Capterra’s 2025 Project Management Software Trends Survey, released on September 4, 2025, highlights artificial intelligence (AI) as the leading driver of project management (PM) software purchases, with 55% of 2,545 surveyed professionals citing AI functionality as their primary motivation. The report underscores how organizations are leveraging AI-powered tools to address rising project complexity, tighter budgets, and workforce shifts. However, it also reveals significant challenges, including security concerns and skills gaps, that complicate successful adoption.
AI is the top driver for PM software purchases, cited by 55% of buyers.
Key AI use cases include risk prediction and workflow automation.
71% of respondents prioritize security in PM software selection.
41% face AI adoption challenges due to skills gaps and onboarding issues.
60% of PMs report increased use of emotional intelligence with AI tools.
Hybrid PM methodologies are used by 41% of organizations globally.
The survey, conducted among 2,545 project management professionals worldwide, identifies AI as a game-changer for PM software, with over half of buyers investing in AI-driven tools for risk prediction, workflow automation, and documentation generation. “AI is transforming project management software from a digital task list into a strategic engine for adaptability and efficiency,” says Olivia Montgomery, PMP, associate principal analyst at Capterra. These capabilities help teams manage complex, multi-time-zone projects, aligning with SEO terms like “AI project management” and “workflow automation software.”
PM software, a critical system of record for sensitive data like budgets and contracts, faces heightened security risks as AI expands functionality. The report notes that 71% of respondents prioritize security features, with 39% making purchases driven by security needs. Data breaches targeting PM platforms underscore the need for robust encryption, access controls, and audit trails. However, inconsistent implementation fuels both satisfaction and dissatisfaction among buyers, emphasizing keywords like “PM software security” and “data protection.”
AI’s rapid innovation outpaces workforce readiness, with 41% of respondents citing adoption challenges due to skills gaps, poor onboarding, and workflow misalignment. Specifically, 39% report a lack of AI skills, and 36% struggle with integrating tools into existing processes. To address this, organizations must prioritize effective onboarding and role-based training to maximize AI’s value, supporting SEO terms like “AI skills training” and “project management onboarding.”
While AI streamlines technical tasks, human-centric challenges like collaboration and communication remain critical. The survey finds that 60% of project managers have increased their use of emotional intelligence (EI) since adopting AI, addressing issues like team collaboration and staffing gaps. “The right PM software shouldn’t just automate processes but also empower employees to work more effectively,” says Olivia Montgomery, highlighting the need for tools that balance innovation with human decision-making, relevant to terms like “emotional intelligence in PM.”
Capterra’s 2025 survey reveals that AI is reshaping project management, but success requires addressing security risks and skills gaps. By prioritizing transparent, secure, and adaptable PM solutions, organizations can harness AI’s potential to drive efficiency and growth. For more insights, read the full report on Capterra’s website.
Capterra is the #1 destination for organizations to find the right software and services. Our marketplace spans 100,000+ solutions across 1,000 categories, and offers access to over 2 million verified user reviews—helping organizations save time, increase productivity and accelerate their growth.
TechIntelPro empowers B2B technology decision-makers with the latest industry trends, deep insights, leadership perspectives and actionable intelligence to drive both organizational and professional milestones—and thrive on the tech pulse.