Last Reviewed: November 29th, 2024

Best Electrical Contractor Software Of 2024

What is Electrical Contractor Software?

Electrical Contractor Software (ECS) is technology designed specifically for electricians, delivering a suite of business process supports. Its main purpose is to streamline project management, service dispatching, and customer relationship tasks, freeing up time for the critical, hands-on work only skilled electricians can perform. By tackling common challenges such as complex job estimates, scheduling difficulties, inventory tracking, and paperwork overload, ECS supports more advanced, efficient business operations. Key features often include quoting tools, scheduling capabilities, invoicing, and inventory management, with emerging technologies also implementing cloud-based access and mobile compatibility. ECS is particularly beneficial to electrical contractors and businesses who focus on electrical work within the broader construction industry. However, one significant limitation can be the steep learning curve for users not familiar with technological tools. To sum up, ECS creates advantages by modernizing business processes, leading to improved efficiency, customer service, and ultimately profitability.

What Are The Key Benefits of Electrical Contractor Software?

  • Streamlined Project Management
  • Simplified Service Dispatching
  • Enhanced Customer Relationships
  • Automated Job Estimation
  • Effective Scheduling Capabilities
  • Improved Inventory Tracking
  • Reduced Paperwork Load
  • Accessible Cloud-Based Data
  • Increased Mobile Compatibility
  • Raised Profit Margins
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Overall

Based on the latest available data collected by SelectHub for 55 solutions, we determined the following solutions are the best Electrical Contractor Software overall:

Start Price
$375
Monthly
Company Size
Small Medium Large
Deployment
Cloud On-Premise
Platform
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Why We Picked Procore

Procore's user reviews paint a picture of a powerful construction management software with strengths in centralizing data, improving communication, and streamlining workflows. Users praise its mobile accessibility, robust reporting tools, and collaborative features, citing improved project visibility and reduced paperwork as key benefits. However, some reviewers mention a steeper learning curve compared to simpler options and a higher cost point. One recurring strength is Procore's ability to consolidate information and communication. Users appreciate having a central platform for documents, drawings, discussions, and updates, eliminating the need for multiple tools and email threads. This fosters transparency and reduces miscommunication, as exemplified by a reviewer who mentioned avoiding costly delays due to improved information flow. Another frequently lauded aspect is Procore's mobile app, enabling field teams to capture data, submit reports, and access project information in real-time. This streamlines workflows and eliminates data silos, as highlighted by a reviewer who credited the app with improving efficiency and reducing rework. Procore's reporting and analytics tools are also seen as valuable assets. Users appreciate the ability to generate customizable reports and dashboards, providing valuable insights into project performance, resource allocation, and potential risks. This data-driven approach helps users make informed decisions and improve overall project outcomes. However, some users mention a steeper learning curve compared to more basic software, requiring initial investment in training and user adoption. Additionally, Procore's pricing structure can be a barrier for smaller companies or those with limited budgets, while competitors might offer more affordable options with similar core functionalities. In conclusion, Procore's strengths lie in its ability to centralize data, improve communication, and streamline workflows, making it a valuable tool for complex projects and larger teams. However, its learning curve and cost might pose challenges for smaller companies or those seeking basic functionalities. Ultimately, the decision depends on individual needs, project complexity, and budget considerations.

Pros & Cons

  • Functionality: All users that mentioned overall functionality liked its ability to perform different tasks such as invoicing, reporting, scheduling, submittals, RFIs and more, all in one tool.
  • Collaboration: All reviewers who referred to collaboration liked its ability to collaborate in real time with stakeholders and help teams bridge communication gaps while staying updated on current plans.
  • Cloud Based: All users who mentioned its cloud-based deployment liked that teams could easily access the tool from different geographical locations.
  • Tracking: All users that talked about tracking liked that they could keep track of individual employee production, employee timesheets and more.
  • Learning Curve: Due to its rich features, the system can be difficult to navigate and understand without proper training, as observed by 92% of users who specified the learning curve.
  • Performance: Almost all users who mentioned performance said that it takes time for the software to respond.
  • Updates: Around 85% of reviewers who specified updates said that frequent updates make keeping up with features challenging.

Key Features

  • Contract Management: View the status of purchase orders and contracts. Track and distribute change orders, payment documents and contract documents. 
  • Project Management: Automatically send overdue reminders via email to clients to help manage RFIs. Attach photos, plans, specs and PDFs to RFIs. Allow workers to log project time off-site using the web or mobile app. Sort activities by day, week or month. Filter project programs by resources or summary tasks. 
  • Time and Material Tickets: Generate change requests from T&M tickets to secure payments for performed work. Collect e-signatures to avoid payment disputes. 
  • Contact Directory and Permissions: Export contacts in CSV format. Grant role-based permissions to access data at individual, company or project levels. 
  • Quality and Safety Measures: Mitigate risks using incident tools. Understand the root cause of problems by identifying trends and combing through data. Identify unsafe patterns on job sites by accessing near-miss and injury records. 
  • Storage Capabilities: Gain unlimited storage space by purchasing an annual access agreement. 
  • Mobile Interface: Access project documents off-site. 
  • Drawing Management: Allow collaborators to upload drawings by granting issuance permissions. Create 2D and 3D models or designs. 
  • Data Security: Store data securely with AES-256-bit encryption. Conduct backups, track users and allow teams to view, edit and upload electronic documents. 
  • BIM: Access BIM data from the field with the ability to display 2D and 3D models on mobile devices. Publish models to enhance team collaboration. Compare site conditions to avoid costly errors. 
  • Bid Management: Track and manage bid invitations while increasing visibility with a single, organized repository. Compare bids by cost codes, bidding histories and location of bidders. 

Pricing

License/Subscription Cost
  • Procore offers a single annual license that provides unlimited access for employees and external clients. Pricing depends on the size of your company.
Start Price
$99
Monthly
Company Size
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Deployment
Cloud On-Premise
Platform
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Why We Picked Buildertrend

Buildertrend has an intuitive interface that is easy to use and navigate. It requires some time to get used to its tools because of the rich features available. Users can make proposals for bids, schedule, send invoices, collect payments, conduct surveys and more. It offers a portal where employees can conveniently view their running hours and corresponding pay. It streamlines coordination with clients, including sharing daily updates on the progress of building completion. It helps teams maintain better communication and keep track of progress. Some reviewers have noted that integration with Quickbooks requires a significant time investment. A few users wished for more customization options. Customer representatives respond quickly and provide answers that will effectively solve problems.

Pros & Cons

  • Comprehensive Tool: The system comes loaded with rich functionalities that simplify production and streamline workflows, as mentioned by all users who referred to functionality.
  • User Friendly: Offers a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to manage and navigate, as noted by all reviewers who mentioned ease of use.
  • Support: More than 92% of reviewers referring to customer support noted that included professional services were helpful and responsive, taking time to walk them through an issue.
  • Track: All users who specified tracking liked that it helps teams and managers keep track of progress, logs, expenses, payrolls, bid requests, receipts and more.
  • Communication: All reviewers liked that it simplifies the process of communication and keeping teams up to date.
  • Learning Curve: All reviewers who mentioned the learning curve said it took time to get used to the tools during initial setup due to the many options available.
  • Quickbooks Integration: Around 60% of users noted that integration with Quickbooks took some time and effort.
  • Customization: It could provide more flexibility in customization, as observed by 83% of reviewers who referred to customization.

Key Features

  • Selections: Approve product pricing, keep patrons in the loop about running totals, receive electronic client signatures and access selection decisions and their associated product warranties in a centralized location. 
  • Communication: Manage messages, comments, emails and task-specific data in one place automatically. This module also offers push notifications on mobile devices and utilizes current email accounts. 
  • Bid Requests: Develop, compare, distribute and save bids in one hub. Users may define deadlines and receive reminders, accept offers and incorporate them in contracts. 
  • Estimates and Proposals: Construct estimates, allocate personalized proposals and close sales. Users may work with pre-set templates, obtain digital signatures and import information into Excel and other solutions. 
  • To-Dos: Create and designate responsibilities to teams and subcontractors and send reminders to patrons. Users can add items to lists with voice-to-text capabilities, attach documents and photos and send prompt alerts. 
  • Work-In-Progress (WIP) Reports: Produce WIP reports for maintaining projects in real time; obtain data for total billings, profit margins and costs to complete specific or all jobs; and receive current views of over or under billing for clients. 
  • Payment Processing: Obtain check or credit card payments online, modify invoices through QuickBooks and Xero when a payment is received automatically and acquire safe and secure processing. 
  • Budget: Track labor costs, billing, purchase orders and change orders in real time. Make adjustments as necessary, compare proposed to actual expenditures and work with multiple software integrations. 

Pricing

License/Subscription Cost
  • Large businesses can receive a quote while small/medium businesses can get 3 users for 299$ a month.
Maintenance Cost
  • Subscription & Support costs are based on a fraction of the license cost (25% of the initial license cost)
  • Software Accelerated Value Programs are charged incrementally, calculated case by case. They're dependent on the exact service the customer needs. Buyers cannot opt-in to Software Accelerated Value Programs without paying the standard Subscription & Support cost
Training Cost
  • Self-service support is available online
  • Multiple avenues for extended training and support. Support is available 24/7.
Recurring/Renewal Costs
  • Renewal fee depends on if a perpetual license or subscription was chosen.
Company Size
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Deployment
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Why We Picked PlanGrid

Is PlanGrid the grid you need to keep your construction projects on track? User reviews from the past year paint a mixed picture of the software's effectiveness. While many users praise PlanGrid's intuitive interface and robust features, others find it lacking in certain areas, particularly when compared to competitors like Procore and Bluebeam Revu.

PlanGrid's strengths lie in its ease of use and comprehensive feature set. Users consistently highlight its ability to streamline communication and collaboration on construction projects. For example, one user praised PlanGrid's ability to "easily share drawings and markups with the entire team," which significantly improved communication and reduced errors. Another user found PlanGrid's "robust reporting features" invaluable for tracking project progress and identifying potential issues. However, some users find PlanGrid's mobile app to be clunky and slow, which can be frustrating for field workers who rely on it for daily tasks. Additionally, some users have expressed concerns about PlanGrid's integration with other software platforms, finding it difficult to seamlessly connect with their existing workflows.

PlanGrid's differentiating factor is its focus on providing a user-friendly experience for construction professionals. This is evident in its intuitive interface and comprehensive feature set, which are designed to simplify complex tasks. However, this focus on user-friendliness comes at a cost, as some users find PlanGrid's features to be less robust than those offered by competitors. For example, some users have found PlanGrid's project management capabilities to be limited compared to Procore, which offers a more comprehensive suite of tools for managing complex projects. Ultimately, PlanGrid is best suited for construction teams that prioritize ease of use and collaboration over advanced features. If your team is looking for a simple and intuitive platform to manage their projects, PlanGrid could be a good option. However, if you require a more robust and feature-rich solution, you may want to consider other options.

Pros & Cons

  • User Friendly: The system is easy to use and intuitive, as noted by approximately 92% of users who mention its usability.
  • Support: Support for the system is helpful, with some users noting that their queries were resolved quickly, as reported by 80% of users who mention support.
  • Functionality: Plangrid offers a robust suite of successful construction management tools, as reported by 65% of the users who talked about the product’s functionality.
  • Cost: Nearly 92% of users who mentioned cost reported that Plangrid’s offerings were too expensive for smaller businesses.
  • Learning Curve: The learning curve is steep for new users and can be difficult to use initially, according to 93% of reviewers.

Key Features

  • Mobile Accessibility: Get teams on track, no matter where they are located with powerful mobile tools. Markup documents, compare sheets, view punch lists and sync teams up all from internet-enabled smart devices.  
  • Field Reports: Submit and complete forms from the field and leverage pre-loaded reports with commonly used forms that can be uploaded to PDFs as needed. Attach relevant materials to reports like photos, tasks and documents in less time and compile all necessary reports as they are turned in.  
  • Smart Drawings: As drawings are revised in real time, edits are automatically inserted in order and ensure that teams are always working on the latest data without losing historical changes.  
  • BIM Tools: Models in 2D and 3D can be accessed and edited from anywhere. Data can be seamlessly pushed from Revit to PlanGrid without double entry. View important data like dimensions, material type and manufacturer directly on their sheets. Instantly toggle between 2D and 3D project views.  
  • Punch Lists: Resolve and track punch lists with tools that let users track defects, inspection notes and design changes in real time. Filter sheets in seconds to rapidly identify punch list items and assign them to relevant teams.  
  • Workflows: Cut down on the complexity of all daily submittals that are required. Users can leverage a submittal log that tracks them by type and progress. RFIs can be resolved faster to free up time for more important tasks.
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Why We Picked e-Builder

e-Builder maintains a historical record of accounts receivables invoices and their status. Users mentioned that admin roles are helpful, and its forms are easy to use. It helps manage employee workloads. Most users prefer the web version to its mobile app. Customization of reports is not always possible. Cost may be a potential hurdle for small businesses. Learning how to use the software to its full capacity is challenging for most users, and they think that without more hands-on training, using the tool becomes a challenge.

Pros & Cons

  • User Friendly: The system is intuitive and accessible, as noted by approximately 88% of users who mentioned its usability.
  • Functionality: It offers a robust suite of successful project management tools, as reported by 85% of the users who mentioned the product’s functionality.
  • Customization: Almost 80% of the users who mentioned its customizability state that the tool can be adjusted according to their needs.
  • Interface: Nearly 61% of the users who mention its interface do not like it and say that it is not easy to navigate.
  • Support: Support for the system can be slow, with some users noting that their queries take 2-3 days to be resolved, as reported by 60% of users who mention support. Also, the available documentation isn’t enough, as it doesn’t make the tool easy to learn.
  • Learning Curve: It has a steep learning curve, as mentioned by 84% of the users who mention its learning curve.

Key Features

  • Cost Management: Analyze data from previous projects to define contingency budgets and predict costs required for the completion of projects to reduce expensive errors. Review critical financial reports to help make data-driven decisions. Mitigate cost-related risks to help keep finances under control. 
  • Automated Workflows: Collect electronic signatures to shorten approval time using verification tools. Integrate project management and scheduling modules to keep projects on track. 
  • Schedule Management: Assign tasks and allocate resources to help streamline project processes. Link schedules to budgets to manage cash flows. Allow managers to anticipate delays to help make strategic business decisions. Grant permissions to authorized users to update schedules. 
  • Centralized Documentation: Store data gathered from various points in a project’s life cycle in a central database. Find and share crucial documents with team members to build a collaborative work environment. 
  • Reporting: Import reports into Excel. Export data into Powerpoint when project presentations come around. Generate reports to avoid conflicting data entries. 
  • Design: Import CAD and BIM files into the system to review designs. Access files directly from a browser to leverage automated workflows and ensure design reviews are completed quickly. 
  • Procurement: Get rid of resource-intensive bidding paperwork and mailing services with included procurement management support. Distribute bid packages and answer bidding questions quickly. Store bid responses in a centralized location. 
  • Business Intelligence Tools: Keep ahead of any surprises or problems that may arise with BI tools to gather and display vital data using dashboards. 
Company Size
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Why We Picked Assemble

Assemble Insight offers tools to assess a model’s finish and accelerates its takeoff. It helps compare models with drawings and offers the ability to leverage quantities by group, code and quantity. It generates various metrics to track work progress, swiftly extracts relevant information and offers collaborative model visualizations with team members. However, the system doesn’t calculate variations in models accurately, is slow to handle large projects, has a cluttered homepage and cannot be used as a standalone estimation solution.

Pros & Cons

  • Functionality: The system offers options to generate different metrics, tracks project progress and provides tools to view and share models with the team. It saves all data on the cloud, plugs discrepancies between the construction and design teams and provides estimates online, as noted by 85% of users who talked about the product’s functionality.
  • Set Up: Nearly 81% of the reviewers said that the product is easy to set up and get running. It doesn’t require extensive training before usage.
  • Model Leveraging: The system offers tools to leverage a model’s visual appeal and helps with clarification, quantification and modification of parameters for better project understanding, as said by nearly 76% of users.
  • Non-Intuitive: The system is not intuitive for functionalities like save views and color-coding objects. The home page is not properly organized and is overwhelming to use, as noted by nearly 80% of reviewers who mentioned its usability.
  • Limiting: Nearly 77% of reviewers said that the system offers limited customizations while grouping trade partners, lacks a checklist feature for completed tasks and doesn’t allow copying specifications to create new templates.
  • Mobile App: The mobile interface is tedious for several functionalities like selecting objects, said nearly 75% of users who talked about the mobile app.

Key Features

  • Quantity Takeoff:  Increase bid accuracy by extracting quantities based on precise data in BIM models. Quantify and visualize changes between iterations. 
  • Subcontractor Management: Manage issues and project scopes that impact schedule and cost. Address any potential issues before they start. 
  • Field Management: Integrate with Procore, let users take models to the field for project control, keeping projects within the budget and on time. 
  • Better Model Quality: Access model properties to identify incorrect or missing information. Manage model properties to collate data, ensuring quality for BIM workflows. 
  • Performs Model Takeoff: Extract based on accurate information in BIM models and explain costs by scope to confirm subcontractor quantities. 
  • Access to 3D Models: Manage industrial projects and facilitate collaboration between multiple stakeholders by providing detailed reports and data-driven decisions. 
  • Instant Access to BIM: Manage BIM projects by facilitating collaboration between stakeholders with data-oriented reports. Gain quick access to data for timely decision making. 
  • Tackle Bid Day: Group, categorize and sort model objects to facilitate efficient bid day processes. Estimators can verify bids by shifting objects to bid packages and pulling quantities to validate and compare contractor bids. 
  • Export and Import Data: Import changes and update model data. Export data to Navisworks Search Set or Excel workbooks via model inventory functions. 
  • Visualize Data: Visualize and manage data to view project scope and strengthen decision making. Validate subcontractor model changes, bids and quantities in a few minutes. 
  • Access to Design: Empower owners, stakeholders and general contractors by analyzing, accessing and contributing to the design approach. 
  • Design Cost Impact: Track high-cost components, letting the design team balance estimating costs and design. Keep the project budget in control without affecting design quality. 
Start Price
$499
Monthly
Company Size
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Deployment
Cloud On-Premise
Platform
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Why We Picked CoConstruct

CoConstruct offers a user-friendly solution for construction businesses to remove ambiguities, streamline operations and enhance productivity. It defines the scope of work, helps delegate tasks to team members, fosters communication with clients and trade partners, provides an overview of all in-progress projects and adapts to business needs. It seamlessly integrates with Quickbooks and keeps track of budgets, project estimations, expenses, billing and invoices. However, the system is challenging to set-up initially. It is hard to implement, requires a steep learning curve to understand its capabilities and backend processes and is slow to respond.

Pros & Cons

  • Functionality: The system streamlines organizational processes, efficiently tracks change orders, manages construction schedules and makes all information available easily. Its user-friendly interface helps define the scope of work, delegates tasks to employees and displays an overview of project status, noted by 81% of users who talked about the product’s functionality.
  • Communication: Nearly 79% of reviewers said that the product fosters communication with their clients, trade partners and clients and tracks all interactions so that they can be accessed anytime. It provides clients with greater visibility into project progress and stores all information in one place.
  • Mobile App: The system’s mobile platform provides easy access to schedules and tasks anytime, anywhere from any internet-connected device, without affecting field staff productivity, said nearly 81% of the users who talked about the mobile platform.
  • Flexibility: The system is customized to handle specific projects and does not offer capabilities to handle diverse projects, noted nearly 75% of reviewers who mentioned its flexibility.
  • Customization: Nearly 77% of reviewers said that the system offers limited customizations while grouping trade partners, lacks a checklist feature for completed tasks and doesn’t allow copying specifications to create new templates.

Key Features

  • Optimized Bidding: Attach estimations and specs directly to bids. Auto-load bid details to avoid double entry. Allow trade partners to update bid statuses. 
  • Cost Control: Track costs against actual project bills to maintain accurate project budgets. Send verified work immediately to QuickBooks to create bills to help lighten the load on accounting employees. Create full PO items on estimates. 
  • Accurate Invoicing: Create invoices from project costs and email them with a single click. Automatically sync invoices with QuickBooks and mark them completed when paid. 
  • Budgeting and Forecasting: Update project costs with real-time data from budgets. Share budgets with clients without having to create cost spreadsheets. Automatically update budgets as clients make choices. 
  • Punch Lists: Receive reminders about last-minute fixes and repairs. Let clients confirm the completion of tasks to keep everyone on the same page. 
  • Lead Tracking: Keep lead data in one accessible location. Set scores and categories while finding interesting leads and track contact details and upcoming tasks. Stay updated about field tasks, lead acquisitions and administrative tasks. 
  • Jobsite Activity: Allow field teams to input log notes using the mobile app. Create custom flags to report project issues, such as missing orders and late subs. 
  • Timesheet Management: Track workers’ activities using time clock functionality. Allow team members to clock in and clock out from the web or mobile app. 
  • Schedule Coordination: Integrate with iCal to access data from Google, Outlook, Yahoo or macOS/iOS calendars. Use existing schedule templates or import from other systems. Adjust schedules by typing or using drag-and-drop functionality. Send alerts and reminders to teams through email or text.  

Pricing

License/Subscription Cost
  • Dependent on the type of subscription range you choose.
Installation/Implementation Cost
  • No setup fee
Training Cost
  • Self-service support is available online
  • Unlimited tech support is also provided
Recurring/Renewal Costs
  • Recurring costs depend on your level of subscription
Start Price
$59
Monthly
Company Size
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Deployment
Cloud On-Premise
Platform
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Why We Picked Acculynx

Acculynx offers robust capabilities to track day-to-day work progress, keeps projects on schedule and stores everything in one place for easy access. Its powerful database and all-in-one functionality help users stay on top of their projects and work progress. It organizes business operations, makes information accessible, keeps everyone on the same page and improves overall efficiency. It is backed by helpful customer support that is quick to respond to queries and fix issues. However, the product has a steep learning curve to get used to its features, has a bug-prone mobile interface and is expensive for small businesses. It doesn’t allow importing all Quickbooks data, doesn’t integrate with many third-party modules like CompanyCam and makes it difficult to set up a contact with multiple jobs.

Pros & Cons

  • Functionality: The system organizes operations, keeps work progress on schedule and tracks multiple tasks efficiently. It keeps everyone in sync with developments, provides a robust database and comes with diverse capabilities, noted 84% of users who talked about the product’s functionality.
  • Accessibility: Nearly 81% of reviewers who talked about accessibility said that the system is easily accessible by any internet-connected device, whether in office or on-the-go. Users can tag, contact and send messages to people about a job.
  • Dashboard: The product offers a clean and useful dashboard along with a sales leaderboard that is easy-to-use for sales representatives, said 77% of users who mentioned dashboards.
  • Support: Approximately 80% of reviewers who talked about support noted that the system is backed by prompt and efficient customer support to resolve product-related issues and queries.
  • Learning Curve: There’s a steep learning curve involved to get acquainted with all of the bells and whistles offered by the product, noted 80% of users who talked about the learning curve.
  • Mobile App: Nearly 82% of reviewers who referred to mobile apps said that the system’s mobile interface is slow, glitch prone and has a poor layout.
  • Invoicing: Nearly 78% of users who talked about invoicing said that the system offers limited invoice customizations and doesn’t allow for the creation of multiple invoices for the same job.

Key Features

  • Customer Relationship Management: Track sales process from the lead stage to contract signing. Capture activities, correspondence and documents for faster deal closures. 
  • Aerial Measurement Ordering: Order SkyMeasure and Eagleview roof measurement details. Auto-populate measurements in an estimate without having to enter details manually. 
  • Lead API: Import lead information from the internet to landing pages, external websites and lead forms to remove duplicate data entries. 
  • Project Management: View job progress with communication, action and detail tracking in the job files. Users can upload files, send messages, assign tasks and create notes. 
  • Material Ordering: Know material costs to build correct estimates with access to product catalogs and preferred pricing. Place orders directly. 
  • Labor and Production Management: EEasily keep production on budget and schedule. Schedule labor deliveries and track job costs. 
  • Customer Portal: Share data and collaborate with customers and subcontractors. 
  • Job Costing: Share data and collaborate with customers and subcontractors. 
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Why We Picked eSUB

eSUB streamlines project management, provides prompt feedback on projects and simplifies processing change orders and RFI correspondence swiftly. It boosts productivity by delivering accurate information, uploading pictures and communicating with the field staff in real time. Its centralized tracking system monitors job progress from start to finish, stores all work-related information in one place and keeps everyone informed. It is easy to implement, backed by helpful customer support and can be customized to fit a user’s workflows. However, the product has a steep learning curve to get used to its features, doesn’t offer a task reminder function and lacks flexible reporting features. It has limited default areas, logs out several times when idle and its mobile apps offer limited capabilities.

Pros & Cons

  • Functionality: The system organizes daily tasks, tracks multiple documents like change orders and daily reports and helps apply contacts to multiple jobs. It simplifies project management and makes information available to relevant employees, noted 89% of users who talked about the product’s functionality.
  • Flexible: Nearly 81% of reviewers who talked about flexibility emphasized that the system can be customized to accommodate different workflows and allows clients to approve, revise or reject projects.
  • Centralization: The product offers capabilities to track all aspects of a job from a central location, making it easier to monitor work progress from start to finish, said 77% of users who mentioned centralization.
  • Communication: Approximately 83% of reviewers who talked about communication noted that the system fosters real-time communication between office and field staff and outbound exchange with the clients.
  • Learning Curve: There’s a steep learning curve involved to get acquainted with all bells and whistles offered by the product, noted 80% of users who talked about the learning curve.
  • Mobile App: Nearly 86% of reviewers who talked about the mobile interface said that the system’s mobile apps do not provide features like the website.
  • Reporting: The system doesn’t offer detailed reporting for information like timesheet data, said approximately 75% of users who talked about reporting.

Key Features

  • Document Control: Access project files in real time using the mobile app. Grant document access permissions to selected team members. Store all integral data in a virtual filing cabinet to help boost productivity. 
  • Resource Planning: Schedule employees and equipment using drag-and-drop functionality. Allocate resources based on employee skill levels, project needs and equipment availability. Allow workers to check schedules in real time to help keep everyone on the same page. 
  • Accounting Modules: Keep financial data secure and eliminate data entry errors. Record transactions to allow accounting staff to help determine profits and losses. Automatically transfer job costing data to existing accounting systems. 
  • Integration: Share files across other systems with simple to use importing and exporting functionality. Integrate with popular ERP modules to tackle accounting needs and decide what documentations should be shared and with whom.  
  • Purchase Orders: Create accurate purchase orders to receive fast approvals. View payment statuses in real time. Keep track of line items such as cost of parts, discounts, quantities and part codes. 
  • Issue Tracking: Allow employees to create daily logs to track weather conditions, disruption hours and accidents to help resolve issues beforehand. Identify internal issues to manage workers efficiently. Receive notifications when tasks are nearing due dates. 
  • Corporate Management: Access critical project data from one accessible location to help managers quickly generate and analyze reports. Email, approve, edit or attach reminders to change order logs with just a click. Track reports, drawings, submittals, transmittals and more to help make data-driven decisions.  
  • Schedule Management: Assign and coordinate tasks effectively using Gantt charts. Copy tasks, durations and dependencies from past schedules to help save time. Manage resources efficiently using critical path scheduling functionality. 
  • Correspondence Toolbox: Access letter and legal templates such as administrative forms, change directives, notices, contract documents and more. Create accurate documentation to avoid legal disputes. 
  • RFI Tracking: Create RFIs using customizable templates to help gain quicker responses. Track RFI statuses to ensure all concerned clients are notified. Attach drawings, details, clarifications and relevant documents to RFIs. 

Pricing

License/Subscription Cost
  • Payment is made either on a per user or subscription basis.
Training Cost
  • On-site training and web training are available.
Recurring/Renewal Costs
  • Cost is equivalent to the monthly subscription fee, based on the number of users.
Company Size
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Why We Picked Aconex

Oracle Aconex is suitable for large engineering and construction projects, though not so much for smaller operations. Its document management feature impressed most of its users, though many think that its interface isn’t easy to navigate. It does not support cut and paste from external documents to a message. Since it is a web-based module, the efficiency of this application depends on internet connectivity. Users liked that documents could be exported to Excel sheets. Some users complained that it wasn’t very reliable as a system and that they had to continuously refresh the page to make it work.

Pros & Cons

  • User Friendly: The system is easy to use and intuitive, as noted by approximately 85% of users who mention the system’s usability.
  • Functionality: The system offers a robust suite of document management tools for the construction industry, as reported by 67% of the users who mention the functionality of the product.
  • Document Management: Users like its document management features as it lets them utilize it for document repository and control, as stated by 87% of the users that spoke about document management.
  • Support: Support teams are responsive, as reported by 66% of the users who mention support.
  • Permission Management: Nearly 80% of the users who mention user permissions say that if required permissions are not set correctly, users may be able to access unauthorized or unrelated documents, creating security vulnerabilities.
  • Learning Curve: 100% of the users who talked about how easy it is to learn state that using all its features may be difficult and may require additional training.
  • Mobile App: Almost 66% of the users who talk about its mobile application say that it isn’t always seamless or better than relying on email.

Key Features

  • Document Management: Manage all project documentation with no limitations on size or type of file. Custom permissions can be set on a per-document basis to allow only those with a reason to edit. Version control ensures users are always up to date when working on project documents. 
  • BIM Management: Collaborative features allow team members to view, edit and annotate models of projects. Coordinating design teams allows for better feedback on model changes, quicker turnaround on changes and a more efficient project.  
  • Budget Automation: Leverage CPI and SPI for better cost forecasting. Automate billing processes to save time and mitigate errors. Gain visibility into project performance with variance analysis.
  • Quality and Safety Processes: Create custom health and safety checklists, punch lists and more to keep project sites in compliance with safety standards. Capture problem data as it arises and customize issue tracking to focus on areas that need improvement. 
  • Customizable Workflows: Import successful custom workflows directly into a dashboard.  
  • Mobile Accessibility: Access critical project data via smart devices through mobile apps. 
  • Forms and Communications: Standardized processes support project-wide visibility and access. Track communications and progress, avoid bottlenecks and lower RFI turnaround period.  
  • Cost Management: Track project and portfolio performance with variance analysis and cost tracking in real-time. Provides visibility into forecasts, budgets and projective outcomes to take corrective action. 
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Why We Picked Corecon

Corecon is easy to use and has a powerful set of features to handle construction management projects. Exporting and importing data from other tools like Sage/Timberline is easy. Users are pleased with its reporting feature as they allow them to edit reports. It gives users access to databases to create reports. QuickBooks integration isn’t seamless for some users and may get buggy. Users say that it may be fit for a small number of large projects. All the information about client billing and subcontractor work is available in one place. The support team is reasonably helpful.

Pros & Cons

  • User Friendly: The system is intuitive and accessible, as noted by approximately 85% of users who mentioned its usability.
  • Functionality: It offers a robust suite of successful construction project management tools, as reported by 83% of the users who mentioned the product’s functionality.
  • Integration: Nearly 66% of the users who mentioned its integration capabilities are satisfied with them. Users say that integration with Planswift and QuickBooks is robust.
  • Interface: Nearly 75% of the users who mention its interface do not find it easy to navigate.
  • Learning Curve: It has a steep learning curve, as mentioned by 100% of the users who talked about its learning curve.

Key Features

  • Accounting Integrations: Integrate with QuickBooks, Sage 50, SAP Business One and Xero. 
  • Estimating: Create estimates with up to a four-tier breakdown and markups available at every level. 
    • Contact Management: Create and search contacts off-site through internet-enabled devices. Sync existing contact databases with Outlook. Receive alerts when licenses or insurances are close to expiration. 
    • Lead Tracking and Analytics: Track and analyze leads using dashboards. Create classification structures for leads to organize opportunities as per business needs. Set up awarded projects and eliminate duplicate data entries using the lead-to-project wizard. 
    • Drawings and Specifications: Share drawings and specifications through the team link portal. Add notes to images, documents and blueprints using document viewer. 
  • Utilities: Transfer the existing accounting system’s financials using a simple sync tool to help cut down on manual data re-entry. 
  • Project Management: Manage all aspects of a project to help streamline daily business processes. 
    • Scheduling: Import schedules from Excel or Microsoft Project. Assign tasks to workers and review timelines to keep projects on track using calendar functionality. 
    • Quality Control and Safety: Create checklists to conduct quality checks. Document and distribute inspection reports using punch lists. 
    • Correspondence and Documentation: Store journals, issues, RFIs, submittals and transmittals in an accessible location. Share data securely with internal and external team members. 
  • Mobile Interface: Enter and view data on the go. Handle daily logs, task updates, timecards and expenses off-site. 
  • Job Costing: Access financial documents anytime to help make quick and informed business decisions. 
    • Procurement: Automatically copy RFP packages and estimate items to purchase orders or subcontracts. Manage procurement requirements of suppliers and subcontractors. 
    • Timecards: Allow workers to clock in and out with geotagging. 
    • Financial Analytics: Manage multiple project budgets using financial dashboards. 

COMPARE THE BEST Electrical Contractor Software

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$375
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$49
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$25
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Buyer's Guide

Electrical Contractor Software Is All About Simplifying Business Processes and Winning Profitable Projects

Electrical Contractor Software BG Intro

From installing electrical systems to repairing wires to carrying out administrative tasks, as electrical contractors, you have a lot on your plates. Electrical contractor software can help you streamline workflows, win projects, improve productivity and save time though. But how to select the right solution?

We understand selecting the perfect solution is challenging. You have to assess several products and vendors to reach a buying decision. We designed this guide to help you choose the best software for your business.

Executive Summary

  • Electrical contractor software helps you streamline business operations, improve productivity, maximize profits, avoid costly mistakes and stay compliant.
  • Core functionalities you should look for in an electrical contractor solution are task scheduling, dispatching, time tracking, work order management, estimating and billing capabilities.
  • You should prepare a list of questions to ask vendors to evaluate their systems better.
What This Guide Covers:

What Is Electrical Contractor Software?

Electrical contractor software is a digital solution that helps contractors and project managers streamline company workflows, increase productivity, maximize revenue, and ensure safety and compliance.

You can conduct what-if analyses to analyze different estimating scenarios to generate precise estimates. You can also access internal and external cost databases to determine labor, material and equipment prices.

They integrate with construction scheduling systems to help you make smart scheduling decisions. You can leverage the work breakdown structure tool to divide tasks into smaller, achievable goals.

Primary Benefits

One wrongly done electrical job can pose a threat to clients. Electrical contractor solutions help you tackle such incidents and simplify business operations. They assist you in maximizing profits, reducing accounting errors and managing electrical projects.

Below we’ve provided a list of benefits you can reap by implementing electrical contractor systems.

Electrical Contractor Software Benefits

Streamline Processes

It’s a digital world. And relying on manual methods could invite more damage than you think. Electrical contractor applications enable you to automate tedious tasks like labor tracking, inventory management and asset allocation to help you improve productivity.

Such solutions provide construction scheduling tools to help you to commit to your construction timelines. You can assign tasks to workers directly from the calendar using drag-and-drop functionality.

Field technicians can access change orders, client requests and project documents through mobile devices in real time, ensuring effective communication.

Reduce Costly Errors

You can’t afford to make estimating mistakes because one error can cost you the job. Some common electrical estimating mistakes include:

  • Failing to check commodity prices
  • Failing to get cost guarantees
  • Failing to spend enough time qualifying bids
  • Failing to analyze lost bids to detect bidding issues

Online tools provide built-in cost databases to help you generate accurate quotes and winning bid proposals. You can access the National Electrical Contractors Association’s Manual of Labor Units to determine labor costs.

Make Informed Decisions

Electrical contractor platforms provide reporting modules to track and monitor project progress, your company’s financial and operational workflows, technicians' performance, and employees’ productivity levels in real time via mobile apps.

Ensure Safety and Compliance

Electrical contractor systems enable you to conduct site inspections before electrical installations or repairs start to ensure a safe environment for workers. They help you comply with OSHA standards.

Key Features & Functionality

Task Scheduling and Dispatching

It becomes difficult to gain visibility into workers’ schedules with manual processes. Electrical contractor systems provide task scheduling functionality to help you assign jobs to field technicians based on their availability and qualifications with just a few clicks.

You can view technicians’ schedules via the calendar to avoid scheduling conflicts.

You can integrate with construction scheduling platforms to deliver projects on time.

Furthermore, you can leverage dispatching tools to allocate resources such as crews, equipment and materials to the right jobs.

Work Order Management

Electrical contractor applications help you create digital forms to capture and track maintenance, repair and service work orders. You can access work order histories, including videos, comments, notes and images to pay technicians fairly.

Estimating

Estimating features enable you to create error-free estimates and win profitable jobs. You can access built-in cost databases to generate flawless bid proposals.

Some systems let you upload cost data from external sources like RSMeans and the Army Corps Engineers Equipment Rates.

You can integrate with takeoff software to capture correct measurements and quantities from digital blueprints within minutes.

Billing

Still manually creating invoices? It’s time to transition to a digital method. With electrical contractor applications, you can convert estimates into bills within minutes.

After task completion, you can automatically send invoices to clients via email. Send payment reminders to customers to get paid on time.

You can produce reports to identify payment trends and develop plans to improve clients’ financial experiences.

Quality and Safety

No client wants to award projects to a contractor that ignores site safety and compliance. Electrical contractor apps provide punch lists to enable you to conduct site inspections to help you detect safety violations before the project begins.

Reporting tools assist you in identifying the root causes of incidents, safety issues and near misses, helping you stay compliant with safety regulations.

You can integrate with BIM software to detect model clashes and fix constructability issues. BIM technology also allows multiple contractors to collaborate on the same model in real time.

Time Tracking

It’s difficult to maintain physical timesheets. You can lose them easily. Worse, if something spills over the sheets, it’s impossible to retrieve the data.

With digital solutions, you can leverage electronic timecards to track employees’ task durations. This also helps you predict the time it will take to complete similar installations or repairs.

Accounting

Accounting modules help you calculate company finances like job costs, wage rates and purchase orders. You can access the dashboard to gain real-time visibility into your organization’s finances.

Customer Relationship Management

This feature enables you to store customer data such as contact details, service histories and contracts in a secure central hub.

Clients can pay online via debit/credit cards or online wallets.

You can integrate with customer relationship management tools to deliver better client experiences.

Software Comparison Strategy

Choosing the first application you set your eyes on isn’t the best practice. Below we’ve outlined some factors to help you evaluate electrical contractor systems.

To begin, you need to determine your company's needs. How many workers will use the software? Do you need a scalable solution? You should also create a list of problems your existing application fails to solve to select a system that fills those gaps.

Most providers categorize their solutions according to company sizes because small businesses might not need the advanced functionalities required by large companies.

For instance, STACK serves small- and medium-sized organizations, whereas Clear Estimates caters to small businesses. That’s why you should determine your company size to make informed decisions.

One arithmetic mistake can cost you the bid. That’s why you should always select an electrical contractor software that helps you achieve estimating accuracy.

Some core functionalities you should look for in electrical contractor systems are construction management, estimating, accounting and CRM capabilities.

Cloud-based products provide remote access and unlimited storage space. On the other hand, you need to install on-premise tools on your company systems. You should ensure that the deployment type you select works for your company.

Sometimes, field technicians handle multiple clients in a day. And they might find it time-consuming to manually create work orders, maintain physical files and manage their schedules. You should look for a solution that provides mobile access to help technicians view and share information in real time.

Integrations help you achieve data consistency and eliminate manual data entry errors. You should select a system that provides integrative capabilities. Some common integrations that an electrical contractor system should offer are as follows:

Not every contractor software will suffice the needs of the electrical trade. You should ask providers whether or not their applications support your organization’s business processes.

Sometimes, you might undertake confidential government or private projects. And to protect sensitive information, you need a solution that offers data encryption capabilities.

While evaluating cloud-based solutions, make sure it provides SSL/TLS encryption.

Lastly, consult with other professionals using the software to gather valuable insights. You can also read industry guides and online reviews before purchasing.

Still confused about conducting software evaluation? You can refer to our Lean Selection process to select a system that best suits your company’s needs.

Cost & Pricing Considerations

Investing in a system shouldn’t overthrow your budget. Below are some pricing factors you should consider to select a budget-friendly solution.

Most providers offer two pricing options — subscription and perpetual license. If you select a subscription-based plan, you’ll have to pay a recurring fee monthly to access the software. Most cloud providers offer subscription plans.

On the contrary, the perpetual license plan requires you to pay upfront, providing lifetime software access. Most on-premise vendors provide perpetual licenses.

Most providers charge different fees for different company sizes. Small companies might have to pay less than medium- and large-sized organizations. You should identify your business size to avoid spending on an application that’s not best suited for your organization.

Most vendors enable you to access trial versions of their systems. But you should ask providers if they charge additional fees for such trials.

The deployment type you prefer can affect your finances significantly. Generally, cloud products cost less compared to on-premise solutions upfront. To avoid unnecessary expenses, you should decide on the best deployment type for your company.

Some vendors enable you to request additional features. But such custom requests might cost you extra. So, always ask vendors about fees for requesting add-ons.

It’s tedious to move files from one application to another. To help you migrate files quickly, some vendors offer data migration services. But be careful, as providers might charge you extra for such services.

Most vendors offer on-site, online and hybrid training. Some even provide training materials like video tutorials and product guides to help you implement their systems in the best possible way. But these training resources might come at an additional cost.

Several providers offer phone, email and live chat support. Some even enable you to submit tickets through the support portal. And some assign a dedicated account manager to address your issues. You should always ask vendors about the support charges.

The Most Popular Electrical Contractor Software

Wouldn’t it be easier if the game eeny, meeny, miny, mo could help you select the best software for your company? Unfortunately, that method isn’t reliable.

Don’t worry. We know how challenging it is to select the perfect solution. To make your software selection journey less stressful, we’ve provided a list of construction estimating systems that can help you maximize profits and complete projects on time and within budget.

Note: The systems listed below may or may not serve the needs of electrical contractors. However, they offer basic construction management and estimating functionalities to help you simplify workflows.

HeavyBid

Developed by HCCS, HeavyBid provides project management, cost estimating and risk assessment modules to help electrical contractors, project managers and subcontractors automate processes, produce precise estimates and ensure workers’ safety.

HeavyBid

Conduct safety meetings with HeavyBid. Source

B2W Software

B2W Software is a cloud-based solution designed for heavy civil industries. It offers bidding, scheduling, equipment management and dispatching modules to assist project managers, contractors and subs in completing projects on schedule, maximizing asset utilization and winning better jobs.

You can integrate with construction accounting software and ERP systems like:

You can grant role-based access to authorized employees to protect confidential information.

B2W Software

View estimate details with just a few clicks with B2W Software. Source

The EDGE

The EDGE, by Estimating Edge, offers takeoff, estimating and project managing modules to help project managers, contractors and subcontractors speed up estimating processes. You can create bid variations to see which bid is most likely to win.

Smart labor technology enables you to determine workforce requirements for a specific task, helping you create an error-free quote. You can also access built-in cost databases to avoid quoting mistakes.

The EDGE

Perform precise takeoffs with The EDGE. Source

 

 

Questions To Ask

You need to understand your company's requirements before scrolling through hundreds of product websites. You can either conduct surveys or hold discussion sessions to gather your staff’s opinions. Use these questions as a starting point to initiate conversations with your teams:

  • What issues do we hope to resolve with an electrical contractor solution?
  • What technical resources do we require to implement the new system?
  • How many employees will access the software?
  • Do we need an integrative system?
  • What’s our budget?

Electrical Contractor Software Key Questions To Ask

After identifying your organization’s requirements, it’s time to make a list of questions to ask vendors to learn more about the software and vendor. Use these questions as a starting point to initiate discussions with vendors:

  • How much time will it take to implement the software?
  • Do you offer data migration assistance?
  • Can the software suffice the needs of electrical contractors?
  • Does the solution provide data encryption capabilities?
  • Is the platform user-friendly?

Next Steps

If you want to improve customer experiences, boost productivity, generate error-free estimates, create professional proposals and stay compliant with regulatory requirements, electrical contractor software is your best bet.

Are you ready to take the next step and implement an electrical contractor system? If yes, check out our comparison report to narrow your options.

You can also leverage our Decision Platform to validate and compare vendor responses and make cost-effective decisions.

We hope this buyer’s guide helps you choose the perfect solution. For further assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out via phone or email mentioned on our website. Good luck!

Product Comparisons

Additional Resources

About The Contributors

The following expert team members are responsible for creating, reviewing, and fact checking the accuracy of this content.

Technical Content Writer
Gerrad Frei is a Technical Content Writer at Selecthub, specializing in construction management and field service management. An avid reader from an early age, he decided on a career in writing, studying Journalism and Broadcast Production at the University of Wisconsin, Platteville. When he's not reading or writing, he spends his free time with his wife caring for their many rescue dogs, listening to podcasts and saving Faerun from calamity in Dungeons and Dragons.
Technical Research By Shantashree Das
Senior Analyst
Hailing from the Northeastern state of Assam, India, Shantashree Das completed her Bachelor of Engineering (B.E) in Computer Science and Engineering at the Royal School of Engineering and Technology (now Royal Global University) in Guwahati. She then pursued her Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Operations Management and Marketing at Assam University, India, where she developed a strong interest in ERP. Over the course of her career at SelectHub, Shantashree has gained specialties in various ERP and construction software categories, such as Manufacturing Software, CMMS Software, Construction ERP Software, Warehouse Management Software, Supply Chain Management Software, Distribution Software, Field Service Software, Takeoff Software, Construction Bidding Software, Construction Estimating Software, Construction Management Software, Construction Scheduling Software, and Property Management Software.
Technical Review By Kankana Kalita
Principal Analyst
A seasoned business and research analyst, Kankana Kalita specializes in ERP, CMMS, manufacturing, construction, supply chain, HRMS and CRM. Prior to joining SelectHub, she earned a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science and Engineering, an MBA in Operations and Marketing, and worked in email marketing and logistics.
Edited By Hunter Lowe
Content Editor
Hunter Lowe is a Content Editor, Writer and Market Analyst at SelectHub. His team covers categories that range from ERP and business intelligence to transportation and supply chain management. Hunter is an avid reader and Dungeons and Dragons addict who studied English and Creative Writing through college. In his free time, you'll likely find him devising new dungeons for his players to explore, checking out the latest video games, writing his next horror story or running around with his daughter.