Guide

Language:

Best Scheduling Software for Construction Businesses

Alison K Plaut
By Alison K Plaut
Published on 21 Jan 2024 6 min read
Best Scheduling Software for Construction Businesses

Construction timelines are notoriously delicate. Move a single part, and it affects the whole construction timeline. On top of that, the construction industry moves fast, meaning that you’ll need effective management and clear projections to stay ahead of the competition. The best scheduling software for construction businesses can help you optimize resource allocation, meet deadlines, and effectively manage projects through critical stages. Find the best options below. 

9 Best Construction Scheduling Software

Whether you’re starting a handyman business, building a construction company with $10k, or you’re already a one-person construction company, or you’re managing multiple teams, the nine best construction scheduling software options below offer excellent value and improved efficiency to help you stay on schedule. 

ClickUp

The first option of the best scheduling software for construction is ClickUp, which gives you complete control over project timelines, resources, and deadlines. It has a user-friendly interface to help you easily manage project schedules, assign and track tasks, and hit key completion targets. There’s a free version and paid versions range from $7 to $12 per member per month, with customized enterprise pricing.  

Pros of ClickUp

  • Real-time updates and notifications
  • Identify dependencies, critical paths, and potential bottlenecks
  • Control project timelines and resources
  • User-friendly
  • Gantt Chart templates 

Cons of ClickUp

  • Too complex for some construction companies

Float

Float allows you to track projects in real time and easily import data from other project management tools and calendars. It also offers a live timeline to help with resource allocation based on the currently available capacity. Pricing starts at $6 per month, or you can request a custom enterprise quote.  

Pros of Float

  • Easy to use
  • Good integrations
  • Real-time tracking
  • Good customer service and reviews

Cons of Float

  • Projects aren’t built automatically
  • The autocomplete feature doesn’t work well

e-Builder

e-Builder is best suited for managers of large capital projects, with premium features like project financial analysis and detailed project schedules. It also offers linked budgets and schedules, critical path analysis, and automation. e-Builder only offers customized enterprise pricing. 

Pros of e-Builder

  • Automation
  • Linked budgets and timelines
  • Contractors can easily see deviations

Cons of e-Builder

  • Reduced third-party platform sync
  • Complex onboarding process

Orangescrum

Unlike others on this list, Orangescrum is an open-source scheduling and project management software. It offers calendar templates, shareable schedules, and remote management. It’s a practical, low-cost solution that can help you coordinate with those on the job site. There is a free version and for paid plans, prices range from $8 to $40 per month. 

Pros of Orangescrum

  • Custom task status
  • Custom role access
  • Resource utilization
  • Agile/scrum methodology
  • Gantt Chart
  • Kanban board
  • 5GB storage
  • Invoice management
  • Real-time notifications

Cons of Orangescrum

  • No drag-and-drop options
  • Not the best option for large businesses

Procore

Procore is one of the best scheduling software for construction that makes it easier for construction teams to plan, track, and optimize project schedules effectively. The robust scheduling app includes real-time updates, critical path analysis, and resource allocation, allowing you to easily coordinate tasks and streamline workflows.

Pros of Procore

  • Unlimited data
  • Unlimited users
  • 24/7 support
  • Enterprise-grade security
  • Cloud-based
  • Do everything from invoicing to RFI and change order management in one place

Cons of Procore

  • You’re dependent on Procore’s infrastructure
  • It’s too complex for simpler construction projects

Archdesk

Archdesk offers comprehensive project scheduling with detailed project schedules, precise task sequencing,  dependencies, and durations. Get real-time monitoring notifications, easily identify bottlenecks, and keep all team members informed. 

Archdesk stands out from competitors with its advanced analytics and reporting on project performance, resource utilization, and productivity. Its essentials plan starts at $790, while professional and enterprise plans require a customized quote

Pros of Archdesk

  • Comprehensive project scheduling package
  • Precise sequencing
  • Real-time notifications
  • Dependencies
  • Advanced analytics and reporting

Cons of Archdesk

  • Compatibility issues 
  • You’ll need computers and other high-cost hardware to use it effectively

Contractor Foreman

Contractor Foreman is a contractor management software solution known for being easy to use. It was developed by a contractor with the unique needs of contractors in mind, from scheduling and project planning to cost estimates. 

Contractor Foreman offers unlimited projects, making it a good choice for contractors managing multiple workloads. Prices start at $49 a month. 

Pros of Contractor Foreman

  • Ease of use
  • Simple interface 
  • Unlimited projects
  • Free training and support with all pricing models

Cons of Contractor Foreman

  • Fewer customizations than other options

Fieldwire

If you’re looking for a project management software for construction that includes scheduling capabilities, consider Fieldwire. It allows you to generate PDF reports to track the project schedule better. Fieldwire comes with mobile view planning as both a web-based platform and a mobile app. 

Unlike competitors, it has as-built tools, offline capabilities, and document management. There’s a limited free version. Paid versions range from $39 to $74 per user per month. 

Pros of Fieldwire

  • Excellent app
  • Document organization
  • Offline capabilities
  • PDF generator

Cons of Fieldwire

  • Limited uploads

Buildertrend

Buildertrend is another strong contender designed for contractors, from small businesses to large construction companies. The client management capabilities built into the platform mean clients can also receive real-time updates. The sales management side of Buildertrend is unique and allows contractors to track the project’s entire lifecycle from initial lead generation.

Pros of Buildertrend

  • Includes excellent client management integrations
  • Sale and lead generation tracking
  • Designed for contractors
  • Easy to use

Cons of Buildertrend

  • Occasional software issues with access or sharing with clients

What Is Construction Scheduling Software?

Construction scheduling software is a project-planning tool that includes everything from material sourcing or lead generation to project timelines, custom task status, custom role access, resource utilization, agile/scrum methodology, Gantt Charts, and Kanban boards. Each system is unique, but the best scheduling software for construction integrates many features into one, offering a one-stop shop for construction planning, scheduling, and management. 

What Is the Importance of Scheduling Software for Your Construction Business? 

The benefits of scheduling software for construction businesses include reduced delays, accurate costing, better document management and coordination, real-time notifications for contractors and clients, and effective risk management, among others. 

Features to Look for in Construction Scheduling Software

When buying construction scheduling software, look at the customizable features, automatic scheduling, updates, and more. Here’s what you should consider:

Customizable Features

The best scheduling software for construction offers customizable features that adapt to the unique business needs of builders and contractors. 

Automatic Scheduling and Rescheduling Capabilities

Automatic scheduling and rescheduling capabilities mean that the project automatically adjusts to current timelines and issues. Many also integrate with the current availability of materials and automatically adjust timelines. 

Mobile Accessibility

Mobile accessibility makes it easier to find information and planning on the job site and receive real-time updates wherever you are. 

Resource Allocation and Management

Resource allocation and management include assigning specific tasks or people based on priorities. It is important to track allocations based on shifting project needs. The best construction scheduling software helps you allocate resources and easily manage projects. 

Real-Time Updates and Notifications

The best scheduling software for construction includes real-time updates, notifications, and key information. Some also offer real-time client notifications. 

Choosing the Best Scheduling Software for Construction Businesses 

Construction scheduling software is a simple, cost-effective solution to save time and automate construction processes. While growing your business, automation can improve overall business profitability. Consider automating accounting systems as well with doola’s best-in-class bookkeeping software. Get doola books to help you with accounting and financial management so you can focus on company growth! 

FAQs

How much does scheduling software for construction typically cost?

The cost of scheduling software for construction ranges from free simple systems to software that costs thousands of dollars. The higher-cost options include premium project management software for large enterprises and major construction companies. 

Can construction scheduling software handle multiple projects and subcontractors?

Yes, many construction scheduling software options can handle multiple projects and subcontractors. However, some project scheduling software options have much more limited scheduling options. 

Can scheduling software for construction generate reports and analytics for project tracking and analysis?

Yes, construction scheduling software can generate reports and analytics for project tracking and analysis. However, you should carefully check the functionality or use a free trial to ensure that your chosen software can generate adequate reports. 

Can construction scheduling software be integrated with other project management tools?

Some of the best construction scheduling software integrate with other project management tools. They may also integrate with accounting, payroll, HR, or other software. 

Is construction scheduling software user-friendly for both office staff and field workers?

Yes, construction scheduling software is user-friendly for office staff and field workers. Options that include mobile apps or offline functionality make it easier to work on the go. 

Start your dream business with doola today

We form your U.S. business in any of the 50 states and ensure it stays 100% compliant.

The newsletter for entrepreneurs

Join millions of self-starters in getting business resources, tips, and inspiring stories in your inbox.

By entering your email, you agree to receive marketing emails from doola.
Unsubscribe anytime.

Start your dream business with doola today

Sign up for free and access all the tools to start, manage, and grow your business.

Best Scheduling Software for Construction Businesses