7 Best Apps for Contractors in 2023

Contractor apps are innovative software solutions designed to help professionals in the construction and related industries manage various aspects of their businesses. These apps cover a wide range of functionalities, including project management, scheduling, budgeting, and communication. The increasing number of available apps for contractors in 2023 showcases the importance of incorporating technology to streamline operations and improve efficiency in this sector.

Contractor apps are used by professionals to not only save time but also to optimize their workflow and enhance collaboration among team members. These versatile tools provide a centralized platform to access crucial job information, track project progress, generate essential reports, and manage resources effectively. As the construction industry continues to evolve, embracing these technological advancements becomes increasingly vital for contractors seeking to remain competitive and deliver outstanding results to their clients.

In this article, we’ll take a deeper look at the best apps for contractors and help you to make the right choice depending on your specific needs.

What Are the Best Apps for Contractors in 2024?

To answer this question, we have tested various construction time tracking software applications in this category, based on features, price, user-friendliness, support, integrations, and many more factors. In this section, we will disclose our findings to help you choose the best solution for your needs, focusing on the evaluation criteria.

Top Best Construction Apps Comparison & Ratings Chart

In today's construction industry, it is essential to stay updated with the latest advancements to boost productivity. There are numerous apps available that cater to various tasks and needs within the construction process. Here is a comparison chart showcasing the top construction apps along with their best use cases and pricing:

The 7 Best Contractor Apps Reviewed

1. Atto

Atto is a powerful time tracking and management software for contractors and construction companies. This easy-to-use app is designed to help contractors keep accurate records of their work hours, manage projects, and optimize team productivity. It is suitable for businesses of all sizes.

Best Features

• Time Tracking: Accurately track work hours, breaks, and overtime with GPS location stamps.

• Team Management: Monitor employees' locations, manage schedules, and assign tasks in real-time.

• Automated Timesheets: Generate timesheets automatically, making payroll and invoicing a breeze.

• Payroll Processing: Automate payroll processing, tax calculations, and tax filings while ensuring timely payments

Pros

1. Intuitive user interface and easy-to-learn.

2. Robust reporting and analytic tools.

3. Improved construction project management

4. Integrates with popular project management and accounting software.

Pricing

• Free: Limited features for up to 5 users.

• Premium: $9.95 per user/month for unlimited users and access to advanced features.

2. Procore

Procore is a comprehensive construction management software built to streamline project management, collaboration, and communication. Trusted by professionals across the construction industry, Procore boasts robust features that help manage every aspect of a project, from bidding to closeout.

Best Features

• Drawing Management: Easily import, markup and share drawings, documents, and plans electronically.

• RFIs and Submittals: Simplify the RFI and submittal process, reducing miscommunication and delays.

• Project Scheduling: Collaborate on schedules, assign tasks and deadlines, setting milestones for projects.

Pros

1. Versatile and scalable for various sizes of projects.

2. User-friendly interface with seamless navigation.

3. Powerful mobile app for access on-the-go.

Cons

1. Can be overwhelming for smaller teams or projects.

2. Integrations with third-party applications can be limited.

3. Subscription cost can be higher than competitors.

Pricing

• Contact Procore for custom pricing based on the size and requirements of your organization.

3. Raken

Raken is a mobile-first construction management app that focuses on streamlining daily reporting, time tracking, and communication between construction teams. Ideal for small to mid-sized contractors, Raken is designed to be user-friendly and efficient in enhancing on-site workflows.

Best Features

• Daily Reporting: Save time with automated daily construction reports generated from field activities.

• Safety & Quality Management: Maintain safety standards with customizable inspection templates and incident reports.

• Resource Management: Track manpower, materials, and equipment usage with real-time project monitoring.

Pros

1. Simple and easy-to-use interface.

2. Quick implementation with minimal training required.

3. Excellent customer support and resources.

Cons

1. Limited third-party integrations.

2. May lack advanced features for large, complex projects.

3. File storage and organization could be improved.

Pricing

• Starter: $15 per month per project.

• Performance: $30 per month per project.

• Enterprise: Contact Raken for custom pricing.

4. Lets Build

Lets Build is a versatile construction management platform that offers end-to-end solutions for project planning, site management, and team collaboration. Equipped with a suite of powerful tools and integrations, Lets Build is ideal for general contractors and specialized subcontractors.

Best Features

• Project Planning: Plan, schedule, and manage construction projects with real-time data.

• Site Management: Track project progress, manage resources, and maintain safety.

• Collaboration: Share project updates and communication with all stakeholders seamlessly.

Pros

1. Intuitive interface with drag-and-drop functionality.

2. Highly customizable with a wide range of features.

3. Strong third-party integrations for seamless workflow.

Cons

1. Steeper learning curve for new users.

2. Some features may require additional training or assistance.

3. High subscription cost for smaller businesses.

Pricing

• Contact Lets Build for pricing information based on your organization's requirements.

5. Fieldwire

Fieldwire is a flexible field management app designed to help contractors and construction professionals easily manage projects from the field. With a simple, user-friendly interface and a variety of powerful features, Fieldwire is perfect for small to large construction projects.

Best Features

• Task Management: Assign tasks, set priorities, and monitor progress effortlessly.

• Drawing & Document Management: Quickly access, organize, and share project files.

• Communication & Collaboration: Stay updated on project developments through real-time messaging.

Pros

1. Intuitive interface with minimal learning curve.

2. Reliable mobile app for on-the-go use.

3. Budget-friendly pricing for small to medium-sized businesses.

Cons

1. Limited customization options.

2. May require exporting data for more in-depth analysis.

3. Some users report occasional app performance issues.

Pricing

• Basic: Free for up to 5 users, limited features.

• Pro: $39 per user/month, full feature access.

• Premier: Contact Fieldwire for custom enterprise pricing.

6. Plangrid

Plangrid is a popular project management and collaboration app that helps construction teams streamline document management, resource tracking, and communication. With its straightforward interface and easy-to-use features, Plangrid is suitable for all construction professionals.

Best Features

• Document Management: Access and manage all your construction documents in one place.

• Issue Tracking: Track and resolve project issues with an organized system.

• Real-time Collaboration: Foster team communication through notes, photos, and live sharing.

Pros

1. Easy-to-use interface with quick implementation.

2. Efficient project mark-up and tracking features.

3. Excellent offline capabilities for field use.

Cons

1. File management can be cumbersome.

2. Limited integration with other software platforms.

3. Interface may appear cluttered.

Pricing

• Starter: $39 per user/month.

• Pro: $59 per user/month for enhanced features.

• Premium: Contact Plangrid for custom enterprise pricing.

7. Zoho Projects

Zoho Projects is a robust construction project management software known for its extensive suite of features, customization options, and integrations. Catering to businesses of all sizes, Zoho Projects is designed to streamline project management efficiency.

Best Features

• Task Management: Organize, assign, and track tasks effectively with Kanban boards and Gantt charts.

• Time Tracking: Monitor project hours and estimate accurate completion times.

• Analytics: Utilize detailed reports and customizable dashboards for data-driven decision making.

Pros

1. Highly customizable with extensive features.

2. Seamless integration with other Zoho products and third-party apps.

3. Affordable pricing options.

Cons

1. Steeper learning curve for new users.

2. Mobile app experience may slightly underperform.

3. Occasional slow load times during peak usage.

Pricing

• Free: Basic features for up to 3 users.

• Standard: $3 per user/month.

• Premium: $6 per user/month.

• Enterprise: $10 per user/month.

What Features to Look for When Choosing an App?

When selecting the perfect contractors app, there are several essential features to consider that address the unique needs of the industry. The following features are what you should be looking for when choosing an app to aid your contracting business in project management, communication, and organization.

1. Scheduling

Efficient scheduling and time tracking are necessary for coordinating projects, assigning tasks, and ensuring timely completion. Apps with a strong scheduling component can help streamline operations by allocating resources, tracking individual progress, and automating reminders.

2. Accounting: Managing finances is a crucial aspect of being a successful contractor. Appropriate accounting features can help you monitor cash flow, track expenses, and simplify tax preparation. Look for apps with integrated invoicing, expense tracking, and financial reporting.

3. Documentation: Being a contractor involves managing a vast amount of paperwork, such as contracts, permits, and work orders. An app that allows you to capture, store, and share essential documents can help you stay organized and ensure that critical documentation is always accessible.

4. Billing: Prompt and accurate invoicing means receiving payment faster. Seek an app that simplifies the billing process by automating invoice generation and tracking income. Integrated payment processing and integration capabilities with popular accounting software are also essential.

5. Integrations: The ability to integrate with other popular software applications can significantly increase the potential of your chosen app. Look for compatibility with software your business already uses, such as project management platforms, accounting applications, and CRM tools.

6. Customer Support: Having reliable customer support is essential for any software application, especially for contractors. Prioritize apps that offer dependable customer support channels, such as chat, email, or phone, to ensure you can promptly address any issues or queries.

Which of the Best Apps for Construction Is Right for You?

How to select the apps for construction? When choosing the right app for your construction business, it's essential to consider the features and functionalities relevant to your specific needs. Here's a rundown of key aspects you should look for:

Project Tracking: Efficient project management is vital in construction. Look for apps that offer real-time updates, task assignments, and progress tracking. Platforms like Atto, Procore, and Fieldwire are known for their project tracking capabilities.

Budgeting: A contractor app should help you keep track of expenses, calculate project costs, and avoid exceeding budgets. Some apps, like All-In-One Calculator, offer numerous calculators and unit converters suitable for construction.

Invoicing: Timely and accurate invoicing is crucial to maintain cash flow. Apps like FreshBooks and Workyard offer invoicing features that can streamline your billing process and ensure proper documentation.

Reporting: The ability to create and customize reports is essential for evaluating your project's performance. Look for apps that offer advanced reporting features to make data-driven decisions and optimize resources. Some of these apps include Smartsheet and LetsBuild.

Timesheets: Keeping track of employee work hours is essential for payroll and labor cost calculations. Consider apps like Atto and Zoho Projects, which offer timesheet and scheduling features that make it easy to monitor and manage your workforce.