Choose an Operating Model

Rillsoft Project can be used in three operating models: as a standalone desktop application, together with Rillsoft Integration Server, or as Rillsoft Cloud. The operating model determines where data is stored, how users collaborate, and which server-based functions are available.

Operating Models at a Glance

Criterion

Standalone

Integration Server

Cloud

Project planners

One person

Several users

Several users

Data storage

Local project files or network drive

Central database on your server

Central database hosted by Rillsoft

Rights and user management

Not available

Users, roles, and folders

Users, roles, and folders

Portfolio and multiproject planning

Limited to local files

Full support, including cross-project links

Full support

Time entry and vacation planning

Not available

Available

Available

IT effort

Desktop installation only

Server installation and maintenance

No own server required

Best suited for

Individual planners and simple projects

Companies with several planners and their own IT operation

Companies that want server functions without operating a server
Decision tree for standalone, Integration Server, and cloud operation

Standalone: Local File-Based Planning

In standalone operation, Rillsoft Project works locally. Projects are saved as local project files. The resource pool can be kept as a separate file.

Use standalone operation when:

  • one person plans the projects,

  • central rights or approval workflows are not required,

  • shared resource management across several project managers is not required.

Limits:

  • several project managers cannot work at the same time with the same central resource data,

  • portfolio analysis is based on manually combined files,

  • time entry and vacation planning through the web interface are not available.

Integration Server: Central Operation

Rillsoft Integration Server is the platform for companies that coordinate several project planners, manage shared resources, and store projects centrally.

Use Integration Server when:

  • several project managers work with the same projects, resources, or portfolios,

  • access rights for projects, portfolios, or documents must be managed,

  • time entry, vacation planning, DMS, iCalendar, LDAP, or email notifications are required,

  • several organizational units need separate administration.

Typical setup:

  1. An administrator creates clients, folders, users, roles, and access rights.

  2. The project manager connects Rillsoft Project Desktop to the server.

  3. Projects and the resource pool are stored on the server.

  4. Users access data according to their role.

Rillsoft Project login to Integration Server

Cloud: Hosted Operation

Rillsoft Cloud provides the server-based operating model without an own server. It is useful when you want central data and collaboration, but do not want to operate the Integration Server infrastructure yourself.

Use cloud operation when:

  • server functions are required,

  • a fast start without server installation is important,

  • hosted data storage is acceptable for your organization.

Before choosing cloud operation, clarify data protection, user access, and licensing with your Rillsoft contact.

Changing the Operating Model

Moving from standalone operation to Integration Server or Cloud is possible, but it is not just a technical switch:

  1. Projects and the resource pool must be transferred to the central system.

  2. User accounts, roles, and folders must be set up.

  3. Existing planning data must be checked after migration.

  4. Users need login data and a defined workflow for saving and opening projects.

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