Microsoft Project vs 15Five
A head-to-head comparison to help you pick the right tool
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Microsoft Project
Microsoft Project is the long-standing enterprise project management standard offering advanced scheduling, resource management, and portfolio tracking. Deep integration with the Microsoft 365 ecosystem.
15Five
15Five is a continuous performance management platform focused on weekly check-ins, OKRs, and employee engagement. It helps managers stay connected with their teams through structured feedback and recognition tools. 15Five is popular with remote and distributed teams that need async communication tools.
Pros
- ✓Industry standard for complex project scheduling
- ✓Powerful Gantt and resource management
- ✓Deep Microsoft 365 integration
- ✓Strong portfolio management
- ✓Trusted by enterprises globally
Cons
- ✗Steep learning curve
- ✗Expensive licensing
- ✗Feels dated compared to modern tools
- ✗Overkill for simple projects
- ✗Limited real-time collaboration
Pros
- ✓Simple and intuitive weekly check-in format that drives adoption
- ✓Strong OKR and goal-setting tools
- ✓Excellent manager training and coaching resources
- ✓Good engagement survey tools with benchmarking
Cons
- ✗Limited HR functionality beyond performance and engagement
- ✗No payroll or benefits administration
- ✗Reporting could be more advanced for data-driven HR teams
Microsoft Project vs 15Five: Side by Side
| Factor | Microsoft Project | 15Five |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Project Management | HR Software |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | Contact for pricing | $4/user/mo |
| Best For | Enterprise project managers needing advanced scheduling, resource management, and Microsoft 365 integration | Companies focused on employee engagement and performance |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Microsoft Project Features
- ✓Project scheduling
- ✓Gantt charts
- ✓resource management
- ✓task tracking
- ✓portfolio management
- ✓reporting
15Five Features
- ✓Weekly check-ins
- ✓OKRs
- ✓performance reviews
- ✓engagement surveys
- ✓manager training
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Microsoft Project if enterprise project managers needing advanced scheduling, resource management, and microsoft 365 integration. Choose 15Five if companies focused on employee engagement and performance.
Best For
Enterprise project managers needing advanced scheduling, resource management, and Microsoft 365 integration
Best For
Companies focused on employee engagement and performance
Also Consider
If neither Microsoft Project nor 15Five is the right fit, Wrike is worth evaluating.
Wrike
Marketing and creative teams needing enterprise project management with approvals and proofing
From Free
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Microsoft Project and 15Five?
Microsoft Project is best for enterprise project managers needing advanced scheduling, resource management, and microsoft 365 integration. 15Five is best for companies focused on employee engagement and performance.
Which is better, Microsoft Project or 15Five?
Choose Microsoft Project if enterprise project managers needing advanced scheduling, resource management, and microsoft 365 integration. Choose 15Five if companies focused on employee engagement and performance.
How much does Microsoft Project cost?
Visit Microsoft Project website for current pricing.
How much does 15Five cost?
15Five starts at $4/user/mo. Pricing model: Paid.
Who should use Microsoft Project?
Enterprise project managers needing advanced scheduling, resource management, and Microsoft 365 integration
Who should use 15Five?
Companies focused on employee engagement and performance