Quick Overview
- 1#1: Procore - Comprehensive construction management platform with advanced submittal workflows, real-time tracking, and automated approvals.
- 2#2: Autodesk Construction Cloud - Integrated cloud platform for AEC teams providing submittal coordination, document control, and collaborative review tools.
- 3#3: Submittal Exchange - Dedicated web-based software for automating construction submittal processes and streamlining approvals among stakeholders.
- 4#4: Fieldwire - Mobile-first construction app enabling efficient submittal management with task assignments and real-time field updates.
- 5#5: Buildertrend - Project management solution for home builders featuring submittal scheduling, tracking, and client portal integration.
- 6#6: Bluebeam Revu - Powerful PDF tool for markup, collaboration, and distribution of construction submittals and project documents.
- 7#7: Trimble Connect - Cloud collaboration platform for sharing BIM models, drawings, and submittals across multidisciplinary teams.
- 8#8: eSUB - Cloud-based software tailored for trade contractors with built-in submittal tracking and project management features.
- 9#9: Knowify - All-in-one platform for commercial contractors managing submittals, job costing, and change orders efficiently.
- 10#10: Newforma - Project information management system centralizing submittals, emails, and files for architecture and engineering firms.
We ranked these tools by evaluating functionality, user-friendliness, reliability, and overall value, ensuring they deliver exceptional performance across key submittal management needs
Comparison Table
Submittal software is critical for managing construction project communications and approvals; explore a breakdown of top tools including Procore, Autodesk Construction Cloud, Submittal Exchange, Fieldwire, Buildertrend, and more in this comparison table. Learn key features, integrations, and user suitability to identify the best fit for your workflow, simplifying selection and enhancing project efficiency.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Procore Comprehensive construction management platform with advanced submittal workflows, real-time tracking, and automated approvals. | enterprise | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 2 | Autodesk Construction Cloud Integrated cloud platform for AEC teams providing submittal coordination, document control, and collaborative review tools. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 3 | Submittal Exchange Dedicated web-based software for automating construction submittal processes and streamlining approvals among stakeholders. | specialized | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 4 | Fieldwire Mobile-first construction app enabling efficient submittal management with task assignments and real-time field updates. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 7.9/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | Buildertrend Project management solution for home builders featuring submittal scheduling, tracking, and client portal integration. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 6 | Bluebeam Revu Powerful PDF tool for markup, collaboration, and distribution of construction submittals and project documents. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 7 | Trimble Connect Cloud collaboration platform for sharing BIM models, drawings, and submittals across multidisciplinary teams. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 8 | eSUB Cloud-based software tailored for trade contractors with built-in submittal tracking and project management features. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 9 | Knowify All-in-one platform for commercial contractors managing submittals, job costing, and change orders efficiently. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 8.1/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 10 | Newforma Project information management system centralizing submittals, emails, and files for architecture and engineering firms. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.2/10 |
Comprehensive construction management platform with advanced submittal workflows, real-time tracking, and automated approvals.
Integrated cloud platform for AEC teams providing submittal coordination, document control, and collaborative review tools.
Dedicated web-based software for automating construction submittal processes and streamlining approvals among stakeholders.
Mobile-first construction app enabling efficient submittal management with task assignments and real-time field updates.
Project management solution for home builders featuring submittal scheduling, tracking, and client portal integration.
Powerful PDF tool for markup, collaboration, and distribution of construction submittals and project documents.
Cloud collaboration platform for sharing BIM models, drawings, and submittals across multidisciplinary teams.
Cloud-based software tailored for trade contractors with built-in submittal tracking and project management features.
All-in-one platform for commercial contractors managing submittals, job costing, and change orders efficiently.
Project information management system centralizing submittals, emails, and files for architecture and engineering firms.
Procore
enterpriseComprehensive construction management platform with advanced submittal workflows, real-time tracking, and automated approvals.
Intelligent workflow automation that links submittals directly to schedules, RFIs, and commitments for proactive issue resolution
Procore is a comprehensive cloud-based construction management platform renowned for its robust Submittals tool, which streamlines the creation, submission, review, and approval of submittals across construction projects. It provides real-time tracking, automated workflows, and customizable registers to ensure compliance and minimize delays. Deep integration with other Procore modules like Drawings, RFIs, and Commitments creates a unified document management ecosystem, making it ideal for complex project coordination.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Drawings, RFIs, and other Procore tools for end-to-end workflow
- Advanced automation, real-time notifications, and mobile accessibility for field teams
- Customizable submittal logs with detailed reporting and audit trails
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to extensive features
- High pricing that may not suit small projects or budgets
- Occasional performance lags with very large project datasets
Best For
Large construction firms and general contractors managing complex, multi-stakeholder projects requiring integrated document control.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically $500-$1,000+ per month per project based on size, users, and features; quote-based with annual contracts.
Autodesk Construction Cloud
enterpriseIntegrated cloud platform for AEC teams providing submittal coordination, document control, and collaborative review tools.
BIM model integration for attaching 3D models directly to submittals, enabling visual reviews and clash detection in workflows
Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) is a comprehensive cloud-based platform for construction project management, with robust submittal management capabilities that streamline the creation, submission, review, and approval of shop drawings, samples, and product data. It features customizable workflows, automated notifications, and ball-in-court tracking to ensure accountability across stakeholders. Integrated with Autodesk's BIM tools like Revit and Autodesk Docs, it enables seamless data exchange from design to field execution.
Pros
- Deep integration with Autodesk BIM ecosystem for model-linked submittals
- Advanced workflow automation and real-time collaboration tools
- Mobile app for on-site access and approvals
Cons
- Steep learning curve for users new to Autodesk products
- High pricing that may not suit small projects or teams
- Overly complex for submittal-only needs
Best For
Large AEC firms and enterprise construction teams already invested in Autodesk tools seeking integrated submittal management within a full project platform.
Pricing
Project-based or per-user subscriptions starting at ~$85/user/month for Build plan (includes submittals); custom enterprise pricing available.
Submittal Exchange
specializedDedicated web-based software for automating construction submittal processes and streamlining approvals among stakeholders.
Submittal Assistant, an AI-powered tool that auto-generates responses, matches submittals to specs, and suggests revisions to speed up approvals
Submittal Exchange is a cloud-based construction administration platform focused on streamlining submittal workflows, RFIs, and document approvals for AEC professionals. It enables real-time collaboration among general contractors, architects, engineers, and subcontractors through automated routing, markup tools, and status tracking. The software integrates seamlessly with tools like Procore, Autodesk BIM 360, and PlanGrid, reducing manual errors and project delays.
Pros
- Robust automation for submittal routing and approvals
- Excellent integrations with major construction PM platforms
- Mobile app for on-site access and markups
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for small projects or firms
- Initial setup and learning curve for complex workflows
- Customer support response times can vary
Best For
Mid-to-large construction firms managing high-volume, multi-stakeholder projects requiring precise document control.
Pricing
Project-based subscription starting at around $500 per project, with enterprise plans customized by user count and features; contact for demo and quote.
Fieldwire
enterpriseMobile-first construction app enabling efficient submittal management with task assignments and real-time field updates.
Hyperlinks that connect submittals directly to specific plan sheets, RFIs, and tasks for instant contextual access
Fieldwire is a mobile-first construction management platform that includes submittal management tools for creating, tracking, reviewing, and approving submittals like shop drawings and product data. It enables seamless collaboration between field teams, subcontractors, and office staff with real-time updates, markup tools, and integration to plans and tasks. While not exclusively a submittal solution, its field-focused workflow streamlines document workflows on job sites.
Pros
- Intuitive mobile app for on-site submittal reviews and approvals
- Real-time notifications and status tracking with hyperlinks to plans/tasks
- Offline access and photo integration for field documentation
Cons
- Less advanced customization for complex submittal workflows compared to dedicated tools
- Full submittal features require higher-tier plans
- Submittal reporting lacks depth for enterprise-level analytics
Best For
Field-heavy construction teams needing integrated, mobile-accessible submittal management alongside daily operations.
Pricing
Starts at $54/user/month (Pro plan, annual billing) for basic features; submittals fully available from Business plan at $64/user/month.
Buildertrend
enterpriseProject management solution for home builders featuring submittal scheduling, tracking, and client portal integration.
Integrated submittal workflows tied directly to project schedules and client portals for real-time stakeholder collaboration
Buildertrend is a comprehensive construction management platform that includes dedicated submittal management features for creating, submitting, tracking, and approving documents like shop drawings and material samples. It integrates submittals seamlessly with scheduling, messaging, and file sharing to streamline workflows between contractors, subs, and architects. While not a standalone submittal tool, it excels in team collaboration and project-wide visibility, making it suitable for builders managing full project lifecycles.
Pros
- Seamless integration with scheduling, budgeting, and daily logs for contextual submittal tracking
- Mobile app enables on-site submittal reviews and approvals
- Centralized RFI and submittal logs with automated notifications
Cons
- Higher pricing makes it less ideal for submittal-only needs
- Steeper learning curve due to extensive feature set
- Limited advanced customization for highly complex submittal forms
Best For
Mid-sized construction firms and general contractors seeking integrated submittal management within a full project management suite.
Pricing
Starts at $99/user/month for basic plans, scales to $399+/month for teams with more projects/users; custom enterprise pricing available.
Bluebeam Revu
specializedPowerful PDF tool for markup, collaboration, and distribution of construction submittals and project documents.
Customizable digital stamps and sets for standardized submittal approval processes
Bluebeam Revu is a robust PDF editor and markup tool tailored for the AEC industry, enabling users to create, edit, and collaborate on construction documents including submittals. It supports digital stamping for approvals, revision tracking, and real-time collaboration through Bluebeam Studio, making it effective for reviewing shop drawings and product data. While versatile for document workflows, it lacks dedicated submittal log management and automated routing found in specialized platforms.
Pros
- Powerful markup and stamping tools for quick submittal approvals
- Cloud-based Studio for seamless team collaboration and version control
- Accurate measurement and quantity takeoff capabilities integrated with PDFs
Cons
- Lacks native submittal register, workflow automation, and ball-in-court tracking
- Advanced features have a learning curve for non-technical users
- Subscription pricing adds up for teams without broader PDF needs
Best For
AEC teams focused on PDF-centric submittal reviews and markups within larger construction workflows.
Pricing
Subscription-based: Standard (~$240/user/year), CAD (~$300/user/year), Extreme (~$400/user/year); volume discounts available.
Trimble Connect
enterpriseCloud collaboration platform for sharing BIM models, drawings, and submittals across multidisciplinary teams.
Federated 3D model viewer enabling interactive model reviews and markups within submittal packages
Trimble Connect is a cloud-based collaboration platform tailored for AEC professionals, facilitating the management of submittals, RFIs, issues, and project documents in a centralized hub. It excels in handling submittal workflows from submission to approval, with support for attachments like 2D drawings, 3D models, and photos. The platform offers real-time collaboration, mobile access, and integrations with Trimble's BIM tools, making it suitable for construction teams tracking approvals efficiently.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Trimble ecosystem (e.g., Tekla, SketchUp) for BIM-heavy submittals
- Robust 3D model viewing and markup directly within submittal workflows
- Strong mobile app for on-site submittal reviews and approvals
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for users new to Trimble tools
- Pricing escalates quickly for enterprise features and large teams
- Less specialized for non-BIM submittal processes compared to dedicated tools
Best For
Mid-to-large construction firms using Trimble products and requiring BIM-integrated submittal management.
Pricing
Freemium with Business ($15/user/month) and Enterprise (custom, ~$25+/user/month) plans; project-based usage options available.
eSUB
specializedCloud-based software tailored for trade contractors with built-in submittal tracking and project management features.
Automated submittal-to-job-costing linkage that impacts budgeting and forecasting in real-time
eSUB is a cloud-based construction management platform designed primarily for subcontractors, featuring robust submittal management tools that streamline the creation, submission, review, and approval of documents like shop drawings, product data, and samples. It integrates submittals seamlessly with RFIs, daily logs, timecards, and job costing for a holistic project view. Real-time tracking, customizable workflows, and mobile accessibility help reduce delays and improve coordination with general contractors and architects.
Pros
- Comprehensive submittal workflows with automated routing and status tracking
- Strong mobile app for field-based updates and approvals
- Deep integration with other construction processes like RFIs and scheduling
Cons
- Learning curve for users new to the platform
- Less optimized for general contractors compared to subcontractors
- Custom pricing can feel steep for very small teams
Best For
Mid-sized trade subcontractors seeking an integrated platform where submittal management ties directly into daily operations and financial tracking.
Pricing
Subscription-based with custom quotes; typically starts around $65/user/month, scaling with features and user count.
Knowify
enterpriseAll-in-one platform for commercial contractors managing submittals, job costing, and change orders efficiently.
Direct linkage of submittals to specific job cost codes for precise budgeting and expense tracking
Knowify is a cloud-based construction management platform tailored for trade contractors and subcontractors, featuring submittal management as a core component of its project workflow tools. It enables users to create, submit, track, and approve submittals, including shop drawings and material samples, with real-time status updates and integration into broader project elements like RFIs, schedules, and change orders. While not a standalone submittal tool, it excels in embedding submittal processes within end-to-end job costing and invoicing for efficient construction project delivery.
Pros
- Seamless integration of submittals with job costing, estimating, and invoicing
- Mobile app for on-site submittal tracking and approvals
- Customizable workflows and automated notifications for faster reviews
Cons
- Submittal features are part of a larger suite, lacking deep specialization compared to dedicated tools
- Steeper learning curve for users new to full construction management platforms
- Pricing scales quickly with users and advanced features
Best For
Trade contractors and subcontractors who need submittal management integrated with comprehensive project financials and job tracking.
Pricing
Starts at $149/user/month (billed annually) for Essential plan; Pro at $199/user/month and Enterprise custom pricing.
Newforma
specializedProject information management system centralizing submittals, emails, and files for architecture and engineering firms.
Newforma Inbox integration that automatically converts Outlook emails into trackable submittal actions and project records
Newforma is a comprehensive project management platform tailored for the AEC industry, with robust submittal management capabilities including log tracking, approval workflows, and integration with project documents. It centralizes communications from email, RFIs, and submittals into a single actionable interface, reducing manual data entry. While powerful for complex projects, it emphasizes desktop integration over purely cloud-native experiences.
Pros
- Seamless Outlook email integration turns communications into actionable submittals
- Comprehensive workflows for submittal logs, approvals, and revisions
- Strong document versioning and collaboration for large AEC teams
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to dense interface and customization needs
- Higher pricing limits accessibility for small firms
- Less intuitive mobile experience compared to cloud-first competitors
Best For
Mid-to-large AEC firms handling complex projects with heavy email-based submittal workflows.
Pricing
Quote-based enterprise pricing; typically $60-120 per user/month annually.
Conclusion
After evaluating the top submittal software, Procore leads as the standout choice, with advanced workflows and real-time tracking that excel in streamlining processes. Autodesk Construction Cloud follows closely, offering integrated collaboration tools perfect for AEC teams, while Submittal Exchange completes the top three with its focus on simplifying stakeholder approvals. Each tool brings distinct strengths, ensuring there’s a strong option for varied project needs.
Begin optimizing your submittal management by trying Procore, the top-ranked solution, or explore Autodesk or Submittal Exchange to find the best fit for your team's unique requirements.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison