Hive Review 2025

Explore our detailed review of Hive, a robust tool designed to boost productivity and streamline project management for teams of all sizes.

Introduction

In the dynamic world of project management software, Hive stands out as a robust solution that caters to diverse organizational needs. This comprehensive review delves into the features, benefits, and potential drawbacks of Hive, a platform designed to enhance productivity and foster collaboration across teams.

What is Hive?

Overview of the Platform

Hive is a powerful project management and collaboration tool that promises to streamline operations and boost productivity within any team. Known for its flexibility and user-friendly interface, Hive combines several functionalities including task management, collaboration, and automated workflows into a single, integrated platform. You can learn more about its positioning in the market by visiting Top Project Management Software.

Target Audience and Industry Use Cases

The versatility of Hive makes it suitable for a wide range of industries including marketing, software development, operations, and more. Whether it’s a small startup or a large enterprise, Hive adapts to different scales and types of projects, making it an ideal choice for project managers and teams who seek an all-encompassing tool to handle complex projects. For more insights, visit Hive’s official website.

Pros and Cons

Advantages and Disadvantages

Positive
  • Collaborative Features
  • Flexibility and Customization
  • Automation Capabilities
  • Mobile App and Usability
Negatives
  • Limited Reporting in Base Version
  • Customer Support Response Times
  • Pricing Complexity
  • Learning Curve

Pros: Advantages of Using Hive

Collaborative Features

Hive excels in fostering team collaboration through its real-time communication tools, shared calendars, and meeting scheduling capabilities. These features ensure that team members are always in sync and can exchange information seamlessly, enhancing overall project efficiency.

Flexibility and Customization

One of Hive’s significant advantages is its high level of customization. Users can tailor workflows, views, and dashboards to fit their specific project needs and preferences, allowing for a personalized management experience that caters to the unique demands of each project.

Automation Capabilities

Automation in Hive allows teams to reduce repetitive tasks and save time. With customizable action templates and automation rules, Hive helps streamline processes such as task assignments, deadline reminders, and progress updates, significantly improving productivity.

Mobile App and Usability

Hive’s mobile app ensures that project management is not confined to the desktop. The app is designed for on-the-go access to all major functionalities, enabling users to manage tasks, communicate with team members, and access files from anywhere at any time.

Cons: Disadvantages of Using Hive

Limited Reporting in Base Version

The basic version of Hive includes limited reporting tools, which can be a drawback for teams that require detailed analytics and insights to guide their project decisions. Advanced reporting features are available but at additional cost.

Customer Support Response Times

Some users have reported slower than expected response times from Hive’s customer support team, particularly during peak times. This can impact user experience, especially when immediate assistance or troubleshooting is needed.

Learning Curve

While Hive offers extensive functionalities, new users may experience a steep learning curve due to its array of features and customization options. This can initially hinder the speed of adoption within teams that are new to project management software.

Pricing Complexity

Hive’s pricing structure can be complex, with various tiers and add-ons that may be confusing for some users to navigate. This complexity can make it challenging for businesses to predict costs as their team scales or their needs change.

Hive project overview
Hive project overview

Software specification

Hive’s Core Features

Task Management

  • Task Assignment and Tracking

Hive enables effective task management by allowing users to assign tasks, set deadlines, and track progress in real-time. This visibility helps ensure that all team members are aware of their responsibilities and deadlines, preventing project delays and enhancing accountability.

  • Progress Visualization

With features like Gantt charts, Kanban boards, and traditional list views, Hive provides multiple ways for teams to visualize their progress. These tools help with planning and tracking the status of projects at a glance, accommodating different project management styles.

Project Planning

  • Gantt Charts and Kanban Boards

Hive supports comprehensive project planning tools such as Gantt charts and Kanban boards, which are essential for detailed project scheduling and real-time status updates. These tools facilitate a smooth workflow and help identify bottlenecks early in the process.

  • Calendar Integration

Hive’s calendar integration allows users to sync their project timelines with personal or team calendars. This feature ensures that all project milestones and deadlines are aligned with individual schedules, enhancing time management across the board.

Collaboration Tools

  • Team Communication

Hive promotes effective communication through built-in chat functions, comment sections on tasks, and integrated email capabilities, ensuring that team members can easily discuss projects without leaving the platform.

  • File Sharing and Editing

The platform also supports file sharing and document editing, which are integral for teams that work on collaborative projects. This functionality ensures that documents are centralized and versions are controlled, simplifying the collaboration process.

Hive Gantt view
Hive Gantt view

User Experience

User Interface and Experience

The user interface (UI) and overall user experience (UX) of a project management tool can significantly impact productivity and user satisfaction. Hive has been designed with a focus on intuitive usability and aesthetic appeal to ensure that it not only meets the functional needs of its users but also provides a pleasant and engaging environment.

Design Philosophy

Visual Appeal and Layout

Hive’s UI boasts a clean and modern design, characterized by a minimalistic color scheme and an organized layout. This thoughtful design reduces visual clutter, making it easier for users to focus on their tasks and find necessary features quickly. The use of intuitive icons and a consistent visual language across the platform enhances user familiarity and reduces the time it takes for new users to acclimate.

Ease of Use

Navigation and User Guidance

Navigating through Hive is straightforward, thanks to its logically structured interface. The main dashboard provides a centralized view of all projects, with easy access to different sections such as tasks, calendars, and files. Hive also offers extensive user guidance through its onboarding process and tooltips, which are helpful for new users to get up to speed. Additionally, customizable views allow users to tailor the interface according to their personal or team-specific workflow preferences, which enhances usability across various project types and sizes.

Mobile Experience

Functionality on Mobile Devices

Understanding the importance of accessibility in today’s mobile-first world, Hive extends its capabilities through a fully-optimized mobile application available for both iOS and Android devices. The app mirrors the functionality of the desktop version, offering task management, document access, and communication features on the go. This ensures that users can stay connected and productive even when they are away from their main work environment. The mobile interface is designed to be responsive and user-friendly, maintaining high usability standards and ensuring that important features are just a few taps away.

The thoughtful integration of design elements, ease of navigation, and robust mobile functionality makes Hive an appealing choice for teams seeking a comprehensive project management solution that balances powerful features with an intuitive user experience. The consistency between desktop and mobile platforms further enhances its utility, making it a versatile tool for today’s diverse and dynamic work environments.

Hive label view
Hive label view

Integrations and Compatibility

How Hive Integrates with Other Software

For project management software to truly be effective, it must seamlessly integrate with other tools that businesses rely on daily. Hive excels in this area by offering a broad range of integrations and compatibility options that enhance its functionality and streamline workflows. This section explores the integrations available with Hive and how they empower teams to achieve more cohesive and efficient operations.

Native Integrations

Commonly Used Integrations

Hive supports numerous native integrations with popular software tools that many businesses use, including communication platforms like Slack, file storage services like Google Drive, and even Microsoft Office 365. These integrations enable users to merge their communication channels, manage documents, and maintain their calendars alongside their project management activities. For example, by integrating with Slack, users can receive updates and notifications directly in their preferred communication tool, facilitating quicker responses and decision-making. Similarly, the integration with Google Drive allows users to attach files directly to tasks and projects within Hive, promoting a more integrated and streamlined workflow.

API and Custom Integrations

Extending Functionality Through APIs

In addition to its wide array of pre-built integrations, Hive provides robust API access that allows companies to develop custom integrations. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for organizations with unique needs that standard integrations cannot meet. By utilizing Hive’s API, developers can create bespoke solutions that integrate Hive more deeply into their business processes, enhancing data synchronization and workflow automation across systems. This level of customization ensures that Hive can adapt to the specific requirements of any team, enhancing both the utility and scalability of the platform.

The broad integration capabilities of Hive ensure that it can function not just as a standalone project management tool but as a central hub for all project-related activities. By enabling key systems to communicate with each other, Hive breaks down silos and fosters a more connected and efficient digital workspace. This integration capacity makes Hive an invaluable tool for teams looking to maximize productivity and ensure a seamless flow of information across their software ecosystem.

Compare with Others

Alternatives to Hive

When selecting project management software, it’s crucial to understand how different tools stack up against each other. This comparison of Hive against other popular project management platforms like Asana, Monday.com, and Trello will help elucidate their distinct features and scenarios where one may be more advantageous than the others.

Hive vs. Monday.com

Feature Comparison

Monday.com and Hive share similarities in their visually intuitive interfaces and strong collaboration tools. Monday.com stands out with its color-coded boards and a wide range of integrations, while Hive offers a more robust set of automation tools and deeper customization options.

Which Tool Wins in Different Scenarios?

For teams that need powerful project visualization and extensive third-party integrations, Monday.com may be the preferred choice. Hive, however, is likely a better fit for teams that value a tailored project management experience with advanced automation capabilities. 

Hive vs. Asana

Feature Comparison

Both Hive and Asana offer robust task management, project planning, and collaboration features. However, Hive’s approach to customization and automation is more extensive, allowing more flexibility in workflow creation. Asana, on the other hand, excels in user interface design and ease of use, making it highly accessible for new users.

Which Tool Wins in Different Scenarios?

Hive is better suited for teams looking for high degrees of customization and who rely heavily on automation to streamline their processes. Asana is ideal for organizations that prioritize a straightforward, user-friendly interface and strong team collaboration features without the need for extensive customization.

Hive vs. Trello

Feature Comparison

Trello is renowned for its simplicity and the Kanban board approach, making it a favorite for personal tasks or smaller projects. Hive, in contrast, offers a more comprehensive set of features including project tracking, resource management, and more detailed reporting capabilities.

Which Tool Wins in Different Scenarios?

Trello is optimal for individuals or small teams who need a simple, intuitive tool for managing daily tasks and small projects. Hive, on the other hand, excels in environments that require detailed project management capabilities and scalability for larger, more complex projects.


Read more about the top project management software

Pricing

Free vs Paid

Choosing the right pricing plan is as crucial as selecting the project management tool itself, as it affects both your budget and the features your team can access. Hive offers several pricing tiers designed to accommodate the needs of different types of teams and organizations. This section will detail the various pricing plans available on Hive, highlighting the key differences and suggesting which type of user or organization each plan is best suited for. For more detailed pricing information, visit Hive Pricing.

Overview of Pricing Plans

Hive provides three main pricing plans: Solo, Teams, and Enterprise. Each plan is tailored to suit different sizes and types of teams, from individuals managing personal projects to large corporations needing advanced project management solutions.

Solo Plan

The Solo plan is free and is perfect for individual users or freelancers who need a simple tool to manage personal projects or small tasks. This plan includes basic task management features such as task creation, project organization, and calendar integration. However, it limits the collaboration features and does not include access to Hive’s more advanced automation and analytics tools.

Teams Plan

The Teams plan is Hive’s most popular offering and is designed for small to medium-sized teams. This plan builds on the Solo plan by adding more robust collaboration tools, project templates, and summary views, which are essential for teams to efficiently manage multiple projects. The Teams plan also includes time tracking, external users, and access to Hive’s automation features, making it a well-rounded choice for teams that require more comprehensive project management capabilities.

Enterprise Plan

The Enterprise plan is intended for large organizations that require extensive customization, advanced security features, and individualized support. This plan includes all the features of the Teams plan, plus unlimited storage, single sign-on (SSO), enhanced security and compliance measures, and a dedicated account manager. The Enterprise plan also offers personalized training sessions to ensure that all team members are proficient in using Hive to its fullest potential.

Comparison to Competitors’ Pricing

When compared to other project management tools like Asana, Monday.com, and Trello, Hive’s pricing is competitive, particularly at the Teams and Enterprise levels where the depth of features and scalability justifies the investment. For teams that need advanced project management capabilities without the high cost typically associated with such features, Hive presents a valuable option.

In summary, Hive’s pricing structure is designed to cater to a wide range of users—from individuals and small teams to large enterprises. Each plan offers distinct features tailored to the specific needs and scales of different teams, making Hive a versatile choice for anyone looking to enhance their project management practices. For those interested in exploring these options further, a detailed breakdown is available on the Hive Pricing Page.

  • More members
  • More projects
  • Gantt view
  • AI Assistant
Hive pricing
Hive pricing

Security and Compliance

What about security?

  • Secure Socket Layer (SSL) encryption
  • Data Backup and Redundancy
  • Granular access controls
  • GDPR Compliance
  • HIPAA Compliance
  • SOC 2 Type II Certification

Hive places a strong emphasis on implementing rigorous security measures and ensuring compliance with international standards to protect user data.

Data Security Measures

Encryption and Data Protection

Hive secures user data using state-of-the-art encryption methods both in transit and at rest. All data sent to or from Hive’s infrastructure is encrypted using advanced encryption standards, which ensures that sensitive information remains protected against unauthorized access. Additionally, Hive employs robust data protection protocols to prevent data breaches and unauthorized data access. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments are conducted to fortify its security posture continually.

Compliance Certifications

GDPR, HIPAA, etc.

Hive is committed to compliance with major regulatory frameworks to meet the diverse needs of its global customer base. It complies with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), ensuring that the data of European Union residents is processed with high levels of privacy and security. For clients in the healthcare sector, Hive adheres to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), which safeguards the privacy and security of certain health information. These certifications demonstrate Hive’s commitment to maintaining high standards of privacy and data security.

Summary

Final thoughts and conclusion

This comprehensive review has explored various facets of Hive, from its core functionalities and user interface to its integration capabilities, pricing plans, and security measures. Each aspect has been scrutinized to provide a detailed overview of what Hive offers and how it stands out in the competitive landscape of project management tools.

Recap of Key Points

Hive excels in offering a highly customizable platform that suits a wide range of industries and team sizes. Its strength lies in its robust collaboration tools, extensive integration options, and the ability to automate and customize workflows to enhance productivity. Despite its steep learning curve and complex pricing structure, Hive remains a strong contender in the project management software market due to its comprehensive features that cater to detailed project tracking, resource management, and team collaboration. For more detailed insights, visit Top Project Management Software.

Final Verdict

Who Should Consider Hive?

Hive is ideally suited for medium to large enterprises that require a versatile project management tool with extensive customization capabilities and advanced project tracking features. It is also a great choice for teams that rely on a variety of other tools and require robust integration to streamline their workflows. With its strong emphasis on collaboration and efficiency, Hive is perfect for organizations that manage multiple large-scale projects and need a scalable solution that can grow with their needs.

Small teams and startups might find Hive’s advanced features more than they need, making simpler tools potentially more suitable. However, for those who anticipate rapid growth and complex project demands, Hive provides a solid foundation that supports both current efficiency and future expansion.

For a closer look at Hive and its features, or to sign up for a trial, visit Hive’s official website.

This review of Hive aims to provide all the necessary information to help organizations decide whether Hive is the right tool to optimize their project management practices, streamline communication, and enhance overall productivity across projects.

Have more questions?

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of customer support does Hive offer?

Hive provides various levels of customer support, including a comprehensive help center, live chat, email support, and dedicated account management for Enterprise clients. This ensures that all users can receive timely assistance based on their specific needs and plan levels.

Can Hive be used for remote teams?

Absolutely, Hive is well-suited for remote teams. Its robust communication tools, real-time collaboration features, and mobile app accessibility ensure that team members can stay connected and productive regardless of their physical location.

Does Hive offer any training materials or programs to help new users?

Yes, Hive offers a range of training resources, including online tutorials, webinars, and a knowledge base that provides detailed articles on how to utilize various features effectively. Enterprise customers also have access to customized training sessions.

How does Hive handle large file uploads and storage?

Hive allows users to attach and share large files directly within the platform. The specific file size limits and storage capacities depend on the chosen subscription plan, with more generous allowances provided in higher-tier plans.

Is there a limit to the number of projects or tasks that can be managed in Hive?

Hive does not impose a hard limit on the number of projects or tasks that users can manage. This makes it scalable and suitable for handling everything from small projects to large, complex initiatives.

Can Hive generate custom reports?

Yes, Hive offers powerful reporting tools that allow users to generate custom reports. This feature helps managers track project progress, resource allocation, and team performance metrics tailored to their specific requirements.

Does Hive have options for time tracking?

Hive includes time tracking functionalities, which allow users to record the time spent on individual tasks directly within the app. This feature is valuable for productivity analysis, billing, and managing workloads.

Can Hive integrate with CRM software?

Yes, Hive offers integration with various CRM (Customer Relationship Management) systems. This integration helps streamline workflow between project management and customer management processes.

What languages does Hive support?

Currently, Hive is available primarily in English. However, depending on user feedback and demand, additional language support may be considered in future updates.

Does Hive offer any features for risk management?

While Hive does not have specific tools labeled as “risk management,” its features like task prioritization, dependency tracking, and milestone setting can effectively be used to manage and mitigate risks in projects.

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