A system includes multiple lifting devices, where each lifting device includes a drum to draw in or let out a line, and a motor and transmission coupled to the drum to apply a torque thereto. A grouping module is provided to group the lifting devices for synchronized operation. A synchronization module monitors an amount of line that is drawn in or let out from each of the lifting devices and, based on the amount, adjusts operating parameters (e.g., position, speed, etc.) of one or more of the lifting devices in the group to substantially synchronize the amount of line drawn in or let out with other lifting devices in the group.