Managing a project down to the finest details can be daunting, especially in the construction industry. With multiple stakeholders, tight deadlines, and constant change orders, it can be overwhelming to track everything manually.
That’s where the right software for construction project management comes in.
The best tools can help you optimize processes, increase efficiency, and ensure successful completion of the project — on budget and on time. From time tracking to invoicing to document collaboration, here are five of the best construction software solutions to streamline your project management.
Features to look for in software for construction projects
When building your construction software toolkit, it’s important to look for these specific features that align with the unique demands of construction project management.
Task management and tracking
Field updates and work allocation are at the core of construction management. Ideal tools should make it easy to create and assign tasks, track progress, and update statuses in real time. This helps with team accountability, as team members can see assigned tasks and deadlines, promoting a sense of ownership and responsibility.
Document collaboration
Construction projects involve multiple stakeholders and teams, so document and drawing collaboration tools are crucial. The best solutions provide a centralized platform to securely store, manage, and share all project documents.
This eliminates the need for endless email chains or physical copies of documents, reducing the risk of miscommunication or loss of important information.
Real-time collaboration
Your software should enable instant communication and updates for quick decision-making and problem-solving. Real-time collaboration tools like instant messaging, video conferencing, and screen sharing allow teams to collaborate seamlessly.
The ability to work together in real time, regardless of location, enhances teamwork and eliminates potential delays due to communication barriers.
Markup and annotation
Construction project documents often require detailed annotations, such as measurements, comments, and revisions. Markup and annotation features in construction management software allow construction teams to make clear and precise annotations directly within the documents.
For example, with ActiveDraft, team members can add notes and markups from any device, and all changes are visible instantly, reducing the likelihood of errors or confusion.
Accessible across multiple devices
Construction doesn’t just happen on the job site — it can also happen on the go. Your software should be accessible across multiple devices, including smartphones and tablets, to enable remote access to information and features.
This way, everyone can quickly check project progress, communicate with team members, and make updates from the job site, the office, or anywhere else.
ActiveDraft: For streamlined document collaboration
ActiveDraft is a browser-based solution designed specifically for construction document collaboration. It brings all project documents into a central, shared location and allows teams to work together on them in real time.
With ActiveDraft, you can assign tasks, mark up PDFs, and add annotations and notes from any device. This streamlines the communication process and ensures everyone has access to the most up-to-date information at all times, regardless of location.
It’s also easy to get started with ActiveDraft and onboard new stakeholders. And with its low barrier to entry, your whole team will be able to pick it up with a minimal learning curve.
ActiveDraft is a must-have tool for any construction team looking to improve their project management processes and enhance teamwork. With its user-friendly interface and comprehensive features, ActiveDraft makes document collaboration and communication a breeze, helping teams stay on top of their projects and deliver them successfully.
Key features
- Convert AEC file types to PDFs for easy cross-platform sharing and collaboration
- Real-time document collaboration with markup and annotation features for clear communication and precise project tracking
- Task management system for assigning, tracking, updating, and prioritizing tasks, ensuring timely project progression and team accountability
- Browser-based storage for centralized document management, reducing the risk of miscommunication or loss of important information
- Mobile compatibility for on-the-go access to project documents and updates, enhancing communication and decision-making on-site
Pricing
You can get started with ActiveDraft for free and choose to upgrade to premium features.
Procore: For construction project management
When it comes to comprehensive construction project management software, Procore is a well-known and trusted name. It’s a cloud-based platform designed to streamline the entire project lifecycle, from project planning to completion.
With its extensive features and intuitive interface, Procore is suitable for any type of construction project, from residential to commercial. You can also tailor it to fit the specific needs of each team.
Procore gives you access to the latest drawings, submittals, and specifications anytime, anywhere. So all team members, including subcontractors and suppliers, can see project information and updates in real time.
Key features
- Optical Character Recognition (OCR) Technology for automatic data extraction and organization
- Drawing and blueprint management with markups and annotations for clear communication and precise project tracking
- Safety management system for tracking incidents, managing safety procedures, and ensuring compliance with regulations
- Daily log feature to record daily activities and progress reports
- Comprehensive document management, budget tracking, task assignment, and schedule management
Pricing
Procore offers custom quotes, and pricing depends on your industry, specific needs, and annual construction volume.
Buildertrend: For smaller residential contractors and remodelers
Buildertrend’s construction management software caters specifically to smaller residential contractors, home builders, remodelers, and other design-build construction teams. The cloud-based platform offers project scheduling, budget tracking, and document management, including checklists and templates.
It aims to simplify the construction process for smaller teams by providing an all-in-one solution for project management. Buildertrend provides real-time access to project information and updates through the mobile app or web portal, enabling effective collaboration between team members, subcontractors, and clients.
Key features
- Project and milestone tracking for efficient schedule management
- Budget tracking and purchase order management for cost control
- Client communication and document sharing for transparency and client satisfaction
- To-do lists and task assignment capabilities for effective project management and accountability
Pricing
Buildertrend offers three monthly pricing plans:
- Essential for $499
- Advanced for $799
- Complete for $1,099
Fieldwire: For efficient field management
Job site management can be a challenging aspect of construction. But Fieldwire aims to make it easier and more efficient with a mobile and web-based platform that allows for real-time collaboration between field teams, office staff, and project managers.
With features like task assignment, issue tracking, and plan viewing, Fieldwire streamlines communication and increases productivity on the job site.
Fieldwire is ideal for construction teams that require efficient field management, such as those with multiple job sites or large-scale projects. It is also suitable for subcontractors and specialty contractors who may need to coordinate with the main contractor or other trades on site.
Key features
- Punch list items and RFIs for streamlined issue management
- Seamless integration with plans and drawings for easy access and reference on the job site
- Gantt charts, kanban boards, and other project scheduling tools for effective planning
- 3D viewing feature for accurate visualization of plans and models
- Live chat and real-time updates for efficient communication between team members
Pricing
Fieldwire offers a free Basic plan for small teams to test out its core features. Paid plans (billed annually) include:
- Pro: $39/user/month
- Business: $59/user/month
- Business Plus: $79/user/month
- Enterprise contracts require custom pricing
Autodesk Revit: For Building Information Modeling (BIM)
Autodesk Revit is BIM software that enables more efficient and accurate planning, design, and construction. It utilizes a 3D modeling approach with parametric accuracy to create a virtual representation of the project.
The platform is suitable for large-scale construction projects with complex designs, as it improves collaboration between architects, engineers, contractors, and other stakeholders. It also helps teams coordinate and integrate various systems and components, resulting in improved efficiency, reduced errors, and cost savings.
Revit’s BIM capabilities make it a valuable software solution for facility management and maintenance after construction as well.
Key features
- Parametric components and intelligent objects for more accurate 3D modeling
- Shared coordination with multidisciplinary teams through the use of a single model
- Integrated scheduling, cost estimation, and analytics for efficient project management
- Ability to import and export data in various formats, improving collaboration with external partners or clients
- Cloud-based collaboration and access to project models and data from anywhere, at any time
Pricing
Autodesk Revit offers subscription plans with discounts for long-term commitments:
- $365/user for a one-month license
- $2,910/user for a one-year license
- $8,730/user for a three-year license
Lift your project communication to new heights with ActiveDraft
The software and tools you choose to manage your construction projects can make or break the efficiency of your operation. If you’re looking for a simple yet highly effective solution for streamlined document collaboration, ActiveDraft can help.
ActiveDraft offers the real-time communication, document markup, and collaboration tools that modern construction businesses need to optimize their project management. With this browser-based solution, team members and stakeholders can stay connected and informed no matter where they are.It’s time to take your construction project management up a notch — request an ActiveDraft demo today.
