Last Reviewed: November 15th, 2024

Best Construction Management Software Of 2024

What is Construction Management Software?

Construction Management Software (CMS) streamlines communication, collaboration, and data management across the entire construction project lifecycle. It tackles challenges like disjointed workflows, information silos, and inefficient communication, hindering project success. By centralizing plans, tasks, documents, and communication, CMS improves transparency, accountability, and overall project control. Benefits include reduced costs, faster project completion, enhanced team collaboration, and improved risk mitigation. Core functionalities encompass project planning, scheduling, budgeting, document management, field reporting, and safety checklists. Emerging features involve real-time data analytics, drone footage integration, and 3D BIM model integration. Contractors, builders, architects, engineers, and owners across various construction sectors benefit significantly from CMS. However, complex user interfaces and high implementation costs can pose limitations. In essence, CMS empowers construction teams to work smarter, not harder, by centralizing information, facilitating collaboration, and optimizing project delivery. Its value lies in improved efficiency, cost savings, and overall project success.

What Are The Key Benefits of Construction Management Software?

  • Improved communication & collaboration
  • Enhanced project visibility & control
  • Reduced costs & increased profitability
  • Streamlined scheduling & resource management
  • Minimized errors & rework
  • Improved risk mitigation & safety compliance
  • Strengthened decision-making with real-time data
  • Simplified document management & field reporting
  • Boosted client satisfaction & project transparency
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SelectHub Award Winners - Array

Our Research Analysts evaluated 117 solutions and determined the following solutions are the best Construction Management Software overall:

Overall

  • 91 CMiC
    Best Overall, Budgeting and Forecasting, Platform Capabilities
  • 88 Procore
    Best for Bonus Management
  • 86 ConstructionOnline
    Best for Bonus Management, Salary Management
  • 85 Sage 300 Construction
    Best for Salary Management
  • 83 eSUB
    Best for Bonus Management, Platform Capabilities
  • 83 Buildertrend
    Best for Bonus Management
  • 79 Construction Cloud
    Best for Integrations and Extensibility, Platform and security capabilities
  • 78 RedTeam
  • 77 CoConstruct
    Best for Bonus Management
  • 75 Contractor Foreman
CMiC  Award
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Why We Picked CMiC

CMiC is a comprehensive construction management software that has garnered a range of user feedback over the past year. Users appreciate its robust functionality, particularly in areas like job costing, budgeting, and document management. The software's ability to handle complex projects with multiple phases and stakeholders is a significant advantage. CMiC's integration capabilities with other software platforms are also highlighted as a strength, allowing for seamless data flow and collaboration. However, some users find the interface to be complex and overwhelming, requiring extensive training and support. The learning curve can be steep, especially for those new to construction management software. Additionally, CMiC's pricing structure can be a barrier for smaller companies, as it is often considered an enterprise-level solution.

Compared to competitors like Procore and PlanGrid, CMiC offers a more comprehensive suite of features, covering the entire project lifecycle from preconstruction to closeout. Its strength lies in its ability to handle the financial aspects of construction projects, with advanced job costing and accounting tools. However, Procore and PlanGrid are often praised for their user-friendly interfaces and mobile accessibility, making them more suitable for field teams. Ultimately, CMiC is best suited for large construction companies with complex projects and dedicated IT resources to manage the software's implementation and ongoing support. Its comprehensive functionality and financial management capabilities make it a valuable tool for organizations that require a high level of control and visibility over their construction projects.

Pros & Cons

  • Customization: Nearly 79% of users who talk about customization mention that the software is flexible and can be customized to meet unique business requirements.
  • Overall Functionality: Approximately 80% of users who refer to the overall functionality of the software recommend it to get the job done.
  • Data Management: Efficient data management and analysis is a big advantage of the product, as noted by about 64% of users who mention the feature.
  • Reports: CMiC helps users track, analyze and course-correct various aspects of project management with in-depth and insightful reports - a feature lauded by more than 63% of users who talk about the reporting feature.
  • Project Management: 100% of the users who talk about the project management module concur that it has made their operations more efficient.
  • User Interface: Approximately 82% of users who mention the user interface note that the system is complicated and hard to navigate.
  • User-Friendliness: More than 84% of users who talk about user-friendliness as an important factor mention that the software is not easy to use.
  • Setup and Training: Nearly 100% of users who refer to setup and implementation note that training and onboarding support is lacking, making it difficult to adopt the software.
  • Glitches: Slow processing and frequent lags are detrimental to its usage, as pointed out by 100% of users who talk about issues and glitches.

Key Features

  • Bidding: Compare multiple bids side by side using bid leveling functionality. Automatically send invitations to bid to potential vendors. Enable bidders to download and view project documents with planroom management capabilities. 
  • Customer Relationship Management: Create sales opportunities and view crucial information such as linked contacts and tasks. Automatically perform duplication checks when creating new contacts to maintain data accuracy. 
  • Document Management: Securely store and manage all project-related documents, including drawings, specifications, submittals and RFIs, in a centralized database. 
    • Drawings: Automatically extract metadata such as titles, sheet numbers and trades. Compare drawing sheets and perform overlays for accurate revisions and insights. 
    • Specifications: Upload, review and manage specifications with ease using the web-based tool. Manage submittals seamlessly based on the provided specifications. 
    • Submittals: Ensure thorough submittal assessments with stakeholder-driven workflows. 
    • RFIs: Expedite information gathering by providing teams with instant access to relevant documents. 
  • Accounting: Manage finances for multiple companies and currencies. 
    • Accounts Payable: Automate invoice processing and payment approvals. Generate detailed reports on vendor activity and spending. 
    • Accounts Receivable: Manage customer invoicing, payment collection and credit limits. Reconcile client payments and apply them to the corresponding invoices for accurate AR records. 
    • General Ledger: Generate financial statements, perform cash flow analyses and produce custom reports with just a few clicks. Maintain a complete audit trail of financial activities to ensure regulatory compliance. 
    • Cost Management: Track labor, material and equipment costs using job costing tools. Issue subcontracts directly from the system. 
    • Financial Management: Identify over/underbilled jobs with WIP reports. Create and manage project budgets, comparing actual costs against budgeted amounts. 
  • Human Resources and Payroll: Simplify workforce management, empower team members and gain valuable insights. 
    • Workforce Management: Manage the entire recruitment process, from attracting candidates to onboarding new hires. Administer and manage employee compensation and benefits plans. 
    • Employee Self-Service: Enable employees to access and download pay stubs and W2s electronically. Allow staff to access information about their benefits plans, such as health, dental and vision insurance. 
    • Payroll: Process payroll accurately and timely, including deductions and taxes. Support various pay frequencies, such as weekly, bi-weekly and monthly. Pay employees with direct deposit. 
    • Crew Time: Encourage employees to track work hours and submit timesheets directly from mobile devices. Monitor and manage employee overtime to ensure compliance with labor laws. 
  • Inventory Management: Set low-stock alerts to prevent stockouts and delays in project execution. 
    • Inventory Tracking: Capture and create lot and serial numbers to track inventory levels in real time. 
    • Replenishment: Assemble kits of commonly used materials for faster and easier issuance. Determine order quantities, reorder points and forecast models to calculate replenishment. 
    • Inventory Valuation: Evaluate inventory using standard, average, specific (actual) and first-in-first-out (FIFO) costing methods. 
  • Mobile Capabilities: Access critical information and project-related materials from anywhere, at any time. 
  • Project Management: Set realistic timelines and dependencies to ensure on-time project completion. Produce change orders from RFIs. Manage subcontractor relationships efficiently. Conduct inspections and track corrective actions. 
  • Reporting & Dashboards: Create personalized dashboards to track key project metrics. Compare project performance against industry benchmarks. 

Procore  Award
Start Price
$375
Monthly
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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.
ConstructionOnline  Award
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Why We Picked ConstructionOnline

ConstructionOnline receives praise for its comprehensive features, particularly its scheduling tools, which allow for efficient project management and collaboration. Users appreciate the ability to create detailed schedules, assign tasks, and track progress, ensuring projects stay on track and within budget. The software's document management capabilities are also highlighted as a strength, enabling users to store, organize, and share project documents securely. ConstructionOnline's financial management tools, including budgeting, invoicing, and expense tracking, are commended for their accuracy and ease of use.

However, some users note that ConstructionOnline's interface can be overwhelming for new users due to its extensive features. The learning curve associated with the software is a common concern, as it may require additional time and effort to fully utilize its capabilities. Additionally, some users mention that the mobile app's functionality is limited compared to the desktop version, which can hinder accessibility and convenience for users on the go.

ConstructionOnline distinguishes itself from competitors by offering a wide range of features within a single platform, eliminating the need for multiple software solutions. Its robust scheduling, document management, and financial tools provide a comprehensive solution for construction professionals. The software's focus on collaboration and communication is also a key differentiator, as it facilitates seamless interaction among team members, clients, and subcontractors. ConstructionOnline is most suitable for established construction companies and professionals who require a comprehensive project management solution with advanced features. Its extensive capabilities cater to the needs of larger projects and teams, providing the tools necessary for efficient project execution and collaboration.

Pros & Cons

  • Centralized Communication: Streamlines communication among project stakeholders through features like instant messaging, email integration, and file sharing, reducing miscommunication and keeping everyone informed.
  • Improved Collaboration: Facilitates collaboration with tools for task management, scheduling, and document control, enabling teams to work together efficiently and avoid duplication of effort.
  • Enhanced Project Visibility: Provides real-time insights into project progress, budgets, and potential issues through dashboards and reporting tools, allowing for proactive decision-making and improved project outcomes.
  • Increased Efficiency: Automates routine tasks such as generating reports, sending notifications, and tracking time, freeing up team members to focus on more strategic activities.
  • Reduced Risk: Offers features for risk management, including change order tracking, issue management, and document version control, helping to mitigate potential problems and ensure project success.
  • Limited Customization: Users have expressed frustration with the lack of flexibility in customizing certain features, such as invoices and reports, to align with specific workflows or branding requirements.
  • Mobile App Functionality: The mobile app has received feedback regarding its limitations compared to the full desktop version. Some users find it challenging to access and manage information effectively while on the go.
  • Learning Curve: Due to its comprehensive feature set, ConstructionOnline can have a steeper learning curve for new users. Navigating the platform and understanding its full capabilities may require additional time and training.

Key Features

  • Sales Management: Manage leads and monitor sales funnels to meet business goals. 
    • Lead Tracking: Filter leads by statuses, sources, sales representatives and more. Track activities such as meetings and outreach changes using a timeline viewer. Stay updated about potential revenue opportunities and sales workflows by creating lead pipelines. 
    • Call Logging: Document emails, text messages and conversations to keep track of communication activities. Filter call logs by projects, contacts and creators. Attach relevant documents and photos to call logs. 
    • ClientLink: Create client login pages to keep them in the loop about project statuses. Receive client inputs about change orders electronically. 
  • Financials: Monitor cash flows to keep projects on budget. 
    • Estimating: Track financial activities using dashboards. Integrate with Excel to accurately calculate job costs. Save and reuse estimates templates to help avoid workflow errors. 
    • Quantity Takeoff: Automatically overwrite existing costs to reduce expensive errors. Accurately measure volumes, counts and areas to help win bids. Generate estimates using existing takeoff templates to speed up estimating processes. 
    • Change Orders: Mitigate potential disputes to save projects from legal hassles. Allow clients to sign change orders electronically. Automatically send confirmation emails to subcontractors, suppliers and clients to keep them on the same page. 
    • Accounting Integration: Integrate with QuickBooks to eliminate redundant data entries. Import or export financial data with just a click. Securely store project files in AWS data centers. 
  • Communications: Share latest project updates using the Envoy Chat suite. Attach relevant documents and photos to chats to divulge critical information. Archive messages when jobs are completed. 
  • Schedule Management: Assign and monitor project activities to help complete projects on time. 
    • Calendar: View upcoming tasks, events and due dates to help plan ahead and keep projects on track. Integrate with Google and Outlook calendars to help keep team members updated about ongoing activities. 
    • Gantt Charts: Quickly modify schedules without manually adjusting each task using critical path functionality. Filter tasks by days, weeks or months. 
    • Time Tracking: View workers’ clock-in and -out time and location using geofencing technology. Analyze employee reports to help boost productivity levels. 
  • Project Tracking: Analyze project data to help make informed decisions. 
    • Daily Logs: Document work activities electronically to eliminate hassles of going through bundles of physical files. Automatically record weather conditions of job sites to understand reasons for delays. Record and attach photos to incidents using safety logs. 
    • Punch Lists: Organize lists by classifications, dates, phases and more. Perform inspections by creating punch lists to avoid missing out on important quality checks. 
    • Reporting: Share project reports with teams and clients to keep everyone on the same page. 
  • Planroom: Upload, markup and share project plans with team members. Automatically send notifications to workers about changes in plan sets. 
  • Document Management: Store project files securely for future references. 
    • RFI Tracking: Sort RFIs by due dates, statuses and recipients. Allow clients to respond to RFIs via email. 
    • Submittal Workflows: Opt for parallel or sequential workflows as per business requirements. Determine who’s responsible for advancing submittals by using a ball-in-court indicator. 
    • Transmittals: Send transmittals from the field or office using the mobile app. Create logs to automatically track sent items and quickly search for critical documents. 
  • Score Cards: Filter teams’ activities by employees or task types to view accurate breakdown of overall performances. View pending and overdue tasks to make sure projects are on track. 
Sage 300 Construction  Award
Start Price
$6,600
Annually
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Why We Picked Sage 300 Construction

Sage 300 CRE is a cloud-based platform that helps small and medium-sized businesses enhance their construction accounting solutions. It is a straightforward and easily deployable system, but its user interface is clunky and requires an update. It offers comprehensive integration capabilities with third-party applications for carrying out seamless operations. It provides custom reporting options and has responsive customer service. Many reviewers have noted that minimal training resources, slow performance while processing data and difficult navigation throughout the system can affect the customer experience.

Pros & Cons

  • Easy to Use: It is user-friendly, straightforward and easy to deploy, as noted by 57% of reviewers who mention ease of use.
  • Custom Reporting: It offers custom and detailed reporting options, as observed by 83% of the users who refer to reporting.
  • Integration: All the reviewers who specified integration report that it provides comprehensive integration capabilities with third-party applications.
  • Customer Service: It has responsive and useful customer support, as stated by 67% of the users referring to customer service.
  • Slow Performance: It can slow down while processing data, as noted by 100% of reviewers who mention performance.
  • Navigation: It is difficult to navigate through various tools and features in the system, as observed by 50% of the users who refer to navigation.
  • Training: Around 75% of reviewers who specified training note that training resources are minimal.
  • User Interface: Its user interface is clunky and requires an update, as stated by all reviewers mentioning interface.

Key Features

  • Risk Management: Mitigate risk and liability with defined risk management processes. Setting rigid risk limitations boosts client confidence and protects job sites from possible issues. Certified reports and insurance certificates raise safety and compliance standards on the job site. 
  • Document Management: Paperless Construction solves older analog document storage methods by digitizing important paperwork and keeping it organized. Reduces risk by providing a clear audit trail. Keeps track of lease agreements, RFI’s and important drawings. 
  • Real Estate Management: Manage multiple properties with static lease documents that can provide a wide array of informative data. Improve communication with clients and leverage agile leasing options to get the most out of properties. 
  • Project Management: Identify problems with the current project before they become highly destructive issues. The Sage Construction Project Center provides a centralized location where all project team members can collaborate on any part of the operation from anywhere. 
  • Assembly Databases: A complex assembly database can be used in conjunction with Sage Estimator to help project owners make the best bid. These complex databases show all important bid data from labor and equipment to overhead costs. 
eSUB  Award
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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.
Buildertrend  Award
Start Price
$99
Monthly
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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.
Construction Cloud  Award
Start Price
$85
Monthly
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Cloud On-Premise
Platform
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Why We Picked Construction Cloud

Construction Cloud offers a software suite consisting of designing, planning, operating, asset tracking and reporting modules to assist contractors, builders and designers in streamlining their work processes. Many reviewers were satisfied with the solution’s document management functionalities. Several users noted, the product offers an easy-to-use interface that helps speed up operations. However, many observed, a strong internet connection is required for the system to operate seamlessly. They also criticized that the licensing structure is costly for small-sized companies. Overall, the software’s a good fit for organizations needing help with construction management.

Pros & Cons

  • User-Friendly: The platform’s UI is simple and easy to use, according to 75% of users.
  • Document Management: According to 96% of users who reviewed this pro, it’s simple to view project files and host contract documents in real time.
  • Model Coordination: More than 95% of users who mentioned this pro said the software allows subs and GCs to collaborate on models in real time.
  • Project Management: Regarding this feature, approximately 86% of users said that it’s easy to track project statuses.
  • Markup Tools: According to 70% of users who reviewed this, the solution enables users to export and archive markups.
  • Clash Detection: The platform doesn’t provide robust clash detection like Navisworks, according to 57% of users.
  • Cost: According to 95% of users who reviewed this con, the software is expensive compared to competitors.
  • Speed: More than 90% of users who mentioned this con said that it takes time to synchronize files.

Key Features

  • Asset Management: Manage assets throughout project life cycles. Access cut-sheets, training materials, certifications and warranty documents from a centralized location. Scan barcodes or QR codes to quickly retrieve asset-related documents on-site. 
  • RFI Tracking: Link RFIs directly to 2D or 3D models, photos and project files to help gain clarity over issues and receive quick responses. Track RFI statuses using color-coded indicators. Grant role-based permissions enabling users to create, submit, respond to and approve RFIs. 
  • Submittals: Create, organize and move submittals for reviewing to help detect conflicting issues. Add co-reviewers to get multiple opinions on submittals to help improvise project processes. Track submittals using activity logs. 
  • Change Order Management: Automatically sync change order data with budgets to help monitor the financial statuses of projects in real time. Filter change orders by types, scopes, costs and sources. Auto-generate critical documents to help speed up change order processes. 
  • Punch Lists: Create checklists to avoid missing out on important steps while performing inspections. Build safety forms to collect crucial information about job sites. Allow managers to sign inspection reports electronically. 
  • Reporting and Analytics: Generate reports to help gain visibility into project trends, issues and patterns. Download new or old reports and share them with clients and team members to help make informed business decisions. 
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Why We Picked RedTeam

RedTeam is a construction collaboration platform that helps its customers face daily commercial construction challenges and manage projects on and off the field. Its basic level of functionality is easy to manage and operate. It provides seamless navigation capabilities throughout the system and a mobile app feature to enhance the user experience, but many reviewers have noted that it slows down and freezes sometimes. The submittal process is time-consuming and cumbersome. Also, it offers limited training tutorials and resources for new users, and its updates are difficult to understand. However, the support team is readily available and responsive to help requests.

Pros & Cons

  • Ease of Use: Its basic level of functionality is easy to manage and operate, as noted by 86% of reviewers who mention ease of use.
  • Mobile App: Its mobile app feature is useful in the field, as stated by 56% of the users reporting mobile app.
  • Customer Support: Around 78% of reviewers who refer to customer service report that its support team is readily available and responsive to help requests.
  • Navigation: It is easy to navigate through different tools and options in the system, as observed by 57% of the users who specify navigation.
  • Limited Training: It offers limited training tutorials and resources, as stated by 56% of reviewers specifying training.
  • Slow Performance: Over 89% of the users who refer to performance note that it slows down and freezes at times.
  • Submittal Process: The submittal process is time-consuming and cumbersome, as noted by 75% of reviewers mentioning the submittal process.
  • Updates: Updates are difficult to understand and execute, as specified by all the users referring to updates.

Key Features

  • Project Management: Build a collaborative work environment to help streamline project processes. 
    • Change Orders: Create a reference list of previously established prices of project change orders. Reduce confusion as to where project pricing is coming from and create organized change orders. 
    • Submittals: Create and track submittal packages to help capture critical metadata.  
    • RFIs: Receive, track and share RFIs to maintain up-to-date activity logs. 
    • Scheduling: Integrate with Microsoft Project to import and export project documents. Access information off-site using the Gantt scheduling tool. 
  • Subcontractor Verification: Run reports to identify any subcontractors whose credentials have expired. 
  • Integrations: Integrate with Autodesk, PlanGrid, Levelset and DocuSign to help optimize project tasks. 
  • Punch Lists: Make last-minute safety checks and pass on completed products to project owners. 
  • Financials: Create commercial invoices and manage project budgets. 
    • Cost Plus Billing: Provide clear job costs documentation including employee expenses and subcontractor payment applications. Allow project donors to request documentation for monthly billing. 
    • Invoice Approvals: Validate vendors’ credentials such as invoices and insurance documents. Record and combine T&M sheets into invoices to generate accurate bills. 
    • WIP Reports: Access project information in real time to help organize finances efficiently. 
  • CRM: Manage and track leads to build customer relationships. Convert leads into projects to create bids with just one click. Manage opportunities and compare competitive scores using an opportunity management reporting tool. 
  • Reporting: Generate daily reports to help maintain visibility throughout the enterprise. Identify issues before they become critical problems. 
  • Field Management: Allow workers to log hours using the mobile app. Capture images from the field and attach them to daily reports. Forecast weather conditions to keep projects on track. 
CoConstruct  Award
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$499
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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
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Why We Picked Contractor Foreman

Contractor Foreman is a web-based software designed for small businesses. Many reviewers were content with the solution’s project management capabilities. Several users noted, the product’s inexpensive when compared to competitors. On the contrary, many criticized that the software doesn’t offer seamless integration with QuickBooks. They also observed that the platform lags while using certain modules. Overall, the product’s a good fit for organizations needing help with project management and accounting.

Pros & Cons

  • Ease of Use: The product’s UI is intuitive and simple to understand, according to 70% of users.
  • Project Management: More than 95% of users who reviewed this pro said the solution offers a client portal, dashboard and daily logs to help streamline business operations.
  • Financial and Accounting: About 98% of users who mentioned this pro said the platform simplifies estimating and invoicing processes.
  • Cost: More than 95% of users who reviewed this pro said the product’s budget-friendly.
  • Speed: The platform slows down while uploading large datasets, according to 95% of users.
  • Integration: All users who reviewed this con said it's difficult to integrate with QuickBooks.
  • Missing Features: About 83% of users who mentioned this con said the product doesn’t offer unlimited customization options, advanced HR functions and robust communication tools.

Key Features

  • Timecards: Access crew sheets and employee cards to track work hours. Generate reports to view staff workloads. 
  • Client Portal: Enable customers to make payments, view schedules, access documents, and approve quotes and change orders digitally. 
  • Inspection: Create inspection checklists to avoid missing critical steps. Track inspections by permit numbers, statuses or dates. Attach documents, photos and notes to records. 
  • Financials and Accounting: Automatically import estimate items and approved change orders into invoices. Track financial performance using progress billing functionality. Send bills via email to receive faster payments. 
  • Scheduling: Integrate with Google Calendar to organize and prioritize tasks. Toggle between Gantt, list and calendar views. 
  • Estimating: Create and share estimates with clients. Add markups, taxes and descriptions to line items. 
  • Online Payments: Enable clients to pay via credit card, online and in person. Track remaining balances and amounts paid on the contract. Create a payment log to monitor financial activities. 
  • Daily Logs: Track daily activities such as weather conditions, visitors, tasks accomplished, materials used and delays. 
  • Integration: Sync data with QuickBooks to reduce double data entry mistakes. 
  • Change Orders: Ensure payments even when clients change the type or components of orders. 
  • Access Control: Grant role-based access permissions to employees to protect confidential data. 
  • Reporting: Generate and import reports into other tools for analysis. Customize and export data into multiple file formats. Utilize built-in templates to save time. 

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All Construction Management Software (117 found)

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UDA ConstructionSuite

by UDA Technologies
UDA ConstructionSuite
UDA ConstructionSuite is a comprehensive software solution designed to streamline construction management tasks. It is particularly well-suited for construction professionals, including contractors, project managers, and builders, who require robust tools to manage projects efficiently. The software excels in offering features such as project scheduling, estimating, and document management, which are crucial for maintaining project timelines and budgets. One of the significant benefits of UDA ConstructionSuite is its ability to integrate various aspects of construction management into a single platform, enhancing productivity and reducing the likelihood of errors. Users appreciate its intuitive interface and the depth of its project management capabilities, which help in tracking progress and ensuring compliance with project specifications. In terms of pricing, UDA ConstructionSuite offers flexible options, typically based on the number of users and the specific features required, with payments often structured on an annual basis. Compared to similar products, users frequently highlight its comprehensive feature set and ease of use, making it a preferred choice for those seeking an all-in-one construction management solution.
User Sentiment User satisfaction level icon: great
Cost Breakdown
$100 - $500
Company Size
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Deployment
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Bluebeam

by Bluebeam
Bluebeam
Bluebeam is a software platform designed to streamline construction workflows, particularly in the areas of project management, takeoff and estimating. It caters to a wide range of professionals in the construction industry, from architects and engineers to quantity surveyors and contractors. One of its core strengths lies in its ability to centralize and manage project documents efficiently. This includes features like real-time collaboration tools, markups and annotations, and integrated document control. Additionally, Bluebeam offers robust takeoff and estimating functionalities, enabling users to extract quantities, generate bids, and track project costs effectively. When compared to similar products, Bluebeam stands out for its user-friendly interface, collaborative features, and comprehensive set of construction-specific tools. User reviews often praise its intuitive design, efficient workflows, and ability to improve communication and coordination across teams. However, it's important to consider the pricing structure, which can be based on per-user licenses or tiered subscription plans, depending on the specific features and functionalities required. Pros Easy to use interface Real-time collaboration Accurate takeoff tools Streamlined workflows Improved communication Cons Subscription cost Limited Mac support Advanced features complexity Minor interface quirks Learning curve for beginners
User Sentiment User satisfaction level icon: excellent
Cost Breakdown
$10 - $100
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Pricing Guide

See the Price/User for the top construction management software… plus the most important considerations and questions to ask when shopping.

Buyer's Guide

Construction Management Software Is All About Organization, Efficiency and Collaboration

Construction Management BG Intro Header

As builds and remodels continue to grow in size and complexity, managing construction projects with pen and paper is a recipe for errors, miscommunications, delays and blown budgets. Construction management software streamlines project management processes and keeps operations from spiraling into chaos.

These tools also support general contractors, subcontractors, and construction companies with multiple teams of contractors and projects across geographies. In this guide, we’ll cover the types, trends and benefits of construction management software, and how to find the best solution.

Executive Summary

  • Construction management software allows project owners and managers to coordinate big-picture objectives while streamlining day-to-day operations.
  • Construction management tools combine disparate segments of project management into a centralized interface, improving collaboration and communication.
  • Key features include document, project and financial management tools, real-time tracking capabilities and scheduling modules.
  • Construction project management software allows you to easily embrace industry trends, like prefabrication and green building initiatives.
  • Choosing the right construction software entails asking important questions about the vendor and product.

What Is Construction Management Software?

Construction management software is an end-to-end platform that helps managers, AEC professionals, contractors and other builders optimize and streamline their workflows.

Construction software leverages billing, bid management, quality and safety features to tackle all project stages. It generates reports with an overview of projects, costs and current project stages for management.

Construction scheduling and labor management modules ensure correct teams complete specific tasks on time across multiple geographically diverse projects.

Construction professionals use management software at all levels of their projects to increase operational efficiency, ensure the timely completion of jobs and stay within budget.

Who Uses Construction Project Management Software?

All AEC and building professionals gain competitive advantages from incorporating construction management software. However, solutions aren’t one size fits all and certain unique variables affect the type and extent of use.

For instance, your business’s size, IT scope and the type of services you provide will determine your chosen software. The tools used by a single-user enterprise with annual revenue of less than $1 million will differ from that of a small business owner, a midsize buyer and an enterprise.

The following list has buyers broken down by type and each has varying revenues.

  • Building Owners: Building owners manage a bouquet of projects and use construction management software to maintain an overview of them all. They require tools that ensure accountability and collaboration for their team and clients within a single dashboard.
  • General Contractors (GCs): They require a strong suite to track and monitor costs, record documents and maintain job schedules. While construction (CMs) and project managers (PMs) may choose an integrated tool, GCs will focus on construction accounting software.
  • Specialty Contractors: Contractors who specialize in electrical, HVAC, mechanical, plumbing and more focus on optimizing their team’s efficiency and timely completion of projects. They look for features such as RFI creation, submittal, transmittal and change order management, and more.

Types

Construction Management Software Types

  • Construction Project Management: Construction project management modules manage the complete lifecycle of a construction project. They handle document management, workflows, punch lists and task assignments.
  • Takeoff: Construction takeoff software streamlines pre-construction pricing and cataloging of necessary items. They measure jobsite dimensions and use blueprints to count items, enabling cost estimates.
  • Construction ERP: ERP solutions create centralized depositories for construction projects. They include construction site management features and back-office management tools like accounting, invoicing and document management.
  • Construction Data Analytics: Data analytics software for construction projects generates reports and insights, helping managers track active projects and save time with jobsite details.
  • Construction Estimating: Construction estimating tools generate reliable labor and material estimates and offer cost and item databases. They can be specific to specialties like electrical and HVAC or general projects.
  • Building Information Modeling (BIM): Also known as construction drawing management, BIM lets users edit, upload and mark up drawing plans. BIMs help architects, engineers, contractors, builders and owners collaborate during the building and planning stages.
  • Construction Accounting: Construction accounting tools track project and job costs, manage payroll and handle inventory. They also support vendors such as civil, MEP and heavy projects.
  • Construction Bidding: Bidding software creates estimates and streamlines the bid conversion process while ensuring profitability and competitive bids.
  • Construction Scheduling: These solutions plan and align construction tasks, track project progress, improve efficiency and reduce costs.
  • Electrical Estimating: Electrical estimating software helps contractors estimate labor and materials, offers cost and item databases, and generates reliable estimates.
  • Subcontractor: Subcontractor software helps win bids with accounting tool integrations to create professional proposals.
  • Construction Safety and Risk: Construction safety and risk solutions manage and reduce jobsite risks. Templates produce reports with data collected during walkthroughs and inform project managers about compliance risks.
  • Jobsite Management: Jobsite management tools streamline communication between the field and back office. They are mobile-focused and let workers track their billable hours and resources while managing teams.

Deployment Methods

Construction management software uses cloud-based, on-premise or hybrid deployment options. Though most companies are turning to cloud-based deployment, each has pros and cons.

Cloud-based

The cloud is taking the world by storm, and it’s easy to see why:

  • Many cloud-based SaaS vendors offer subscription-based pricing models for their products. The low cost of entry makes this software accessible to smaller companies who can’t afford large one-time investments.
  • In-house IT experts aren’t needed to maintain your systems, as the software provider handles tech support, maintenance, data security, upgrades and service requests.
  • Scaling is easy with the cloud. If you need more storage space, you can upgrade your plan.
  • Cloud-based mobile apps provide mobility and flexibility for your team, allowing users to access information from anywhere with an internet or data connection.

The cloud has numerous benefits that make it difficult to ignore. Keep in mind, accessing these systems requires an internet or data connection, though some provide offline capabilities. Not only that, but subscriptions can also add up over time.

On-premise

While on-premise solutions may not be as popular, they have some unique benefits:

  • Storing the system on company property eliminates the need for a constant internet or data connection. While you won’t be able to share through the internet until you reconnect, you’ll still have access to the system’s core features.
  • Having hardware physically present provides customization opportunities that cloud-based software can’t. You can tweak on-premise solutions to perfectly fit your needs, though those changes come at a cost.
  • As you have direct control over who has access, on-premise platforms can offer greater data security than their cloud-based counterparts.
  • The price tag associated with on-premise systems can be large, but you only have to pay it once. There’s no worrying about long-term subscription costs or following up on payments.

While on-premise solutions have advantages, their high cost of entry and upkeep considerations make them intimidating choices for small and medium-sized companies.

Hybrid

Hybrid platforms utilize features from cloud-based and on-premise solutions. They provide a unique mix of capabilities to fit your specific needs. As such, their strengths and weaknesses depend entirely on the included (and excluded) features.

Construction Management Tools Report

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Primary Benefits

Construction management software provides multiple benefits to management, contractors and workers alike. Let’s take a look at some of the advantages you can reap:

Construction Management Software Benefits and Features

Increase Operational Efficiency

Standardization of jobsite processes maintains clarity around purchase orders, job costs and change orders. Construction project management software ensures your business follows regulations and maintains communication among clients and workers.

It also stores data such as punch lists, pictures, blueprints and other documents in a centralized repository increasing operational efficiency and reducing costly mistakes.

Automation tools remove time-consuming manual and budget-tracking tasks from the picture. Dropping lengthy manual accounting and project tracking permits team members for more important tasks.

Improve Collaboration

Successful projects require clear communication across teams. Construction management software leverages the cloud to bring geographically scattered teams together.

Today, project teams can submit designs and documents through the web for notes, markups, discussions and more. Mobile apps also keep everyone up-to-date and allow data and project information submission on-the-go.

Construction management tools like BIM modules allow designers, contractors and other team members to work together using a single source of truth. They provide greater interoperability and mitigate data loss from teams using different proprietary design software.

Enhance Data and Financial Visibility

Real-time visibility into processes is critical to an efficient and accurate project. Reporting and analytics tools keep stakeholders, project managers and subcontractors in the loop and provide the current status of tasks and project assignments.

Generating reports on a daily, weekly and monthly basis ensures you identify possible issues before they become expensive problems.

Construction managers can monitor spending and maintain positive cash flow by tracking and comparing actual costs to estimates. The system also sends notifications if a project is in danger of going over budget.

When integrated with job costing and accounting systems, the numbers become more detailed and, over time, provide greater financial insights.

Schedule Efficiently

Top construction management software helps project managers assign tasks ahead of time, so everyone knows exactly when and where to be for every step of the operation. If certain tasks need immediate completion, quickly get the correct person or team on the job.

Leverage previous build data to create direct and efficient project timelines using the critical path method (CPM). CPM scheduling keeps costs low by minimizing the time to completion.

Boost Overall Accountability

Construction management software boosts accountability through document control. Track everything, from change orders to RFIs, by version through a central repository of all vital project documentation.

This central source of documentation, combined with manual and automated alerts, ensures that everyone related to the project knows when changes happen.

Construction Management Tools Report

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Implementation Goals

Goal 1

Streamline Workflows and Increase Efficiency

Construction software management tools bring the many disparate processes of managing and building a project under one roof.

Organizing and structuring workflows improve day-to-day and long-term efficiency for all levels of an organization, from owners to subcontractors.

Goal 2

Easier Collaboration and Fewer Mistakes

Using construction management tools, users bridge the communication gap between departments through document and design sharing, internal messaging systems and project updates.

These systems keep track of changes, updates and stages of individual projects, encouraging smooth management and reducing errors.

Goal 3

Make Better, Data-driven Business Decisions

Use construction management software to assess, estimate and mitigate a variety of risks. From cost estimates to storing recommended procedures for different risk occurrences, these tools help with these crucial tasks.

Monitoring actual versus estimated costs as projects progress allows you to head off costly issues that would otherwise go unnoticed.

When delays, change orders and other issues arise, managers can examine their immediate and future impact and adjust accordingly to keep projects on time and budget.

Leverage real-time data and projections to make cost- and time-saving decisions, resulting in happier clients and more bandwidth to accept and close out jobs.

Goal 4

Increase Agility and Scalability

As your teams grow and projects go from small, single-location operations to larger, more complex undertakings, construction software becomes an essential tool to track and manage everything.

Pen-and-paper organization and document tracking are prone to mistakes that can end in messy litigation. Construction management software manages large influxes of new employees and scales with you to take on big, multi-location jobs.

Construction Management Tools Report

Expert recommendations and analysis on the top construction software

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Basic Features & Functionality

The capabilities of one construction management software rarely mirror the other. Instead, each solution has a unique selection of features. Some basic ones you may find while shopping are:

Project Management

Plan and manage the lifecycle of a project from start to finish. Monitor the big picture and the day-to-day tasks of teams. Get insights into RFIs, change orders, committed costs and other crucial activities.

Break large projects into manageable pieces with work breakdown structures. Delegate tasks to the correct workers efficiently and track progress against completion estimates.

Financial Management

Construction management software offers a range of financial management features to estimate, manage and track expenditures. Modules, like job costing, estimate different project elements, reducing the likelihood a project halts due to funding shortages.

Track predicted and actual budgets and use that data to make the next project’s estimates more accurate. Tax management and auditing modules ensure your project is always above board.

Digital timesheets track and store team members’ worked hours for accurate invoicing and labor tracking.

Document Management

Send, receive, retrieve, scan, index, store and share business-related documents in one digital location. Cloud storage allows users to access and manage documents regardless of their physical location.

Upload images, schematics and drawings to the system to enable collaboration and communication based on identical information. Role-based access ensures that only approved users have access to documents and sensitive data.

Scheduling

Create, adjust and manage production schedules and timelines from a central dashboard. Identify the most direct, efficient and cost-effective task timeline and delegate the correct personnel and resources accordingly.

Set dependencies to ensure proper procedures, minimizing bottlenecks and unnecessary downtime. Use Gantt charts and other visualizations to generate and monitor schedules. Receive automatic alerts when scheduling issues arise.

Materials, Inventory & Equipment Management

Execute materials purchases, shipment schedules and equipment tracking via a single intuitive interface. Monitor inventory in real time, track shipments and receive automatic alerts when stock falls below a certain threshold.

Incorporate vendor and product catalogs to purchase replacement materials or equipment with a few clicks.

Bid Management

Convert more bids into subcontracts, streamline package creation, discover the best options and get a project from bid to close faster. Use historic project data to quickly identify if a project is viable.

Create custom bid forms, track communications and contacts, provide subcontractor portals and display accessible project calendars.

Set up pre-qualifications to immediately narrow the possible pool of contractors to those with the required skills and certifications.

Risk Management

Predict financial risks like contractor and delivery delays or quality requirement failures. Access inspection tools on mobile devices to make safety checks and track onsite incidents.

Plan for external risks like environmental disasters, governmental policy and tax changes, or public objections.

Mobile App

Manage every aspect of a build from a compatible tablet, smartphone or web browser. Workers on site have access to critical information, such as designs, schematics, work and change orders, punchlists, job notes and more to ensure quick, proper completion of tasks.

Automatically send and receive notifications, such as schedule changes and severe weather alerts.

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Advanced Features & Functionality

Some features are less ubiquitous among construction management software. However, they may still be of substantial importance to your company depending on need.

Reporting & Analytics

Drill down into granular project data to identify pain points and gain a comprehensive understanding of project progress. Track objectives and receive real-time updates on significant changes.

Visualize and export reports in a preferred format and email them directly to clients or government bodies.

CRM Integration

Customer relationship management (CRM) tools allow users to store and access comprehensive client data, such as contact information, contract, previous projects and more.

Sync meetings and appointments with digital calendars and monitor all client interactions.

Field Management

Front-line supervisors can efficiently manage their employees using crew-based field reporting, which draws insights from crew performance patterns to optimize the team.

Create punchlists and detailed instructions to guide workers through to task completion.

Fleet Management

Monitor the real-time location of vehicles and equipment using GPS tracking capabilities.

Keep vehicles and heavy equipment in peak condition by scheduling preventive vehicle maintenance. Assign maintenance tasks to specific technicians to ensure timely completion.

Send automated communications and push notifications to drivers, alerting them to schedule changes, hazards and other issues.

Construction Management Tools Report

Expert recommendations and analysis on the top construction software

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Current & Upcoming Trends

Construction Management Trends

Increased Adoption of Digital Tools

Though traditionally slow to change, businesses in the construction industry are increasingly embracing digital resources. Experts predict the global construction software market to reach $3.8 billion by 2030 at a CAGR of 8.3% thanks to this increase in adoption.

Technologies like virtual reality (VR) and the internet of things (IoT) are also seeing dramatic increases in implementation and market growth. Businesses equipped with construction management software can get the most out of these advanced tools and maintain a competitive advantage over competitors.

Prefabrication

Construction project management software allows managers to better organize and schedule personnel and deliveries, which will become increasingly important with the rise of prefabrication.

Prefabrication involves constructing materials or sections of a build off-site and delivering and installing them once the project is ready. 

Prefabrication provides a host of benefits, like cost and time savings and better quality control, which is why the global market for modular and prefabricated nonresidential building construction expects to reach $88.2 billion by 2026.

Skilled Labor Shortage

Staffing challenges continue to plague the industry, especially when it comes to skilled labor. For complicated or specialized projects, firms will need higher wages to attract and retain top talent.

Automated and smart capabilities inside construction project management software reduce downtime for office and site workers while shortening completion times. These and other cost-saving features allow CMs to set aside more funding for bringing in and maintaining skilled workers.

Sustainable Buildings & Materials

Due in part to government initiatives and increasing consumer demand for more sustainable building practices, the target="_blank"global market for green building materials projects to reach $435 billion by 2027.

However, sustainable buildings go far beyond green materials. New policies and practices will change the way firms approach, design and construct projects, from new builds to remodels.

Construction management software allows owners and managers the flexibility to adjust production schedules, material acquisitions and more to meet green initiatives without sacrificing productivity or potential jobs.

Software Comparison Strategy

Many construction management systems share similar characteristics and capabilities. Finding the best fit for your business requires more than just a solid understanding of available features. You need a plan of attack.

First, identify the needs of your business. What are your main pain points? Is miscommunication leading to delays and bottlenecks? Where does your current system fall short? Make sure to talk with your team to gain their perspective and ensure you examine all aspects of your operation.

With that information on hand, start crafting a shortlist of construction project management software that addresses those issues. Before committing, research your vendor. Read online reviews, consult industry colleagues and see if the vendor offers a free trial to test their platform.

To find out more about how best to compare construction management software check out our software selection guide, which uses the Lean Selection process to identify the right choice for you.

Cost & Pricing Considerations

There are a few things to consider about construction management software pricing. Mainly, you’ll want to nail down your preferred deployment strategy, as that’s where most of the costs lie.

While cloud-based software typically offers affordable subscription plans, they often increase in price depending on the number of active users.

Some platforms charge by a certain number of projects or amount of stored data, so keep an eye on how many people/projects you need before signing up.

You should also take a look at support options. Some vendors offer different types of support package tiers. Depending on your specific requirements, the support you need could add to the final price of the software.

It’s also not uncommon for vendors to offer pricing tiers tied to features. Enterprise tiers usually include the most options but also have the priciest plans.

Price Guide for Construction Management Tools

See prices for the top Construction Management software... Plus get important questions to ask.

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Questions To Ask Yourself

Before shopping for construction management software, better understand the needs of your company and team by asking these questions:

  • What current problems do we hope to solve with construction management software?
  • What’s my budget?
  • Which deployment method is preferable?
  • Do we have the infrastructure to support the solution or will we need the vendor's assistance?
  • What other systems do I need the construction project management software to integrate with?

Questions to Ask About Construction Software

 

 

 

Questions To Ask Vendors

With your needs identified, create a shortlist of possibilities by asking vendors questions about their company and product.

About the Software

  • How customizable and scalable is it?
  • What are the core strengths and weaknesses?
  • What security features does it offer?
  • How easy is it to learn and use?
  • How extensive are the automation abilities?

About the Vendor

  • How many years of industry experience do you have?
  • Have you worked with companies of my size?
  • What features or service tiers cost extra?
  • What support and training resources do you offer?
  • How long will onboarding take?
Construction Management Tools Report

Expert recommendations and analysis on the top construction software

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Next Steps

Integrating construction management software is vital for businesses looking to remain productive and profitable while accepting as many projects as possible. It streamlines daily operations, automates time-consuming tasks and improves collaboration between all team members to ensure timely delivery.

Get started on your construction management software journey today with our comprehensive comparison report and find out more about the industry’s top leaders!

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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.