How to Self-Host Plane PM Tool in AWS with Pre-Configured AMI

Kelum Sampath

Dec 4, 2023 • 11 min read

Introduction

In the dynamic world of project management, the tools we use can make or break our success. Enter Plane, an open-source project management tool that's carving a niche for itself in a market dominated by heavyweights like Jira. Plane stands out with its intuitive interface, flexible functionality, and commitment to open-source values, making it a promising choice for teams seeking a blend of simplicity and power in their project management processes.

Meetrix.io, a trusted name in providing robust infrastructure solutions, plays a pivotal role in AWS hosting and supporting Plane. With its extensive experience in cloud services, Meetrix brings reliability, scalability, and top-notch security to the table, ensuring that Plane operates seamlessly in diverse environments. The importance of choosing the right hosting service cannot be overstated, especially for open-source tools where community support, regular updates, and data security are crucial. With Meetrix.io, users of Plane can rest assured that their project management tool is not only powerful and user-friendly but also hosted on a platform that guarantees optimal performance and uptime.

As we delve deeper into what makes Plane a strong contender in the project management arena, let's explore how its features, coupled with Meetrix's reliable hosting, create a synergy that can elevate your project management experience to new heights.

A to Z: Plane PM Tool Developer Guide

Overview of Plane Project Management Tool

What is the Plane PM tool ?

Introduction to Plane as an Open-Source Project Management Tool

Plane emerges as a beacon of efficiency and simplicity in the complex landscape of project management tools. Designed as an open-source solution, it provides a unique blend of flexibility and power, making it an ideal choice for teams seeking an alternative to mainstream, often restrictive project management software. At its core, Plane focuses on issue tracking, sprint planning, and product roadmap visualization, while emphasizing ease of use and intuitive operation.

Key Features and Benefits

Simplified Project Tracking: Plane offers a streamlined approach to managing tasks, with an emphasis on clarity and accessibility. Whether it's issue tracking or milestone plotting, everything is designed for ease of use.
Customizable Workflow: Adaptability is at the heart of Plane. Teams can tailor the tool to fit their specific processes, unlike more rigid platforms.
Open-Source Community: Being open-source, Plane benefits from a community-driven development approach, ensuring continuous improvement and updates based on real user feedback.
Integrated Sprint Planning: Agile teams will appreciate Plane's integrated features for sprint planning, allowing for a seamless transition between different phases of project development.

Plane's Unique Selling Points

Comparison with Other Project Management Tools like Jira

While Jira is often lauded for its comprehensive feature set, it can be overwhelming and complex for many teams. Plane, by contrast, offers a more streamlined and intuitive user experience without sacrificing the core functionalities needed for effective project management. This makes Plane particularly appealing to teams looking for a tool that is easy to set up and use without a steep learning curve.

Emphasis on User-Friendly Interface and Customizability

Intuitive User Interface: Plane's design philosophy centers on a user-friendly interface that minimizes clutter and maximizes productivity. This approach reduces the time spent on learning the tool, allowing teams to focus on the actual work.
Highly Customizable: Unlike many of its counterparts, Plane offers extensive customization options. Teams can tweak the tool to fit their specific needs, creating a truly personalized project management experience.
Community-Driven Enhancements: As an open-source platform, Plane continuously evolves with contributions from a diverse user base, ensuring that it remains relevant and aligned with the latest project management trends and needs.

Plane stands out in the project management tool arena with its focus on simplicity, customizability, and community-driven development, making it an attractive option for teams weary of the complexity and rigidity of conventional tools like Jira.

Meetrix's Pre-configured AMI for Plane Project Management

Background Information on Meetrix and Its Services

Meetrix.io stands out in the realm of cloud-based solutions, not as a hosting provider, but as a facilitator of easy and efficient installations of open-source tools like Plane Project Management. Meetrix specializes in creating pre-configured Amazon Machine Images (AMIs) which simplify the deployment of applications on AWS. This approach makes it seamless for users to set up and run Plane on their AWS environment, significantly reducing the technical hurdles often associated with manual installations.

Meetrix’s Expertise in Simplified Cloud Solutions

Meetrix's strength lies in crafting AMIs that are fine-tuned for optimal performance and ease of use. These AMIs are tailored to meet the specific requirements of applications like Plane, ensuring that they run smoothly on AWS platforms. By focusing on pre-configuration, Meetrix addresses common setup challenges, allowing users to benefit from a ready-to-use solution that can be deployed instantly.

Benefits of Choosing Meetrix's AMI for Plane

Simplified Deployment and Configuration

One-Click Setup: The Plane's deployment on AWS via Meetrix's integration offers a one-click setup process, mirroring the simplicity found in Meetrix’s Squash TM installation. This ease of deployment facilitates a quick start-up and immediate usability, even for users with minimal technical experience.
Optimized Amazon Machine Image (AMI): The pre-configured AMI ensures that the Plane is ready to use with optimal settings right from the start, significantly reducing manual setup time. This pre-configuration not only enhances efficiency but also strengthens security measures.

Cost-Effectiveness and Pricing Flexibility

Budget-Friendly for Varied Business Sizes: The setup is designed to offer high-end project management capabilities at a more affordable cost, making it particularly appealing for SMEs that require professional-grade tools without heavy investment.
Competitive Pricing: Users can benefit from substantial cost savings compared to other market solutions, with up to 75% cost reduction. This pricing advantage makes high-quality project management services accessible to a wider range of businesses.

Enhanced User Experience and Support

Streamlined Operations: By managing the technical complexities, Meetrix allows businesses to concentrate on their core project management activities, simplifying software deployment and maintenance.
Reliable Performance: The Plane and Meetrix combination on AWS is extensively tested to ensure consistent and reliable functionality, which is vital for efficient project management.
Responsive Customer Support: Meetrix provides prompt and effective support for any user inquiries or technical issues, enhancing the overall user experience.

Security and Data Management

Amazon-Backed Security: Integrating Plane with AWS through Meetrix includes Amazon's advanced security protocols, ensuring robust protection of user data against potential threats.
Control Over Data: Users maintain full autonomy over their data management and privacy, aligning with high privacy standards and facilitating compliance adherence.

Flexible and Transparent Pricing Model

Pay-Per-Hour Flexibility: The flexible pricing model, which includes a pay-per-hour option, offers cost efficiency and adaptability, especially beneficial for businesses with variable usage patterns.
Transparent Pricing: The clear, upfront pricing structure, devoid of hidden fees, allows for effective budget planning and financial management.

Integrated Tools and Regular Updates

Comprehensive Tool Ecosystem: The integration of Plane on AWS encompasses a range of tools necessary for thorough project management, ensuring a holistic approach.
Continuous Enhancements: Regular updates to the Plane platform ensure that users have access to the latest features and functionalities, keeping them abreast with the latest in project management technology.

Enhanced Data Privacy and Control: Self-hosting Plane PM Tool on AWS via Meetrix's AMI empowers organizations with full control over their project management data. This setup ensures compliance with GDPR by facilitating data processing and storage within the organization's chosen jurisdiction, thereby enhancing data privacy and control.
Customizable Security Settings: Leveraging AWS's robust infrastructure, organizations can implement tailored security measures such as data encryption, both in transit and at rest, and establish detailed access controls. This not only secures sensitive project management data but also aligns with GDPR's stringent requirements for data protection.

Commercial Support for Plane PM Tool

Seamless Deployment and Maintenance: The pre-configured AMI for Plane PM Tool simplifies the deployment process, enabling organizations to launch their project management tool swiftly. Meetrix's commercial support ensures ongoing maintenance and updates, keeping the system secure and efficient.
Dedicated Technical Support: Access to Meetrix's dedicated support team provides organizations with expert assistance for any technical issues or queries related to Plane PM Tool, ensuring minimal downtime and optimal performance.
Customization and Integration Services: Meetrix offers customization services to tailor Plane PM Tool according to specific business requirements, as well as integration support to seamlessly connect with other AWS services or third-party applications, enhancing the project management ecosystem.
API Support for Enhanced Functionality: Meetrix's commercial support includes API assistance for Plane PM Tool, enabling businesses to extend its functionality or integrate with existing systems, thus providing a more cohesive and efficient project management solution.

Choosing Meetrix's pre-configured AMI for Plane on AWS offers a plethora of benefits, ranging from ease of use and cost efficiency to robust security and responsive support. This combination presents an attractive solution for businesses looking to implement a powerful yet user-friendly project management tool.

How to Easily Setting Up Plane in AWS with Meetrix’s AMI

Quick Video Guide

How to Easily Setting Up Plane in AWS via Meetrix’s AMI

Setting up Plane using Meetrix’s pre-configured AMI (Amazon Machine Image) on AWS (Amazon Web Services) simplifies the installation process, allowing users to efficiently manage their project management needs. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

Prerequisites

Before initiating the setup process, ensure you have a basic understanding of AWS services, including EC2 instances and CloudFormation. Additionally, you should have an active AWS account with the necessary permissions.

Launching the AMI

Step 1: Find and Select 'Plane' AMI:

Log in to your AWS Management Console.
Navigate to 'Plane' in the AWS Marketplace.

Step 2: Initial Setup and Configuration

Click "Continue to Subscribe" and accept the terms and conditions.
Wait for processing, then proceed to "Continue to Configuration."
Select your preferred region and proceed to "Launch" using the "CloudFormation Template."

Creating CloudFormation Stack

Create Stack: Select "Template is ready" and click "Next."
Specify Stack Options: Provide necessary details like Stack name, Admin Email, DeploymentName, DomainName, instance type (recommended: t3.medium), keyName, and others.
Configure Stack Options: Choose rollback options and proceed to the next step.
Review and Submit: Review your settings, acknowledge the creation of IAM resources, and submit.

Post-Deployment Steps

Update DNS: Copy the public IP address labeled "PublicIp" in the "Outputs" tab and update your DNS settings in AWS Route 53.
Access Plane: Use the DashboardUrl provided in the "Outputs" tab and log in using the Admin Email and PlanePassword set during the CloudFormation Stack process.

Manual SSL Generation: If the automatic SSL setup is unsuccessful, follow the provided steps for manual SSL generation using the terminal and provided commands.

Managing Plane Instance: Learn how to shut down and restart the Plane instance via the EC2 console, and how to remove the Plane installation if necessary.

Technical Support: For any assistance or queries, contact Meetrix Support at support@meetrix.io

Full Developer Guide >>

Scalability and Customization Options

The integration of Plane with AWS through Meetrix offers extensive scalability and customization options

Scalability: AWS’s robust infrastructure ensures that your Plane instance can scale according to your project management needs, handling an increasing number of projects and users efficiently.
Customization: Plane offers various customization options to tailor the tool to your specific project management methodologies and workflows.

By following these steps, you can set up Plane on your AWS environment with ease, leveraging the advantages of Meetrix’s simplified, scalable, and secure solution for effective project management.

Real-World Applications and Case Studies on Plane PM Tool

The versatility of Plane, when combined with the robust support of Meetrix, is reflected in its diverse real-world applications. Here are some illustrative use cases:

Software Development Team: Agile Project Management
Scenario: A software development team required an efficient tool to manage their agile workflows.
Application: They utilized Plane to track sprints, manage backlogs, and handle bug tracking, leading to improved development cycles and enhanced collaboration among team members.
Marketing Agency: Client Project Tracking
Scenario: A marketing agency needed a solution for tracking multiple client projects with varying timelines and deliverables.
Application: Plane enabled the agency to create distinct project boards for each client, offering clarity on task progress and resource allocation.
Educational Institution: Research Project Coordination
Scenario: A university's research department sought a tool for coordinating complex, long-term research projects.
Application: Plane was used to outline research phases, assign tasks to faculty and students, and track progress, leading to streamlined research processes and effective collaboration.
Non-Profit Organization: Event Planning and Volunteer Management
Scenario: A non-profit organization needed to organize large-scale events with numerous volunteers.
Application: Plane facilitated the assignment of roles, scheduling of tasks, and tracking of volunteer contributions, resulting in well-organized events and efficient use of resources.

These real-world use cases demonstrate the adaptability and effectiveness of Plane when hosted via Meetrix, catering to a variety of project management needs across different industries and sectors.

Comparison of Plane vs. Jira vs OpenProject

When choosing a project management tool, it's crucial to compare the options available. Let's examine how Plane stacks up against popular tools like Jira and OpenProject:

Features:

Plane: Offers a simple, user-friendly interface with essential project management features like issue tracking, sprints, and roadmaps. It's geared towards simplicity and effectiveness.
Jira: Known for its comprehensive set of features catering to agile development, including advanced reporting, customizable workflows, and a wide range of integrations.
OpenProject: Focuses on traditional project management approaches with features like Gantt charts, time tracking, and cost reporting, suitable for complex project planning.

User Experience:

Plane: Emphasizes a clean, straightforward user interface, making it easy for new users to get started without extensive training.
Jira: While powerful, Jira can be overwhelming for new users due to its complexity and plethora of options.
OpenProject: Offers a balanced user experience but may require some time to navigate its comprehensive feature set.

Cost:

Plane: Being open-source, it is free to use, which is ideal for teams with limited budgets.
Jira: Offers a free tier for small teams, but costs can escalate quickly with additional users and features.
OpenProject: Also provides a community version for free, but advanced features and support are available in paid versions.

Advantages of Open Source Solutions

Open-source project management tools, including Plane, offer several benefits:

Cost-Effectiveness: Most open-source tools are free, significantly reducing the overhead costs associated with project management software.
Customizability: Open-source tools allow modification and customization to tailor the software to specific project needs.
Community Support: A robust community of developers and users contributes to the tool's development, offering diverse perspectives and innovative solutions.
Transparency and Security: Open-source software tends to be more transparent, allowing users to inspect the code for security and reliability.
No Vendor Lock-in: Users are not bound to a single vendor for support or updates, providing flexibility and control over the software.

While Jira and OpenProject offer robust features for specific project management methodologies, Plane stands out for its simplicity, user-friendliness, and cost-effectiveness, making it an ideal choice for teams seeking an efficient and straightforward tool. Additionally, the open-source nature of Plane presents an attractive proposition for businesses looking for a customizable and community-supported solution.

Conclusion

In conclusion, integrating Plane with Meetrix's hosting solutions presents a compelling option for businesses and teams seeking an efficient, user-friendly project management tool. Plane, with its straightforward design and essential features, offers a refreshing alternative to more complex systems like Jira and OpenProject. It strikes an ideal balance between functionality and simplicity, making it suitable for a wide range of project management needs.

Meetrix's involvement adds significant value to Plane by providing a streamlined setup process through its pre-configured AMI on AWS. This integration not only simplifies the deployment but also ensures a secure, scalable, and reliable environment for managing projects. The combination of Plane's open-source flexibility and Meetrix's technical expertise creates a powerful tool that is both cost-effective and easy to use.

For businesses, especially small to medium-sized enterprises, and teams that prioritize ease of use, minimal setup time, and cost efficiency, Plane hosted by Meetrix emerges as a smart choice. It embodies the core principles of effective project management without the unnecessary complexities often found in other tools.

In summary, Plane, supported by Meetrix's hosting services, stands out as an ideal solution for those who value simplicity, efficiency, and the collaborative spirit of open-source software. It is well-suited for teams and businesses looking to streamline their project management processes while maintaining flexibility and control over their tools and data.