How to increase your resource management maturity to support data-driven decisions

Why OnePlan is the closest Project Online alternative for modern PPM

For pharmaceutical PMOs that operate on Project Online (PO) – stage gates, resource capacity, timesheets, portfolio dashboards and more – it’s retirement timeline is a key strategic inflection point.The transition demands a modern, Microsoft-aligned platform that preserves governance discipline while enabling more integrated, data-driven decision-making. In this blog, we’ll dive into how OnePlan stands out as the closest, like-for-like best alternative for Project Online, particularly for enterprises committed to the Microsoft ecosystem.What are the key challenges organizations face as Project Online retiresThe retirement of PO exposes structural weaknesses that were often tolerated because the platform was stable and embedded. Here are a few risks to be aware of: Type of risk What the risk typically exposes for PMOs Custom workflows & PWA technical debtYears of custom workflows and configurationsLayered PWA setup built over timeComplex reporting layers connected to legacy structure Reporting fragmentation & analytics gapsPortfolio analytics depend on external toolsManual reconciliation to generate insightsSlow scenario modelling and limited near real-time visibilityChange management & governance disruption Stage gates tightly linked to portfolio processesFinancial approvals embedded in cadenceRegulatory milestones tied to system-driven governanceResource capacity planning maturity gap Capacity visibility unsolved by tools aloneInconsistent data governance for resource inputsLack of standardized portfolio processes for capacity views .card-component { display: flex; border-radius: 17.5px; border: 1px solid #CEE0EB; background: linear-gradient(126deg, #EBF7FF 28.88%, #FFF 86.32%); font-family: 'Open Sans', sans-serif; width: 80%; margin-bottom: 20px; } .card-image { width: 30%; } .card-image img { width: 100%; height: 100%; object-fit: cover; display: block; } .card-content { width: 70%; display: flex; flex-direction: column; justify-content: center; padding: 24px 30px; gap: 8px; } .card-tag { color: #008BFF; font-size: 12px; font-weight: 700; margin: 0; } .card-title { color: #232322; font-family: Montserrat; font-size: 18px; font-weight: 700; line-height: 21px; margin: 0; } .card-description { color: #272727; font-size: 10px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 20px; margin: 0; } .btn-card { display: flex; width: 124px; height: 36px; justify-content: center; align-items: center; border-radius: 83px; background: #008BFF; color: white; font-weight: 700; font-size: 12px; text-decoration: none; margin-top: 10px; } .btn-card:hover { background: #007ACC; } /* Responsive */ @media (max-width: 768px) { .card-component { flex-direction: column; } .card-image { width: 100%; } .card-content { width: 100%; padding: 20px; } } PROJECT PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT Microsoft Project Online alternative? Find your fit with OnePlan. Join the webinar to choose the right modern PPM solution. Join webinar OnePlan alternative to Project Online: modern PPM capabilities built for the Microsoft ecosystemOnePlan is designed to connect strategy to execution across the Microsoft stack. For organizations standardized on Microsoft 365, Power Platform, and Azure DevOps, this alignment is critical. A brief look into OnePlan’s benefits and core capabilities:Portfolio visibility with centralized dashboards across initiativesResource capacity planning to balance demand and supply across functionsFinancial management to track budgets, forecasts, and actuals at portfolio levelRoadmap and scenario planning to model trade-offs before committing investmentConfigurable governance workflows aligned to stage gates and approval hierarchies Because it integrates natively with Microsoft technologies, organizations can extend reporting through Power BI, automate workflows via Power Automate, and align work management across Teams and DevOps. For life sciences enterprises managing clinical, regulatory, and commercial programs in parallel, this unified architecture reduces manual handoffs and improves data consistency.OnePlan as a Project Online alternative: why it’s the closest replacement From a functional perspective, OnePlan maps closely to the capabilities that made Project Online central to enterprise PPM. That said, let’s dive into the features of OnePlan PPM solution compared to Project Online:1. Microsoft ecosystem integration Project Online users value tight alignment with Microsoft. OnePlan, as a Project Online replacement, preserves that ecosystem logic, integrating with Microsoft 365 and related services rather than forcing a disconnected environment.2. Ease of migrationOrganizations familiar with Microsoft-centric portfolio structures can transition governance models, project hierarchies, and reporting concepts with less conceptual disruption. This reduces user resistance and training overhead.3. Portfolio and resource management depthProject Online offered strong scheduling and resource allocation. OnePlan extends this with more structured portfolio planning and scenario capabilities, supporting executive-level trade-off analysis.4. User experienceMany legacy PWA implementations evolved into complex environments. As a Project Online alternative, OnePlan offers a modern interface that consolidates views across portfolios, resources, and financials, improving adoption across business and IT stakeholders.5. Reporting and scalabilityInstead of relying on disconnected exports, OnePlan leverages the broader Microsoft data ecosystem for scalable reporting. For global organizations with hundreds or thousands of active initiatives, this architecture supports growth without redesigning the platform.In short, OnePlan benefits over Project Online for enterprises are plenty. The tool does not just replicate Project Online; it retains the operating model discipline while enabling a more integrated portfolio management approach.What are the advantages of OnePlan PPM solution compared to other Project Online alternatives?Generic work management tools often focus on team-level task collaboration. They are effective for lightweight coordination but lack enterprise-grade portfolio governance.As the best Project Online alternative for agile teams, OnePlan differentiates itself in three areas:Strategic portfolio alignment: Initiatives can be explicitly linked to strategic themes and investment priorities, enabling structured prioritizationCross-tool orchestration: Work across multiple delivery systems can be aggregated into a single portfolio view, reducing fragmentationAdvanced analytics: Configurable dashboards and data models support scenario planning and executive reporting without heavy customizationsFor organizations that have outgrown simple task tracking but do not want to lose Microsoft alignment, these OnePlan features are critical. Note: Choosing the right platform that aligns with your portfolio goals requires a structured evaluation. For more details, read our guide on Strategic PPM tool selection.Switching from Project Online to OnePlan: a low-risk migration pathOur experts advise that a low-risk migration requires disciplined execution. Here’s our step-by-step guide on how to move to OnePlan as Project Online retires: StepActions to be taken Current-state assessment: Inventory active projects, custom fields, workflows, integrations, and reports. Configuration and data audit:Identify redundant fields, obsolete templates, and technical debt. Target design definition: Align the future OnePlan configuration to strategic portfolio objectives, not simply legacy replication.Coexistence and phased rollout: Transition portfolios in waves to minimize disruption. Integration design: Rebuild or rationalize integrations with finance, HR, and development systems. Training & change management: Equip PMs, functional leaders, and executives with clear process guidance.Consulting with a PPM partner like i2e Consulting, with deep life sciences industry expertise ensures that governance, documentation, and validation are embedded into the migration plan. The i2e point of view: futureproofing your PPM strategy with OnePlanFrom our perspective, OnePlan for Project Online users is an opportunity to elevate PPM maturity. When implemented with disciplined governance and data standards, the tool capably supports portfolio operations within a Microsoft-first ecosystem. For life sciences enterprises balancing pipeline acceleration, regulatory compliance, and capital discipline, this integrated architecture is essential.At i2e, we do not stop at replacing the tool. As certified OnePlan partners, we stay through strategy definition, configuration, integration, and change adoption. Our experts design an ideal portfolio operating model that integrates your portfolio strategy, execution, finance, and resource capacity into one decision loop. Consult with us today to start your Migration from Project Online to OnePlan.Frequently Asked Questions .faq-wrapper { max-width: 850px; margin: 20px auto; font-family: 'Open Sans', sans-serif; } .faq-item { border-bottom: 1px solid #e0e0e0; padding: 10px 0; } .faq-item summary { font-family: 'Montserrat', sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-weight: 600; cursor: pointer; list-style: none; position: relative; padding-right: 30px; } /* Remove default marker */ .faq-item summary::-webkit-details-marker { display: none; } /* Down arrow (closed state) */ .faq-item summary::after { content: "▼"; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; font-size: 16px; transition: transform 0.3s ease; } /* Up arrow (open state) */ .faq-item[open] summary::after { content: "▲"; } .faq-item p { margin-top: 12px; font-family: 'Open Sans', sans-serif; font-size: 17px; line-height: 1.7; color: #272727; } 1. Why is Microsoft Project Online being retired? Microsoft Project Online is being retired as part of a shift toward modern, cloud-first and AI-enabled work management tools within the Microsoft ecosystem, with support ending on September 30, 2026. 2. What is the best alternative to Microsoft Project Online? OnePlan is widely considered a leading alternative because it offers enterprise project portfolio management (PPM), resource planning, and financial management within the Microsoft 365 ecosystem. 3. How is OnePlan different from Microsoft Project Online? OnePlan provides modern PPM capabilities such as AI-driven insights, portfolio modeling, and unified work management, while Project Online is based on legacy architecture with limited innovation. 4. What is a modern PPM solution? A modern PPM solution is a cloud-based platform that connects strategy, planning, execution, and reporting, enabling better decision-making and visibility across projects. 5. How do I choose the right Project Online alternative? To choose the right Project Online alternative, evaluate Microsoft 365 integration, scalability, and advanced PPM features like portfolio planning and reporting. Also consider ease of migration, user adoption, and AI-enabled insights to ensure a smooth transition and future-ready project management.

Why LLM Fine-Tuning is the next competitive advantage for life sciences

Global life sciences companies operate under sustained competitive pressure to accelerate scientific innovation while simultaneously ensuring operational efficiency and cost discipline across all functions. In this environment, Large Language Models (LLMs) are emerging as a transformative acceleration engine, enabling organizations to bypass traditionally sequential and manually intensive steps and achieve task specific outcomes far faster than before. From conducting competitive due diligence to drafting regulatory documents, and from generating novel chemical compounds to supporting clinical evidence, the role of artificial intelligence is becoming increasingly aspirational and is now considered essential for pharmaceutical growth and improved patient outcomes.These models, while highly capable of understanding general pharmaceutical concepts, do not inherently possess the organization specific knowledge, internal reasoning patterns, or established methods for interpreting and presenting scientific information that teams rely on in real workflows. As a result, the limitations of off-the-shelf LLMs create a structural ceiling that prevents wider adoption in areas where organizations depend on highly skilled, specialized, and rate limiting scientific processes. Another major challenge is the need to protect sensitive intellectual assets that pharmaceutical companies would otherwise have to expose to external LLMs providers.LLM fine tuning directly addresses these gaps by adapting the model to an organization’s internal knowledge, scientific conventions, and established decision frameworks. By training the model on proprietary datasets such as experimental records, regulatory submissions, archived study protocols, internal reports, and domain specific terminology, fine tuning enables the LLMs to reason and generate outputs that align with the organization’s real workflows. Fine tuning also improves the model’s ability to interpret scientific evidence, maintain consistent terminology, and follow the organization’s established communication and documentation patterns.Furthermore, when a fine-tuned model is hosted internally through a sovereign deployment approach, data security concerns are mitigated because sensitive information remains within the organization’s-controlled environment. This ensures full protection of intellectual assets while still enabling advanced model performance.This alignment allows the model to replicate expert level writing styles, meet internal quality standards, and understand the detailed structure of scientific evidence, hypotheses, and decisions within the company. As a result, fine-tuned LLMs overcome the ceiling imposed by generic models, enabling artificial intelligence to be deployed securely in highly skilled and rate limiting processes that previously depended exclusively on specialized scientific expertise.In this blog, we explore the essential aspects of model fine tuning and discuss the primary considerations that guide the decision to implement this methodology.The Limits of Generic LLMs in a Regulated and IP‑Sensitive IndustryEvery pharmaceutical organization operates within a highly specialized and tightly governed environment. Internal processes, regulatory documentation styles, scientific interpretation frameworks, and communication protocols are often unique to each company. At the same time, the industry works with highly sensitive intellectual property, proprietary data assets, and confidential patient information that must be managed within strict compliance frameworks.Generic, publicly available language models are powerful, scalable, and highly capable. They already demonstrate exceptional performance in improving operational efficiency and reducing the cost of decision-making across multiple industries. Yet, when applied directly to domain-specific pharmaceutical use cases, they present both constraints and risks. These models may not fully understand scientific terminology in context, internal organizational language, regulatory nuance, or the decision frameworks embedded in pharmaceutical R&D. More critically, they may not always be suitable for use with proprietary or sensitive datasets without robust controls.To address these challenges, organizations often begin with techniques such as Retrieval Augmented Generation (RAG), in-context learning, and structured prompt engineering. While these methods can improve model relevance and mitigate some risks, they do not fully align the model with the organization’s internal language, domain knowledge, and governance expectations.This is where model fine tuning becomes a strategic differentiator.Fine Tuning as the Path to Enterprise Aligned IntelligenceFine tuning is the process of training an open weights language model on curated, domain specific datasets so that it can internalize specialized knowledge, organization specific terminology, and preferred communication structures. In simple terms, it aligns the behavior of the model with the way an enterprise thinks, writes, reasons, and operates. This is the foundation of enterprise LLM fine tuning and a key differentiator in modern LLM implementation strategies.The result is a custom LLM that does not simply answer questions but demonstrates contextual understanding that is relevant to therapeutic areas, research processes, clinical frameworks, and regulatory environments. Essential Building Blocks for Custom LLM DevelopmentTo harness meaningful enterprise value while maintaining compliance, data security, and intellectual property protection, pharmaceutical organizations must adopt a structured and disciplined approach to enterprise LLM fine-tuning. A mature LLM implementation framework should be built on the following foundational elements:1. Selection of the right base modelSelecting the appropriate foundation model is a strategic decision that directly influences scalability, regulatory posture, and long-term model sovereignty. For pharmaceutical R&D and clinical environments, the base model must demonstrate strong baseline reasoning in scientific and medical language, high context handling capability for long technical documents, and architectural flexibility to support parameter-efficient fine-tuning. Beyond raw performance, enterprises must evaluate licensing structures, model transparency, and deployability within secure, on-prem or private cloud environments to ensure full control over intellectual property and patient-sensitive data.Equally critical is assessing the model’s prior training exposure to biomedical and regulatory language patterns. Models with stronger scientific priors typically require less domain adaptation effort, reducing fine-tuning cost and risk. 2. Robust data pipeline reviewIn pharmaceutical organizations, the value of fine-tuning is fundamentally determined by the quality, lineage, and governance of internal data assets. A rigorous data pipeline review must address ingestion across structured (clinical databases, assay data), and unstructured sources (protocols, medical narratives, regulatory correspondence). Data must undergo systematic curation, normalization, de-identification where applicable, and metadata enrichment to ensure both compliance and semantic coherence for model learning.Beyond data engineering, enterprises must implement traceability mechanisms that link training data back to source systems and governance policies. This is essential for audit readiness, bias investigation, and future model revalidation. Attention should be given to versioning of datasets, controlled vocabulary alignment (e.g., MedDRA, CDISC), and separation of training, validation, and post-deployment feedback loops. A robust pipeline ensures that fine-tuning becomes a repeatable enterprise capability rather than a one-off experiment.3. Fine-tuning methodologyNot all pharma use cases warrant the same depth of model modification. The fine-tuning strategy must be explicitly aligned with the maturity of the use case and its potential impact on scientific, clinical, or regulatory outcomes. Early-stage knowledge assistance or literature synthesis may benefit from lightweight approaches such as parameter-efficient fine-tuning or instruction tuning. In contrast, higher-risk applications e.g., protocol optimization support or signal detection augmentation, may require deeper domain adaptation combined with human-in-the-loop controls.4. Comprehensive model performance assessmentModel evaluation must extend across multiple performance dimensions, including factual reliability in scientific contexts, robustness to ambiguous or incomplete inputs, and stability across therapeutic domains. Benchmarking should include domain-specific test sets derived from internal documents, regulatory texts, and real-world operational queries.Bias and safety evaluation is equally critical. Models must be assessed for skewed outputs related to patient demographics, therapeutic areas, or study geographies, particularly in clinical and safety applications.5. Model deployment and governance frameworkDeploying fine-tuned models in pharma requires an enterprise-grade governance framework that integrates security, compliance, and operational oversight. Models must be hosted within secure environments that align with corporate data protection standards, ensuring that proprietary compounds data, clinical records, and regulatory documents remain within organizational boundaries. Role-based access controls, logging, and full interaction traceability are essential to meet audit requirements.Governance must also encompass lifecycle management, this includes model version control, change management procedures, revalidation triggers, and retirement policies. Documentation standards should support inspection readiness and demonstrate that the model behaves consistently within defined performance boundaries. i2e’s Point of viewWe recommend that fine tuning be viewed not as a technical experiment but as a strategic lever to embed institutional knowledge into AI systems and create sustainable competitive advantage. It enables organizations to build AI capabilities that are context aware, aligned with governance expectations, and operationally scalable within a regulated environment.While fine tuning is a powerful enabler, its success depends on clearly defined problem statements, validated business needs, a disciplined data strategy, and strong cross functional collaboration across IT, R and D, Quality, Legal, and Compliance teams.We believe that early adopters will gain a meaningful advantage by learning quickly from both successful implementations and early limitations, allowing them to evolve toward more advanced capabilities and accelerate enterprise readiness. As organizations refine their LLM implementation practices and deepen their fine-tuning expertise, they build the internal capacity required to scale custom models safely and effectively across functions.Looking ahead, the workforce will increasingly depend on such models as core tools for scientific, operational, and regulatory work. Organizations that invest early in fine-tuned models will not only strengthen business continuity but also create a modern digital environment that attracts and retains high quality talent who expect AI enabled workflows as part of their daily roles.

Microsoft Project Online is retiring: What’s next for organizations?

Microsoft Project Online RetirementMicrosoft has officially announced the retirement of Project Online, marking a major shift in how organizations manage projects and portfolios in the Microsoft ecosystem. While this move may seem disruptive, it’s also an opportunity to modernize your project management landscape with more agile, connected, and scalable solutions.What is retiring and what is not within the MS Project Management ecosystem CategoryProduct / Component StatusProject OnlineMicrosoft Project Online (part of Project for Web and Project Online Plans 1–5) Retiring (officially retiring on September 30, 2026)Project ServerProject Server Subscription Edition (on-premises)Not retiring (Microsoft has committed to supporting it through at least July 14, 2031)Project Server 2019 / 2016 / 2013Legacy on-prem versionsRetiring / Out of mainstream supportPlanner PremiumMicrosoft Planner (and Planner Premium)Active / ExpandingProject Desktop ClientMicrosoft Project Professional (Desktop app)Still available but staticWhat should be your next steps?Our PPM experts identified four key paths forward, some cover Microsoft project alternatives within the Microsoft ecosystems, where are some options go outside Microsoft. Here is a detailed look at their pros, cons, and technical implications to help you make an informed choice. 1. Move to Microsoft Planner with premium capabilities / Power Platform extensionsMicrosoft Planner has evolved beyond a simple task board. With Planner Premium (built on Microsoft Project for the web) and Power Platform integration, organizations can create scalable, low-code project management environments that automate workflows, connect to data sources, and deliver analytics. They can easily recreate their MS Project plans within Planner Premium or extend them using Power Platform components for automation and reporting.Pros:Modern UI and simplicity: Intuitive, cloud-native experience with integration into Teams and Microsoft 365.Automation and customization: Power Automate, Power Apps, and Dataverse enable custom workflows and reporting.Scalable and future-ready: Microsoft’s strategic focus is clearly on the Power Platform–Planner stack, ensuring continued innovation.Unified data model: Leverages Dataverse for consistent data handling and analytics via Power BI.Cons:Migration complexity: Data structures in Project Online differ from Planner/Dataverse, requiring careful mapping and reconfiguration.Feature gaps: Advanced portfolio-level functions (like EVM or multi-dimensional resource planning) require custom builds or add-ons.Change management effort: End users need to adapt to new workflows and interfaces.Cost implications:Low to moderate initial cost: Most Planner Premium and Power Platform capabilities come under existing Microsoft 365 or Power Platform licenses.Implementation costs vary: Custom app development, workflow setup, and Power BI dashboarding can add moderate consulting expenses.Ongoing savings: Reduced infrastructure costs and seamless integration minimize total cost of ownership (TCO). 2. Move to Project Server Subscription Edition (On-Premises)For organizations not ready to go fully cloud-native, Microsoft Project Professional and Project Server Subscription Edition offers a supported, on-premises continuation of Project Online capabilities.Pros:Continuity with existing processes: Familiar interface, enterprise resource planning, and enterprise custom fields, and project detail pages remain intact.Control and compliance: Data stays on-premise—ideal for regulated industries with strict data residency requirements.Integration consistency: Existing add-ins, reports, and integrations can often be retained with minimal rework.Cons:Limited innovation: Microsoft’s development focus has shifted to the cloud; few routine updates are expected.Higher maintenance overhead: Infrastructure, patching, and scalability remain your responsibility.Scalability constraints: Not ideal for distributed or hybrid teams needing mobile/cloud access.Cost implications:High capital cost: Requires on-prem servers, SQL licensing, and ongoing hardware maintenance.Lower migration cost: Minimal configuration changes compared to cloud migration.Higher long-term cost: IT resource overhead, patching, and version upgrades add recurring expenses. 3. Hybrid or mixed approachMany enterprises choose a hybrid setup, using Planner and Power Platform for agile, team-level project tracking while retaining Project Server for enterprise-level program management.Pros:Balanced modernization: Gradual migration minimizes disruption.Best of both worlds: Agile teams get flexibility while PMOs retain robust governance tools.Phased adoption: Allows time to retrain teams and adjust processes.Cons:Integration complexity: Requires connectors or middleware to keep systems in sync.Dual administration: Managing both environments increases oversight effort.Data consistency risks: Without clear governance, data integrity may be affected.Cost implications:Moderate setup cost: Investment in integration tools and Power Platform customization.Reduced upfront burden: Avoids full migration costs by spreading transformation over phases.Higher operational cost: Running and maintaining two environments can increase ongoing spend. 4. Switch to third-party enterprise PPM toolsFor organizations looking for end-to-end project and portfolio management with built-in financials, resource planning, and risk management, third-party tools like Planisware, Clarity, Smartsheet, Monday.com, Planview, OnePlan or Wrike offer comprehensive alternatives.Pros:Rich PPM functionality: Mature features for scenario planning, capacity management, and financial tracking.Industry-specific capabilities: Tailored solutions for pharma, engineering, or R&D.Dedicated vendor innovation: Regular updates and roadmap-driven enhancements.Embedded AI support: Built-in AI agents to streamline everyday project management activities and decision-making.Cons:High licensing cost: Enterprise-level subscriptions can be significant.Complex migration: Requires data mapping, validation, and process reengineering.Reduced Microsoft integration: Some features may require additional connectors or third-party middleware.Cost implications:High upfront investment: Licensing, implementation, and integration costs can be substantial.Predictable recurring costs: Annual subscriptions and vendor-managed support simplify budgeting.Potential savings in efficiency: Rich automation and portfolio analytics can deliver ROI over time. Make the right choice with i2eAt i2e, we help organizations evaluate their Project Online footprint, assess migration complexity, and select the right modernization path—balancing functionality, cost, and long-term strategy. Check out our 7 steps migration roadmap.Our consultants specialize in Microsoft PPM modernization, Power Platform automation, and data integration, ensuring a smooth transition with minimal downtime. Whether your goal is cost optimization, enhanced agility, or future scalability, we design a roadmap that aligns with your business priorities.Frequently Asked Questions .faq-wrapper { max-width: 850px; margin: 20px auto; font-family: 'Open Sans', sans-serif; } .faq-item { border-bottom: 1px solid #e0e0e0; padding: 10px 0; } .faq-item summary { font-family: 'Montserrat', sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-weight: 600; cursor: pointer; list-style: none; position: relative; padding-right: 30px; } /* Remove default marker */ .faq-item summary::-webkit-details-marker { display: none; } /* Down arrow (closed state) */ .faq-item summary::after { content: "▼"; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; font-size: 16px; transition: transform 0.3s ease; } /* Up arrow (open state) */ .faq-item[open] summary::after { content: "▲"; } .faq-item p { margin-top: 12px; font-family: 'Open Sans', sans-serif; font-size: 17px; line-height: 1.7; color: #272727; } 1. When is Microsoft Project Online retiring? Microsoft has announced that Microsoft Project Online will officially retire on September 30, 2026. After this date, the service will no longer be available and organizations will lose access to their projects and associated data unless they migrate beforehand. 2. What happens to project data after Microsoft Project Online is retired? Once Project Online is retired, all projects, schedules, and data stored in the platform will become inaccessible. Organizations must export or migrate their data to another system before the retirement date to maintain access. 3. Is the Project Online retirement an opportunity to modernize project management? Yes. Many organizations are using the retirement as an opportunity to modernize project portfolio management, improve reporting, and integrate project planning more closely with tools like Microsoft Teams, Power Platform, and modern PPM platforms. 4. What are the alternatives to Microsoft Project Online? Organizations can consider alternatives such as Microsoft Planner, Microsoft Project Server, or modern project portfolio management (PPM) platforms depending on their needs.