The 11 Best PlanGrid Alternatives (2023)

PlanGrid is a construction software designed to manage your blueprints, drawings, and other documents easily. It automatically renders and organises the documents you upload, handling all your paperwork.

However, it only covers some aspects of construction management. 

Its main advantage is providing a platform for smooth access to project documents, enhanced document control, and increased efficiency. But, like any software, PlanGrid has its limitations that users may face during their experience: 

• Limited customisation options.

• Potential challenges in integrating with other construction software tools.

• Steep learning curve for new users.

• Dependency on stable internet connectivity.

• Occasional reports of delays in customer support response and issue resolution.

While PlanGrid is a popular solution for construction software, numerous alternatives exist for those seeking different features or a more streamlined approach.

This article discusses the best PlanGrid alternatives to help cross-functional teams align their objectives and streamline communication. 

Best PlanGrid Alternatives (2023)

Scroll down halfway for a deep dive into each software with Capterra and G2 ratings and pricing information.

• 1. Archdesk
• 2. CoConstruct
• 3. JobProgress
• 4. Procore
• 5. Autodesk Construction Cloud
• 6. Buildertrend
• 7. PlanSwift
• 8. Causeway Technologies
• 9. Monday.com
• 10. Smartsheet
• 11. Viewpoint Spectrum

1. Archdesk 

Archdesk, a cloud-based construction management platform, is a top alternative to PlanGrid.

The system offers tools to manage projects, finances, analytics, and assets- with all construction data in one place. 

You can access the software anytime and anywhere to check what's happening on your project. Thanks to that, you can react swiftly to any changes and save your project from being a financial fiasco.

Your team is on the same page and can obtain maximum productivity thanks to a real-time view of project data.

Use Archdesk to make smart, data-driven decisions that will make your business grow.

Archdesk features

• Tools to manage construction processes from A to Z: projects, finances, scheduling resources and RFIs.
• One single source of truth- all construction data in one place.
• Fast and efficient data flow, which improves internal & external communication.
• Document management with custom control options and access anytime you need.

Archdesk Pros

• You can customise Archdesk solutions to your company’s needs.
• You can integrate Archdesk with other tools.
• You can see your data in real time and make well-informed decisions.
• You can access the system anytime and anywhere and work with maximum efficiency.

Archdesk Pricing

Archdesk Reviews

Capterra Rating: 4.6/5
G2 Rating: 4.3/5

"There is no doubt in my mind that we wouldn't have grown as far as we have without Archdesk. Knowing my company has a solid structure and system in place, I have every confidence that our growth will continue and will be manageable." Gary B. Capterra

2. CoConstruct

CoConstruct is a construction project management software that makes organising construction projects easier for custom house builders and remodelers.

Various features make the building process more manageable, such as timesheet management, expense monitoring, cost estimation, and proposal development.

It also makes it simpler to manage projects by tracking leads, and sharing files and photos, among other things.

CoConstruct main features

• The CRM and client communication serve as a great alternative to PlanGrid.

• The software provides tools for lead identification, proposal development, and ensuring customer satisfaction with project progress.

• Core functionality encompasses estimating, CRM, bidding, accounting, scheduling, and change orders, offering a comprehensive suite of features.

CoConstruct Pros

• Cloud-based solution with a mobile app.

• Good CRM and client communication features.

• Offers efficient RFP process and scheduling.

CoConstruct Cons

• Somewhat outdated user interface and can run slower than its alternatives.

• Limited options for third-party integrations.

• Limited reporting options for project managers.

CoConstruct Pricing

• Standard – $99/mo

• Plus – Starting $399/mo

CoConstruct Reviews

Capterra Rating: 4.7/5
G2 Rating: 4/5

“Easy way to keep track of schedules, change orders, photos from site etc. When used on my phone, a lot of the time the projects won't load, therefor cannot access information on site, which is sometimes critical.” – Capterra

3.  JobProgress

JobProgress is a productivity and task management tool and a great alternative to PlanGrid for contractors, estimators, and service companies to manage their work.

With the help of JobProgress, users can schedule tasks, create invoices, calculate costs, communicate with clients, and manage jobs from anywhere.

It offers a plethora of features, including a customisable workflow manager, a client management tool, a dashboard work centre, the capacity to develop proposals and contracts rapidly, and secure cloud storage.

JobProgress main features

• Offers a customisable workflow management solution that gives project managers an umbrella view of their projects.

• Offers a CRM tool that aids users in managing their client interactions.

• The mobile app makes it easy to access project information on the go.

JobProgress Pros

• Users can assign tasks and schedule them using scheduling tools.

• Connects to other business applications like QuickBooks.

• Offers an account manager for onboarding.

JobProgress Cons

• Getting used to the platform could take a while.

• Some users may find the software's user interface to be too complex.

• Not as customisable as other alternatives of PlanGrid.

JobProgress Pricing

• $79/mo per user with a $500 setup fee

JobProgress Reviews

Capterra Rating: 4.4/5
G2 Rating: 3.8/5

“It allows our office staff and field staff to access necessary information for jobs anywhere along the buying cycle. Reporting is very lackluster. I am not able to pull most of what I need in one report.” – G2

4.  Procore

Procore, one of the many good alternatives to PlanGrid, offers a complete toolkit for construction management and controlling a project's scope.

Procore is applicable at every stage of building, from proposal to conclusion. It helps manage projects by connecting the entire team across the nation or the globe.

Procore main features

• Provides a single system for project management, allowing everyone to manage all aspects of the project in one location.

• Provides a mobile app so customers can always access the software's functionality.

• Offers an umbrella view of RFI's, change orders, ongoing tasks, and punch list items.

Procore Pros

• Ability to access project information anywhere.

• Easily integrates third-party tools.

• The software is cloud-based, making it accessible from anywhere.

Procore Cons

• Primarily contractor-driven platform.

• Project managers may need to customise it heavily to use it.

• A pretty expensive alternative to PlanGrid.

Procore Pricing

• Request a custom quote.

Procore Reviews

Capterra Rating: 4.5/5
G2 Rating: 4.6/5

“It's hard to say what we like best about Procore, but it could be the amazing cloud option and the ability to download and upload large files. Also being able to communicate with other clients is a plus.” – G2

Check out the best Procore alternatives in 2023. 

5. Autodesk Construction Cloud

Autodesk Construction Cloud is a technology that helps people involved in construction projects work together and share information.

The platform is a collection of software modules designed for the construction industry, making it one of the best PlanGrid alternatives.

It features a variety of tools, such as Autodesk Build (formerly known as BIM 360), Autodesk Takeoff, and Autodesk Docs.

Although each module has different pricing and is offered separately, they all operate on the same cloud-based platform making managing projects easy.

Autodesk Construction Cloud's main features

• Budget tracking and job costing keep your project on track financially.

• Provides a variety of collaboration tools that help teams collaborate more effectively.

• Helps teams measure progress, identify potential hazards, and maximise project success by providing data and insights.

Autodesk Construction Cloud Pros

• Developers can build their integrations using open API.

• Teams can work together efficiently with the help of collaboration tools.

• Provides several integration options.

Autodesk Construction Cloud Cons

• Expensive alternative for small to mid-sized companies.

• Fairly steep learning curve.

• Not the best option for small/simpler projects.

Autodesk Construction Cloud Pricing

• Autodesk Build – Starting at $470.00 / year

• Autodesk BIM Collaborate – Starting at $705.00 / year

• Autodesk Takeoff – Starting at $1,190.00 / year

Autodesk Construction Cloud Reviews

Capterra Rating: 4.3/5
G2 Rating: 4.2/5

“Revit cloud models that allow team members to work collaboratively towards the construction goals. The user interface seems disconnected - going from one task to another seems to lead to another website, this change of interface leads to confusion in the process in the project setup.” – G2

6.  Buildertrend

Buildertrend has been a trusted solution for residential contractors since 2006, offering resources that help streamline project management tasks and reduce paperwork.

This user-friendly platform enables contractors to take on more construction projects without being overwhelmed, making it a great PlanGrid alternative.

Buildertrend main features

• Keeps all your project information in one place, making it easy to access and manage.

• Messaging and file-sharing tools make collaborating with your team, clients, and suppliers easy.

• The comprehensive financial tools help monitor project costs and keep track of materials.

Buildertrend Pros

• Facilitates effective project management.

• Supports easy client communication.

• Great customer service.

Buildertrend Cons

• A pricier substitute for small or mid-sized construction companies.

• Requires extensive training to use properly.

• Not all of the tools contractors use in their businesses are compatible.

Buildertrend Pricing

• Essential – $99/mo | $399 after 1 month

• Advanced – $399/mo | $699 after 1 month

• Complete – $699/mo | $999 after 1 month

Buildertrend Reviews

Capterra Rating: 4.5/5
G2 Rating: 4.2/5

“The one thing I don't like about Buildertrend software is the cost. While it offers a lot of features, the price can be a bit steep for some businesses.” – Capterra

Check out the best Buildertrend alternatives available on the market in 2023.

7.  PlanSwift

PlanSwift helps contractors estimate the cost of building projects. The software has a user-friendly interface that allows users to click on images and drag and drop items to create a bill of materials and calculate costs.

PlanSwift saves time by automatically calculating the takeoffs, reducing the required manual work.

PlanSwift main features

• Easily create a bill of materials and calculate costs with a user-friendly interface for takeoffs and estimates.

• Save time and effort with a convenient drag-and-drop feature.

• Reduce manual work and save time with automatic takeoff calculations.

PlanSwift Pros

• Visual and intuitive user interface.

• Allows customisation.

• Integrates with other construction management tools.

PlanSwift Cons

• Users who work on bigger projects have complained about slow performance.

• Lacks integrated project management capabilities.

• Steep learning curve and the potential for high costs.

PlanSwift Pricing

$1,595.00 one time fee with lifetime license

PlanSwift Reviews

Capterra Rating: 4.3/5
G2 Rating: 4.3/5

“To try and do more complex takeoffs (such as repetitive units in multi-family construction) is not very easy. Can not get multiple takeoff quantities from one takeoff measurement (ex. calculate LF of sidewalk and CY of concrete for sidewalks with only one takeoff entry).” – G2

8. Causeway Technologies

Causeway Technologies is a construction and resource management system and a good alternative to PlanGrid for project planning teams of construction companies.

At each stage of the construction lifecycle, Causeway offers customers the data and controls they need to make wiser decisions.

Causeway Technologies' main features

• Contractors can develop thorough estimates with the aid of estimating and tendering tools.

• Users can use takeoff and measurement software to generate reports and measure amounts from 2D designs.

• Financial management system provides real-time visibility into financial performance.

Causeway Technologies Pros

• Offers sophisticated project management abilities.

• Robust application package that is customisable.

• Offers solutions for data analytics, performance reporting, and business intelligence.

Causeway Technologies Cons

• For new users, navigating the software's sophisticated features and complexities can take time and effort.

• Offers only a few integrations with third-party services.

• High cost of ownership because of the licensing and upkeep costs for the software.

Causeway Technologies Pricing

• Depends on the solution you choose

Causeway Technologies Reviews

Capterra Rating: 4/5

9. Monday.com

Monday.com may not be a construction-specific software, but it still qualifies as one of the many PlanGrid alternatives.

Cross-functional teams at construction firms can align their objectives and share significant work using the platform.

For instance, a project manager who wants real-time reporting can design a dashboard to speed up communication between management and construction experts.

Monday.com main features

• Enables users to design unique workflows suitable for their project requirements.

• Make it possible for cross-functional teams to collaborate effectively.

• Gives users access to real-time reporting features.

Monay.com Pros

• Can be customised to suit specific needs.

• Offers a range of integrations with other platforms.

• Comprehensive reporting and analytics features.

Monday.com Cons

• Can be expensive for smaller teams.

• Limited functionality for some features, like Gantt charts.

• Users of the mobile app have reported data loss and syncing issues.

Monday.com Pricing

• Basic – $8.00 for 4 seats per month

• Standard – $10.00 for 3 seats per month

• Pro – $16.00 for 3 seats per month

• Enterprise – contact sales

Monday.com Reviews

Capterra Rating: 4.6/5
G2 Rating: 4.7/5

“While great for more free-form projects, it has limitations and requires a little different thinking.” - G2

10. Smartsheet

Another good PlanGrid alternative is Smartsheet, which helps teams work more effectively by offering features such as file sharing, Gantt charts, and dashboards.

These tools facilitate team communication and project management. With its spreadsheet-like user interface, teams can easily collaborate on projects. 

Smartsheet main features

• Gives teams a platform to manage workflows in real-time.

• Offers a highly customisable spreadsheet-like user interface. 

• Provides automation features that can automate monotonous operations and boost productivity.

Smartsheet Pros

• Offers a wide range of features.

• User-friendly UI with a spreadsheet-like appearance.

• Tools for automation and editable templates.

Smartsheet Cons

• Getting used to it could take a while.

• Limited choices for customisation in some areas.

• Reliance on third parties for some functionalities, which may result in cost increases.

Smartsheet Pricing

• Free

• Pro – $7/mo for 1 user

• Business – $25/mo for 3 users

• Enterprise – Contact sales

Smartsheet Reviews

Capterra Rating: 4.5/5
G2 Rating: 4.4/5

“I do like how many different variations it offers in how we are able to design our spreadsheets, however it's a little complicated in design outlook and can look confusing when you first start using it.” – Capterra

11. Viewpoint Spectrum

Viewpoint A comprehensive web-based construction ERP, Spectrum, is essential to Trimble Construction One.

Spectrum covers everything you might need, making it a fantastic PlanGrid alternative.

This includes accounting, project management, equipment and materials management project scheduling, mobile service work order management, inventory, and reporting.

Viewpoint Spectrum's main features

• Offers full accounting capabilities for the construction industry.

• Service management and dispatching features in the complete form.

• Simplifies payroll operations and employee onboarding.

Viewpoint Spectrum Pros

• The tool was developed with actual contractors in mind.

• It is simple to locate cost data for various projects.

• After extensive onboarding, using it is comparatively simple.

Viewpoint Spectrum Cons

• The billing function frequently has errors.

• The cost projection entry screen might need some updating.

• It is difficult to use and highly "click" heavy.

Viewpoint Spectrum Pricing

Contact sales for a custom quote.

Viewpoint Spectrum Reviews

Capterra Rating: 4/5

“It is not always intuitive for each module on where to go to get the information you are looking for. Many of the standard reports are really not helpful or complete as our last ERP system.” - Capterra

Finding the right construction software is essential for success.

While PlanGrid has its strengths, such as document management, it's important to recognise its limitations. Few customisation options, integration challenges, a learning curve, internet connectivity reliance, and occasional customer support delays have led to the search for alternative solutions.

By exploring these PlanGrid alternatives, construction professionals can find software that better meets their needs enabling more efficient and collaborative projects in 2023 and beyond.

If you want to see how easy project and business management can be, book a demo with Archdesk today -no strings attached!