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, chances are, 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.
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📈 Flow Metrics & Forecasting Tools: A Comprehensive Comparison

Paid Tools

55 Degrees – ActionableAgile Analytics
This is an enterprise-grade flow metrics platform available as both a standalone SaaS solution and a seamlessly embedded experience within Jira and Azure DevOps. It offers 14 insightful charts, dataset sharing, and full enterprise security compliance (ISO 27001, SOC 2 Type II, and GDPR). ProKanban Trainers receive free access to the standalone version, with additional trial options available.

55 Degrees – Portfolio Forecaster
Portfolio Forecaster enables cross-project forecasting and portfolio-level visibility using probabilistic methods, helping organizations make informed, data-driven decisions. It uses Monte Carlo simulations to forecast project and portfolio outcomes, quantify risks, and explore scenarios. Seamlessly integrated with Jira, it provides executives and project managers with a clear, top-down view to monitor progress, adjust priorities, and optimize delivery across initiatives. Portfolio Forecaster meets enterprise security and compliance standards including ISO 27001, SOC 2 Type II, and GDPR. Free trials are available.

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 – FlowPulse
‍FlowPulse works with Jira, Azure DevOps, and CSV files to generate flow metrics and Monte Carlo forecasts. It supports retrospective forecasting and doesn’t require admin permissions, making it one of the easiest tools to adopt.

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 (Launching Autumn 2025)
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.

📊 Flow Metrics & Forecasting Tools Comparison Charts

📌 How to Use This Information

• If you want a free, open-source solution, check out JiraMetrics, FlowPulse, 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, Portfolio Forecaster could be a valuable option, providing cross-project visibility and long-term forecasting.