Still Using Spreadsheets to Track Coding Projects? Here are 3 Free Tools to Try Instead

No doubt: Spreadsheets are fantastic. 

They've got formulas, pivot tables, and those nifty conditional formatting options. 

But when it comes to tracking your code projects, is Excel or Google Sheets really the best tool for the job? Or is it like using a bulldozer to make a sandcastle?

If you've been wrestling with columns and rows to keep track of your technical project management needs, then you're in the right place. 

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We get it. Sometimes, you stick with what you know. 

But remember—we're developers. 

Exploring and adopting new tools is in our DNA.

For programmers looking to step up their technical project management game for coding projects, here's a rundown of three free tools you should consider:

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1. Leiga

Why it rocks:

Leiga is like that one developer friend who just... gets it. 

It’s specifically designed for developers, by developers. 

Ditch those clunky cells and rows for a sleek interface that actually speaks your language.

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Features you’ll love:

Task Prioritization: Sort your tasks by urgency, so you're always on top of your game.

Integration with Git: No more juggling between tools. You can now view your commits right from the dashboard.

Collaborative Boards: Work with your team in real-time. Collaboration has never felt so seamless.

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2. Linear

The Lowdown:

Linear takes the idea of project management and asks, "How can we make this not just efficient, but enjoyable?" The result? 

A tool that feels intuitive and looks pretty darn good while doing it.

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Shiny features:

Cycle Views: Set weekly or monthly cycles, track progress, and crush those coding goals.

Shortcut Heavy: This tool speaks fluent ‘developer’. Jump around tasks, assign stuff, and more without ever touching your mouse.

Feedback Loops: Get feedback, make iterations, and keep everything in a streamlined loop.

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3. Trello

Oldie but a Goodie:

Okay, Trello might not be the new kid on the block, but it’s proven to be a solid choice for countless teams. 

It's like the Swiss army knife of project management tools. 

Simple, but versatile. And a heck of a lot better than a spreadsheet.

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Cool stuff it does:

Drag & Drop: Organize your code projects using cards. Move 'em, group 'em, categorize 'em. Easy-peasy.

Integration Galore: Slack, Google Drive, GitHub... You name it, Trello probably integrates with it.

Visual Overviews: With boards, lists, and cards, you can visualize your entire project’s timeline.

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Since you're a developer, your mind is wired for innovation and problem-solving. 

While spreadsheets have their place, managing your code projects shouldn’t feel like you're trying to fit a square peg in a round hole.

Leiga, Linear, and Trello each bring their own flavor to the table. Some are heavy on the developer-focused features, while others prioritize simplicity and versatility. But they all beat using spreadsheets for your project management needs.

Take them for a spin, see what feels right, and code on, friends. 

Remember, the best tool is the one that you’ll actually use. So, ditch that spreadsheet and jump into a world where technical project management meets developer nirvana.

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