Quick Overview
- 1#1: Knowify - All-in-one construction management software for subcontractors, handling estimating, job costing, invoicing, and payments.
- 2#2: Stack - Subcontractor platform for managing bids, change orders, payments, compliance, and lien waivers.
- 3#3: eSUB - Cloud-based project management solution designed specifically for subcontractors to track time, costs, and productivity.
- 4#4: Procore - Comprehensive construction management platform enabling subcontractors to collaborate on projects, financials, and field operations.
- 5#5: Buildertrend - Construction project management tool for subcontractors focusing on scheduling, budgeting, and client communication.
- 6#6: Fieldwire - Mobile-first field management app for subcontractors to assign tasks, share plans, and track site progress.
- 7#7: JobTread - Construction CRM and job management software for subcontractors to streamline leads, estimates, and workflows.
- 8#8: Foundation Software - Construction accounting software providing job costing, payroll, and financial reporting for subcontractors.
- 9#9: BusyBusy - Time tracking and job costing app helping subcontractors monitor crew hours, equipment, and expenses in real-time.
- 10#10: Bridgit - Workforce planning platform for subcontractors to forecast labor needs, manage capacity, and optimize scheduling.
Tools were selected based on feature depth, user experience, reliability, and overall value, with rankings reflecting how well they align with key subcontractor needs like compliance, time tracking, and financial clarity.
Comparison Table
This comparison table examines leading construction subcontractor software tools—such as Knowify, Stack, eSUB, Procore, and Buildertrend—providing a concise look at their core features and functionality. Readers will gain insights into how these tools differ, their unique strengths, and how they align with various workflow needs, helping identify the best fit for their project management goals.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Knowify All-in-one construction management software for subcontractors, handling estimating, job costing, invoicing, and payments. | specialized | 9.4/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | Stack Subcontractor platform for managing bids, change orders, payments, compliance, and lien waivers. | specialized | 9.1/10 | 9.4/10 | 8.9/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | eSUB Cloud-based project management solution designed specifically for subcontractors to track time, costs, and productivity. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.1/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 4 | Procore Comprehensive construction management platform enabling subcontractors to collaborate on projects, financials, and field operations. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 5 | Buildertrend Construction project management tool for subcontractors focusing on scheduling, budgeting, and client communication. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 6 | Fieldwire Mobile-first field management app for subcontractors to assign tasks, share plans, and track site progress. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 8.9/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 7 | JobTread Construction CRM and job management software for subcontractors to streamline leads, estimates, and workflows. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 8 | Foundation Software Construction accounting software providing job costing, payroll, and financial reporting for subcontractors. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 9 | BusyBusy Time tracking and job costing app helping subcontractors monitor crew hours, equipment, and expenses in real-time. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 10 | Bridgit Workforce planning platform for subcontractors to forecast labor needs, manage capacity, and optimize scheduling. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.1/10 |
All-in-one construction management software for subcontractors, handling estimating, job costing, invoicing, and payments.
Subcontractor platform for managing bids, change orders, payments, compliance, and lien waivers.
Cloud-based project management solution designed specifically for subcontractors to track time, costs, and productivity.
Comprehensive construction management platform enabling subcontractors to collaborate on projects, financials, and field operations.
Construction project management tool for subcontractors focusing on scheduling, budgeting, and client communication.
Mobile-first field management app for subcontractors to assign tasks, share plans, and track site progress.
Construction CRM and job management software for subcontractors to streamline leads, estimates, and workflows.
Construction accounting software providing job costing, payroll, and financial reporting for subcontractors.
Time tracking and job costing app helping subcontractors monitor crew hours, equipment, and expenses in real-time.
Workforce planning platform for subcontractors to forecast labor needs, manage capacity, and optimize scheduling.
Knowify
specializedAll-in-one construction management software for subcontractors, handling estimating, job costing, invoicing, and payments.
Two-way QuickBooks sync that automatically pushes jobs, change orders, invoices, and payments for effortless bookkeeping.
Knowify is a cloud-based construction management software tailored for subcontractors, offering end-to-end tools for estimating, job costing, scheduling, time tracking, invoicing, and payments. It excels in financial management with seamless QuickBooks integration, enabling accurate progress billing and real-time job profitability insights. The platform's mobile app supports field teams with on-the-go updates, photos, and approvals, making it a comprehensive solution for subcontractor workflows.
Pros
- Deep QuickBooks integration for automated invoicing and payments
- Robust job costing and profitability tracking in real-time
- Intuitive mobile app for field data capture and approvals
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for advanced financial features
- Higher pricing for small teams or solo users
- Limited native CRM capabilities compared to generalist tools
Best For
Mid-sized construction subcontractors needing precise job costing, progress billing, and financial integration to scale operations efficiently.
Pricing
Starts at $99/user/month (billed annually) for Essential plan; Pro at $199/user/month; Enterprise custom pricing.
Stack
specializedSubcontractor platform for managing bids, change orders, payments, compliance, and lien waivers.
Digital 'envelopes' that automate payment releases tied to verified lien waivers and compliance docs
Stack (stackct.com) is a comprehensive cloud-based platform tailored for construction subcontractors, enabling efficient bid management, payment processing, compliance tracking, and document collaboration. It digitizes the entire subcontractor lifecycle from bid invitations to project closeout, including automated lien waivers and insurance verification. By centralizing communications and workflows, Stack helps subs win more work, get paid faster, and reduce administrative burdens.
Pros
- Streamlined digital bidding and invite management reduces response times significantly
- Automated payment applications with lien waiver signing accelerate cash flow
- Robust compliance tools for licenses, insurance, and safety docs ensure regulatory adherence
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for very small subcontractors with few projects
- Initial setup and team onboarding requires some training
- Advanced reporting and custom integrations are limited compared to enterprise suites
Best For
Mid-sized construction subcontractors seeking an all-in-one tool to digitize bids, payments, and compliance without needing multiple apps.
Pricing
Starts at $250/month for basic plans (up to 5 projects), scales to $1,000+/month for enterprise with unlimited projects and premium support.
eSUB
specializedCloud-based project management solution designed specifically for subcontractors to track time, costs, and productivity.
Industry-exclusive workflows that automatically link time entries to job costs and budgets in real-time
eSUB is a cloud-based construction management software tailored specifically for subcontractors, providing tools for project management, time tracking, daily reporting, document control, and job costing. It features a robust mobile app that allows field teams to capture data in real-time, even offline, syncing seamlessly with the office. The platform streamlines subcontractor workflows like RFIs, submittals, and change orders to enhance collaboration and profitability.
Pros
- Subcontractor-specific features like automated time-to-cost tracking
- Powerful mobile app with offline capabilities
- Strong daily logs, RFIs, and document management
Cons
- Higher pricing may deter small firms
- Steeper learning curve for non-tech-savvy users
- Limited third-party integrations compared to competitors
Best For
Mid-sized construction subcontractors needing a mobile-first solution for field-to-office coordination and detailed job costing.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing, typically starting at $49/user/month with annual contracts scaling by users and projects.
Procore
enterpriseComprehensive construction management platform enabling subcontractors to collaborate on projects, financials, and field operations.
Unified platform intelligence that aggregates all project data into a single source of truth, enabling proactive insights and reducing communication silos.
Procore is a comprehensive cloud-based construction management platform designed to streamline workflows for subcontractors, from bidding and scheduling to document control, RFIs, submittals, and financials. It enables real-time collaboration with general contractors through tools like daily logs, timesheets, inspections, and drawing management, all accessible via a robust mobile app. As an all-in-one solution, it centralizes project data to reduce errors and improve efficiency on job sites.
Pros
- Extensive feature set including RFIs, submittals, daily logs, and financial tracking tailored for subcontractor workflows
- Powerful mobile app for field access and real-time updates
- Seamless integrations with accounting software like QuickBooks and ERP systems
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to its comprehensive and sometimes overwhelming interface
- High pricing that may not suit small subcontractors or simple projects
- Additional costs for premium modules and custom configurations
Best For
Mid-to-large subcontractors managing complex, multi-phase projects that require tight collaboration with general contractors.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing starting at approximately $500-$1,000 per month per project or user, depending on modules and scale; requires sales quote.
Buildertrend
specializedConstruction project management tool for subcontractors focusing on scheduling, budgeting, and client communication.
Real-time daily logs with photo attachments, weather tracking, and instant sharing to keep projects documented and GCs informed.
Buildertrend is an all-in-one construction management software that helps subcontractors manage projects through scheduling, time tracking, invoicing, and daily logs. It facilitates collaboration with general contractors via shared portals, mobile apps for on-site updates, and tools for change orders and RFIs. While primarily designed for builders, it offers robust features tailored for subs to streamline workflows and improve transparency.
Pros
- Comprehensive tools for scheduling, budgeting, and invoicing
- Powerful mobile app for real-time field updates and daily logs
- Strong subcontractor portal for seamless GC collaboration
Cons
- Steep learning curve and cluttered interface
- Pricing can be expensive for small subcontractors
- Some advanced features feel more GC-oriented
Best For
Mid-sized construction subcontractors handling multiple projects who need integrated scheduling, communication, and invoicing with general contractors.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing starting around $399/month for basic plans, scaling with users, projects, and features (demo required).
Fieldwire
specializedMobile-first field management app for subcontractors to assign tasks, share plans, and track site progress.
Hyperlinked blueprints that connect tasks, photos, and RFIs directly to plan locations for instant field navigation
Fieldwire is a mobile-first construction management platform tailored for field teams, enabling subcontractors to manage plans, tasks, punch lists, RFIs, and reports in real-time. It facilitates seamless collaboration between office and field personnel through intuitive markup tools, photo documentation, and automated reporting. The software excels in streamlining daily construction workflows, reducing miscommunication, and keeping projects on track via web and iOS/Android apps.
Pros
- Highly intuitive mobile app with offline access
- Powerful plan viewing and markup with task hyperlinking
- Real-time collaboration and automated reporting tools
Cons
- Limited native financial or estimating features
- Pricing scales quickly for larger teams
- Some integrations require higher-tier plans
Best For
Construction subcontractors focused on field coordination, task management, and mobile-first collaboration on job sites.
Pricing
Plans start at $39/user/month (billed annually) for Pro, up to $69/user/month for Business Plus; free trial available.
JobTread
specializedConstruction CRM and job management software for subcontractors to streamline leads, estimates, and workflows.
Visual job board with drag-and-drop scheduling for intuitive project oversight
JobTread is a cloud-based construction management software designed specifically for subcontractors, providing tools for job estimating, scheduling, time tracking, invoicing, and job costing. It streamlines workflows from bid management to project closeout, with mobile apps enabling real-time field updates and QuickBooks integration for seamless accounting. The platform emphasizes simplicity for trade contractors handling multiple jobs simultaneously.
Pros
- Affordable all-in-one solution tailored for subcontractors
- Strong mobile app for field management and time tracking
- Seamless QuickBooks integration for invoicing and payments
Cons
- Limited advanced reporting and analytics compared to enterprise tools
- Occasional customer support delays reported by users
- No robust offline functionality for remote job sites
Best For
Small to mid-sized subcontractors seeking an affordable, subcontractor-focused platform for daily job management without enterprise complexity.
Pricing
Starts at $99/user/month (Basic plan) with Pro ($149/user/month) and Enterprise (custom) tiers; annual discounts available.
Foundation Software
enterpriseConstruction accounting software providing job costing, payroll, and financial reporting for subcontractors.
Certified payroll reporting with automated fringe benefit calculations and Davis-Bacon Act compliance
Foundation Software is a robust, on-premise accounting and job management solution tailored for construction subcontractors, offering comprehensive job costing, payroll processing, and financial reporting. It excels in handling complex payroll requirements like certified payroll, union fringes, and Davis-Bacon compliance, while providing detailed tracking of labor, materials, and equipment across multiple jobs. The software integrates general ledger, accounts payable/receivable, and project management tools to streamline financial operations from bidding to closeout.
Pros
- Superior job costing with real-time tracking of costs by phase and cost code
- Advanced payroll module supporting certified payroll, unions, and prevailing wages
- Comprehensive construction-specific accounting and reporting capabilities
Cons
- Desktop-only installation with no native cloud or mobile access
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training
- High upfront licensing costs and ongoing maintenance fees
Best For
Mid-sized construction subcontractors with complex payroll needs and multiple job sites requiring precise cost control.
Pricing
Custom quoted perpetual licenses starting at $10,000-$25,000 plus annual maintenance (15-20% of license cost); no subscription model.
BusyBusy
specializedTime tracking and job costing app helping subcontractors monitor crew hours, equipment, and expenses in real-time.
GPS time tracking with geofencing and proof-of-work verification
BusyBusy is a mobile-first construction management software tailored for subcontractors, specializing in time tracking, job costing, and scheduling. It enables field workers to log hours via GPS-verified mobile apps, ensuring accurate payroll and compliance with geofencing for proof-of-presence. The platform also supports equipment tracking, invoicing, and integrations with QuickBooks and other accounting tools to streamline operations.
Pros
- GPS-verified time tracking with geofencing for accuracy and fraud prevention
- Strong job costing and reporting for profitability insights
- Robust mobile app ideal for field teams
Cons
- Limited advanced project management tools compared to enterprise solutions
- Interface can feel dated and has a learning curve for non-mobile users
- Per-user pricing scales expensively for large crews
Best For
Small to mid-sized construction subcontractors focused on precise time tracking and basic job costing without complex ERP needs.
Pricing
Starts at $9.99/user/month (Essentials, billed annually), $19.99/user/month (Pro), and custom Enterprise pricing.
Bridgit
specializedWorkforce planning platform for subcontractors to forecast labor needs, manage capacity, and optimize scheduling.
AI-driven labor forecasting using historical data and benchmarks for precise project staffing
Bridgit (gobridgit.com) is a workforce management platform designed for construction firms, including subcontractors, to forecast labor needs, manage bids, and track certifications. It centralizes subcontractor data for efficient resource planning and allocation across projects. The software emphasizes data-driven bidding to improve win rates and reduce underbidding risks.
Pros
- Powerful labor forecasting and benchmarking tools
- Robust subcontractor database and certification tracking
- Seamless integrations with Procore and other PM software
Cons
- High pricing suitable only for mid-to-large firms
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Limited standalone mobile app functionality
Best For
Mid-sized construction subcontractors focused on accurate bidding and resource optimization for multiple projects.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing, typically starting at $10,000+ annually for base plans, scaling with users and features.
Conclusion
The reviewed tools reflect the breadth of needs in subcontracting, from all-in-one management to niche solutions like workforce planning. Knowify leads as the top choice, excelling in its integrated approach to estimating, invoicing, and job costing. Stack and eSUB follow strong, offering tailored strengths—Stack for bids and compliance, eSUB for time tracking and productivity—ensuring there’s a standout fit for most operations.
Don’t miss out on Knowify’s comprehensive capabilities; exploring its all-in-one platform can streamline your workflow and elevate project management efficiency for your subcontracting needs.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison