PDWare ResourceFirst vs Retain vs Smartsheet Comparison
PDWare ResourceFirst
Starting at Contact for pricing
- Large Enterprises
- Medium Business
PDWare ResourceFirst is a user-friendly resource management software that helps align priorities with valuable resources. With a focus on resource planning, it allows organizations to efficiently allocate and consume res…
Retain
Starting at Contact for pricing
- Large Enterprises
- Medium Business
Retain is a resource management tool that empowers teams to optimize workflow, increase productivity and ensure adherence to regulations. Integrate multiple systems such as employee timekeeping, payroll, talent acquisiti…
Smartsheet
Starting at $9 /month
- Free Trial
- Freelancers / Consultants
- Large Enterprises
Smartsheet is a dynamic project management tool that simplifies tracking and planning for teams of all sizes. Offering a user-friendly interface, it’s designed to adapt to your unique workflows, whether you're managing s…
Retain leads on user satisfaction with a 4.6-star rating across 43 reviews.
SpotSaaS Analysis
PDWare ResourceFirstRetainSmartsheet
The core difference between PDWare ResourceFirst and Retain lies in their focus; PDWare ResourceFirst targets project and resource management for medium to large enterprises, while Retain emphasizes integrated resource and compliance management for enterprises needing strict regulatory adherence. Ideal buyers for PDWare ResourceFirst are project and resource managers in industries like IT and consulting, whereas Retain is best suited for enterprises requiring seamless integration with various systems and compliance management.
- Targets medium to large enterprises - Focuses on project and resource management - Ideal for industries like SaaS, IT, and consulting - Typical users include project and resource managers - Emphasizes operational efficiency - Price not listed
- Designed for enterprises needing compliance management - Integrates with timekeeping, payroll, and ERP systems - Focuses on regulatory compliance across workflows - Ideal for medium to large businesses - Supports talent acquisition integration - Price not listed
PDWare ResourceFirst vs Retain vs Smartsheet — at a glance
| Feature | PDWare ResourceFirst | Retain | Smartsheet |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rating | — | 4.6 / 5 | 4.1 / 5 |
| Reviews | — | 43 | 8,464 |
| Starting price | Contact for pricing | Contact for pricing | $9 /month |
| Free trial | No | No | Yes |
| Free version | No | No | No |
| Best for | Large Enterprises, Medium Business, Small Business | Large Enterprises, Medium Business, Small Business | Freelancers / Consultants, Large Enterprises, Medium Business |
| Category | Resource Management Software | Resource Management Software | Project Management Software |
| Platforms | SaaS/Web/Cloud | SaaS/Web/Cloud, Installed - Windows | SaaS/Web/Cloud, Mobile - Android, Mobile - iOS, Installed - Windows, Installed - Mac |
| API | — | — | Available |
| Support modes | Online | Online | Business Hours, Online |
| Certifications | — | — | SOC 2, HIPAA, GDPR, ISO 27001 |
| Data residency | US | US | US |
Key differences between PDWare ResourceFirst and Retain
- Deployment: PDWare ResourceFirst supports SaaS/Web/Cloud; Retain supports SaaS/Web/Cloud, Installed - Windows.
Compare PDWare ResourceFirst vs Retain vs Smartsheet — and walk away knowing which one fits.
Which tool fits your team best
Which is actually cheaper for your team size
Where each product wins, per real buyers
Most Resource Management Software tools look identical on paper. This comparison cuts to the differences that matter — pricing structure, team fit, and what real buyers found after signing up.
Biggest differences
Features
Pricing
Buying details
Security
Buyer feedback
Integrations
Product tour
Other options
Talk to an expert Talk to an expert | Talk to an expert Talk to an expert |
Biggest differences
Start here before you go deeper into features.
Large Enterprises, Medium Business, Small Business
Best for enterprises needing integrated resource and compliance management.
- You require seamless integration with timekeeping, payroll, ERP, and talent acquisition systems.
- Your team must ensure strict regulatory compliance across workflows.
- You want to optimize resource allocation to boost productivity across departments.
- You are a startup or very small business with minimal resource management needs.
- You need standalone timekeeping or payroll software without complex integrations.
Best for teams needing customizable, spreadsheet-style project management with automation.
- You require flexible workflows adaptable to complex project plans and diverse teams.
- You want strong project management features like Gantt charts, dashboards, and resource tracking.
- You value automation to reduce manual errors and save time in project execution.
- Your team needs extensive offline functionality due to unreliable internet access.
- You prefer simple, ready-to-use workflows without investing time in customization or training.
PDWare ResourceFirst typically suits Large Enterprises and Medium Business. Retain tends to fit Large Enterprises and Medium Business better. The right choice depends on your team size, workflow, and whether a free trial matters.
Description | PDWare ResourceFirst is a user-friendly resource management software that helps align priorities with valuable resources. With a focus on resource planning, it allows organizations to ... Read More about PDWare ResourceFirst | Retain is a resource management tool that empowers teams to optimize workflow, increase productivity and ensure adherence to regulations. Integrate multiple systems such as employee ... Read More about Retain | Smartsheet is a dynamic project management tool that simplifies tracking and planning for teams of all sizes. Offering a user-friendly interface, it’s designed to adapt to your unique ... Read More about Smartsheet |
|---|---|---|---|
Entry Level Pricing |
|
|
|
Free Trial Availability |
|
| |
Spotsaas ScoreWhat's this? ↗ | Not Available | Not Available | 9.8/10 |
User RatingsBased on verified Spotsaas reviews | |||
Best Company Size | 50-500 employeesMedium to Large Enterprises | Medium BusinessLarge Enterprises | 50-500 employees501-5,000 employees |
Get pricing help | Get pricing help |
Where each option fits best
See where each product is strongest, which teams it fits, and what causes buyers to keep looking — before you commit.
Based on buyer reviews and verified product data collected by Spotsaas.
Key strengths
- Optimized Resource Allocation: PDWare ResourceFirst empowers managers to allocate resources effectively, ensuring that the right people are working on the right projects at the right time. This not only maximizes productivity but also enhances team morale.
- Real-Time Insights: With its intuitive dashboard, users gain access to real-time data and analytics. Executives can make informed decisions quickly, while administrators can track project progress and resource utilization effortlessly.
- Enhanced Collaboration: ResourceFirst fosters a collaborative environment by integrating seamlessly with popular project management tools. This means teams can easily share updates and insights, leading to improved communication and project outcomes.
No key benefits available yet.
- Streamlined Collaboration: With Smartsheet, teams can easily collaborate in real-time, ensuring that everyone is on the same page. I’ve seen how this fosters transparency and accountability within projects, making it easier for managers to keep track of progress.
- Customizable Dashboards: Smartsheet offers customizable dashboards that allow you to visualize project data at a glance. This feature empowers executives to make informed decisions quickly, as they can monitor key metrics without digging through extensive reports.
- Automation Capabilities: By automating repetitive tasks, Smartsheet saves time and reduces errors. Administrators will appreciate how this feature allows them to focus on higher-value activities rather than getting bogged down with manual processes.
Best fit
- 50-500 employees.
- Industries include SaaS, Consulting, IT Services, Project Management, and Engineering.
- Typical users are Project Managers, Resource Managers, Operations Managers, Portfolio Managers, and HR Professionals.
No best-fit guidance available yet.
- 50-5,000 employees.
- Industries include Project Management, IT Services, Marketing Technology (Martech), Financial Technology (Fintech), Consulting, and SaaS.
- Typical users are Project Managers, Operations Managers, Marketing Coordinators, IT Directors, and Business Analysts.
Reasons buyers look elsewhere
- Users may seek alternatives due to the need for more user-friendly interfaces, as some teams prefer solutions that require minimal training and enhance overall user experience for quick adoption.
- Organizations might look for cost-effective options, especially if they have budget constraints or require scalable solutions that can grow with their project management needs without incurring hefty fees.
- Integration capabilities are crucial; users often explore alternatives that offer seamless connectivity with existing tools and software, ensuring a smoother workflow and enhanced productivity across teams.
No alternatives guidance available yet.
- Users may seek alternatives to Smartsheet due to budget constraints, as some organizations find more cost-effective project management solutions that fit their needs without compromising essential features.
- Teams looking for specialized tools might consider alternatives that offer specific functionalities tailored for industries like construction or software development, which may not be as robust in Smartsheet.
- Some users may desire a more intuitive user interface and simpler navigation, leading them to explore alternatives that prioritize ease of use and require less training for team members.
Software Demo
Demo |
|---|
Need a second opinion?
Get shortlist help from a software advisor
Share your priorities, budget, and team needs, and we’ll help you narrow the options and understand the tradeoffs before you talk to vendors.
How do PDWare ResourceFirst, Retain and Smartsheet Compare on Features?
Total Features | 10 Features | 12 Features | 21 Features |
|---|---|---|---|
Unique Features | No unique features | No unique features | No unique features |
Get Quote | Get Quote |
Compare PDWare ResourceFirst, Retain and Smartsheet on pricing
Review starting price, plan structure, and free-trial access side by side so you can see which option fits your budget and buying process.
Pricing Option | |||
|---|---|---|---|
Starting From |
|
|
|
Pricing Plans |
|
|
|
Pricing Page | Pricing information not available | Pricing information not available |  |
Other Details
Organization Types supported |
|
|
|
|---|---|---|---|
Platforms Supported |
|
|
|
Modes of support |
|
|
|
API Support |
|
|
|
Get help choosing | Get help choosing |
Security & Compliance
Certifications, data handling, and security controls for IT and compliance evaluators.
SOC 2 | — | — |
|---|---|---|
HIPAA | ✗ No | ✗ No |
GDPR | — | — |
ISO 27001 | — | — |
Single Sign-On (SSO) | — | — |
Multi-Factor Auth (MFA) | — | — |
Data Encryption | — | — |
Audit Logs | — | — |
Data Residency | 🇺🇸 US | 🇺🇸 US |
PDWare ResourceFirst vs Retain User Reviews & Rating Comparison
User Ratings | No reviews available for the product | 4.6 (based on 43 reviews) | |
|---|---|---|---|
Rating Distribution | No reviews available for this product | ||
Spotsaas Editor’s POV generated by AI | Buyer sentiment Insufficient public user feedback to determine overall sentiment. What buyers like
Common complaints
| Buyer sentiment Users generally rate Retain highly for its integration capabilities and compliance features, though detailed user feedback is limited. What buyers like
Common complaints
| Buyer sentiment Overall positive sentiment highlights Smartsheet’s flexibility, collaboration features, and powerful project management tools, tempered by concerns about learning curve and offline limitations. What buyers like
Common complaints
|
Pros and Cons |
|
|
|
Positive Reviews | No reviews available for the product | No reviews available for the product | No reviews available for the product |
List of Customers
Customers | No Customers information available. |  Capgemini  Amgen  Bank Of America |  Pfizer  Whirlpool  Western Digital |
|---|
Media and Screenshots
Screenshots |  2 Screenshots | No screenshots available. |
|---|---|---|
Videos |  4 Videos |  1 Videos |
Alternatives
Alternatives |
|---|
Add another option to compare side by side
Search by product name to compare pricing, fit, and buyer feedback in one view.Compare similar software options
Related Blogs and Articles for Resource Management Software
Disclaimer: This research has been collated from a variety of authoritative sources. We welcome your feedback at [email protected].
Frequently asked questions
- Which is better, PDWare ResourceFirst or Retain?
- Retain edges out the other on user ratings (4.6 vs -1.0). That said, the best pick depends on your use case — use the comparison tables above to evaluate each dimension.
- Do PDWare ResourceFirst and Retain offer a free trial?
- Neither PDWare ResourceFirst nor Retain currently lists a free trial.
- What is the starting price of PDWare ResourceFirst vs Retain?
- PDWare ResourceFirst starts at Contact for pricing. Retain starts at Contact for pricing.
- What are the top alternatives to PDWare ResourceFirst?
- Top alternatives to PDWare ResourceFirst include Smartsheet, Celoxis, InVision, Saviom Enterprise Resource Management, Journyx PX.
- What are the top alternatives to Retain?
- Top alternatives to Retain include Smartsheet, MRMcentral, Saviom Enterprise Resource Management, eResource Scheduler, Resource Guru.