ManyRequests is a client portal and client requests management software for creative services.
“Missed project deadlines are acceptable,” said no agency ever. Managing, assigning, and tracking tasks should flow as smoothly as possible. That way, you can stay on schedule and satisfy your clients—the promise Honeybook and Dubsado both offer.
Honeybook and Dubsado are tools that aid agencies in project management and organization. Both are part of the software market, which is expected to reach USD 15.06 billion by 2032. The question is… which tool truly delivers?
In this review, we’ll dissect Honeybook vs Dubsado. We’ll discuss their features, pricing, pros, and cons to help you make an informed decision when choosing your project management software. Plus, we’ll introduce another contender that might just be the hidden gem your agency deserves.
How to choose a project management software?
Did you know that 11.4% of the total money invested in projects is lost due to ineffective or unsuccessful project outcomes? This can be attributed to poor planning, communication breakdowns, and unforeseen challenges.
This loss can damage client relationships and cause future business disruptions for your agency. The solution? Find a tool to streamline your project management processes. Focusing on the proper criteria to choose the best fit for your unique needs equates to avoiding these.
Take some time to sit down with your team and ask these questions:
- Does it simplify your workload? It's essential that your team can jump right in without having to spend a lot of time learning the platform.
- Can you customize it to fit your current workflows? Look for project management software that adapts to your agency’s specific workflows and enhances them—-even in the future as you scale.
- Will you be able to collaborate with your clients effortlessly? Choose project management software where your clients can review updates, provide feedback, and track progress—all in one place.
- Does it integrate with the tools you already use? Find project management software that integrates smoothly with your existing tech stack. The right tool should pull everything together, eliminating the need for manual data entry and switching between multiple apps.
- Does it fall within your budget without sacrificing essential features? Look for tools with scalable plans and that have a clear intent to expand. Remember, you don’t need a tool that has a million features. You need a tool with the features you specifically need.
- Does it come with reliable customer support? Opt for project management software that offers responsive, knowledgeable support when needed.
HoneyBook: the go-to platform for streamlining client management and project workflows
HoneyBook helps agencies organize projects and always keeps clients in the loop. The platform lets you add reminders about upcoming tasks. You don't even have to switch apps when communicating with your team! Additionally, agencies can allow clients to view your notes to remain aware of your progress.
Key Features
Custom workflows for different types of projects
These let you create tailored sequences of tasks via automation that align with your specific processes. This feature is particularly beneficial for managing the various stages of a project, from initial inquiry through to completion and even follow-up.
Centralized document management
This functionality is designed to simplify the management of client interactions and documentation, making it easy for both agency owners and clients to access essential documents from anywhere.
Streamlined client management
Clients can review, sign contracts, make payments, and submit information directly through the smart file interface. This reduces the need for multiple rounds of communication and streamlines the client onboarding process.
Pros
- User-friendly interface that makes navigating and using its features easy.
- Integrates with various tools
- Allows users to categorize their work accurately so they are compensated for all relevant time spent on projects.
Cons
- Not a dedicated project management tool
- Relatively high transaction fees
Pricing
- All plans start with a 7-day free trial
- Two months free when billed annually
- Starter Plan: $16/month
- Essentials Plan: $32/month
- Premium Plan: $66/month
Dubsado: the all-in-one business management solution built for creative agencies and freelancers
Dubsado functions as a project management system wherein agencies can organize, assign, and track the progress of different tasks and items. It also allows collaboration with assigned team members and clients through an exclusive, password-protected portal.
Key Features
Visually-appealing task boards
This feature lets you visually organize tasks, deadlines, and progress. By displaying everything in one platform, accountability and alignment are ensured. For agencies used to having multiple projects and deadlines, Dubsado’s task boards can help you stay on top of timelines.
Automated workflows
Dubsado lets you set up automated workflows that handle repetitive tasks, like sending emails, reminders, and follow-ups, triggered by specific actions or project milestones. It reduces manual work and keeps your client communication on point, so you’re always in control without the extra effort.
Accessible client portals
Each client gets their own dedicated portal where they can view and download invoices, sign contracts, and track project timelines in real-time. No more digging through emails or chasing down attachments—everything they need is centralized and easily accessible. This not only keeps things organized but also streamlines communication, saving both you and your clients time.
Pros
- Straightforward dashboard for tracking projects and clients
- Has built-in scheduler
- Highly customizable according to specific needs
Cons
- Limited advanced project management features
- Requires some time to set up effectively
Pricing
- Offers a free plan
- Starter Plan: $20/month (or $200/year)
- Premier Plan: $40/month (or $400/year).
After diving into Honeybook and Dubsado, you probably now have a clearer picture of what each brings to the table. But if you’re still feeling like neither fully checks all the boxes for your agency or are open to exploring alternatives, let us introduce you to another option—ManyRequests.
ManyRequests: the ultimate project management tool and client portal software for managing requests and scaling your agency efficiently
ManyRequests is one of the best project management systems. It also doubles as a client portal specifically designed for agencies like yours. It has the features needed to streamline the whole process of agency operations—from client onboarding to project delivery and billing. It also empowers clients to stay informed and involved throughout the project lifecycle, improving satisfaction.
Key Features
Automated project intake
One of the most time-consuming aspects of agency work is manually entering client information into spreadsheets or databases. ManyRequests offers a more efficient solution in this category. As clients fill out the forms, their information is automatically captured and entered into your ManyRequests database.
Tailored routing rules
Once projects are submitted through your automated intake forms, ManyRequests can help you efficiently route them to the appropriate team members or departments. Routing rules allow you to define specific criteria for assigning projects, ensuring that they are handled by the best-suited individuals.
Sharing project status
ManyRequests users can categorize projects by status (in progress, completed, pending feedback), making it easy for both the service provider and the client to understand where a project stands at any given time. This categorization helps manage expectations and keeps everyone informed.
Pros
- Uses a template-based system for creating client proposals
- Direct communication channels between clients and the agency
- Modern and straightforward interface that simplifies request handling
- Integrates with tools like Zapier to expand functionality
- Offers migration service to help agencies transition their existing data and workflows from their previous project management system
Cons
- Has extensive features, so it costs more than other options
- Limited native integrations
Pricing
- A 14-day free trial is available to new users.
- Starter Plan: $79/month, billed annually
- Core Plan: $119/month, billed annually
- Pro Plan: $319/month, billed annually
- Enterprise Plan: Custom pricing
Choose the better option for your agency’s needs
After reviewing Honeybook and Dubsado, it’s clear that both platforms are good solutions for managing projects and even clients.
But why settle for good, when there’s better?
ManyRequests is a worthy alternative for a project management tool that fully aligns with your agency’s needs. It's designed specifically for you because our team knows you need more than just a basic task manager—it brings project management, client portals, and billing together in one seamless platform.
And the best part? We don't just say it. You can test-drive our tool today and see how it stacks up for yourself. Try free for 14 days.