Kanban project management tools provide various pricing models to accommodate different team needs and budgets. Users can choose between one-time purchase options for lifetime access or freemium models that offer basic features for free, with the possibility of upgrading for more advanced functionalities. Understanding these options can help teams select the most suitable tool for their project management requirements.

What are the best Kanban project management tools available in the UK?
The best Kanban project management tools in the UK offer a range of features suitable for different team sizes and project complexities. Key options include Trello, Jira, Asana, Monday.com, and ClickUp, each providing unique functionalities and pricing structures that cater to various needs.
Trello
Trello is a highly visual tool that uses boards, lists, and cards to help teams manage projects efficiently. It is particularly user-friendly, making it ideal for small teams or individuals who prefer a straightforward approach to task management.
While Trello offers a free version, additional features such as automation and integrations are available through its paid plans, which typically range from £10 to £20 per user per month. Consider starting with the free version to assess its suitability before committing to a paid plan.
Jira
Jira is designed for software development teams and offers robust features for tracking issues and project progress. Its Kanban boards allow teams to visualize workflows and prioritize tasks effectively.
Jira’s pricing starts at around £7 per user per month for the standard plan, but advanced features may increase costs. Teams should evaluate their specific needs, especially if they require extensive reporting or integration capabilities.
Asana
Asana provides a flexible platform for project management with Kanban boards, allowing teams to customize workflows. It is suitable for various industries and supports collaboration through task assignments and comments.
Asana offers a free tier, but premium features, such as timeline views and advanced reporting, are available starting at approximately £10.99 per user per month. Teams should consider which features are essential for their workflow to avoid unnecessary expenses.
Monday.com
Monday.com is a versatile project management tool that supports Kanban-style boards and offers extensive customization options. It is suitable for teams of all sizes and can adapt to various project types.
Pricing for Monday.com starts at around £8 per user per month, with additional costs for advanced features like time tracking and automation. Teams should assess their project requirements to choose the most cost-effective plan.
ClickUp
ClickUp combines project management and productivity tools, featuring Kanban boards among its many functionalities. It is designed to streamline workflows and enhance team collaboration.
ClickUp offers a free version, while its paid plans start at about £5 per user per month. Teams should explore the free version to understand its capabilities before upgrading to access more advanced features.

What are the one-time purchase options for Kanban tools?
One-time purchase options for Kanban tools allow users to pay a single fee for lifetime access, rather than subscribing to a recurring payment model. This can be a cost-effective choice for teams that prefer to avoid ongoing expenses and want to ensure they have access to essential features without additional costs.
Kanban Tool
Kanban Tool offers a one-time purchase option that provides users with a comprehensive set of features for visual project management. This option typically includes unlimited boards and users, making it suitable for teams of various sizes. Users should consider the initial cost against the potential savings from avoiding subscription fees over time.
When selecting the one-time purchase, ensure that the features you need are included, as some advanced functionalities may require additional fees. It’s advisable to evaluate whether the tool meets your long-term project management needs before committing.
TaskBoard
TaskBoard provides a straightforward one-time purchase model that grants access to its core Kanban functionalities. This option is particularly appealing for small teams or individual users who want a simple, effective way to manage tasks without ongoing costs. The one-time fee usually covers essential features like task assignments and progress tracking.
Before purchasing, consider the potential need for future updates or additional features, as these may incur extra costs. It’s beneficial to review user feedback to ensure that the tool aligns with your workflow preferences.
Zenkit
Zenkit offers a one-time purchase option that allows users to access its Kanban features permanently. This model is advantageous for teams that want flexibility without the pressure of monthly fees. The one-time fee typically includes basic features, but users should check if advanced capabilities, such as integrations or automation, are available at an extra cost.
Evaluate whether the one-time purchase aligns with your project management goals. If your team anticipates growth or changing needs, consider how Zenkit’s features can adapt over time, as this may influence your decision on the purchase model.

How do freemium models work in Kanban tools?
Freemium models in Kanban tools provide users with basic features at no cost while offering advanced functionalities for a fee. This approach allows teams to start using the software without financial commitment, but they may need to upgrade for enhanced capabilities as their needs grow.
Trello freemium features
Trello’s freemium model includes unlimited cards, lists, and boards, making it suitable for small teams or personal projects. Users can also access basic integrations with other apps, such as Google Drive and Slack.
However, to unlock advanced features like automation through Butler or additional Power-Ups, users must upgrade to a paid plan. This can be a consideration for teams that require more complex project management capabilities.
Asana freemium features
Asana offers a freemium version that includes task management, project views, and basic collaboration tools. Users can create tasks and projects, assign them to team members, and set due dates without any cost.
To access features like timeline views, advanced reporting, or custom fields, teams need to opt for a premium subscription. This tiered approach allows teams to scale their project management as needed.
ClickUp freemium features
ClickUp’s freemium model provides a robust set of features, including task management, time tracking, and document sharing. Users can create unlimited tasks and projects, making it a versatile option for various team sizes.
However, advanced features such as goal tracking, custom dashboards, and integrations with more than a few apps require a paid plan. Teams should evaluate their needs to determine if the free version suffices or if an upgrade is necessary for their workflow.

What are the additional feature costs for Kanban tools?
Additional feature costs for Kanban tools vary widely based on the specific tool and the features desired. Users should consider both one-time purchase options and ongoing subscription models, as well as any costs associated with premium features or add-ons.
Jira add-ons pricing
Jira offers a range of add-ons that can enhance its Kanban capabilities, with prices typically ranging from a few dollars to several hundred dollars per month, depending on the add-on’s complexity and functionality. Many add-ons are available through the Atlassian Marketplace, where users can find both free and paid options.
When selecting add-ons, consider the specific needs of your project. For example, advanced reporting tools or integration with other software may incur higher costs but could provide significant value in terms of productivity and efficiency.
Monday.com premium features
Monday.com provides several premium features that can improve Kanban project management, including advanced analytics and automation tools. Pricing for these premium features is generally included in higher-tier subscription plans, which can range from around $10 to $20 per user per month.
It’s essential to evaluate whether the additional features align with your team’s workflow. For teams that rely heavily on data-driven decision-making, investing in premium analytics may be worthwhile, while smaller teams might find the basic features sufficient.
Asana advanced features costs
Asana’s advanced features, such as timeline views and custom fields, come at an additional cost, typically included in their Premium and Business plans. These plans generally start at about $10.99 per user per month when billed annually.
Before upgrading, assess your team’s requirements. If your projects demand more customization and tracking, the investment in advanced features can lead to improved project visibility and team collaboration.

What criteria should I consider when selecting a Kanban tool?
When selecting a Kanban tool, consider factors like pricing structure, ease of use, and available features. Understanding whether a one-time purchase, freemium model, or additional feature costs align with your project needs is essential for making an informed choice.
One-time purchase options
One-time purchase options for Kanban tools typically involve a single upfront payment for lifetime access. This model can be cost-effective for teams that prefer not to commit to ongoing subscription fees. However, ensure that the tool receives regular updates and support to maintain its value over time.
Examples of Kanban tools with one-time purchase options include software like Kanban Tool and Trello’s desktop version. These tools often provide a robust set of features without the recurring costs associated with subscription models.
Freemium models
Freemium models allow users to access basic features of a Kanban tool for free, with the option to upgrade for additional functionalities. This approach is beneficial for small teams or individuals who want to test the software before committing financially. Be aware that free versions may have limitations on features, user counts, or storage.
Popular Kanban tools like Trello and Asana offer freemium versions, making it easy for users to start without any financial commitment. However, evaluate whether the free tier meets your project requirements or if upgrading will be necessary.
Additional feature costs
Many Kanban tools charge extra for advanced features such as integrations, automation, or enhanced reporting capabilities. When evaluating these costs, consider how essential these features are to your workflow. Sometimes, the added expense can significantly improve productivity and project management efficiency.
For instance, tools like Monday.com and ClickUp may have a low base price but can incur additional charges for premium features. Assess your team’s needs and budget to determine if these extra costs are justified for your project management goals.