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As someone deeply involved in IT operations, I understand the intricacies and needs of managing various aspects such as endpoint management, knowledge management, and remote control. ConnectWise PSA, specifically through modules like ConnectWise Manage, combines all these elements, offering templates, scripting, self-service options, and a robust knowledge base. It's designed to streamline operations and drive profitability, enhancing end-user experience.

ConnectWise PSA provides a comprehensive platform for IT operations, integrating everything from remote control to knowledge management. The benefits of this tool are vast; it not only simplifies endpoint management but also offers extensive modules for increased efficiency and profitability.

However, some may seek alternatives to ConnectWise PSA to find a solution that better aligns with their unique needs or budget constraints, and that's where exploring other options becomes essential.

What Is ConnectWise PSA?

ConnectWise PSA is a professional services automation (PSA) platform that helps IT service providers manage and track projects, tickets, billing, and service delivery. It's mainly used by MSPs, IT consultants, and service-based teams who need a single place to manage operations and keep clients happy. Ticketing, time tracking, and billing features help with day-to-day service tasks and client accountability. ConnectWise PSA gives your team tools to stay organized and keep work moving without jumping between systems.

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Best ConnectWise PSA Alternatives Summary

This comparison chart summarizes pricing details for my top ConnectWise PSA alternative selections to help you find the best one for your budget and business needs.

Best ConnectWise PSA Alternatives Reviews

Below are my detailed summaries of the best ConnectWise PSA alternatives that made it onto my shortlist. My reviews offer a detailed look at the key features, pros & cons, integrations, and ideal use cases of each tool to help you find the best one for you.

Best for automated patch management

  • Free trial available
  • From $149/technician/month (billed annually)
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Rating: 4.6/5

Atera is a cloud-based Information Technology (IT) management platform built for Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and small IT teams. It combines Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM), Professional Services Automation (PSA), and secure remote access in one easy-to-use interface. Atera helps you proactively manage devices, automate routine work, and keep systems running smoothly — all from a single platform.

Why it's a good ConnectWise PSA alternative:

I picked Atera because it simplifies IT management for MSPs without sacrificing core functionality. While ConnectWise PSA can feel complex or fragmented, Atera focuses on ease of use and efficiency. It helps you manage endpoints, automate common tasks, and resolve issues quickly — all from one dashboard.

Standout features & integrations:

Atera’s core features include real-time device monitoring, automated patch management, and customizable IT automation through scripting. These help reduce manual work while keeping your systems secure and up-to-date. It also integrates with essential tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, WhatsApp Notifications, ServiceNow, Microsoft Outlook, Azure Active Directory, Okta, Google Chat, and monday.com, making it easy to connect with your existing workflows.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Integrates with key applications like QuickBooks and Xero
  • Comprehensive suite of RMM and PSA tools
  • Per-technician pricing model allows for unlimited devices

Cons:

  • User interface could be improved for ease-of-use
  • Per-technician pricing might be expensive for smaller teams
  • Limited functionality beyond RMM and PSA tasks

Best for cloud backup services

  • From $6/user/month (billed annually)
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Rating: 4.5/5

MSP360 Managed Backup provides a comprehensive suite of tools to automate and simplify cloud backup processes. With a focus on secure, reliable backups and easy recovery, MSP360 is a perfect fit for businesses seeking robust cloud backup services.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Strong data encryption for improved security
  • Wide range of cloud storage integrations
  • Extensive backup and recovery options

Cons:

  • Pricing could be more competitive given the annual billing model
  • May require a steep learning curve for complex features
  • Limited to backup services only, without broader PSA functionalities

Best for IT documentation management

  • Free demo available
  • From $29/user/month (5 users minimum)
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Rating: 4.6/5

IT Glue is a cloud-based IT documentation platform that centralizes all the vital information IT service teams need. It allows teams to track and manage all their documentation and data, making it an excellent choice for IT documentation management.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Integration with other major platforms like ConnectWise and Autotask
  • Robust security features including SOC 2 Type 2 certification
  • Efficient documentation management capabilities

Cons:

  • User interface could be more intuitive
  • Limited functionalities outside of documentation management
  • Requires a minimum of 5 seats

Best for service business automation

  • 7-day free trial + free live demo
  • From $20/user/month

Accelo offers an all-in-one service business automation software designed for professional services. It combines the key needs of project planning, tracking, and collaboration in one platform, which makes it perfect for businesses looking to streamline their operations.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Intuitive and user-friendly interface
  • Wide range of integrations with other popular tools
  • Comprehensive tool for service business automation

Cons:

  • Customer service could be improved
  • Some features can be overly complex
  • Pricing is a bit steep, especially for small businesses

Best for client communications and reporting

  • From $195/month (billed annually, includes 10 seats; additional seats $5/month)

CloudRadial is a comprehensive client portal and communications tool for managed service providers (MSPs). It offers efficient ways to handle client reporting, ticketing, and account planning, aligning it well with client communications and reporting needs.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Offers a dedicated client portal for better engagement
  • Provides detailed reports for transparency with clients
  • Consolidates client communications and reporting into one tool

Cons:

  • Limited customization options for client portals
  • Pricing structure may be a bit high for smaller organizations
  • May require some time to fully learn and leverage all its features

Best for combined PSA and Remote Monitoring and Management

  • From $99/user/month

Syncro is a fully integrated PSA and Remote Monitoring and Management system, mainly built for Managed Service Providers (MSPs). Combining these critical functions, Syncro is ideally suited for those seeking a tool that can handle both professional service automation and remote management needs.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Offers robust reporting tools
  • Extensive integration options
  • Combines PSA and RMM capabilities

Cons:

  • Limited customization options for reports
  • The pricing might be steep for smaller businesses
  • The interface might be complex for new users

Best for large-scale project management

  • From $20/user/month (billed annually)

CloudBlue PSA is a robust solution designed to streamline the way businesses manage their projects. Its extensive features cater specifically to managing large-scale projects, setting it apart in a saturated PSA landscape.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Resourceful for large-scale projects
  • Comprehensive integration with popular platforms
  • Strong project management capabilities

Cons:

  • Learning curve due to extensive features
  • Not the most cost-effective for small teams
  • May be overwhelming for smaller projects

Best for on-demand remote support

  • 15-day free trial
  • From $8/user/month

Zoho Assist is a remote support and access software that allows IT professionals to provide instant support or administer unattended computers. Its quick and secure connectivity makes it ideal for on-demand remote support needs.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Secure connection ensures safety during remote support
  • Integrates with a variety of other tools and services
  • User-friendly interface makes it easy to provide quick support

Cons:

  • Occasional lag during remote sessions can occur
  • Needs more customization options
  • Some users may find the interface slightly outdated

Best for remote IT support

  • From $34/user/month

Central by GoTo is a tool that provides remote IT support services, allowing users to address tech issues from anywhere. With its strong emphasis on remote capabilities, it stands out as a top solution for businesses needing to provide IT support regardless of location.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Strong integration with popular business tools
  • Comprehensive multi-platform support
  • Exceptional remote support capabilities

Cons:

  • Interface could use some modernization
  • May be feature-overwhelming for businesses with simpler needs
  • Pricing may be prohibitive for small businesses

Other ConnectWise PSA Alternatives

Here are some additional ConnectWise PSA alternatives that didn’t make it onto my shortlist, but are still worth checking out:

  1. Freshservice

    For IT service desk operations

  2. Syncro

    For combined PSA and Remote Monitoring and Management

  3. Datto RMM

    Good for remote monitoring and management

  4. BigTime

    Good for time tracking, billing, and project management

  5. Replicon PSA

    Good for real-time business visibility and analytics

  6. Certinia PS Cloud

    Good for project and resource management

  7. Autotask PSA

    Good for automating professional service operations

  8. OpenAir PSA

    Good for service organizations seeking comprehensive professional services automation

  9. Projector PSA

    Good for improving service delivery and financial performance

  10. Kantata Cloud for Professional Services

    Good for data-driven insights and analytics

  11. Tigerpaw One

    Good for business automation in technology services

  12. Planview Adaptive Work

    Good for work management and collaboration

ConnectWise PSA Alternatives Selection Criteria

When choosing a professional service automation (PSA) tool, it's crucial to consider several key factors that will determine how well it suits your business needs. I've spent considerable time evaluating numerous PSA tools, emphasizing specific functionality that is essential for efficient and effective operations. Here's a closer look at the criteria I focused on during my evaluation:

Core Functionality

The PSA tool should enable you to perform the following key operations:

  • Ticketing Management: Automate service requests and manage them efficiently.
  • Project Management: Oversee and control every aspect of your projects.
  • Resource Allocation: Allocate and track resources flexibly.
  • Invoicing and Billing: Facilitate easy invoicing, billing, and financial management.

Key Features

There are a few critical features that every PSA tool should ideally have:

  • Integration Capabilities: The tool should be capable of integrating with other platforms that your business already uses, such as CRM systems, email platforms, and finance tools.
  • Scalability: It should be scalable to adapt to the changing needs of your business as it grows.
  • Security: Strong security measures are vital as these tools handle sensitive data.
  • Reporting and Analytics: This feature provides valuable business insights and helps in data-driven decision-making.

Usability

The following aspects were considered when evaluating the user-friendliness of these tools:

  • Intuitive Interface: A PSA tool needs to have an interface that is easy to navigate. This means clear, well-organized menus and easy access to key features. A confusing interface can hinder productivity and user adoption.
  • Quick Onboarding: The tool should have a short learning curve and offer guides, tutorials, or training programs for efficient onboarding.
  • Customer Support: Reliable customer support is crucial. Look for tools that offer a variety of support channels like email, chat, and phone, and those with a reputation for quick, helpful responses.
  • Role-Based Access: Given the sensitive data that a PSA tool handles, it should provide role-based access controls that are easy to configure, allowing you to manage who has access to what information.

Why Look for a ConnectWise PSA Alternative?

ConnectWise PSA is a professional service automation (PSA) tool designed to assist IT service providers, MSPs, and software consultants in streamlining their business operations. It provides an integrated suite of features, including ticketing, project management, invoicing, and reporting.

Despite its comprehensive capabilities, some businesses seek alternatives due to cost, complexity, or the need for a solution better tailored to their specific requirements. Different organizations have unique needs and workflows; what works best for one might not be the ideal fit for another. As such, exploring ConnectWise PSA alternatives can lead to finding a tool that aligns more closely with a company's operational needs and budget constraints.

ConnectWise PSA Key Features

Here are some of the key features of ConnectWise PSA, to help you contrast and compare what alternative solutions offer:

  • Ticketing system: Lets your team create, assign, and manage support tickets in one place.
  • Time tracking: Tracks hours spent on tasks so you can bill accurately and see where time goes.
  • Billing automation: Helps you generate and send invoices based on tracked time, agreements, or products.
  • Project management: Lets you plan, assign, and monitor project tasks so deadlines don’t slip.
  • Client portal: Gives your clients a way to submit tickets and check updates without calling you.
  • Service level agreements (SLAs): Helps you stay on track with response times and support commitments.
  • Workflow automation: Lets you set up rules to handle repetitive tasks like ticket routing or alerts.
  • CRM integration: Connects with your sales tools so your team can keep client info in sync.
  • Procurement tracking: Manages purchasing and inventory so you don’t run out of needed items.
  • Reporting tools: Offers built-in reports that show how your team’s doing across projects and support.

Summary

In conclusion, choosing the right professional service automation (PSA) tool is vital for managing and streamlining your service operations. The best ConnectWise PSA alternatives I've mentioned each bring their unique strengths, catering to diverse business needs and scenarios. Here are three key takeaways to keep in mind when choosing a ConnectWise PSA alternative:

  1. Consider Your Unique Needs: When selecting a PSA tool, evaluating your specific business needs and scenarios is essential. Whether you're looking for a robust ticketing system, efficient project management capabilities, or a per-technician pricing model, there's a solution out there tailored for you.
  2. Key Features and Functionality: Look beyond the surface level and dive into each tool's core features and functionality. Essential capabilities such as integration, scalability, security, reporting, and analytics can significantly impact your business operations.
  3. Ease of Use Matters: Lastly, don't underestimate the importance of usability. A tool that's difficult to use can end up slowing you down and even lead to errors. Prioritize intuitive interfaces, quick onboarding processes, reliable customer support, and easy-to-configure role-based access.

Remember, the best tool is the one that fits your business like a glove, supporting your specific workflows, processes, and business needs.

What do you think?

While I've provided a comprehensive list of the top ConnectWise PSA alternatives, I acknowledge that there might be other great tools out there that I've missed. If you're using a PSA tool that should be on this list, I'd love to hear about it. Please feel free to drop your suggestions in the comments section below or contact me directly. Your input could help other readers find the perfect tool for their needs.

Paulo Gardini Miguel
By Paulo Gardini Miguel

Paulo is the Director of Technology at the rapidly growing media tech company BWZ. Prior to that, he worked as a Software Engineering Manager and then Head Of Technology at Navegg, Latin America’s largest data marketplace, and as Full Stack Engineer at MapLink, which provides geolocation APIs as a service. Paulo draws insight from years of experience serving as an infrastructure architect, team leader, and product developer in rapidly scaling web environments. He’s driven to share his expertise with other technology leaders to help them build great teams, improve performance, optimize resources, and create foundations for scalability.