Most architects use scattered tools to manage project documents — Word for field reports, Excel for tracking, and Bluebeam for markups. And if a contractor’s involved, maybe a shared portal like Procore or Autodesk Build that you didn’t choose and can’t control. The result is a messy, fragmented workflow that's not built for how design teams actually work.

In this post, we’ll break down the best construction document management software that gives architects full control over their documents, deadlines, and drawing sets.

What is construction document management software?

Construction document management software is a digital platform that helps teams organize, store, and manage key construction documents—such as drawings, RFIs, contracts, and submittals—in one centralized location. Instead of chasing down the latest files or digging through email threads, teams can track updates, collaborate in real time, and reduce costly errors. 

For architects, these tools are especially useful for managing revisions, keeping design intent clear, and staying in sync with consultants and general contractors throughout the project.

Top construction document management software

Below, we’ve rounded up the top construction document management platforms, looking at how they help architects and where they stand out or fall short.

1. Part3

Unlike contractor-first tools, Part3 is a construction administration platform built specifically for architects. Its ProjectFiles feature replaces the patchwork of ShareFile links and Autodesk Build (formerly PlanGrid) that architects often use to keep drawings current. When you issue a change—whether it affects 4 sheets or 40—Part3 automatically updates the entire drawing set, eliminating the manual steps of downloading, editing, re-uploading, and re-sharing PDFs across multiple consultants.

ProjectFiles offers a centralized system for organizing construction documents and drawings, fully integrated into your existing CA workflows. From the first markup to the final site instruction, everything stays connected and easy to manage in one place. Its AI-powered automation, real-time collaboration, Procore integration, and full control over permissions offer a system built for how architects actually work.

Key features:

• A centralized document and drawing hub that replaces Excel, Word, Bluebeam, and more

• AI-powered file tagging and smart drawing recognition for faster setup

• Version control and real-time collaboration to prevent outdated information on site

• Field teams can track and complete punch list items directly from a tablet or browser in real time, so office teams stay in sync with the latest updates

• Secure, granular sharing permissions to keep the right people in the loop

2. Procore 

Procore is a construction management platform that offers tools for scheduling, budgeting, and subcontractor coordination. Its document management capabilities are built into that broader ecosystem, allowing teams to upload drawings, track submittals, manage RFIs, and store project files in the cloud. 

Procore's workflows are often built around the general contractor’s responsibilities, which means an architect's tasks like tracking design revisions or maintaining drawing context may require extra steps or workarounds.

Key features:

• Centralized document storage with version tracking and drawing markup

• Mobile-friendly tools for field communication and updates

• Strong integration with construction financials, scheduling, and resource planning

• Role-based access control and project-specific permissions

3. Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC)

Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) is a construction management platform that includes tools for project management, design model coordination, and document control. Its Document Management module, powered by Autodesk Docs, helps teams store, share, and version construction documents in a cloud-based workspace. ACC builds on the functionality of BIM 360, offering improved document approval workflows and integrations with tools like Revit, AutoCAD, and Navisworks. 

Since ACC is typically managed by the general contractor, architects often have limited flexibility in how files are structured or updated, and may struggle to tailor workflows to their needs.

Key features:

• Cloud-based document storage with version control and markup tools

• Real-time activity logs and reporting for file access and version history

• Integrated drawing and model coordination with issue tracking

• Role-based permissions and access controls across folders and teams 

4. Oracle Aconex

Oracle Aconex is a cloud-based construction project management platform best known for its document control and audit capabilities. It’s often used on large infrastructure and institutional projects where compliance, approvals, and communication across dozens of stakeholders are critical. Aconex offers tools for document tracking, version history, and structured workflows that record when files are shared, reviewed, and approved.

Key features:

• Audit trails that track every action and decision across the project

• Automated approval workflows to keep documentation consistent and on track

• Built-in tools to review models for issues and detect clashes before construction starts

• Integrated modules for bid management, contract changes, and field reporting

5. Bluebeam Revu

Bluebeam Revu is a PDF-based tool used to mark up, manage, and collaborate on construction drawings. It’s often integrated into design and construction workflows for reviewing drawings, comparing versions, and organizing project documentation. 

For teams that need to collaborate in real time or work remotely, Bluebeam Cloud and the Bluebeam mobile app extend Revu’s capabilities to the field. This lets you comment on drawings, manage RFIs, or complete punch items from a tablet or browser, while syncing with office-based workflows.

Key features:

• PDF markup tools for adding comments, measurements, and annotations

• Document comparison to identify changes between drawing versions

• Session-based collaboration for shared, real-time reviews

• Integration with cloud platforms like Dropbox, SharePoint, Egnyte, and more

6. Fieldwire

Fieldwire is a construction coordination platform that helps connect field teams with office-based staff. Its document management tools help keep plans, forms, and files organized across devices. 

While Fieldwire excels at supporting fieldwork and task tracking, its document features are geared more toward site coordination than design collaboration or detailed document control. Teams that require deeper versioning or formal approval workflows, may find it works better when paired with more robust platforms.

Key features:

• Two-way sync with Box, Dropbox, and OneDrive to automatically update files

• Offline access to plans, forms, and RFIs via the Fieldwire mobile app

• SOC-2 certified data storage with secure document version tracking

• Link tasks directly to drawing plans to streamline site inspections and punch list tracking

What is the best software for document management?

Different teams need different solutions for construction document management. For contractors, platforms like Procore or Autodesk Construction Cloud are popular choices because they offer strong scheduling, cost tracking, and field tools. 

But for architects, who need more control over drawings, submittals, RFIs, and revisions, platforms like Procore and Autodesk often fall short. That’s where tools like Part3 stand out. Built specifically for architects, Part3’s document management system ProjectFiles brings all your drawings and documents into one connected workflow. No bolt-ons or loss of design intent; just one place to manage the documents you’re actually responsible for.

How to organize construction project documents

To organize construction project documents effectively, start by creating a clear folder structure based on project phases, such as design, construction admin, and closeout. Use consistent, descriptive file names that include dates and version numbers to make files easy to search and track. You also need a robust document management system that supports version control, access permissions, and activity logs to ensure that everyone is working from the most up-to-date information. This helps streamline collaboration between office and field teams and reduces the risk of errors or miscommunication.

Without a construction document management platform

When your documents live across disconnected apps, it’s harder to stay aligned, track progress, or catch small issues before they become expensive problems.

A fragmented workflow might get the job done, but at a cost:

• Wasted time - Every time you move between apps, you lose momentum. Multiply that across dozens of tasks and team members, and you're bleeding hours on coordination instead of actually pushing the project forward.

• Missed updates - When files live in separate tools, it’s easy to miss a critical update or assume someone else handled it. Without a connected workflow, tasks fall through the cracks, deadlines get missed, and accountability becomes a guessing game.

• Messy version histories - Naming your file “Final_v4_JohnReviewed_ReallyFinal.pdf” isn’t version control, it’s a liability. Without a centralized system that tracks revisions and approvals, teams risk working off outdated drawings or conflicting markups.

• Limited visibility - When every document lives in a different format and system, architects don’t have full visibility into how the documents are used, referenced, or changed. That makes it harder to track progress and catch issues early.

The bigger issue? 

Most platforms prioritize contractor workflows over architect needs. So when you upload your drawings or respond to a submittal, you’re often just plugging into someone else’s workflow. Part3 flips that dynamic entirely. Our ProjectFiles feature brings all your core construction documentation into one connected platform. No more hopping between tools or duct-taping workflows together; you can work from a centralized platform where your process comes first.

Take control of your documents with Part3

Architects don’t just need another place to store documents, they need a system that mirrors how they work. Part3’s centralized platform gives architects exactly that. It connects your drawing versions submittal reviews, field reports, and more, so your team can spend less time juggling tools and more time staying ahead of the build.

• Built for your workflow - RFIs, submittals, field reports, and markups all live in one place, with connected tools that reflect how architects work.

• Stay in control - Unlike traditional construction platforms, you’re not plugging into someone else’s system. You manage your own documentation from start to finish, and own your data.

• Faster access, fewer steps - With ProjectFiles, organize and access project documents faster, with flexible structure, built-in AI support, and fewer steps between you and the task at hand.

Get a demo today to see how ProjectFiles brings structure to your construction admin.