Microsoft Project vs isolved
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.
isolved
isolved is an all-in-one HCM platform offering payroll, HR, benefits, and time tracking for small to mid-sized businesses. It is delivered through a network of local service partners providing personalized support.
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
- ✓Strong local service partner network
- ✓Good all-in-one HCM features
- ✓Solid compliance tools
- ✓Flexible configuration
- ✓Good for SMBs needing hands-on support
Cons
- ✗Interface feels dated
- ✗Quality can vary by service partner
- ✗Less self-serve than modern platforms
- ✗Reporting needs improvement
Microsoft Project vs isolved: Side by Side
| Factor | Microsoft Project | isolved |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Category | Project Management | Payroll Software |
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting Price | Contact for pricing | Contact for pricing |
| Best For | Enterprise project managers needing advanced scheduling, resource management, and Microsoft 365 integration | SMBs wanting full-service payroll and HR support through a local service partner network |
| Our Pick | — | — |
Microsoft Project Features
- ✓Project scheduling
- ✓Gantt charts
- ✓resource management
- ✓task tracking
- ✓portfolio management
- ✓reporting
isolved Features
- ✓Payroll processing
- ✓HR management
- ✓benefits administration
- ✓time tracking
- ✓talent management
- ✓compliance
Pricing Comparison
Our Take
Choose Microsoft Project if enterprise project managers needing advanced scheduling, resource management, and microsoft 365 integration. Choose isolved if smbs wanting full-service payroll and hr support through a local service partner network.
Best For
Enterprise project managers needing advanced scheduling, resource management, and Microsoft 365 integration
Best For
SMBs wanting full-service payroll and HR support through a local service partner network
Also Consider
If neither Microsoft Project nor isolved 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 isolved?
Microsoft Project is best for enterprise project managers needing advanced scheduling, resource management, and microsoft 365 integration. isolved is best for smbs wanting full-service payroll and hr support through a local service partner network.
Which is better, Microsoft Project or isolved?
Choose Microsoft Project if enterprise project managers needing advanced scheduling, resource management, and microsoft 365 integration. Choose isolved if smbs wanting full-service payroll and hr support through a local service partner network.
How much does Microsoft Project cost?
Visit Microsoft Project website for current pricing.
How much does isolved cost?
Visit isolved website for current pricing.
Who should use Microsoft Project?
Enterprise project managers needing advanced scheduling, resource management, and Microsoft 365 integration
Who should use isolved?
SMBs wanting full-service payroll and HR support through a local service partner network