPeasy

MRPeasy offers manufacturing software with production planning, inventory management, and shop floor control features. It facilitates efficient production planning, scheduling, and resource allocation, helping manufacturers optimize their operations and improve productivity.

Pros:

• User-friendly interface with intuitive navigation
• Comprehensive features covering production planning, inventory management, and shop floor control
• Affordable pricing suitable for small to medium-sized manufacturers

Cons:

• May lack some advanced features compared to larger ERP solutions
• Integration capabilities with other software may be limited

Best for: Small to medium-sized manufacturing businesses seeking an affordable and user-friendly solution for production planning, inventory management, and shop floor control.

Free Workflow Software

Trello

Trello offers a free plan with basic workflow management features, making it suitable for small teams and projects. Its user-friendly interface and flexible card-based system allow teams to organize tasks, collaborate on projects, and track progress effectively. With features like boards, lists, and cards, Trello provides a simple yet efficient solution for managing workflows.

Pros:

• User-friendly interface and intuitive design
• Flexible card-based system for organizing tasks
• Basic workflow management features available for free

Cons:

• Limited advanced features compared to paid plans
• May not be suitable for complex project management needs

Best for: Small teams, startups, and freelancers looking for a straightforward and free solution for managing basic workflows and projects.

Asana

Asana offers a free version with basic task and project management features, including workflow management capabilities. Its intuitive interface, task lists, and collaboration tools make it easy for teams to coordinate and track work efficiently. With features like task assignments, due dates, and project timelines, Asana provides a versatile platform for managing various workflows.

Pros:

• Intuitive interface and easy-to-use task management tools
• Basic workflow management features available for free
• Collaboration features facilitate team communication and coordination

Cons:

• Advanced features restricted to paid plans
• Limited customization options in the free version

Best for: Small teams, startups, and remote teams seeking a free solution for managing tasks, projects, and workflows collaboratively.

Airtable

Airtable provides a free plan with customizable database and project management features, suitable for workflow tracking and automation. Its flexible spreadsheet-like interface and customizable views enable teams to organize and track workflows in a way that fits their needs. With features like custom fields, filters, and automation, Airtable offers a powerful yet user-friendly solution for managing workflows.

Pros:

• Flexible and customizable database structure
• Basic project management features available for free
• Automation capabilities streamline repetitive tasks

Cons:

• Advanced features limited in the free plan
• Learning curve for setting up complex workflows

Best for: Small teams, startups, and creative professionals looking for a free and customizable solution for managing workflows, projects, and data.

Accounting Workflow Software

Xero

Xero offers accounting software with workflow automation features for invoicing, bill payments, and financial reporting. It streamlines accounting processes, allowing businesses to track expenses, manage invoices, and reconcile accounts efficiently. With features like bank reconciliation, expense tracking, and customizable reports, Xero provides a comprehensive solution for managing financial workflows.

Pros:

• User-friendly interface and intuitive accounting tools
• Workflow automation features streamline invoicing and bill payments
• Integration with third-party apps for enhanced functionality

Cons:

• Pricing may be higher compared to some competitors
• Some advanced features may require additional modules or subscriptions

Best for: Small to medium-sized businesses and accounting professionals seeking a cloud-based solution for automating accounting workflows and financial management.

QuickBooks Online

QuickBooks Online provides accounting software with workflow automation for small businesses, including invoicing and expense tracking. It simplifies accounting tasks, allowing businesses to create invoices, track expenses, and manage cash flow effectively. With features like automatic bank feeds, invoice scheduling, and mobile access, QuickBooks Online offers a convenient solution for managing accounting workflows.

Pros:

• Easy-to-use interface and straightforward accounting tools
• Workflow automation features streamline invoicing and expense tracking
• Mobile access allows for managing finances on the go

Cons:

• Limited scalability for larger businesses with complex needs
• Some advanced features may be available only in higher-priced plans

Best for: Small businesses and self-employed individuals seeking an affordable and user-friendly solution for automating accounting workflows and financial tracking.

FreshBooks

FreshBooks offers cloud-based accounting software with workflow automation for billing, time tracking, and expense management. It simplifies accounting processes, allowing businesses to create professional invoices, track billable hours, and manage expenses effortlessly. With features like automatic invoice reminders, project tracking, and client portals, FreshBooks provides a comprehensive solution for managing accounting workflows.

Pros:

• Intuitive interface and user-friendly accounting tools
• Workflow automation features streamline billing and expense management
• Client portals facilitate communication and collaboration with clients

Cons:

• Pricing may be higher compared to some competitors
• Advanced features may require higher-tier plans

Best for: Small businesses, freelancers, and service-based professionals seeking a cloud-based solution for automating accounting workflows and client management.

What is a Workflow in Software?

A workflow in software refers to the series of tasks, activities, and processes necessary to complete a specific project or objective within an organization.

The primary purpose of a workflow is to streamline and automate these processes, providing a clear structure for how work should be completed and ensuring efficient and effective performance.

Workflow management software helps in organizing and tracking tasks, assigning responsibilities, setting deadlines, and managing the overall progression of work.

This type of software also provides real-time visibility into the status of various tasks and enables collaboration among team members.

What is a Production Workflow System?

A production workflow system is a critical tool that helps manufacturing businesses manage and optimize their workflows.

The goal of workflow automation is to streamline and standardize processes, reduce manual intervention, and improve overall efficiency.

Implementing manufacturing workflow management software helps businesses benefit from:

• Better resource utilization
• Reduced lead times
• Improved product quality
• Increased operational visibility

Additionally, a LEAN Workflow Assessment can help minimize touch points and improve operational processing by identifying areas of waste and inefficiency in the production process.

This assessment aims to optimize the flow of materials and information, eliminate non-value-added activities, and enhance overall productivity.

What is the Best Program to Create a Workflow?

Some of the top workflow management software programs include Trello, Process Street, and Wrike.

Whichever workflow software you choose, make sure that it has the following:

• Customizable workflows
• Task management
• Integrations with other tools
• Project tracking
• Automation
• Collaboration tools
• Real-time updates
• Reporting and analytics

A good production workflow software can be customized to fit specific business needs by offering flexible configurations, integrations with other tools, and the ability to automate tasks.

For example, businesses in different industries can tailor their workflow management software to align with their unique processes and requirements.

Customization options may include creating custom fields, automating repetitive tasks, setting up specific project templates, and integrating with other software tools used within the organization.

This adaptability makes these top workflow management software programs suitable for a wide range of businesses and industries.

Does Microsoft Have a Workflow Tool?

Yes, Microsoft does have a workflow tool called Microsoft Power Automate.

This tool offers a wide range of key features and capabilities, though it can be somewhat limited.

That said, for beginner users, Power Automate can be helpful in creating automated workflows to streamline business processes and automate manual tasks.

It also allows for task tracking, providing users with visibility into ongoing tasks and their status.Overall, Microsoft Power Automate offers a good but basic set of features for organizations looking to improve their workflow management and streamline their business processes. If you’re looking for a more advanced solution for streamlining complex business processes, tools like Process Street can provide you with a comprehensive suite of workflow management features.