October 15, 2025
Comparing Flow Metrics Tools: Find the Right One for Your Needs
The world of Flow Metrics tools is constantly evolving, with a wide range of options available for teams looking to track these metrics, improve forecasting, and gain deeper insights into their workflows. Whether you're working in Jira, Azure DevOps, or need a flexible solution that works with CSV files, there's a tool designed to fit your needs.
In this post, we will compare various flow metrics tools—both free and paid—highlighting their unique features, compatibility, and what makes each stand out. From advanced Monte Carlo simulations to intuitive visualizations and automated reporting, these tools provide different levels of insight to help teams make data-driven decisions. Explore the comparison below to find the right fit for your team and take your Kanban practice to the next level.
📈 Flow Metrics & Forecasting Tools: A Comprehensive Comparison
Paid Tools
55 Degrees – ActionableAgile Analytics
ActionableAgile Analytics is an enterprise-grade flow metrics platform that integrates with Jira and Azure DevOps. It offers 14 different charts, enterprise security compliance (ISO27001, SOC2 Type 2, GDPR), and dataset sharing. ProKanban Trainers get a free standalone version, with additional trial options available.
55 Degrees – Portfolio Forecaster
Portfolio Forecaster is a tool that provides cross-project forecasting and portfolio-level visibility. It allows organizations to track multiple projects' progress, predict outcomes, and balance resources across initiatives. It integrates with existing tools like Jira, offering a top-level view for executives and project managers to manage and adjust portfolios effectively. Free trials are available for evaluation, with additional premium features for in-depth analysis and long-term forecasting.
Louis-Philippe Carignan – Pacemkr (Standalone & Jira Plugin)
Pacemkr is a SaaS analytics tool for Azure DevOps, Jira, and CSV files. It simplifies forecasting with a modern UI, making it ideal for management. The Jira Cloud plugin version integrates directly into Jira, providing a seamless experience. Free trials are available.
Free Tools
Mike Bowler – JiraMetrics
JiraMetrics extracts raw Jira data for full visibility into flow metrics. It identifies stalled work, provides single-item forecasting, and includes a data quality report. Since it doesn’t require admin installation, it’s highly flexible and great for teams wanting full control over their data.
Let People Work – Lighthouse
Lighthouse focuses on forecasting at both team and project levels. It predicts milestone completion, dynamically adjusts feature WIP, and can forecast unrefined epics. It runs entirely locally, ensuring no data is stored in the cloud.
Nicolas Brown – Epic/Feature Rightsizing & Capacity Planning
This Power BI template helps teams size epics and forecast completion using Monte Carlo simulations. It integrates with existing BI tools and doesn’t require admin installation, making it an easy, lightweight solution.
Nicolas Brown – FlowViz
FlowViz provides a full suite of flow metrics, forecasting, and blocker tracking for Jira and Azure DevOps. It has a detailed wiki explaining each metric and integrates well with BI reporting tools.
Free with Paid Features
Oliver Oyston – Kanbanana
Kanbanana introduces a fun and engaging way to work with flow metrics. It offers automated Jira exports, AI-powered insights, and continuous forecasting. A free community edition will be available, with premium paid features for advanced users.
📌 How to Use This Information
- If you want a free, open-source solution, check out JiraMetrics, Lighthouse, Epic/Feature Rightsizing, or FlowViz.
- If you need a simple SaaS tool with a modern UI, Pacemkr might be a great fit.
- If you prefer embedded analytics inside Jira, consider Pacemkr (Jira Plugin) or ActionableAgile Analytics.
- If you’re looking for a fun, unique take on flow metrics, keep an eye on Kanbanana’s launch in Autumn 2025.
- If you need a comprehensive portfolio-level forecasting tool,Lighthouse and Portfolio Forecaster could be valuable options, with both tools providing cross-project visibility and long-term forecasting.
Happy Forecasting!
