Job cost, or job costing

Getting a handle on job costs and projected projects is complicated business. The equation factors in payroll costs, equipment and supply costs and insurance requirements, among other things. You should also look for a change order feature, often included under job costing, that tracks the progress of work orders.

I recommend: Contractor Plus outlines its job cost module.

Purchase order management

Purchase order management is a module that is closely associated with accounting features, like accounts payable and receivable. It allows you to track supply orders and invoicing. You should make sure it is compatible with any accounting software you buy; if the models are not compatible, you should at least be able to export purchase order data to your accounting program.

I recommend: Foundation Software describes its purchase order management feature in depth.

Document imaging

Document imaging allows you to keep records of paper documents, like contracts, receipts and invoices, in digital files. Make sure any document imaging feature also allows you to tag and inventory documents, so they are easily assessable.

I recommend: Contractor Engine includes document imaging in its contractor software.

Project management

Project management features allow you to track the supplies and staff needed for each job. In addition to employees, many programs have built-in features to manage subcontractors, as well.

I recommend: Maxwell Systems makes project management software.

Equipment management

After its reputation and its skilled staff, a contractor company's equipment is one of its primary assets. Equipment managers allow contractors to track inventory, schedule maintenance and repairs, and may even calculate depreciation for tax purposes.

I recommend: Construction Partner makes equipment management software.

Account management

Account management refers to a wide swath of accounting features, including accounts payable and receivable, payroll, supply and equipment costs. Account management for contractors, unlike general accounting software, is designed to handle invoices and supply lists contractors use. Look for a an account program that is compatible with tax and accounting software.

I recommend: The Contractor Office works seamlessly with QuickBooks.