Top Alternatives to Bluebeam for Landscaping Construction

Some of the best Bluebeam alternatives for landscaping companies are designed to simplify project management and collaboration, reduce operational costs, and drive new productivity. 

This guide compares these top alternatives, breaking down their features, pros, and cons so you can make an informed decision for your landscaping construction business.

Disclaimer: The information below is accurate as of August 2024.

Alternatives to Bluebeam: Comparison table (with ratings & pricing)

This section summarizes the top Bluebeam alternatives, focusing on features, user ratings, and pricing. Use this table to find the right software for your landscaping business.

Many of these Bluebeam Revu alternatives are web-based, so that you can access them from any device through a web browser.

Best alternatives to Bluebeam by use case

Below is a list of the best Bluebeam alternatives for each use case so you can choose the right one for your landscaping projects. Each software option has strengths, from user-friendly interfaces to advanced collaboration tools.

• Aspire — Best Overall

• PlanSwift — Best for Takeoff and Estimating

• Fieldwire — Best for Field Collaboration

• Procore — Best for Large-Scale Project Management

• Revit — Best for BIM and 3D Modeling

• Autodesk Construction Cloud — Best for Unified Platform and Real-Time Collaboration

• Simpro — Best for Service and Maintenance Management

• PDF-XChange Editor — Best for Cost-Effective PDF Editing

Alternative #1: Aspire

Capterra rating: 4.5 / 5

Aspire is an all-in-one solution tailored to businesses in the green industry, including landscape construction. It provides comprehensive tools for managing every project phase, from design and estimating to execution, invoicing, and reporting. With integrated features such as CRM, job costing, scheduling, and, most notably, its partnership with PropertyIntel, Aspire empowers landscaping construction teams to achieve unparalleled accuracy in measurements and takeoffs.

Aspire’s integration with PropertyIntel transforms how teams approach site design, takeoffs, and measurements. By automating and simplifying these critical early-stage tasks, PropertyIntel ensures that landscaping professionals can create accurate designs and estimates without needing separate software. 

With PropertyIntel, teams can perform digital takeoffs and quickly calculate measurements, reducing the manual work traditionally involved in these processes and allowing for streamlined, accurate project planning.

Standout capabilities

Aspire’s top features include its PropertyIntel integration, which allows teams to generate precise digital takeoffs and measurements from the office and upload the information directly to Aspire with a single click. This reduces manual calculations and ensures cost-effective project planning.

Additional industry-leading capabilities include: 

• Intuitive workflow management with streamlined task tracking to maximize team productivity

• Aspire Mobile allows field and office teams to stay updated, share visuals, and track progress from anywhere

• Customizable dashboards with real-time job cost reporting to safeguard profitability at every job stage

• Historical job data comparison so it’s easy to adjust pricing to drive new revenue and lasting growth

Aspire is perfect for landscaping construction businesses that must manage multiple projects from the office and the field.

Downsides to consider

Aspire’s extensive features require a more thorough implementation process to set up, especially when customizing the platform to meet specific business needs. While robust, its comprehensive functionalities may initially feel overwhelming to new users. However, Aspire’s extensive support resources make this transition smoother and provide ongoing assistance.

Best for

Aspire is best for mid to large-sized landscaping and construction businesses that need a powerful tool to manage multiple project aspects. It’s designed for companies with multiple teams and complex project workflows.

Top features

• PropertyIntel integration: Tools for generating digital measurements and takeoffs right from the office with unparalleled accuracy

• Workflow management: Task tracking and project management boost team productivity

• Real-time job cost data: See job profitability in real time to make responsive resource allocation decisions

• Mobile app: Field access to project updates and team communication

Pricing

Aspire’s pricing is customized to your business needs and size. Request a quote for pricing information. A free demo is also available to try before you buy.

How does Aspire compare to Bluebeam?

Aspire is the superior choice for landscaping companies seeking comprehensive project management and collaborative tools. With its PropertyIntel integration, Aspire goes beyond document editing, offering end-to-end control over design, measurements, and project workflows that support both field and office teams.

Alternative #2: PlanSwift

Capterra rating: 4.3 / 5

PlanSwift is takeoff and estimating software for construction and landscaping professionals. It’s unique in the industry because it uses precise measurements and seamlessly integrates with Excel, making estimation easy.

PlanSwift makes estimating easy by allowing digital takeoffs from blueprints. It’s fast and accurate, measuring areas, lengths, and volumes. The user interface is user-friendly, so even those without experience can use it. 

Compared to Adobe Acrobat, which has advanced PDF editing and management features, PlanSwift has been praised for reducing estimation time and has received high ratings from industry professionals and users.

Standout capabilities

PlanSwift’s top features are its digital takeoff tools to measure and calculate project components from PDF blueprints. 

It integrates with Excel to export data and maintain consistency across other software. Template functionality to standardize processes, reduce errors, and ensure all estimates meet company standards. 

PlanSwift provides real-time updates to keep teams aligned and informed of project scope changes. It is easy to use and can handle complex calculations quickly, Making It stand out from other estimating tools.

Downsides to consider

Some users say PlanSwift is great for takeoffs but limited beyond estimating. It doesn’t have all the project management features of more comprehensive tools like Aspire. While user-friendly, initial setup and training may be required for teams to use all its features.

Best for

PlanSwift is for construction and landscaping businesses that want accurate estimating and digital takeoff tools. It is also for companies that want to integrate takeoff data with their existing software, such as Excel.

Top features

• Digital takeoff tools to measure directly from digital blueprints for accuracy and speed

• Excel integration makes it easy to export and manipulate data, compatible with existing workflows

• Customizable templates to standardize estimating processes and reduce errors

• Keep teams aligned and informed of changes with real-time updates

• User-friendly interface for quick adoption, even for those without experience

Pricing

PlanSwift requires a one-time purchase of $1,749 per license; support and training packages are extra. However, you can try it for free first.

How does PlanSwift compare to Aspire?

Aspire is the better choice for landscaping businesses needing an all-in-one project management solution with strong collaborative and CRM features. 

With its PropertyIntel integration, Aspire offers a robust platform beyond takeoffs. It provides complete control over project planning and execution to enhance team efficiency and alignment.

Alternative #3: Fieldwire

Capterra rating: 4.6 / 5

Fieldwire is a project management and collaboration tool for construction teams. Its real-time communication and task management focus has won many clients, so it’s great for on-site project coordination and blueprint markup.

Fieldwire is a user-friendly platform for managing tasks, accessing blueprints, and updating project progress from anywhere. Its mobile app allows team members to collaborate on-site or in the office. Fieldwire has been praised for its interface and for centralizing project information. It supports multiple construction project types, making it an excellent tool for teams that need to streamline communication and coordination.

Standout capabilities

Fieldwire stands out in real-time task management for assigning, tracking, and updating tasks from the field. Blueprint markup is highly praised; detailed annotations and measurements can be shared across teams. The mobile app means all team members have project information at their fingertips. 

Fieldwire also has document management to store, access, and edit project documents and collaboration features to align stakeholders and users and reduce delays and miscommunication on site.

Downsides to consider

Some users say Fieldwire is excellent for task management and collaboration but lacks some of the advanced project management features of more comprehensive tools like Procore or Aspire. Complex tasks like detailed scheduling and budgeting may require integration with other software.

Best for

Fieldwire is for construction teams that need on-site collaboration and task management tools. It is also for projects that require constant updates and quick communication between field and office teams.

Top features

• Real-time task management to assign and update tasks instantly, boosting project speed

• Blueprint markup tools with detailed annotations to communicate design changes

• Mobile app providing project information at your fingertips, faster coordination, and response times

• Store and share project documents in the platform

• Collaboration features to improve team and stakeholder communication

Pricing

Fieldwire has various pricing options, starting at $54 per monthly user—a free version for smaller teams to try the basics before committing to a paid plan.

How does Fieldwire compare to Aspire?

Landscaping companies that need a solution that goes beyond field coordination prefer Aspire. With the PropertyIntel integration, Aspire facilitates real-time collaboration and offers precise takeoff, CRM, and comprehensive project management tools that streamline office and field workflows for maximum productivity.

Alternative #4: Procore

Capterra rating: 4.5 / 5

Procore is construction management software powered by the right technology. It provides end-to-end solutions for large-scale projects and integrates multiple tools to streamline processes, communication, and productivity.

Procore is highly regarded in the construction industry for its project management capabilities, budgeting, scheduling, and document control. Its cloud-based platform means all project data is in real-time so team members can collaborate effectively. Procore integrates with software like Revit and Microsoft Excel, making it a great tool for complex projects. Procore has won many awards for innovation and impact in the construction industry, so it is a leader in project management software.

Standout capabilities

Procore’s top features include project management tools for budgeting and scheduling. The document management features efficiently store and manage project documents, and real-time collaboration keeps team members aligned.

Procore integrates with Revit and other Autodesk tools for design coordination, and customizable dashboards show project performance and progress.

Downsides to consider

Procore is powerful, but some users find its many features too much to handle. It can be expensive, especially for smaller companies. Implementation may require time and training to get all team members up to speed.

Best for

Large construction companies manage complex multi-phase projects. Procore is for companies that need detailed control over budgeting, scheduling, and document management.

Top features

• Comprehensive project management for all aspects of project planning and execution

• Management system to store and manage project documents with easy access and intuitive organization

• Real-time team collaboration and coordination

• Integration with Revit and Microsoft to support detailed design and modeling projects

• Customizable dashboards to see project performance and progress

Pricing

Pricing is based on company size and needs. Interested users can also contact Procore for a pricing plan or schedule a demo to learn more. There is no free trial.

How does Procore compare to Aspire?

Aspire stands out as the better choice for landscaping companies that require an industry-specific, user-friendly platform with built-in CRM, takeoff, and project scheduling tools. 

With the PropertyIntel integration and a focus on landscaping workflows, Aspire offers a streamlined solution that provides comprehensive project management and targeted support to drive project efficiency and safeguard profit margins.

Alternative #5: Revit

Capterra rating: 4.6 / 5

Revit is a BIM (Building Information Modeling) software by Autodesk. It’s used in the construction and architecture industry for 3D modeling and detailed design to stay ahead of the competition.

Revit's advanced modeling capabilities allow users to create precise building designs. It integrates with other Autodesk tools, making it a popular choice for complex construction projects. Revit’s 3D modeling generates detailed models to enhance stakeholder visualization and coordination. Revit has won industry awards for innovative building design and project execution.

Standout capabilities

Revit’s top features include BIM modeling capabilities, which allow users to create accurate 3D building models. The software integrates with other Autodesk tools for design coordination and data sharing and provides parametric design, allowing users to make changes that update related components. 

There are collaborative features for working in real-time with architects, engineers, and construction professionals and cloud storage for accessing project files anywhere.

Downsides to consider

Revit can be tricky to use if you are not familiar with BIM. Mastering all its features requires extensive training. 

Revit is also expensive, especially for smaller firms, as it’s priced higher than many design and modeling tools.

Best for

Revit is ideal for architectural firms, engineering teams, and construction companies that need 3D modeling and BIM and projects that require complex design and coordination with multiple stakeholders.

Top features

• Create detailed 3D building designs with advanced BIM modeling

• Integration with Autodesk tools for design coordination and data sharing

• Parametric design tools ensure components update with changes to improve accuracy

• Work in real-time with project stakeholders with Revit’s collaboration support

• Access project files anywhere with the cloud-based storage

Pricing

Revit starts at $70/month. Various subscription options are available, including annual or multi-year plans with discounts. Try it free to see more.

How does Revit compare to Aspire?

While Revit offers powerful design and 3D modeling capabilities, Aspire is the better choice for end-to-end project management. 

Aspire combines PropertyIntel’s design and digital measurement features with a CRM, estimating, scheduling, invoicing, and more, making it ideal for managing every stage of a landscaping project. 

Unlike Revit, which focuses heavily on design, Aspire provides tools to streamline operations, increase team productivity, and drive project success across office and field teams.

Alternative #6: Autodesk Construction Cloud

Capterra rating: 4.3 / 5

Autodesk Construction Cloud is a unified platform that integrates various construction management tools for all construction project phases. Its cloud-based solutions are focused on collaboration and project outcomes.

Autodesk Construction Cloud has tools for design, planning, construction, and operations, with real-time collaboration capabilities so teams can work together anywhere. 

It integrates with other Autodesk tools, making it versatile for complex construction projects. Autodesk Construction Cloud has won industry awards for connecting workflows and improving project visibility. It is also broadly accessible and compatible with Windows and Mac.

Standout capabilities

Autodesk Construction Cloud’s top features include:

• Project management tools for all phases of the construction lifecycle

• Real-time collaboration so team members can communicate and coordinate

• Integration with Autodesk design and modeling tools so project data flows between tools

• Document control to store project documents securely and organize

• Analytics and reporting to track progress and make data-driven decisions

Downsides to consider

Autodesk Construction Cloud has many features but can be tricky to use. Many of the tool integrations require extensive training. It is also expensive for smaller firms, making it a better choice for larger companies.

Best for

The platform is better for large construction firms managing complex multi-phase projects and teams that need to integrate with design tools and a full project management and collaboration solution.

Top features

• Comprehensive project management for all phases of the construction lifecycle

• Real-time team coordination with communication tools to improve collaboration

• Data sharing between design and modeling tools with Autodesk integration

• Store project documents securely and organized

• Analytics and reporting: See project progress and performance with Autodesk’s analytics and reporting tools

Pricing

Autodesk Construction Cloud begins at $85 per user per month. Free trial or demo available.

How does Autodesk Construction Cloud compare to Aspire?

Aspire is the green industry's preferred choice over Autodesk Construction Cloud. It offers landscaping construction-specific tools, such as PropertyIntel, for design and digital takeoffs, as well as CRM and workflow automation that simplifies project management. 

Unlike Autodesk Construction Cloud, Aspire is designed to meet the unique demands of landscaping operations. Its features streamline and optimize workflows to empower growth.

Alternative #7: Simpro

Capterra rating: 4.1 / 5

Simpro is business management software for service and project management. It streamlines operations and increases productivity in the construction and field service industries.

Simpro has features for service and maintenance workflows, including scheduling, quoting, and job management. It has a user-friendly interface and integrates with third-party tools, including a CRM. 

Real-time updates and automation help businesses stay organized and respond faster. Simpro has won awards for improving service delivery and customer satisfaction.

Standout capabilities

Simpro’s top features include:

• Job management to schedule, track, and manage jobs

• Quoting and estimating to get job bids to customers faster

• Real-time updates so all team members are informed of changes and can respond quickly

It integrates with accounting and CRM systems to streamline admin tasks, workflow, and automation to reduce manual tasks so teams can focus on service delivery.

Downsides to consider

Some users find the setup and customization time-consuming. Pricing may be an issue for smaller firms as it’s geared towards larger companies. Simpro has robust service management features but may not have advanced project management features found in other solutions.

Best for

This software is best for service-based construction companies, field service businesses that need job management and scheduling tools, and companies that focus on maintenance and service delivery.

Top features

• Schedule, track, and manage jobs with advanced task management

• Get quotes to customers faster with estimating capabilities

• Real-time updates to inform team members of job and schedule changes

• Integration with accounting and CRM software to streamline admin tasks

• Automation reduces manual tasks and increases productivity

Pricing

Simpro has various plans for different business sizes and needs, so you must request pricing. Free demo available (not a free trial).

How does Simpro compare to Aspire?

Aspire is the stronger choice for landscaping companies looking for a complete project management solution. Unlike Simpro, which focuses on service scheduling and job management, Aspire’s integration with PropertyIntel supports project design with digital measuring and takeoff capabilities. 

Aspire’s end-to-end functionality, from estimate templates to scheduling and invoicing, streamlines complex projects to unlock new profitability. 

Alternative #8: PDF-XChange Editor

Capterra Rating: 4.6 / 5

PDF-XChange Editor is a lightweight PDF editor with tools to create, edit, and annotate PDF files. It’s known for being affordable and user-friendly.

PDF-XChange Editor has the essential features to edit and annotate PDF files, making it a popular choice for businesses that need basic document management. It also has tools to add comments, highlight text, and create form fields. 

It’s easy to install, and its fast performance makes it a practical option for users who need quick and reliable PDF editing. PDF-XChange Editor has received excellent feedback for functionality and value for money. 

Standout capabilities

PDF-XChange Editor’s top features include:

• Annotation and markup tools to add comments, highlights, and notes to PDF files

• User-friendly interface for users of all technical levels

• Form creation tools to design and fill out interactive forms

• OCR (Optical Character Recognition) to convert scanned documents into editable text

The software also has affordable pricing for small businesses and individuals.

Downsides to consider

PDF-XChange Editor focuses on PDF editing and may not have advanced project management or collaboration features in other solutions. 

Users looking for document management or integration with other construction tools may find it limited. While the free version offers many features, some advanced features are only available in the paid version.

Best for

PDF-XChange Editor is best suited for small businesses and individuals who need a simple and affordable PDF editor. It is also for users who want to do basic document editing and annotation without the complexity of other software.

Top Features

• Annotation and markup tools add comments, highlights, and notes to PDFs

• User-friendly interface

• Design and fill out interactive PDF forms

• OCR functionality to convert scanned documents into editable text

• Affordable pricing

Pricing

There is a free version with basic features. The paid version starts at $56 per license, which is great for users who need more advanced features without the big price tag.

How does PDF-XChange Editor compare to Aspire?

Aspire is the natural choice for companies that need a comprehensive project management solution. While PDF-XChange Editor excels at PDF editing, Aspire provides industry-specific tools for landscaping and landscaping construction projects, including estimate templates, digital design, measurement, and takeoffs through PropertyIntel, and streamlined end-to-end workflows. 

Aspire offers far more than document management, enabling landscaping teams to optimize and automate operations, making it the ideal fit for managing projects profitably.

Looking for a Bluebeam alternative?

Choosing the right software for landscaping construction projects can make all the difference. Whether you need project management, PDF tools, iOS and Android mobile device software, or collaboration features, there is a solution for you.

However, there are great alternatives to Bluebeam. Check out the other choices and research their user reviews and social media accounts for more feedback.

For more insights, check out our blog on managing landscaping business inventory and CRM apps for landscapers.

Book a free demo with Aspire today and see how it can streamline your landscaping construction operations.