Top features to look for in design project management software

Design teams today are under constant pressure to deliver faster, stay aligned, and manage ever-growing creative demands. The right design project management software can make the difference between a chaotic process and a smooth, stress-free workflow.

In this article, we’ll explore what design project management software is, the common challenges creative teams face, and—most importantly—the top features you should look for to streamline your design process and boost collaboration. We’ll also show how Cway stands out as a purpose-built tool for modern design teams.

What Is Design Project Management Software?

Design project management software is a specialized tool created to help creative teams plan, manage, and deliver visual work—from concept to final approval. Unlike general project management tools, which focus primarily on tasks and timelines, design project management tools incorporate visual workflows, asset management, stakeholder collaboration, and version control.

These tools act as a centralized hub—your design toolkit—where teams can brief, review, and approve creative work without switching between a dozen apps.

Whether you're working on a product launch, brand campaign, or packaging update, the right creative project management tool ensures your team stays in sync and focused on what really matters: great design.

Common Challenges in Design Project Management

Design projects often involve a web of stakeholders—brand managers, legal teams, agencies, and external suppliers. Without a dedicated system, things fall through the cracks. Here are some common issues:

• Disconnected tools: Designers juggling email, cloud drives, chat apps, and spreadsheets

• Version confusion: Multiple file versions floating around, leading to rework

• Feedback chaos: Comments scattered across different platforms, unclear next steps

• Missed deadlines: No visibility into task status or approval bottlenecks

• Limited traceability: Difficulty tracking who approved what and when

These challenges slow teams down and create friction in what should be a smooth, creative process.

Key Features to Look For in a Design Project Management Tool

Not all tools are created equal. If you’re evaluating options—from free project management apps to premium platforms—here are the must-have features that truly support creative workflows:

1. Visual Task Management

A clean, intuitive interface where teams can view tasks, deadlines, and priorities at a glance. Bonus points for drag-and-drop timelines and Kanban-style boards.

2. Centralized Asset Management

All your files—briefs, drafts, final versions—stored in one place, clearly organized and always up-to-date.

3. Version Control & Approval Workflows

Built-in tools for reviewing, comparing, and approving designs without email chains. No more “Is this the final-final-final version?”

4. Role-Based Feedback Loops

Assign specific stakeholders to different review stages (e.g. marketing, legal, compliance) with clear roles and deadlines.

5. Integration with Design Tools

Seamless connection with graphic design tools like Adobe Creative Suite, Figma, and others. Designers can stay in flow without extra admin work.

6. Customizable Brief Templates

Standardize how projects are kicked off to avoid vague requirements and late revisions.

7. Activity Logs and Audit Trails

Track every change, comment, and approval to ensure full transparency and accountability.

8. Cloud-Based and Collaborative

Work from anywhere, at any time. Remote and hybrid teams need tools that support real-time collaboration without barriers.

How Cway Empowers Design Teams

Cway is more than just a project management tool—it’s a fully integrated design project management platform created for creative teams, brand managers, and packaging professionals. Here’s how Cway stands out:

• Automated workflows that keep projects moving—without manual check-ins

• Real-time collaboration with clear visual context for all stakeholders

• One source of truth for files, feedback, and approvals

• Audit-ready documentation for regulated industries

• Easy onboarding and a clean, modern interface designers love

Cway simplifies the creative project management process so your team can focus on creativity—not chasing approvals or searching for the latest file.

600+ SKUs redesigned. Zero missed deadlines.

With Cway, Santa Maria kept their global spice revamp on track—fewer revisions, faster approvals, flawless execution.

Ready to Make Design Management Stress-Free?

If you're tired of juggling tools, losing feedback, or delaying launches, it's time for a better way to manage your design projects.

Try Cway – the all-in-one design project management software built to support your creative flow from start to finish.