The 10 best construction ERP systems

The construction industry uses specialized equipment, and its ERP software is no exception. When selecting software for your construction firm, opting for a construction industry ERP that fits your specific needs can often save you time in getting your processes up and running.

Your first step to finding the best construction enterprise software for your business is narrowing down your feature requirements. In this guide, we’ve outlined some of the top construction ERP systems, along with key features you should look for when making your decision.

What is construction ERP software?

Construction ERP software is a specialized enterprise resource planning system built for the unique needs of construction companies. These systems should include management of general contractors, subcontractors, financial management, construction accounting, payroll, and service operations in one central database.

Features to look for in a construction industry ERP

When selecting an ERP for your construction company, consider these features:

• CAD interface
• Accounting
• Service fleet asset management
• Financial management
• Payroll
• Management of contractors
• Sub-contractor management
• Logistics and transport
• Scheduling
• Complex workforce management
• Inventory
• Workflow processes

How to select your best-fit construction ERP software

The construction industry is diverse, so the best ERP will depend on your business type. A general contractor needs an ERP that can handle a large workforce, while a specialty contractor might prioritize features like subcontractor management and job costing. A well-chosen ERP can help you:

• Track costs and ensure timely payments.
• Manage subcontractor schedules and workforce efficiently.
• Provide real-time project insights to avoid delays.

Plumbers, electricians, crane operators, and those specialty trades depend on everyone involved to keep the project moving as planned while controlling their costs, receiving payments from the general, and keeping the paychecks flowing to their working staff. No single ERP handles all these diverse needs perfectly, but let's look at a few examples and you can make up your own mind.

Here are 10 of the best construction ERP systems

• SAP S/4HANA: SAP S/4HANA is a leading ERP solution designed for large-scale enterprises, including construction companies. It provides real-time data processing and advanced analytics while seamlessly integrating with other  SAP products and third-party apps, letting businesses manage everything from procurement and supply chain logistics to payroll and subcontractor management. Its cloud capabilities and AI-powered automation are ideal for construction companies looking to optimize operations and improve decision-making across the entire project lifecycle.
• Foundation Software: Foundation Software focuses on construction accounting and is widely used by mid-sized construction firms. This ERP helps businesses manage job costing, payroll, scheduling, and project management. It’s particularly beneficial for companies transitioning from smaller accounting solutions like QuickBooks, offering scalability for businesses with 15 to 250 employees.
• Acumatica: Acumatica offers a modern, cloud-based ERP that caters to construction businesses looking for real-time project reports, financial management, and communication tools. Acumatica’s Construction Edition is highly customizable and is popular with general contractors and land developers. Its mobile-friendly design allows for easy field-to-office communication, keeping everyone on the same page.
• Jonas ERP: Jonas ERP provides fully integrated construction accounting software used by over 1,000 clients in industries like HVAC, plumbing, and electrical. With features like service order management, accounting, and field service capabilities, Jonas Premier and Jonas Enterprise help contractors and developers streamline workflows. Jonas is ideal for companies with revenue between $5 Million and $100 Million.
• Sage Intacct: Sage Intacct is a cloud-based financial management solution that is ideal for construction companies in need of advanced accounting, project costing, and financial reporting tools. Unlike traditional ERPs, Intacct is built with financial management at its core, providing real-time dashboards, AI-driven insights, and automated workflows. Highly scalable, it integrates with construction project management tools, enabling efficient cash flow, budget, and billing management. Sage Intacct's user-friendly interface and focus on financial accuracy make it ideal for businesses needing detailed financial control.
• Microsoft Dynamics SL: Microsoft Dynamics SL is part of the broader Microsoft Dynamics family, specializing in project estimation, job costing, and financial management for project-based businesses. With its tight integration into the Microsoft Office suite, Dynamics SL helps construction companies streamline their processes and improve collaboration between departments. However, it's important to note that mainstream support for Dynamics SL ended in January 2024, with extended support continuing until 2028. Businesses using Dynamics SL will need to plan for migration to another ERP, as some features and updates after 2024 may no longer be accessible.
• IFS Cloud: IFS Cloud is an advanced ERP system that focuses on project management, financial management, and asset management for large construction businesses. With its ability to manage complex field service operations, IFS is a powerful choice for companies involved in infrastructure projects, asset-heavy operations, and equipment management. Its mobile-friendly features ensure smooth project execution across various job sites.
• Viewpoint: Viewpoint, a part of Trimble, provides ERP systems designed to integrate construction accounting, project management, and field productivity. ViewpointOne, their cloud-based ERP, is built for construction businesses like general contractors and civil engineers. It offers specialized modules for various trades, including electrical and mechanical contractors, making it an ideal solution for medium to large businesses.
• Penta: Penta ERP has been a top choice for heavy construction companies and subcontractors for over 35 years. It includes construction accounting, project management, payroll, and equipment tracking. Penta’s strengths lie in managing complex subcontractor relationships, large-scale projects, and asset-heavy operations.
• Maestro: Maestro is a Canadian ERP designed for construction sectors such as general contractors, trade contractors, and home builders. The system includes accounting, project management, and payroll, with customizable modules that allow companies to tailor the software to their unique requirements. Its flexibility suits businesses looking to grow and adapt their ERP as their needs evolve.

Use our free construction ERP comparison tool to find the best software for your business needs

Which ERP is best for a construction company?

The best ERP for a construction company depends on the specific needs of the business. Key factors to consider include scalability, industry-specific features, mobile access, and integration capabilities with other systems like CAD and payroll. For general contractors, Viewpoint and Jonas ERP are strong choices. For businesses seeking cloud flexibility, Acumatica, Microsoft Dynamics 365, Sage and IFS offer robust solutions that can scale as your company grows.