Startmanager

Startmanager is a project management and scheduling software developed by the German company Startsoft GmbH. Released in 1998, the program was originally designed to assist small and medium-sized enterprises in planning and controlling engineering projects, but it expanded over the years to support a wide range of industries, from construction and manufacturing to IT and research. The core idea behind Startmanager is to provide a visual representation of tasks, resources, and timelines, using Gantt charts, network diagrams, and resource allocation views, while also allowing for cost tracking and risk assessment.

The software is built on a Windows desktop client with optional web‑based components for collaborative work. It uses a relational database architecture, typically PostgreSQL or MS SQL Server, to store project data. Key features include drag‑and‑drop task scheduling, automated critical‑path analysis, budget monitoring, and integration with major accounting and ERP systems. The user interface is heavily configurable, enabling organizations to tailor fields, templates, and reports to their specific workflow.

Over the past two decades, the product received a series of major releases. Version 5.0 (2005) introduced a new resource leveling algorithm and enhanced integration with Microsoft Project. Version 7.0 (2012) added support for cloud storage and advanced analytics dashboards. The software is used by companies of all sizes, with the largest customers in the civil engineering and utilities sectors. Support is delivered via a local licensed server and an optional SaaS offering, while training and certification are available through certified partners.

Despite its popularity in German‑speaking markets, Startmanager has not achieved significant global market share, in part due to competition from larger multinational solutions such as Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, and free alternatives like OpenProject. Nonetheless, it remains a niche tool for firms that value a highly configurable and integrated planning environment.