in-STEP BLUE 6.4.4.0

Overview

in-STEP BLUE is a project management tool that covers just about every angle one can possibly think of.

All projects can be managed from a single application. Outstanding projects can be seen in a list with details about who is managing them and how far they have progressed.

Documents can be shared between users relating to the project without the need to hunt around for them on a local PC.

Multiple projects can be managed. Project requirements can be listed and addressed to ensure that are management effectively. Changes to documents and processes can be monitored and recorded to provide a history. Documents can be managed to keep a record of who has seen different documents and which person currently has the original checked out. Resources can be planned and managed to ensure that current resources are sufficient for the current projects. Risks associated with the projects can also be addressed. Proper testing, creating effective processes and ensuring versioning takes things to a professional level with accountability.

Installation

The installation completed without any difficulties.

There was no adware, toolbars, malware or spyware included with the setup program.

in-STEP BLUE requires Windows 7 or 8 (32-bit or 64-bit).

Interface

The interface for in-Step Blue is going for a classy look here.

The main menu is basic enough with top-level menu options for System, Operational Unit, Extras, Documentation, Windows, and Help.

The open file is shown as a single tab. Down the left side is a series of section which can be collapsed down when not needed. There are sections are for My in-STEP Blue, Organisation, Project Requests, Portfolio Management, Resource Management, Requirements Management, Program Management, Document Management, Risk Management, Quality Management, and Ticket Management.

To the right is the active screen for whichever section has been made. For instance, with Project States it will list all the open projects, their name, project manager, schedule, costs, quality, and progress to the goal.

Pros

• Incredibly detailed project management tool
• Manage projects, resources, personnel, risks, documents, quality, and more
• Manage all projects in one place
• Track personnel assigned to projects, tasks for projects, documents used and whom they were checked out to
• Excellent interface with professional polish

Cons

• Very steep learning curve to understand all the features and monitoring that can be performed

Alternatives

Use a Gantt organizational charts to management projects better using the GanttProject app.

Conclusion

in-STEP BLUE is a top project management tool that offers excellent modules with different features like document control, project assignment, progress levels, risk control, and more.