Best Dubsado Alternatives

Dubsado is a respected business management solution, known for its robust client management, project tracking, invoicing and automation capabilities. Freelancers and small agencies in creative industries in particular prefer it. However, different businesses have different needs. Depending on specific requirements, like industry focus, budget constraints, or desired features, a different tool could provide a better fit. Here we’ll explore the top alternatives to Dubsado, highlighting why users appreciate these tools and how they compare in offering specialized benefits and functionalities.

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Clientjoy

Clientjoy offers a blend of CRM functionalities with integrated client and project management. It’s tailored specifically for freelancers and small agencies managing multiple client engagements.

Clientjoy vs. Dubsado:

  • Combines CRM, project management, and invoicing in a more streamlined interface.
  • Dedicated client portal with access to invoices, contracts, and ongoing project statuses.
  • Provides detailed analytics for sales, expenses, and client engagements.

Pricing:

  • Essentials: $19/month per user (billed annually)
  • Growth: $29/month per user (billed annually)
  • Scale: $49/month per user (billed annually)

Other Features:

  • Lead management and pipeline view
  • Email tracking and automation tools
  • Custom proposals and contracts with e-signature capabilities

Who should use Clientjoy?:

  • Clientjoy works for freelancers and small to medium-sized agencies that require a system to manage client interactions, projects, and finances seamlessly. 

Users Say:

  • "Clientjoy has been integral in helping us streamline our client lifecycle and improve our sales and invoicing processes."

Should I use Clientjoy?:

Clientjoy is a versatile alternative to Dubsado that offers a suite of tools that caters specifically to  freelancers and agencies to help manage their entire client journey in one dedicated platform.

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HoneyBook

HoneyBook was designed with creative professionals in mind.  Its user-friendly interface and comprehensive suite of features make it very popular among freelancers and small businesses. It unifies client interactions, project management, and financial processes. 

HoneyBook vs. Dubsado:

  • Offers similar client management tools but with a stronger emphasis on user interface design and customer experience.
  • Provides more varied templates for emails and contracts.
  • Features integrated mobile app functionality, which Dubsado lacks.

Pricing:

  • Unlimited: $39/month (billed annually), includes all features and unlimited clients and projects.

Other Features:

  • Built-in meeting scheduler
  • Automated workflows
  • Online payments and financial tracking

Who Should Use HoneyBook?:

  •  Great for freelancers and small agencies in creative fields such as photography, design, and event planning. 

Users Say:

  • "HoneyBook has helped streamline the way we manage client projects and communication, ensuring nothing falls through the cracks."

Should I Use HoneyBook?:

HoneyBook provides a seamless experience for managing client projects and finances, which makes it ideal for those who value intuitive design and comprehensive client management tools.

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17hats

17hats is an all-in-one platform that simplifies the management of various business operations without the need for multiple software solutions. For this reason, it appeals highly to solo entrepreneurs and small businesses.

17hats vs. Dubsado:

  • Simpler and more intuitive interface for managing workflows and automation.
  • Includes a dedicated module for lead tracking and management.
  • More affordable pricing structure,  suited for very small businesses or solopreneurs.

Pricing:

  • Lite: $15/month (billed annually), basic features with limited workflows.
  • Standard: $25/month (billed annually), full features with workflow automation.
  • Unlimited: $45/month (billed annually), includes unlimited workflows and enhanced support.

Other Features:

  • Comprehensive dashboard for tracking all business activities
  • Integrated calendar and to-do lists
  • Customizable contracts and templates

Who Should Use 17hats?:

  •  Best for solo entrepreneurs and small businesses that need an easy-to-use platform to manage multiple aspects of their business in one place. 

Users Say:

  • "17hats allows me to keep everything organized, from client information to invoicing and contracts, all in one platform."

Should I Use 17hats?:

17hats offers a simple, but effective solution for small business owners looking to better distribute their administrative tasks and focus more on growing their business. If that’s your goal, it certainly could be a viable Dubsado alternative.

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Bonsai

Bonsai is highly praised by freelancers for its sleek design and targeted functionality. It focuses on optimizing workflow from proposal to payment. Users find it highly effective at handling multiple aspects of freelance work, including contracts, time tracking, and financial management.

Bonsai vs. Dubsado:

  • More focused on the needs of freelancers with tailored features like proposal templates and tax automation.
  • Offers a simpler, more intuitive interface specifically designed for freelancers.
  • Integrates a suite of tools for automatic expense tracking and tax calculations

Pricing:

  • Starter: $19/month (billed annually), includes essential features like proposals, contracts, and invoicing.
  • Professional: $29/month (billed annually), adds client CRM and more advanced project management tools.
  • Business: $49/month (billed annually), includes subcontracting and collaboration tools.

Other Features:

  • Built-in time tracker and task management
  • Integrated accounting features with smart insights
  • Customizable templates for proposals and contracts

Who should use Bonsai?:

  •  Ideal for independent freelancers and consultants who need an all-in-one solution to manage their projects and finances efficiently. 

Users Say:

  • "Bonsai has streamlined my freelance business, making it incredibly easy to send proposals, track time, and manage my taxes."

Should I use Bonsai?:

Bonsai provides a comprehensive, freelancer-focused toolset that enhances productivity and eases the management of business operations. Solo entrepreneurs may find this more suitable than Dubsado. 

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Tave

Tave specializes in helping photographers manage their client workflows, projects, and finances. Professionals in photography and other creative fields who require detailed project tracking and client interaction logs find it extremely useful.

Tave vs. Dubsado:

  • Tailored specifically for photographers with deep customization for shooting workflows.
  • Provides detailed scheduling features that sync with various calendar apps.
  • Focuses on detailed job tracking to help photographers keep tabs on multiple projects.

Pricing:

  • Solo: $21.99/month (billed annually), designed for individual photographers.
  • Studio: $33.99/month (billed annually), includes multiple brands and additional user accounts.

Other Features:

  • Custom quotes, contracts, and invoicing
  • Integrated client galleries
  • Advanced financial and sales reporting

Who should use Tave?:

  • Tave is best suited for professional photographers and small photography studios that need tools to manage bookings, client data, and financial details. 

Users Say:

  • "Tave has been a game-changer for managing my photography business, from scheduling shoots to tracking income and expenses."

Should I use Tave?:

 Tave offers a niche solution that provides specialized functionality for photographers and creative professionals.  It is preferred over Dubsado for those in visually creative fields.

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FreshBooks

FreshBooks is popular for its ease of use and focus on enhancing accounting tasks for small businesses and freelancers.Those who prioritize financial management alongside client and project management find it particularly effective. 

Freshbooks vs. Dubsado:

  • Stronger emphasis on accounting and financial reporting.
  • More intuitive and simplified invoicing and expense tracking capabilities.
  • Offers a client self-service portal to view invoices and make payments directly

Pricing:

  • Lite: $15/month (allows up to 5 clients)
  • Plus: $25/month (allows up to 50 clients)
  • Premium: $50/month (allows unlimited clients)
  • Select: Custom pricing for advanced features and large teams.

Other Features:

  • Automatic expense tracking
  • Time tracking and project management
  • Customizable invoice templates

Who should use Freshbooks?:

  • FreshBooks is perfect for freelancers, consultants, and small businesses that need user-friendly accounting software within their client management system. 

Users Say:

  • "FreshBooks makes invoicing and tracking expenses so straightforward, it saves me hours each month."

Should I use FreshBooks?:

FreshBooks offers a well-rounded platform that excels in financial management and user-friendly operations.  It’s a solid choice for those looking to seamlessly manage finances and client interactions.

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Zoho One

Zoho One boasts a suite of over 40 integrated business applications covering everything from CRM to project management.  Businesses seeking extensive software integration prefer its comprehensive catalog.

Zoho One vs. Dubsado:

  • Provides a broader range of applications, including marketing automation, sales tracking, and customer support.
  • More customization and integration capabilities across multiple functions.
  • Stronger focus on scalability and supporting large teams.

Pricing:

  • $37/user/month (billed annually), requires all employees to be on the license.
  • Flexible User Pricing: $90/user/month (billed annually), no requirement for all employees to be licensed.

Other Features:

  • Advanced analytics and reporting across all apps.
  • Expansive automation capabilities within and across applications.
  • Global CRM features supporting multiple languages and currencies.

Who should use Zoho One?:

  • Zoho One is best for medium to large businesses that require a wide array of business applications to manage various aspects of their operations comprehensively. 

Users Say:

  • "Zoho One's all-encompassing suite of apps has enabled us to connect all our business processes, from sales and marketing to accounting and support."

Should I use Zoho One?:

Zoho One stands out as a versatile and integrated solution for businesses that require a full spectrum of tools to run their operations smoothly and effectively.

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Plutio

Plutio is favored among freelancers and small teams for its ability to centralize business management tasks within a single platform.Its all-in-one capability includes project management, time tracking, invoicing, and client communication.

Plutio vs. Dubsado:

  • Offers a more integrated approach to project and task management within one platform.
  • Includes real-time chat options for instant client and team communication, which Dubsado lacks.
  • More customizable dashboard for tracking everything from tasks to invoices.

Pricing:

  • Solo: $15/month (billed annually)
  • Studio: $20/month (billed annually)
  • Team: $30/month (billed annually)

Other Features:

  • Comprehensive project management with integrated time tracking
  • Built-in CRM and live chat
  • Customizable proposals and invoicing

Who should use Plutio?:

  • Plutio is great for freelancers and small agencies looking for a versatile platform to manage their entire workflow. 

Users Say:

  •  "Plutio has revolutionized the way we handle our projects and client interactions, providing everything we need in one place."

Should I use Plutio?:

Plutio provides a flexible solution for small business owners looking to manage their operations in a unified interface. Those who value integration and real-time communication will likely prefer it to Dubsado.

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Nifty

Nifty is renowned for its project management capabilities that help teams streamline their workflows, set goals, and communicate efficiently within a visually intuitive interface.

Nifty vs. Dubsado:

  • Focuses heavily on project milestone tracking and collaborative document management.
  • Offers a built-in calendar and discussion boards for enhanced team coordination.
  • Provides more detailed reporting on project progress and team productivity.

Pricing:

  • Starter: $39/month for up to 10 team members
  • Pro: $79/month for unlimited team members
  • Business: $124/month for additional custom features

Other Features:

  • Task management with integrated time tracking
  • Automated project status reports
  • File sharing and document collaboration

Who should use Nifty?:

  • Nifty is best for mid-sized teams and agencies that focus heavily on project delivery and require robust tools for tracking milestones, managing tasks, and fostering team collaboration. 

Users Say:

  • "Nifty has transformed our project management process, making it easier to monitor progress and keep everyone aligned."

Should I use Nifty?:

Nifty excels in project management and team collaboration, offering a broad spectrum of tools. It’s well-suited for organizations with teams looking to enhance productivity and ensure project success. 

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Accelo

Accelo is notable for its automation of service operations, which makes it a powerful tool for managing client work throughout the process. It's designed for professional service businesses looking to consolidate their operations and enhance efficiency.

Accelo vs. Dubsado:

  • Stronger focus on service automation and operations management.
  • Offers integrated service and sales tracking in one unified platform.
  • Provides extensive reporting features that cover all aspects of business operations.

Pricing:

  • Sales & CRM: $39/user/month (billed annually)
  • Project Management: $39/user/month (billed annually)
  • Service Management: $39/user/month (billed annually)
  • Retainer Management: $39/user/month (billed annually)
  • Complete: $79/user/month (billed annually), all modules included.

Other Features:

  • Automated time tracking and invoicing
  • Detailed project and retainer management tools
  • Built-in email client and scheduling tools

Who should use Accelo?:

  • Accelo is convenient for mid-sized to large professional services firms that require a comprehensive system to manage complex client projects and retainers.

Users Say:

  • "Accelo automates much of our client management and operational tasks, saving us time and improving our client service delivery."

Should I use Accelo?:

Accelo offers a diverse set of features designed to automate and manage every aspect of service operations. It’s an ideal solution for professional services firms looking for something other than what Dubsado has to offer.

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Hello Bonsai

Hello Bonsai is specifically tailored for freelancers and small agencies in creative fields. It aims to simplify project management, time tracking, and invoicing to consolidate workflow.

Hello Bonsai vs. Dubsado:

  • Focuses more narrowly on the needs of freelancers, particularly in creative sectors.
  • Provides sleek templates for proposals, contracts, and invoices designed for freelancers.
  • Offers a more intuitive financial tracking and tax preparation service.

Pricing:

  • Workflow: $19/month (billed annually)
  • Workflow Plus: $29/month (billed annually)

Other Features:

  • Task automation and client relationship management
  • Integrated expense tracking
  • Proposals and contracts with e-signing

Who should use Hello Bonsai?:

Hello Bonsai is optimized for freelancers and small creative agencies who need a streamlined tool for managing their projects and finances.

 Users Say:

  • "Hello Bonsai is a lifesaver for freelancers, making contract creation and financial management easy and accessible."

Should I use Hello Bonsai?:

With its freelancer-specific features and intuitive design, Hello Bonsai offers a compelling option for those in the creative industry who prioritize simplicity and client communications.

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Asana

Asana is widely appreciated for its thorough project management capabilities. Teams are able to organize, track, and manage their work efficiently. It prioritizes clarity, accountability, and collaborative planning.

Asana vs. Dubsado:

  • Stronger focus on task and project management with extensive customization options.
  • Offers more team-centered features, like boards, timelines, and portfolios.
  • Provides advanced reporting tools and integration with numerous productivity apps.

Pricing:

  • Basic: Free, with essential features for task management.
  • Premium: $10.99/user/month (billed annually), includes timeline, dashboard, and advanced search.
  • Business: $24.99/user/month (billed annually), adds portfolios, goals, and custom rules.
  • Enterprise: Custom pricing, includes advanced security, control, and support.

Other Features:

  • Goal setting and tracking
  • Automated workflows
  • Real-time comments and file sharing

Who should use Asana?:

  • Asana is applicable for teams of all sizes that need a flexible and powerful tool to manage multiple projects and tasks across several departments. 

Users Say:

  • "Asana has streamlined our project workflows and communication, significantly boosting our productivity and project visibility."

Should I use Asana?:

Asana offers a highly customizable, feature-rich platform for project and task management. Teams looking for dynamic and collaborative ways to manage their workflows differently from Dubsado’s offerings need look no further.

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How Should I Choose an Alternative to Dubsado?

If you’re looking for a Dubsado alternative, we’ve rolled through lots of great options, each with their own unique features and capabilities. From freelancers and solo entrepreneurs to larger corporations, every business demographic can find a useful tool here!

When making your decision, take the time to single out what your main priorities are that can be better handled by one of these tools. Consider your options, opportunity areas and end goals. Do your homework and you’ll be sure to find one of these software options will work for you and your business, not only in the present, but with long-term projects and customer retention. 

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