The Agency Selection Guide

From the previous blog, you would have understood the operational hurdles that drain agency margins, from communication silos to untracked hours, it is time to select a solution. A “good” tool is no longer just a task list; it is a profitability engine.

We have evaluated the top 5 platforms based on their ability to handle high-volume creative workflows, integrated billing, and real-time client reporting.

1. Astravue – Best for Agency Execution & Profitability

Astravue is built specifically for agencies that have outgrown generic task managers and need to protect their bottom line. It is a “Unified Project Delivery” platform that merges execution with financial intelligence.

The Agency Edge: Unlike other tools, Astravue eliminates “tool sprawl” by keeping chat, time tracking, and client records in one place.
Key Features: * Unified Workspace: Tasks, time, and client context live together.
- Embedded Time Tracking: Log billable hours without leaving the task card.
- Outcome Dashboards: Real-time visibility into project health and delivery risks.
- Flat-Rate Pricing: Scale your team without your software bill exploding.
Best For: Small to mid-sized agencies looking for a “single source of truth” to maximize margins.
Pricing: Free forever (up to 3 users); Paid tiers start at ~$7/user.

2. Wrike – Best for Complex Multi-Team Workflows

Wrike remains a powerhouse for large-scale agencies managing enterprise-level clients. It excels in resource allocation and complex campaign forecasting.

The Agency Edge: Its “Request Forms” and “Automated Blueprints” make it easy to standardize high-volume intake.
Key Features: Custom reporting, budget forecasting, and native Adobe Creative Cloud integrations.
Best For: Large agencies with heavy cross-departmental dependencies.
Pricing: Free basic plan; Professional plans start at ~$10/user/month.

3. ClickUp – Best for High Customization & Versatility

ClickUp is the “chameleon” of project management. If your agency has a highly unique workflow that doesn’t fit into standard templates, ClickUp’s flexibility is unmatched.

The Agency Edge: The “Everything View” allows managers to see tasks across all clients simultaneously.
Key Features: 15+ project views, advanced automation, and built-in document collaboration (Docs).
Best For: Agencies that want to build their own bespoke workflow from the ground up.
Pricing: Free personal plan; Business plans start at ~$7/user/month.

4. Asana – Best for User Adoption & Clarity

Asana is the gold standard for intuitive design. If your team resists complex software, Asana’s clean interface ensures they actually use the tool.

The Agency Edge: The “Timeline View” (Gantt) is exceptionally visual, making it easy to explain campaign schedules to clients.
Key Features: Strategic goal tracking, clear workload management, and robust template libraries.
Best For: Fast-moving creative teams that prioritize speed and ease of use.
Pricing: Free basic plan; Starter plans start at ~$10.99/user/month.

5. Teamwork – Best for Client Billing & Invoicing

Teamwork focuses on the “service” aspect of agencies. It bridges the gap between doing the work and getting paid for it.

The Agency Edge: It features built-in invoicing and billable hour tracking that integrates directly with accounting software.
Key Features: Client-ready project templates, integrated help desk, and budget-vs-actual reporting.
Best For: Agencies that manage high-touch client relationships and strict billing cycles.
Pricing: Free forever plan; Deliver plan starts at ~$10/user/month

Your Next Step Toward a Better Agency

If you’re ready to stop the “context switching” and start scaling your agency’s profit, you have two clear paths forward.

Experience the Astravue Difference

Skip the complex setup of generic tools. Start your free trial of Astravue today and see how unified project management can regain 15% of your lost billable hours.

Master the Strategy

Not sure what features your specific agency needs yet? Revisit our deep dive on the Core Challenges Marketing Agencies Face to refine your evaluation criteria.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best overall PM tool for agencies?

For agencies focused on profitability and simplicity, Astravue is the top choice. For enterprise-level reporting, Wrike is preferred.

Should we rely on free plans?

Free plans are great for testing, but agencies usually need paid tiers to access time tracking, client guest seats, and resource management the features that actually drive profit.