Quick Overview
- 1#1: Procore - Comprehensive construction management platform that streamlines project management, financials, quality control, and subcontractor coordination for all project phases.
- 2#2: Knowify - All-in-one construction management software designed specifically for subcontractors, featuring estimating, job costing, invoicing, and time tracking.
- 3#3: eSUB - Cloud-based project management solution tailored for subcontractors, offering trade-specific workflows, timecards, change orders, and document control.
- 4#4: Buildertrend - Construction project management software that helps subcontractors with scheduling, budgeting, client communication, and daily logging.
- 5#5: Fieldwire - Mobile-first field management tool for subcontractors to handle task assignments, blueprints, punch lists, and real-time collaboration on job sites.
- 6#6: Foundation - Construction accounting and project management software providing job costing, payroll, invoicing, and reporting for subcontractors.
- 7#7: Autodesk Construction Cloud - Integrated platform for construction project management, including design collaboration, field execution, and subcontractor workflows.
- 8#8: Raken - Daily construction reporting and time tracking app that simplifies documentation, photos, manpower tracking, and subcontractor reporting.
- 9#9: CoConstruct - Project management software for custom builders and subcontractors focusing on scheduling, selections, budgeting, and client portals.
- 10#10: BuildOps - Operations platform for commercial service contractors and subcontractors, combining scheduling, dispatching, invoicing, and financial insights.
Tools were selected based on feature robustness (including scheduling, financials, and collaboration), user satisfaction, intuitive design, and overall value, ensuring a balanced mix of functionality and practicality for subcontractor needs.
Comparison Table
Navigating construction subcontractor project management software? This comparison table profiles tools like Procore, Knowify, eSUB, Buildertrend, and Fieldwire, breaking down their key features, workflows, and practical fit for varied project needs. Readers will discover what each platform offers—from task coordination to document management—to make informed choices for smoother project execution.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Procore Comprehensive construction management platform that streamlines project management, financials, quality control, and subcontractor coordination for all project phases. | enterprise | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | Knowify All-in-one construction management software designed specifically for subcontractors, featuring estimating, job costing, invoicing, and time tracking. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 3 | eSUB Cloud-based project management solution tailored for subcontractors, offering trade-specific workflows, timecards, change orders, and document control. | specialized | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 4 | Buildertrend Construction project management software that helps subcontractors with scheduling, budgeting, client communication, and daily logging. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.0/10 |
| 5 | Fieldwire Mobile-first field management tool for subcontractors to handle task assignments, blueprints, punch lists, and real-time collaboration on job sites. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.0/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 6 | Foundation Construction accounting and project management software providing job costing, payroll, invoicing, and reporting for subcontractors. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 7 | Autodesk Construction Cloud Integrated platform for construction project management, including design collaboration, field execution, and subcontractor workflows. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.2/10 |
| 8 | Raken Daily construction reporting and time tracking app that simplifies documentation, photos, manpower tracking, and subcontractor reporting. | specialized | 8.3/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 9 | CoConstruct Project management software for custom builders and subcontractors focusing on scheduling, selections, budgeting, and client portals. | specialized | 7.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.1/10 | 6.5/10 |
| 10 | BuildOps Operations platform for commercial service contractors and subcontractors, combining scheduling, dispatching, invoicing, and financial insights. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.6/10 |
Comprehensive construction management platform that streamlines project management, financials, quality control, and subcontractor coordination for all project phases.
All-in-one construction management software designed specifically for subcontractors, featuring estimating, job costing, invoicing, and time tracking.
Cloud-based project management solution tailored for subcontractors, offering trade-specific workflows, timecards, change orders, and document control.
Construction project management software that helps subcontractors with scheduling, budgeting, client communication, and daily logging.
Mobile-first field management tool for subcontractors to handle task assignments, blueprints, punch lists, and real-time collaboration on job sites.
Construction accounting and project management software providing job costing, payroll, invoicing, and reporting for subcontractors.
Integrated platform for construction project management, including design collaboration, field execution, and subcontractor workflows.
Daily construction reporting and time tracking app that simplifies documentation, photos, manpower tracking, and subcontractor reporting.
Project management software for custom builders and subcontractors focusing on scheduling, selections, budgeting, and client portals.
Operations platform for commercial service contractors and subcontractors, combining scheduling, dispatching, invoicing, and financial insights.
Procore
enterpriseComprehensive construction management platform that streamlines project management, financials, quality control, and subcontractor coordination for all project phases.
Centralized 'Single Source of Truth' dashboard providing real-time visibility into all project data, RFIs, submittals, and financials across desktop and mobile.
Procore is a comprehensive cloud-based construction management platform designed for subcontractors to handle project planning, document management, financial tracking, and field operations. It offers tools for RFIs, submittals, daily logs, scheduling, change orders, and payments, fostering real-time collaboration with general contractors and other stakeholders. With a robust mobile app, it enables on-site teams to capture data, update progress, and resolve issues efficiently, reducing errors and delays.
Pros
- All-in-one platform covering full subcontractor workflows from bidding to closeout
- Powerful mobile app for real-time field updates and photo documentation
- Excellent integrations with accounting, BIM, and other construction tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve and extensive initial setup time
- Premium pricing that may strain smaller operations
- Some customization requires higher-tier plans or developer support
Best For
Mid-to-large construction subcontractors managing multiple complex projects who need seamless collaboration with general contractors and robust reporting.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically starts at $500-$1,500/month based on users, projects, and features, with annual contracts common.
Knowify
specializedAll-in-one construction management software designed specifically for subcontractors, featuring estimating, job costing, invoicing, and time tracking.
Real-time job costing dashboard with progress billing and retainage handling tailored for subcontractors
Knowify is a cloud-based construction management software tailored for subcontractors and trade contractors, offering end-to-end tools for project management, job costing, time tracking, scheduling, invoicing, and payments. It provides real-time financial insights through seamless integrations with QuickBooks and other accounting software, helping users track profitability on every job. The platform's mobile app enables field teams to log time, capture expenses, and update progress instantly, while features like progress billing and retainage management address common subcontractor pain points.
Pros
- Robust job costing and real-time profitability tracking
- Seamless QuickBooks integration for accurate financials
- Comprehensive mobile app for field time tracking and updates
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for complex features
- Reporting customization could be more flexible
- Customer support can have variable response times
Best For
Trade subcontractors like electricians, plumbers, and HVAC contractors managing multiple jobsites who need precise financial tracking and billing automation.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month for Basic (1 user), $199/month for Pro (up to 5 users), $399/month for Business (up to 10 users), with Enterprise custom pricing.
eSUB
specializedCloud-based project management solution tailored for subcontractors, offering trade-specific workflows, timecards, change orders, and document control.
GPS-verified time tracking and automated timecard approvals designed exclusively for subcontractor crews
eSUB is a cloud-based construction management software tailored specifically for subcontractors, offering tools for project planning, time tracking, daily logging, job costing, and document control. It emphasizes mobile-first functionality to support field teams with features like GPS-enabled timecards, inspections, and RFIs directly from smartphones or tablets. The platform integrates with accounting systems like QuickBooks and Sage, helping subs manage finances alongside operations for better profitability and compliance.
Pros
- Purpose-built for subcontractors with specialized workflows for trades like electrical, plumbing, and HVAC
- Powerful mobile app for real-time field data capture including timecards and daily reports
- Strong job costing and forecasting tools to improve profitability tracking
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for smaller crews without volume discounts
- Interface has a learning curve for non-tech-savvy users
- Integrations are solid but limited compared to broader platforms like Procore
Best For
Mid-sized to large construction subcontractors focused on field operations and needing robust mobile tools for trade-specific management.
Pricing
Custom quotes starting at $49-$99 per user/month, billed annually, with tiers based on users and features.
Buildertrend
specializedConstruction project management software that helps subcontractors with scheduling, budgeting, client communication, and daily logging.
Subcontractor portal for streamlined change order approvals, messaging, and document sharing with general contractors
Buildertrend is a comprehensive construction management platform that helps subcontractors manage projects through scheduling, time tracking, daily logs, and financial tools. It facilitates seamless communication with general contractors via messaging, portals, and document sharing, while supporting invoicing, change orders, and punch lists. Ideal for field teams, its mobile app enables on-site updates, photos, and GPS-tracked time entries to keep projects on track.
Pros
- Robust scheduling and time tracking with GPS integration
- Strong mobile app for field productivity and daily logs
- Excellent subcontractor portal for GC communication and approvals
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-tech-savvy users
- Pricing is high for small subcontractors
- Some advanced features geared more toward general contractors
Best For
Mid-sized subcontractors managing multiple jobs who need integrated scheduling, time tracking, and real-time collaboration with general contractors.
Pricing
Starts at ~$399/month for small teams (up to 5 users), scales with users/projects; custom quotes after demo, with 60-day money-back guarantee.
Fieldwire
specializedMobile-first field management tool for subcontractors to handle task assignments, blueprints, punch lists, and real-time collaboration on job sites.
Hyperlinked blueprints that directly connect plans to tasks, photos, and issues for instant field navigation
Fieldwire is a mobile-first construction management platform tailored for subcontractors, enabling efficient field operations through task management, plan viewing, and real-time collaboration. It supports punch lists, RFIs, submittals, photo documentation, and customizable reports, all with offline access for on-site use. The software bridges office and field teams, reducing miscommunication and boosting productivity on job sites.
Pros
- Intuitive mobile app with robust offline functionality
- Seamless plan markup and hyperlinking to tasks/issues
- Strong real-time collaboration and reporting tools
Cons
- Limited native financial tracking and budgeting
- Advanced integrations require higher-tier plans
- Steep learning curve for complex custom workflows
Best For
Construction subcontractors handling field-intensive projects that require mobile task tracking, plan access, and daily field reporting.
Pricing
Pro plan at $29/user/month (annual); Business at $39/user/month; Business Plus at $54/user/month; Enterprise custom pricing.
Foundation
enterpriseConstruction accounting and project management software providing job costing, payroll, invoicing, and reporting for subcontractors.
Real-time job costing with drill-down to phase, cost code, and resource levels for instant profitability insights
Foundation by Foundation Software is a robust construction accounting and project management platform tailored for subcontractors and general contractors. It specializes in real-time job costing, enabling precise tracking of labor, materials, and subcontractor expenses to monitor project profitability. The software also offers scheduling, document management, payroll integration, and a mobile app for field updates, streamlining operations from bid to closeout.
Pros
- Seamless integration of accounting and job costing for accurate financial visibility
- Subcontractor portal for efficient invoice approvals and collaboration
- Strong mobile app and reporting tools for field and office teams
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to dense interface and customization options
- Higher pricing may not suit very small subcontractors
- Fewer native integrations with popular third-party tools like Procore or QuickBooks
Best For
Mid-sized construction subcontractors prioritizing integrated financial tracking and job profitability analysis over simple task management.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing; typically $150-$400 per user/month, with annual contracts starting around $10,000-$50,000 depending on modules and users.
Autodesk Construction Cloud
enterpriseIntegrated platform for construction project management, including design collaboration, field execution, and subcontractor workflows.
Integrated BIM 360 model coordination with automated clash detection and issue tracking tailored for subcontractor workflows
Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) is a robust cloud-based platform designed to streamline construction workflows across the project lifecycle, with tools for document management, BIM collaboration, field execution, and financial tracking. For subcontractors, it excels in managing RFIs, submittals, issues, daily logs, timecards, and punch lists, enabling real-time coordination with general contractors via mobile apps. Its integration of 2D/3D models and analytics provides data-driven insights to keep projects on schedule and budget.
Pros
- Deep BIM and model coordination for precise subcontractor scoping
- Powerful mobile app for field productivity and real-time updates
- Comprehensive subcontractor-specific tools like RFIs, submittals, and time tracking
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive features and interface complexity
- Pricing can be high for small subcontractors without full utilization
- Some advanced features locked behind add-ons or higher tiers
Best For
Mid-sized to large subcontractors on BIM-heavy projects needing seamless integration with GCs using Autodesk tools.
Pricing
Starts at ~$65/user/month for Build (field management); higher tiers like Pro ($85+) include more features; volume discounts and custom enterprise pricing available.
Raken
specializedDaily construction reporting and time tracking app that simplifies documentation, photos, manpower tracking, and subcontractor reporting.
One-tap daily reports with pre-built templates, manpower tracking, and automatic e-signatures
Raken is a mobile-first construction management app tailored for field teams and subcontractors, focusing on daily reporting, time tracking, photo documentation, and production logs. It enables quick capture of on-site data like manpower, materials, weather, and issues, with customizable templates and e-signatures for professional reports. Subcontractors use it to streamline communication with general contractors and ensure accurate project records without extensive paperwork.
Pros
- Intuitive mobile app for rapid daily logs and time cards
- Robust photo and video documentation with geotags
- Seamless integrations with Procore and QuickBooks
Cons
- Limited advanced scheduling and budgeting tools
- Reporting customization can feel restrictive
- Desktop interface is secondary to mobile experience
Best For
Construction subcontractors prioritizing efficient field reporting and daily documentation over full project planning.
Pricing
Starts at $19 per active user per month (billed annually); higher tiers up to $39/user/month with advanced features.
CoConstruct
specializedProject management software for custom builders and subcontractors focusing on scheduling, selections, budgeting, and client portals.
Dynamic client and subcontractor portals for seamless selections, messaging, and real-time project transparency
CoConstruct is an all-in-one construction management software primarily tailored for custom home builders and remodelers, providing tools for project scheduling, budgeting, client selections, and subcontractor coordination. For construction subcontractors, it offers features like mobile daily logs, task assignments, progress photo sharing, and messaging to streamline communication with general contractors. While robust for residential projects, it emphasizes builder workflows over subcontractor-specific needs like advanced time tracking or bid management.
Pros
- Intuitive scheduling and daily logging tools accessible via mobile app
- Strong communication features including client portals and subcontractor messaging
- Real-time progress updates and photo documentation for accountability
Cons
- Primarily builder-focused, lacking deep subcontractor tools like invoicing automation or sub-subcontractor management
- Higher pricing tiers better suited for general contractors than small subs
- Limited integrations with subcontractor-specific accounting or estimating software
Best For
Subcontractors collaborating on custom residential projects with home builders who prioritize scheduling, communication, and daily field updates.
Pricing
Starts at $199/month for Basic (1-3 projects), $399/month for Pro (unlimited projects), $499/month for Premium; annual discounts available.
BuildOps
specializedOperations platform for commercial service contractors and subcontractors, combining scheduling, dispatching, invoicing, and financial insights.
One-click invoicing directly from the field with built-in payment processing
BuildOps is an all-in-one field service management platform tailored for commercial contractors, including subcontractors in HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and similar trades. It streamlines project management with features like real-time scheduling, dispatching, mobile technician apps, invoicing, and customer portals. The software connects office and field operations to improve efficiency, visibility, and revenue cycle management for subcontractor workflows.
Pros
- Comprehensive mobile app for real-time field updates and dispatching
- Integrated invoicing and payments for faster revenue collection
- Strong analytics and reporting for job performance tracking
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for smaller teams
- Geared more toward service trades than heavy construction projects
- Steeper learning curve for advanced financial integrations
Best For
Mid-sized commercial subcontractors in service trades like HVAC and plumbing who need unified field and office management.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically starting at $150-250 per user per month depending on features and team size.
Conclusion
Among the reviewed tools, Procore leads as the top choice, offering a comprehensive platform to streamline project management, financials, and subcontractor coordination across all phases. Knowify, a strong second, excels with its tailored focus on subcontractor needs like estimating and invoicing, while eSUB stands out with trade-specific workflows and robust document control, making it a standout for specialized fields.
For subcontractors aiming to boost efficiency, Procore is worth prioritizing—its versatile, integrated features set a reliable standard. Explore alternatives like Knowify or eSUB if specific workflows align better with your needs, but Procore remains the top pick for balanced project success.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison