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8 Best CRMs for Construction Businesses and Contractors

8 Best CRMs for Construction Businesses and Contractors
11 min read

8 Best CRMs for Construction Businesses and Contractors

Published 29 Jun 2024
Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems are essential tools for building, managing, and strengthening relationships with clients and business prospects. A CRM for the construction industry is tailored specifically to the construction development and client retention in the industry. A good construction CRM software enables sales productivity and growth by organizing client information according to different projects, tracking project progress, aiding reputation management, and ultimately boosting sales productivity.

In the construction industry, incorporating a CRM system is increasingly necessary due to the complex nature of projects, numerous stakeholders and contractors, and the need for automated management software. A well-implemented CRM can lead to a 27% increase in customer retention rates and up to a 300% boost in sales conversion rates, as reported by Five CRM. [?]

However, with so many different CRMs out there, it can be difficult to find the one perfectly tailored to your construction business. Therefore, we’ve taken the difficult task of bringing together the top ten construction CRM systems to help you choose the best one for your business according to your unique requirements.
Contents

Best CRMs for the Construction Industry

The following are some of the best CRMs for construction companies. We’ve ensured that each CRM system included in the list below has unique advantages that suit specific types of businesses.

Pros:

Secure, flexible access via mobile app
Robust sales and account management tools
Available both online and on-premise
Meets UAE guidelines and regulations
Manages multiple contracts simultaneously

Cons:

May require initial setup time and training
Customization options might be limited
Available only to select countries
FirstBit CRM Software is one of the best construction CRM software designed specifically for construction businesses in the UAE. It is integrated into a comprehensive ERP system as one of the multiple modules. FirstBit ERP with an integrated CRM is a better choice than a standalone CRM because it integrates all departments and provides numerous other tools especially tailored for a construction business.

First Bit CRM provides a centralized database to track all customer interactions, which aids in delivering personalized service and improving relationship management. The software offers control over the sales funnel and automates lead collection and contact scheduling. Best for construction businesses, it provides on-the-go, secure, flexible access through a mobile app.

The app also has tools for invoicing and contract management, which helps manage complex project requirements. Additionally, with its sales and account management tools, FirstBit enables construction firms to visualize sales processes, forecast customer behavior, and improve conversion rates. Additional features include:
Automated email marketing
Calendar integration
CRM change tracking
The best part about FirstBit CRM is that it is available both online and on-premise, giving you the flexibility to choose an option that best suits your needs.
Try out the benefits of an integrated CRM today with FirstBit

Pros:

Extensive customization through add-ons
Advanced workflow automation
API availability
AI analytics and multi-channel support

Cons:

Too costly
Initial setup and maintenance are difficult and time-consuming
Salesforce is the most customizable construction CRM software for construction companies, offering advanced features like AI analytics and multi-channel support. Its excellence in project management, data accessibility, and document storage set it apart from other CRM systems.

Moreover, Salesforce's AppExchange marketplace provides access to thousands of third-party applications and integrations, allowing businesses to extend Salesforce's functionality and tailor it to various industry needs.

The platform includes comprehensive tools for sales management, marketing automation, partner relationship management, and customer service. The software also stands out due to its API availability, which helps integrate CRM with other websites and streamline business operations.

While Salesforce offers many add-ons to complement and enhance business operations, the cost may be prohibitive for smaller businesses. There is no free version, and pricing ranges from $150 to $300 per user per month, making it a significant investment. Individual contractors and sole proprietors might find better value in alternate CRM platforms.

Pros:

Affordable plans
Custom sales reporting tools
Unlimited sales pipelines
Easy-to-navigate interface
Over 350+ integrations with third-party apps

Cons:

Lacks integrations with construction apps
Too generic and simple for large companies
According to a Pipedrive claim, “Pipedrive users close an average of 28% more deals after their first year.” Pipedrive offers over 350 integrations, enabling expanded capabilities with various apps. However, it’s worth noting that despite this high number of integrations, it still lacks integrations with most third-party apps that constructors use on a daily basis. Its features help prioritize deals, manage leads, track communications, and automate repetitive tasks.

The CRM provides insights and reports customized for your business, ensuring the privacy and security of your data. Additionally, mobile apps and integrations allow access and functionality on the go, making Pipedrive a comprehensive tool for sales management.

Unlike most other CRMs, Pipedrive’s interface is very simple to navigate. It helps track your performance with real-time reports under each pipeline with complete details for the next actionable item.

Its easy analytics and automation features reduce administrative tasks, allowing you to focus on refining your sales strategy. The best part about the software is that it’s pretty affordable—prices range from $12.5 to $99, depending on your subscription plan.

Pros:

Free to use
Top-notch customer service
Super easy to set up and use
Expansive feature set
Good scalability

Cons:

Paid features can be pricier than usual
Fewer customization options
The free version isn’t the best for construction companies
HubSpot CRM offers a robust suite of free tools designed for sales leaders and teams of all sizes, making contact management just the beginning. With HubSpot CRM, you get unlimited data storage and up to 1,000,000 contacts with no expiration date, ensuring you can grow without constraints.

Key features include a meeting scheduler, email template builder, live chat software, and an AI email writer, all of which help streamline the sales process. The platform provides real-time tracking and analysis of sales activity, giving you a clear view of your entire sales pipeline on a visual dashboard.

Detailed reports on sales activity and productivity help identify growth opportunities and track team performance. For those needing more, premium versions offer enterprise-level tools for marketing, sales, customer service, content management, and operations.

The one downside to the free version of HubSpot is that it may not be the ideal choice for construction companies, but with premium add-ons, it can be tailored to match the industry's unique needs.

Pros:

Seamless integration with over 500 third-party apps
Mobile-friendly for on-the-go data and communication
Real-time access and comprehensive project management
Tailors to businesses of all sizes and needs
Robust automation of sales workflows and lead tracking

Cons:

Learning curve for full utilization of all features
Potential dependency on Internet connectivity for cloud-based functionalities
Limited free user count (up to 3 users)
Zoho CRM is a versatile, cloud-based software solution tailored for architects, builders, and other stakeholders in the construction industry. It centralizes business processes by tracking leads, automating sales workflows, generating invoices, and integrating with over 500 third-party apps. The platform is also mobile-friendly.

Zoho CRM caters to businesses of all sizes, from entrepreneurs using the free edition to large-scale organizations with the Ultimate Edition. Pricing starts with a free option for up to 3 users and scales to $52/user/month for the Ultimate Edition, billed annually.

Zoho Projects, integrated with Zoho CRM, simplifies construction project management by coordinating people, plans, and resources. The tool helps plan for delays, manage budgets, allocate resources efficiently, store project documents securely in the cloud, and carry out comprehensive project management. Direct communication features reduce managerial burdens, allowing quick announcements and feedback tracking. Equipment and material management are also streamlined through a digital inventory system.

Pros:

Industry-specific design tailored for roofing contractors
Integrated communication tools for email and text messaging with automatic logging
Specialty features including lead management and aerial measurements for roofing contractors
User-friendly
Mobile platform for easy accessibility

Cons:

Pricing plans are not transparent
Only two subscription options are available
Customization options are limited
AccuLynx is a cloud-based CRM tailored specifically for roofing contractors, though it can also be used by small construction companies. This software offers a comprehensive set of tools to manage and streamline all aspects of a roofing business.

Key features include lead management, automated sales workflows, detailed contact records, and integrated communication tools for email and text messaging. Users can also create fast, accurate estimates, manage documents and photos, and utilize aerial measurement integrations.

AccuLynx stands out due to its focus on the roofing industry, providing preconfigured functionalities that require no customization. The software also integrates with top suppliers for real-time product availability and pricing, enhancing the efficiency of material ordering and job costing. With its user-friendly design, AccuLynx aims to help roofing contractors improve productivity, make informed decisions, and ultimately grow their business.

AccuLynx offers two plan options: Pro and Elite. To get exact pricing details, you will need to request a quote from the vendor specifying your customization options for a custom plan.

Pros:

A comprehensive suite of construction management tools
20+ built-in reports
24/7 customer support
Customizable fields for a tailored user experience
Robust security and compliance practices

Cons:

Limited analytics tools

Premium add-ons can be costly
Could be overkill for smaller construction projects or companies with simpler needs
Procore Construction CRM is a comprehensive software designed to enhance efficiency, minimize risks, and protect profits for construction projects. This platform simplifies processes from tendering to project closeout with tools for preconstruction, project management, workforce management, construction intelligence, and financial management.

Standout features of the app include an RFI tracker for detailed requests, safety risk insights for predicting and preventing issues, and daily logs for documenting project activities, weather conditions, and manpower hours. Additionally, the software enhances building efficiency with features like Tender Management, BIM, Real-time Labour Costing, and advanced search tools.

Procore serves commercial, industrial, and residential sectors, supporting project owners, general contractors, and specialty contractors in improving workflows and communication. The platform offers 24/7 customer support, integrates with over 500 tools, and fosters a collaborative community of peers.

One downside of Procore is that its premium features can be pretty costly, making it particularly difficult for small businesses to subscribe to the service. Cheaper alternatives with similar features are available if an extensive feature set is not your business’s need.

Pros:

Easy-to-use interface for creating and sending quotes and invoices
Quick and accurate job pricing with automated follow-ups
Consumer financing option through Wisetack integration
Comprehensive scheduling tools with real-time updates and drag-and-drop functionality
Integrates with Mailchimp and QuickBooks Online
Robust finance management features
Supports credit card processing with Stripe and PayPal integration

Cons:

Does not support QuickBooks Desktop
Pricing can be relatively high, especially for larger teams
May not be as scalable as other platforms like SalesRabbit or Salesforce
Advanced features may require a learning curve for new users
Jobber is an easy-to-use field service management tool designed to streamline business operations. It excels at creating and sending quotes and invoices. It allows users to quickly build quotes, price jobs accurately, and automate follow-ups. Its quote builder ensures professional and concise quotes and invoices, and with Wisetack integration, clients can opt for consumer financing to pay over time.

Jobber offers three pricing plans: Core at $49 per month for one user, Connect at $129 per month for up to five users, and Grow at $249 per month for up to 15 users. Each plan includes features like job management, digital payments, and integration with QuickBooks Online.

Jobber is ideal for general contractors needing robust quoting tools. It offers customizable templates, automated reminders, and signature approvals. It automates quote follow-ups, manages job details, assigns work, and monitors progress for seamless project management. Additionally, Jobber's finance management tools allow sending quotes, receiving payments, and syncing data with QuickBooks, with job costing, to see real-time profitability based on all job costs.

Key Features to Look for in a CRM for Construction Industry

A CRM for the construction industry is essential for efficiently managing projects, clients, and communications in the construction industry. When selecting construction CRM software, there are key features to consider to ensure it meets the unique needs of the industry. All of the CRMs mentioned above contain the following key features and more:
Project management integration. A robust construction CRM should seamlessly integrate with project management tools. This allows for streamlined communication between sales and project teams, ensuring that project timelines, budgets, and client expectations are met.
Client and contact management. Managing client relationships is crucial in construction. The CRM should offer comprehensive contact management features, including detailed client profiles, communication history, and tracking of client interactions. This helps maintain strong relationships and anticipate client needs.
Document and file management. Construction projects involve numerous documents, from blueprints to contracts. A good CRM should offer easy document storage and sharing capabilities, ensuring that all team members have access to the latest versions of important files.
Mobile accessibility. Construction professionals are often on the go. A mobile-friendly CRM ensures that team members can access client information and project updates and communicate with clients from any location, enhancing productivity and responsiveness.
Customization and scalability. The CRM should be customizable to fit the specific workflows and processes of the construction business. Additionally, it should be scalable to grow with the business, accommodating an increasing number of projects and clients.
Reporting and analytics. Insightful reporting and analytics features are essential for making informed business decisions. The CRM should provide detailed reports on sales performance, project status, and client satisfaction, helping to identify trends and areas for improvement.
Integration with other systems. The best CRM for a construction company should integrate with other essential systems such as accounting, ERP, and marketing tools. This integration ensures that data flows smoothly across all business functions, reducing redundancy and errors.

Which CRM is the Best for Your Construction Business?

Selecting the right CRM for your construction business is essential for improving efficiency and client relationships. The curated list of CRMs discussed caters to diverse business needs, offering robust project management, extensive customization, sales pipeline management, and scalability. Depending on your business size or focus, you can choose a CRM tailored to enhance your operational efficiency and drive growth.

For example, HubSpot provides a scalable, free CRM that is excellent for smaller teams. At the same time, FirstBIT ERP with a CRM module is ideal if you're looking for a system that integrates multiple departments. It can also provide comprehensive project oversight and UAE compliance.
Editor at First Bit
Aimon has over five years of experience as an SEO content writer and brings a deep understanding of technology's role in the modern construction business. She brings unique insights into the Firs tBit blog by providing practical content that enhances users’ understanding and usage of the software.
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