Quick Overview
- 1#1: Procore - Cloud-based construction management platform that streamlines project management, financials, and field operations for utility construction projects.
- 2#2: Autodesk Construction Cloud - Integrated platform connecting design, build, and operations workflows for utility infrastructure construction.
- 3#3: OpenUtilities Designer - Advanced engineering software for designing and modeling electric, gas, water, and wastewater utility networks.
- 4#4: ArcGIS Utility Network - GIS-based solution for modeling, managing, and analyzing utility networks during construction and maintenance.
- 5#5: HCSS HeavyJob - Mobile field management software optimized for heavy construction and utility crews to track time, productivity, and jobsite data.
- 6#6: Viewpoint Vista - Comprehensive ERP system for construction accounting, project management, and operations in utility contracting.
- 7#7: Primavera P6 - Enterprise project portfolio management tool for scheduling and controlling complex utility construction projects.
- 8#8: Cityworks - GIS-centric asset management and work order software tailored for public utility construction and maintenance.
- 9#9: IBM Maximo - AI-powered enterprise asset management solution for utility construction, inspection, and lifecycle management.
- 10#10: Fieldwire - Mobile-first construction management app for task assignment, plans, and communication on utility job sites.
Tools were chosen based on their ability to resolve key utility construction pain points, integrate critical processes (design, field operations, finance), and offer consistent value, with a focus on feature depth, user-friendliness, and real-world performance.
Comparison Table
Utility construction demands robust software to manage complexity, and this comparison table examines leading tools like Procore, Autodesk Construction Cloud, OpenUtilities Designer, ArcGIS Utility Network, HCSS HeavyJob, and more. It breaks down their core features, industry focus, and practical applications to help readers understand which solution aligns with their project needs, whether for design, collaboration, or on-site efficiency.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Procore Cloud-based construction management platform that streamlines project management, financials, and field operations for utility construction projects. | enterprise | 9.4/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 2 | Autodesk Construction Cloud Integrated platform connecting design, build, and operations workflows for utility infrastructure construction. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.5/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 3 | OpenUtilities Designer Advanced engineering software for designing and modeling electric, gas, water, and wastewater utility networks. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | ArcGIS Utility Network GIS-based solution for modeling, managing, and analyzing utility networks during construction and maintenance. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 9.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 5 | HCSS HeavyJob Mobile field management software optimized for heavy construction and utility crews to track time, productivity, and jobsite data. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 6 | Viewpoint Vista Comprehensive ERP system for construction accounting, project management, and operations in utility contracting. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 6.9/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 7 | Primavera P6 Enterprise project portfolio management tool for scheduling and controlling complex utility construction projects. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 6.4/10 | 7.3/10 |
| 8 | Cityworks GIS-centric asset management and work order software tailored for public utility construction and maintenance. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 9 | IBM Maximo AI-powered enterprise asset management solution for utility construction, inspection, and lifecycle management. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 10 | Fieldwire Mobile-first construction management app for task assignment, plans, and communication on utility job sites. | other | 8.1/10 | 8.3/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.7/10 |
Cloud-based construction management platform that streamlines project management, financials, and field operations for utility construction projects.
Integrated platform connecting design, build, and operations workflows for utility infrastructure construction.
Advanced engineering software for designing and modeling electric, gas, water, and wastewater utility networks.
GIS-based solution for modeling, managing, and analyzing utility networks during construction and maintenance.
Mobile field management software optimized for heavy construction and utility crews to track time, productivity, and jobsite data.
Comprehensive ERP system for construction accounting, project management, and operations in utility contracting.
Enterprise project portfolio management tool for scheduling and controlling complex utility construction projects.
GIS-centric asset management and work order software tailored for public utility construction and maintenance.
AI-powered enterprise asset management solution for utility construction, inspection, and lifecycle management.
Mobile-first construction management app for task assignment, plans, and communication on utility job sites.
Procore
enterpriseCloud-based construction management platform that streamlines project management, financials, and field operations for utility construction projects.
Integrated Drawing Management with geospatial markup and clash detection, ideal for utility infrastructure design and as-built documentation
Procore is a leading cloud-based construction management platform that excels in utility construction by providing end-to-end tools for project planning, execution, and closeout, including scheduling, financial tracking, and field productivity. It supports utility-specific workflows like underground infrastructure management, compliance reporting, and GIS integrations for precise mapping of pipelines, cables, and substations. With real-time collaboration features and mobile accessibility, it enables utility contractors to minimize downtime, ensure regulatory adherence, and optimize resource allocation across complex projects.
Pros
- Comprehensive suite covering bidding, RFIs, submittals, daily logs, and financials tailored for utility projects
- Robust mobile app for field teams to capture as-builts, inspections, and utility locates on-site
- Extensive integrations with GIS tools, ERP systems, and utility-specific software like Esri ArcGIS
Cons
- High cost may deter smaller utility contractors
- Steep initial learning curve for full feature utilization
- Customization requires admin expertise or Procore support
Best For
Large-scale utility construction firms handling complex infrastructure projects that demand seamless collaboration, real-time data, and regulatory compliance.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing starting at around $500/user/year for core modules, scaling with add-ons, users, and project volume; free trial available.
Autodesk Construction Cloud
enterpriseIntegrated platform connecting design, build, and operations workflows for utility infrastructure construction.
Autodesk's Common Data Environment (CDE) with live BIM model federation for real-time utility clash detection and coordination
Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) is a unified cloud-based platform that connects design, build, and operations workflows for construction projects, with strong support for utility infrastructure through BIM integration. It provides tools for document management, RFIs, submittals, scheduling, cost tracking, and field collaboration, enhanced by mobile apps for on-site utility work. For utility construction, it excels in coordinating complex underground and overhead networks using Autodesk tools like Civil 3D and InfraWorks.
Pros
- Seamless BIM integration with Civil 3D for utility design and clash detection
- Robust collaboration and real-time data sharing across office and field teams
- Comprehensive project controls including scheduling, cost management, and asset tracking
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to feature depth and Autodesk ecosystem
- High pricing limits accessibility for smaller utility contractors
- Limited out-of-box GIS-specific tools for advanced utility mapping
Best For
Large-scale utility construction firms handling complex infrastructure projects that benefit from integrated BIM and end-to-end project management.
Pricing
Tiered subscriptions starting at ~$65/user/month for basic plans, up to $150+/user/month for premium modules; enterprise custom pricing common.
OpenUtilities Designer
specializedAdvanced engineering software for designing and modeling electric, gas, water, and wastewater utility networks.
Rule-driven automation for standards-compliant design of both schematics and physical networks in one environment
OpenUtilities Designer from Bentley Systems is a powerful CAD-based software for designing utility distribution networks, including water, wastewater, gas, electric, and telecom infrastructure. It supports 2D schematic and 3D physical modeling with rule-based automation, clash detection, and construction documentation generation. The tool integrates with GIS systems, hydraulic modelers, and Bentley's iTwin platform for collaborative digital twin workflows in utility construction projects.
Pros
- Comprehensive 2D/3D modeling with standards-based automation
- Strong integration with GIS, BIM, and hydraulic analysis tools
- Advanced clash detection and constructability checks for error reduction
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to MicroStation foundation
- High enterprise-level pricing limits accessibility for smaller firms
- Resource-intensive, requiring high-end hardware for complex models
Best For
Large utility providers and engineering consultancies managing complex distribution network designs and construction documentation.
Pricing
Subscription-based enterprise licensing; custom quotes typically start at several thousand dollars per user annually, with volume discounts.
ArcGIS Utility Network
specializedGIS-based solution for modeling, managing, and analyzing utility networks during construction and maintenance.
Subnetwork management with tiered elements for handling complex, hierarchical utility distributions
ArcGIS Utility Network is a GIS-powered platform from Esri designed for modeling, editing, and analyzing complex utility networks including electric, gas, water, and wastewater systems. It supports construction workflows through rules-based editing, network validation, and integration with field data collection for as-built updates. The solution excels in tracing connectivity, flow analysis, and asset management, bridging design, construction, and operations phases for utilities.
Pros
- Advanced network topology and rules-based editing for accurate construction designs
- Powerful tracing, validation, and analytics tools for utility infrastructure
- Deep integration with ArcGIS ecosystem for mobile field apps and enterprise systems
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring GIS expertise
- High licensing and implementation costs for smaller organizations
- Overly complex for simple construction projects without full network modeling needs
Best For
Large utilities and engineering firms already invested in Esri's GIS platform that require sophisticated network modeling during construction and asset handover.
Pricing
Subscription-based via ArcGIS named user licenses; Utility Network capability requires Advanced ($2,500+/user/year) or Enterprise licensing, with additional costs for deployment and customizations.
HCSS HeavyJob
specializedMobile field management software optimized for heavy construction and utility crews to track time, productivity, and jobsite data.
GPS-enabled production quantity tracking that automates accurate takeoffs directly from the field
HCSS HeavyJob is a mobile-first field management software tailored for heavy construction, including utility projects like underground infrastructure and pipeline work. It streamlines daily operations by enabling foremen to log time, track production quantities, manage job costs, and document site activities in real-time via rugged mobile devices. The platform integrates with HCSS accounting solutions for seamless office-to-field data flow, improving accuracy in payroll, bidding, and profitability analysis.
Pros
- Robust mobile app with offline capabilities for reliable field use
- Precise production tracking and GPS integration for utility job costing
- Strong integrations with payroll and accounting systems
Cons
- Steep learning curve for initial setup and training
- High pricing can be prohibitive for smaller firms
- Desktop interface feels dated compared to mobile
Best For
Mid-to-large utility construction companies managing complex field operations and needing real-time data synchronization.
Pricing
Custom quoted subscription, typically $60-100 per user/month plus implementation fees.
Viewpoint Vista
enterpriseComprehensive ERP system for construction accounting, project management, and operations in utility contracting.
Precision job cost accounting with real-time variance analysis for utility project profitability
Viewpoint Vista is a robust ERP platform tailored for construction firms, including utility contractors, offering end-to-end management of projects from estimating and job costing to accounting, HR, and field operations. It provides specialized tools for utility construction such as service work tracking, equipment management, and compliance reporting for underground infrastructure projects. With deep customization options, it integrates financials seamlessly with project data to ensure accurate profitability analysis.
Pros
- Comprehensive job costing and financial reporting
- Highly customizable modules for utility-specific workflows
- Scalable for multi-company operations
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex interface
- Lengthy and costly implementation process
- Limited native cloud mobility for field teams
Best For
Established utility construction firms with complex financial needs and large-scale projects requiring integrated ERP.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; typically $100,000+ initial setup plus annual subscriptions starting at $50,000 based on users and modules.
Primavera P6
enterpriseEnterprise project portfolio management tool for scheduling and controlling complex utility construction projects.
Four-tier scheduling structure (Activity, Project, EPS, Portfolio) enabling hierarchical management of vast utility networks
Oracle Primavera P6 is an enterprise-grade project portfolio management (PPM) software renowned for handling complex scheduling in construction and engineering sectors, including utility infrastructure projects. It provides critical path method (CPM) scheduling, resource optimization, cost tracking, and risk analysis tools tailored for large-scale endeavors like power line installations, pipeline constructions, and substation builds. The platform supports collaborative planning across multiple projects and integrates with ERP systems for comprehensive utility project oversight.
Pros
- Exceptional CPM scheduling for massive utility projects with thousands of activities
- Advanced resource leveling and earned value management for cost control
- Robust risk register and Monte Carlo simulation for uncertainty in utility builds
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring specialized training for utility teams
- Outdated user interface compared to modern cloud-native tools
- High implementation and customization costs for enterprise deployments
Best For
Large utility construction companies managing multi-year, high-complexity infrastructure projects with distributed teams.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses ~$3,900/user plus 20-22% annual maintenance; cloud subscriptions start at $110/user/month.
Cityworks
specializedGIS-centric asset management and work order software tailored for public utility construction and maintenance.
Native ESRI ArcGIS integration for dynamic, map-based utility asset and construction project visualization
Cityworks is a GIS-centric asset management and work order platform tailored for public sector organizations, including utilities, enabling efficient tracking of infrastructure assets like water, sewer, and electric systems. It supports utility construction through modules for project management, permitting, inspections, and mobile field operations, integrating seamlessly with ESRI ArcGIS for spatial data visualization and analysis. The software streamlines construction workflows from planning to completion, ensuring compliance and reducing downtime.
Pros
- Deep ESRI ArcGIS integration for superior spatial asset tracking
- Robust mobile app for real-time field updates during construction
- Comprehensive work order and permitting tools tailored to utilities
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to GIS-heavy interface
- High implementation and customization costs
- Less intuitive for non-public sector users
Best For
Municipal utilities and public works departments managing large-scale infrastructure construction and maintenance projects.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically starting at $50,000+ annually for mid-sized deployments, scaling with users, modules, and GIS integration.
IBM Maximo
enterpriseAI-powered enterprise asset management solution for utility construction, inspection, and lifecycle management.
Maximo Predict for AI-powered failure prediction and anomaly detection using IoT data
IBM Maximo is a comprehensive enterprise asset management (EAM) platform designed for utility construction, enabling organizations to manage assets, work orders, inspections, and maintenance throughout the asset lifecycle. It supports utility-specific needs like linear asset management for poles, pipelines, and substations, with features for scheduling, mobile field operations, and regulatory compliance. The solution leverages AI and IoT for predictive maintenance, helping reduce downtime in construction and operations.
Pros
- Advanced AI-driven predictive analytics and IoT integration for proactive maintenance
- Robust linear asset management tailored for utility infrastructure like transmission lines and substations
- Strong scalability and customization for large-scale enterprise deployments
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex interface requiring extensive training
- High implementation costs and long deployment timelines
- Premium pricing that may not suit smaller utility operations
Best For
Large utility companies managing extensive construction and maintenance of critical infrastructure who need enterprise-grade asset management.
Pricing
Custom enterprise licensing, typically starting at $150/user/month or asset-based pricing in the tens of thousands annually, with additional implementation fees.
Fieldwire
otherMobile-first construction management app for task assignment, plans, and communication on utility job sites.
Plan hyperlinks that allow tasks, photos, and RFIs to be pinned directly to specific locations on blueprints for precise field navigation.
Fieldwire is a mobile-first construction management platform designed for field teams to collaborate in real-time on plans, tasks, RFIs, and photos. It streamlines workflows for on-site coordination, reporting, and issue tracking, making it adaptable for utility construction projects like underground cabling or pole installations. While not utility-specific, it excels in general field operations for contractors managing linear infrastructure builds.
Pros
- Intuitive mobile app for offline use and real-time syncing
- Powerful plan viewing, markup, and task hyperlinking
- Robust reporting and custom forms for daily progress tracking
Cons
- Lacks deep utility-specific tools like GIS integration or asset management
- Pricing scales quickly for large crews
- Limited advanced analytics compared to enterprise utility software
Best For
Field supervisors and crews in mid-sized utility construction firms focused on on-site task coordination and documentation.
Pricing
Starts at $39/user/month (Pro plan), $54/user/month (Business), custom Enterprise pricing; annual discounts available.
Conclusion
After evaluating the top utility construction software, Procore stands out as the definitive leader, boasting cloud-based tools that seamlessly integrate project management, financials, and field operations. Autodesk Construction Cloud follows as a strong alternative, excelling in connected workflows from design to operations, while OpenUtilities Designer impresses with advanced engineering solutions for utility network modeling. Each top tool offers distinct strengths, yet Procore’s holistic approach makes it the top choice for many.
Ready to transform your utility construction processes? Start with Procore to leverage its comprehensive features and experience the future of efficient, streamlined project management—your projects (and your team) deserve it.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
