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Construction Management

Procore

Procore is one of the most popular construction management software tools on the market, offering a comprehensive set of features designed to help teams manage construction projects from conception to completion. It integrates project management, financial management, quality and safety, and document management into one unified platform, allowing for smooth communication and real-time data sharing across teams.

Procore is well-suited for large-scale construction projects where multiple stakeholders need to be involved and updated continuously. Project management features include tools for scheduling, task management, and resource allocation, ensuring that teams can stay on top of deadlines and responsibilities. The financial management module allows project managers to track budgets, expenses, and payments, reducing the risk of cost overruns.

One of the standout features of Procore is its quality and safety module, which helps teams ensure compliance with safety standards and reduce the risk of on-site accidents. It provides tools for conducting safety inspections, tracking incidents, and documenting corrective actions. Additionally, Procore offers a robust document management system, allowing teams to share blueprints, specifications, and contracts in real-time, ensuring that everyone is working with the most up-to-date information.

Procore also offers integrations with other software tools, such as accounting software and BIM (Building Information Modeling) platforms, making it a versatile solution that can adapt to the specific needs of different projects. The platform is accessible via web and mobile applications, allowing team members to stay connected whether they are in the office or on-site.

Best For: Procore is ideal for large construction firms and enterprises that manage complex projects with multiple stakeholders. Its scalability and comprehensive feature set make it a valuable tool for managing all aspects of construction projects.
Platform: Web, Mobile (iOS & Android).

Key Features:

  • Project management (scheduling, task management)

  • Financial management (budget tracking, invoicing)

  • Quality and safety management (compliance tools)

  • Document management (blueprints, specifications)

  • Real-time collaboration across teams

Pros:

  • Comprehensive all-in-one solution for large projects

  • Strong document management with version control

  • Excellent support for project safety and compliance

  • Cloud-based with real-time data sharing

Cons:

  • Expensive for small to mid-sized companies

  • Complex learning curve for new users

  • Custom pricing can be high

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Key Features:

  • Project scheduling and timeline management

  • Client communication portal

  • Budgeting and invoicing tools

  • Document storage and sharing

  • Lead management and proposal generation

Pros:

  • Ideal for residential construction and remodeling projects

  • User-friendly interface with strong client communication tools

  • Integration with QuickBooks for seamless accounting

  • Strong pre-sale lead and proposal management

Cons:

  • Limited customization compared to other platforms

  • Some users report occasional software bugs

  • High pricing may not fit smaller teams

Buildertrend

Buildertrend is a cloud-based construction management software tool specifically designed for residential builders, remodelers, and contractors. Its suite of features includes project scheduling, client management, budgeting, communication, and document storage, all of which are critical for keeping residential projects on track.

One of the core features of Buildertrend is its project scheduling module. This tool allows project managers to create detailed timelines for every stage of construction, assign tasks to team members, and set reminders for critical deadlines. It also allows real-time updates so that everyone on the team has access to the latest schedule changes.

Another valuable feature is the client communication tool, which enables builders to stay connected with clients through a built-in messaging platform. Clients can log into the system to view project progress, approve changes, and send messages to the construction team. This improves transparency and reduces the risk of miscommunication.

Buildertrend also offers robust budgeting tools that help contractors track project costs, manage invoices, and stay within budget. Its financial tools integrate with popular accounting software like QuickBooks, streamlining the financial side of project management. Additionally, Buildertrend includes document storage capabilities, allowing teams to upload contracts, plans, and permits to a central location.

One unique feature of Buildertrend is its customer management system. This tool helps contractors keep track of client preferences, communications, and approvals, ensuring that the project meets the client’s expectations. It also offers pre-sale features such as lead management and proposal generation, helping contractors win more business.

Best For: Residential construction projects, particularly custom home builders and remodelers.
Platform: Web, Mobile (iOS & Android).

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Key Features:

  • Client communication and approvals

  • Budgeting and expense tracking

  • Project scheduling and time tracking

  • Selection management for materials and finishes

  • Integrated with QuickBooks for financial management

Pros:

  • Excellent for custom home builders and remodelers

  • Centralized communication with clients and trade partners

  • Strong budget management tools

  • User-friendly interface with an integrated client portal

Cons:

  • Limited features for large-scale commercial projects

  • Can be expensive for smaller firms

  • More suited for residential than commercial use

CoConstruct

CoConstruct is another cloud-based construction management software tool tailored for custom home builders and remodelers. Its features focus on improving communication between contractors, clients, and trade partners, as well as managing projects from start to finish. With its robust set of tools, CoConstruct helps builders streamline client communication, budgeting, scheduling, and time tracking.

One of CoConstruct's main strengths is its communication tool. Builders can send messages, share project updates, and even receive approvals from clients directly through the platform. This feature eliminates the need for multiple communication channels and ensures that all project-related conversations are organized in one place. CoConstruct also includes a client portal where homeowners can log in to view progress photos, track timelines, and make selections for finishes and materials.

On the budgeting side, CoConstruct offers tools to create detailed estimates, manage invoices, and track project expenses. These features help contractors stay on top of their financials and avoid cost overruns. It also integrates with QuickBooks, making it easy to sync financial data across platforms.

CoConstruct's project management tools include scheduling, task assignment, and time tracking. Contractors can create schedules, assign tasks to team members or subcontractors, and monitor project timelines in real-time. Time tracking tools allow for accurate billing and help contractors keep track of labor costs.

Another unique feature of CoConstruct is its selection management tool. This allows homeowners to make decisions on materials, finishes, and fixtures through the platform, reducing the back-and-forth typically involved in these decisions. Once selections are made, they are automatically incorporated into the project budget and timeline.

Best For: Custom home builders and remodelers who want to streamline client communication and project management.
Platform: Web, Mobile (iOS & Android).

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Key Features:

  • Document management with version control

  • Task management and scheduling tools

  • Real-time field updates with mobile app support

  • Reporting tools (safety inspections, daily reports)

  • Blueprint markups and annotations

Pros:

  • Strong mobile app for field workers

  • Excellent for blueprint management and document control

  • Easy to use for on-site teams

  • Syncs well between office and field

Cons:

  • Pricing may be prohibitive for small teams

  • Limited features for overall project management

  • Primarily designed for field workers rather than office staff

PlanGrid

PlanGrid is a construction productivity software tool designed to streamline field operations and ensure that everyone on the team has access to up-to-date project information. This tool is particularly well-suited for construction teams that require quick access to blueprints, specifications, and documents while on-site. PlanGrid helps bridge the communication gap between the office and the field, providing a unified platform for document management, task management, and reporting.

The core feature of PlanGrid is its document management system, which allows construction teams to upload and share blueprints, drawings, RFIs (Requests for Information), and other construction documents. What sets PlanGrid apart is its ability to offer version control, ensuring that everyone is working with the latest versions of documents. This minimizes the risk of costly mistakes and rework caused by outdated information. Teams can also mark up blueprints with annotations, add photos, and create punch lists directly on the platform.

PlanGrid also includes task management features, which allow project managers to assign tasks to team members, set deadlines, and monitor progress. These tasks are visible to everyone on the team, ensuring accountability and transparency. On-site workers can access these tasks on mobile devices, updating them in real-time to reflect work completed or issues encountered.

Another standout feature of PlanGrid is its reporting capabilities. Teams can generate daily reports, safety inspections, and punch lists, all of which can be shared with stakeholders immediately. This streamlines compliance with safety regulations and improves project documentation, which can be critical in case of audits or disputes.

PlanGrid is particularly strong in its mobile application, which allows field workers to access all the platform’s features on the go, even when offline. The app syncs data once an internet connection is available, ensuring that field teams always have access to the latest project information.

Best For: On-site construction teams who need immediate access to blueprints, drawings, and project documentation. Platform: Web, Mobile (iOS & Android).

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Key Features:

  • Task management and prioritization

  • Scheduling and resource allocation

  • File sharing and version control

  • Real-time field updates

  • Reporting and inspection tools

Pros:

  • Simple and affordable solution for small to mid-sized teams

  • Great task management and field collaboration features

  • Supports real-time updates from the field

  • User-friendly mobile app

Cons:

  • Limited scalability for large projects

  • Lacks advanced financial or accounting tools

  • Few integrations with other construction software

Fieldwire

Fieldwire is a field management software tool that focuses on improving the efficiency of construction teams by providing features for task management, scheduling, file sharing, and reporting. It is particularly well-suited for small to mid-sized construction teams that need a simple and affordable solution for managing field operations.

One of Fieldwire’s key features is its task management tool, which allows project managers to assign tasks to field teams, prioritize them, and set deadlines. Each task can include detailed descriptions, photos, and drawings, ensuring that team members have all the information they need to complete their work. The platform also provides real-time updates, allowing team members to mark tasks as complete or report issues directly from the field.

Scheduling is another core feature of Fieldwire. Project managers can create detailed schedules that outline the sequence of tasks and assign resources to them. These schedules can be shared with the entire team, helping to ensure that everyone is on the same page and aware of upcoming deadlines. Fieldwire’s scheduling feature is particularly useful for coordinating between different subcontractors and trades on larger projects.

Fieldwire’s file sharing capabilities allow teams to upload and store important documents such as blueprints, drawings, and contracts. The platform supports version control, ensuring that everyone is working from the most current set of documents. This reduces the risk of mistakes caused by outdated plans.

Reporting is another strength of Fieldwire. The platform allows project managers to generate detailed reports on project progress, task completion, and safety compliance. These reports can be shared with stakeholders, helping to maintain transparency and accountability on the project.

Fieldwire is known for its ease of use and affordability, making it an attractive option for smaller teams or companies looking for a straightforward solution to manage field operations.

Best For: Small to mid-sized construction teams looking for an affordable and easy-to-use field management tool. Platform: Web, Mobile (iOS & Android).

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Key Features:

  • Construction takeoff and estimating software that allows users to measure areas, lengths, volumes, and counts directly from digital blueprints.

  • Supports various file formats such as PDF, DWG, TIFF, and more for blueprint imports.

  • Customizable templates and plugins to tailor workflows for specific projects and industries.

  • Integrated reporting features that allow for material and cost estimation based on takeoffs.

  • Drag-and-drop functionality for quick and easy quantity estimations.

Pros:

  • Speeds up the process of creating accurate construction estimates from digital blueprints.

  • Supports multiple file formats, making it easy to work with different types of plans.

  • Customizable templates and workflows that adapt to specific industry needs.

  • User-friendly interface, which makes it suitable for both beginners and experienced professionals.

  • Helps reduce errors in quantity takeoffs and cost estimations by automating measurements and calculations.

Cons:

  • High upfront cost for purchasing the software, especially for small businesses or contractors.

  • Requires a learning curve to use the more advanced features effectively.

  • Lacks advanced integration with some other project management tools and systems.

  • Relies heavily on the quality of the uploaded blueprints; low-quality scans can lead to inaccuracies.

  • Can become expensive when purchasing additional plugins or custom templates.

Planswift

PlanSwift is a powerful tool for construction project managers, designed to streamline the process of creating accurate estimates and takeoffs. In the construction industry, accurate cost estimation is crucial for the success of a project. Delays, budget overruns, and resource mismanagement can all stem from poor estimation practices. PlanSwift simplifies this process by allowing project managers to quickly measure and analyze construction plans digitally, eliminating the need for traditional manual methods that are often time-consuming and prone to errors.

The digital takeoff process in PlanSwift ensures precision in measurements and calculations. Project managers can use the software to upload digital plans and measure areas, lengths, and quantities directly on the screen. This allows for greater accuracy in determining the materials needed for a project, ensuring that budgets are well-planned and resources are allocated effectively. By reducing the risk of human error that often accompanies manual takeoffs, PlanSwift helps in preventing cost overruns and ensuring that estimates are closely aligned with the actual needs of the project.

Moreover, PlanSwift allows construction managers to manage multiple projects simultaneously, making it easier to track various stages of each job. With its user-friendly interface, project managers can work on complex projects while keeping an eye on real-time changes in quantities and costs. This enables more dynamic decision-making, allowing project adjustments to be made swiftly and in response to real-time data. The software’s ability to integrate with other tools and systems also ensures seamless communication between teams and departments, improving overall project coordination.

The efficiency PlanSwift brings to the estimation process allows construction project managers to focus on other critical aspects of their job, such as project planning and execution. With more accurate takeoffs and estimates, they can allocate resources more effectively, negotiate better contracts with suppliers, and ensure that projects stay within budget and on schedule. By automating much of the estimation process, PlanSwift frees up valuable time, allowing managers to focus on leadership and strategy rather than administrative tasks.

In conclusion, PlanSwift offers construction project managers a significant advantage by improving accuracy, efficiency, and decision-making capabilities. Its digital approach to takeoffs eliminates many of the challenges associated with manual estimation methods, helping to reduce errors, save time, and improve project outcomes. By using PlanSwift, project managers can better plan, budget, and execute their projects, ensuring that they meet client expectations and achieve successful results.

Best For: Construction professionals and contractors seeking efficient takeoff and estimating solutions.
Platform: Desktop.

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Key Features:

  • Financial management (accounting, payroll, job costing)

  • Project management (task management, resource allocation)

  • Human resources management tools

  • Document control and contract management

  • Compliance tracking and safety reporting

Pros:

  • Highly customizable and scalable for large enterprises

  • Strong financial management tools integrated with project management

  • Designed for complex, multi-location projects

  • Excellent document and contract management features

Cons:

  • Expensive and designed for large-scale construction firms

  • Complexity may require extensive training

  • Customization can be overwhelming for smaller teams

CMiC

CMiC is an enterprise-level construction management software tool that offers a wide range of features for financial management, project management, human resources, and compliance tracking. CMiC is designed to help large construction companies manage complex projects across multiple locations, making it a popular choice for firms that operate at an international scale.

The financial management tools in CMiC are among its strongest features. CMiC offers accounting, job costing, payroll, and financial reporting tools that allow construction companies to manage their finances with precision. The platform integrates with other project management tools, providing real-time visibility into the financial health of individual projects.

CMiC’s project management features include scheduling, task management, resource allocation, and document control. Project managers can use these tools to create detailed project plans, assign tasks to team members, and track progress in real-time. CMiC also provides tools for managing contracts with subcontractors and vendors, helping to ensure that all parties are held accountable for their work.

Compliance tracking is another key feature of CMiC. The platform helps construction companies stay compliant with safety regulations, labor laws, and environmental standards. CMiC provides tools for tracking safety incidents, conducting inspections, and ensuring that all documentation is up-to-date.

CMiC is known for its scalability, making it a popular choice for large construction companies that manage multiple projects simultaneously. The platform is highly customizable, allowing companies to tailor it to their specific needs.

Best For: Enterprise-level construction companies with complex project management and financial needs. Platform: Web.

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Key Features:

  • Project management and scheduling tools

  • Accounting and job costing

  • Service management for ongoing maintenance

  • Document management and version control

  • Inventory and equipment tracking

Pros:

  • All-in-one solution for contractors and specialty trades

  • Strong accounting and financial management features

  • Excellent service management tools for ongoing contracts

  • Good document and contract management

Cons:

  • Custom pricing can be high for small businesses

  • Limited scalability for extremely large projects

  • User interface can feel outdated compared to competitors

Jonas Construction Software

Jonas Construction Software is a comprehensive tool designed for contractors who need an all-in-one platform to manage both the operational and financial aspects of their construction business. It provides robust functionality for project management, accounting, service management, and document management, making it a versatile solution for general contractors, subcontractors, and specialty trades.

One of the core strengths of Jonas Construction Software is its project management module, which allows contractors to manage every aspect of a project, from planning and scheduling to tracking costs and progress. This tool helps contractors create detailed project timelines, assign tasks to team members, and monitor the completion of each task in real-time. The platform also offers integrated job costing tools, which allow contractors to track expenses, forecast budgets, and analyze project profitability.

Jonas Construction Software also excels in financial management, offering a full range of accounting tools designed specifically for the construction industry. These include accounts payable, accounts receivable, general ledger, and payroll. The software integrates financial management with project management, ensuring that financial data is automatically updated as project changes occur. This reduces the risk of errors and allows contractors to make informed financial decisions based on real-time data.

In addition to its core project and financial management features, Jonas Construction Software includes a service management module, which is particularly useful for contractors who provide ongoing maintenance and repair services. This module helps contractors manage service requests, schedule technicians, and track the progress of service jobs. The platform also includes tools for managing equipment and inventory, making it easier for contractors to track the status of tools and materials.

Jonas Construction Software also provides document management capabilities, allowing contractors to store and share project-related documents such as contracts, drawings, and permits. The platform includes version control, ensuring that all team members are working with the most current documents. This helps reduce the risk of errors and miscommunication.

Best For: General contractors and specialty trades looking for an all-in-one solution that covers project management, accounting, and service management.
Platform: Web, Mobile (iOS & Android).

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Key Features:

  • Document control and version tracking

  • Project management and task tracking

  • Time tracking and labor management

  • Built-in communication tools

  • Mobile-friendly for field workers

Pros:

  • Designed specifically for subcontractors

  • Streamlines communication between subcontractors and general contractors

  • Strong document control features

  • Mobile-friendly, making it easy to manage field operations

Cons:

  • Limited features for general contractors

  • Can feel limited for larger teams or companies

  • Custom pricing structure can add up quickly

eSUB Subcontractor Software

eSUB is a cloud-based construction management software tool tailored specifically for subcontractors. It focuses on improving communication and document control between subcontractors, general contractors, and project owners. It offers project management, time tracking, and document control features that help subcontractors manage their projects efficiently and maintain compliance with contractual requirements.

A key feature of eSUB is its document control system, which ensures that all project documentation—such as RFIs, submittals, and change orders—is organized and easily accessible. This system helps subcontractors manage the flow of documentation between themselves and the general contractor, reducing the risk of miscommunication and delays. eSUB also provides tools for tracking approvals and ensuring that documentation is submitted on time, which is critical for staying compliant with project requirements.

eSUB also offers a robust project management module that allows subcontractors to track the progress of their work, manage tasks, and monitor labor hours. Subcontractors can create project schedules, assign tasks to their team, and receive real-time updates on the status of each task. This helps improve coordination between different teams and ensures that the project stays on track.

Time tracking is another important feature of eSUB, allowing subcontractors to track labor hours and generate accurate timesheets. This tool integrates with payroll systems, helping subcontractors streamline their payroll process and reduce errors. Additionally, eSUB’s mobile application allows field workers to log their hours directly from the job site, ensuring accurate and timely data collection.

One of the standout features of eSUB is its emphasis on communication. The platform includes a built-in messaging system that allows subcontractors to communicate with general contractors, project managers, and other stakeholders in real-time. This improves transparency and reduces the risk of miscommunication, which can lead to costly delays.

Best For: Subcontractors looking to streamline project management and improve communication with general contractors.
Platform: Web, Mobile (iOS & Android).

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Key Features:

  • Integration with BIM for real-time design collaboration

  • Document management and version control

  • Quality and safety management tools

  • Cost management and forecasting

  • Project coordination and clash detection

Pros:

  • Excellent for large-scale, BIM-based projects

  • Strong document management and version control features

  • Real-time collaboration between design and construction teams

  • Great for managing complex construction designs

Cons:

  • Custom pricing can be expensive for small firms

  • Primarily suited for companies working with BIM models

  • Complexity can overwhelm smaller teams

Autodesk Construction Cloud (formerly BIM 360)

Autodesk Construction Cloud is a powerful construction management tool that integrates with BIM (Building Information Modeling) technology to streamline project coordination, design collaboration, and document management. It is designed for companies that work with large-scale projects involving complex building designs and extensive collaboration between architects, engineers, and contractors.

One of the key features of Autodesk Construction Cloud is its project coordination tool, which allows multiple teams to collaborate on building designs in real-time. This tool integrates with Autodesk’s suite of design software (such as AutoCAD and Revit) and provides a cloud-based environment where teams can share models, identify design clashes, and resolve issues before construction begins. This helps reduce errors and rework, saving time and money on the project.

Autodesk Construction Cloud also includes powerful document management tools that allow teams to store, share, and review project documents such as blueprints, specifications, and contracts. The platform supports version control, ensuring that everyone is working with the most up-to-date information. It also includes approval workflows, allowing teams to track and manage document approvals efficiently.

The quality and safety management tools in Autodesk Construction Cloud help construction teams ensure compliance with safety standards and reduce the risk of on-site incidents. These tools allow teams to conduct safety inspections, track incidents, and generate reports that can be shared with stakeholders and regulatory authorities. The platform also offers tools for tracking punch lists and managing issue resolution.

Another standout feature of Autodesk Construction Cloud is its cost management module, which allows project managers to track budgets, manage change orders, and forecast costs. This tool integrates with the platform’s project management and document management tools, providing a unified view of project costs and helping teams stay on budget.

Autodesk Construction Cloud is particularly strong in its integration with BIM technology, making it a popular choice for companies involved in large, complex projects where coordination between multiple teams is critical.

Best For: Companies involved in large-scale BIM projects that require extensive collaboration and coordination between design and construction teams.
Platform: Web, Mobile (iOS & Android).

Best for Construction Scheduling

The top construction scheduling software helps streamline project timelines, resource allocation, and task management, ensuring efficient planning and execution. With real-time updates and collaborative features, these tools enhance productivity and keep projects on track to meet deadlines.

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black blue and yellow textile

Primavera P6

Widely used in the construction industry, Primavera P6 by Oracle is a powerful project management and scheduling tool. It allows for large-scale, complex project planning, with features such as multi-user collaboration, resource management, and critical path method (CPM) scheduling. It’s ideal for large construction projects requiring detailed scheduling and advanced reporting.

Key features:

  • Supports multiple project views

  • Extensive resource and cost management tools

  • Critical path and baseline analysis

a man riding a skateboard down the side of a ramp
a man riding a skateboard down the side of a ramp
a man riding a skateboard down a street next to tall buildings
a man riding a skateboard down a street next to tall buildings

Microsoft Project

Microsoft Project is one of the most well-known scheduling tools, offering user-friendly interfaces and integration with other Microsoft Office products. It provides robust scheduling features, task management, and resource allocation, making it popular for both small and large construction projects.

Key features:

  • Gantt chart for task visualization

  • Real-time collaboration with team members

  • Easy integration with Office 365

Procore

Procore is a comprehensive construction management platform that offers robust scheduling features. It integrates scheduling with other project management tools like document control, budget tracking, and resource management. It’s ideal for teams looking for a collaborative platform to manage both field and office workflows.

Key features:

  • Real-time updates and collaboration

  • Gantt charts and calendar views for scheduling

  • Mobile access for on-site management

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Best for Construction Cost Estimate

The best software for construction cost estimation should offer accurate digital takeoffs, detailed cost calculation tools, and integration with project management systems. It ensures precise budgeting, resource allocation, and improved efficiency across all project types, from small residential to large infrastructure projects.

black blue and yellow textile
black blue and yellow textile

PlanSwift

PlanSwift is a popular tool for contractors and estimators due to its drag-and-drop takeoff features. It enables accurate material, labor, and overhead cost calculations, allowing for seamless integration with Excel for more detailed reporting. PlanSwift is commonly used by trade contractors for quick and accurate cost estimations.

Key features:

  • Easy-to-use digital takeoff features

  • Accurate material and labor costing

  • Excel integration for custom reports

  • Customizable templates for different trades

a man riding a skateboard down the side of a ramp
a man riding a skateboard down the side of a ramp
a man riding a skateboard down a street next to tall buildings
a man riding a skateboard down a street next to tall buildings

Bluebeam Revu

Bluebeam Revu is a versatile tool for construction professionals that offers digital workflows, including robust estimation features. It allows users to perform digital takeoffs and markups directly on PDF drawings, making it ideal for both cost estimation and project collaboration. Bluebeam integrates with other construction management tools, allowing for a seamless estimation process from start to finish.

Key features:

  • Accurate digital takeoffs and measurement tools

  • Markup and annotation features for collaboration

  • Integration with construction management platforms

  • PDF-based workflow for sharing and reviewing estimates

ProEst

ProEst is a cloud-based solution designed to provide highly detailed cost estimation and digital takeoff tools. With its cloud accessibility, ProEst is ideal for teams that need real-time collaboration on estimates, project bids, and reporting, offering integration with Procore for streamlined project management.

Key features:

  • Digital takeoffs and cloud-based collaboration

  • Detailed cost estimating and bidding tools

  • Reporting and analysis features

  • Integration with project management platforms like Procore

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