Best Small Business Contract Management Software Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 17 tools reviewed.
Our one-on-one guidance will help you find the perfect fit.
The contract management process can be a headache for small businesses. You might find yourself drowning in paperwork, missing deadlines, or struggling to keep everything in order. Small business contract management software can take this burden off your shoulders, helping your team stay organized and efficient.
In my experience, these tools offer solutions that address common pain points in contract handling. From tracking renewals to ensuring compliance, they can make your life easier. I've tested and reviewed these options to bring you an unbiased, well-researched list of the best tools available.
In this article, I'll guide you through my top picks, highlighting what makes each one unique. Whether you're a small team or a growing business, there's a solution here to fit your needs.
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Best Small Business Contract Management Software Summary
This comparison chart summarizes pricing details for my top small business contract management software to help you find the best one for your budget and business needs.
Tools | Price | |
---|---|---|
Jotform | From $34/month (billed annually) | Website |
Zluri | Pricing upon request | Website |
Agiloft | From $45/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
SpotDraft | From $7/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
Concord | From $17/user/month | Website |
Zoho Contracts | From $25/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
PandaDoc | From $19/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
Ironclad | Pricing upon request | Website |
ContractHound | From $95/month | Website |
Dock | Pricing upon request | Website |
Compare Software Specs Side by Side
Use our comparison chart to review and evaluate software specs side-by-side.
Compare SoftwareHow to Choose Small Business Contract Management Software
It’s easy to get bogged down in long feature lists and complex pricing structures. To help you stay focused as you work through your unique software selection process, here’s a checklist of factors to keep in mind:
Factor | What to Consider |
Scalability | Ensure the tool grows with your business. Look for software that can handle more contracts as you expand. |
Integrations | Check if the software integrates with your existing tools like CRM or accounting systems for consistent data flow. |
Customizability | Opt for a solution that lets you tailor workflows and templates to fit your team's specific needs. |
Ease of Use | Choose user-friendly software that your team can adopt quickly without extensive training. |
Budget | Consider total costs, including subscription fees and any hidden charges, to ensure it fits your financial plan. |
Security Safeguards | Prioritize software with strong encryption and compliance with regulations like GDPR to protect sensitive data. |
Customer Support | Reliable support can be critical. Look for responsive service and resources like tutorials and forums. |
Mobile Access | If your team needs on-the-go access, ensure the software offers a reliable mobile app or web access. |
Best Small Business Contract Management Software Reviews
Below are my detailed summaries of the best small business contract management software that made it onto my shortlist. My reviews offer a detailed look at the key features, pros & cons, integrations, and ideal use cases of each tool to help you find the best one for you.
Jotform is a versatile form builder used by businesses to create customized forms for various purposes, including contract management. It serves small to medium-sized enterprises by simplifying data collection and contract workflows.
Why I picked Jotform: Jotform is ideal for teams needing highly customizable forms. The software offers a drag-and-drop editor for effortless form authoring, creation, and formatting, making it easy for your team to tailor forms to specific needs. It also supports electronic signatures, streamlining contract approval processes. Additionally, Jotform’s automated email notifications keep your team informed about form submissions and updates.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include a vast template library, conditional logic, and mobile compatibility. The template library also provides a starting point for many form types, while conditional logic enhances form functionality by displaying fields based on user responses.
Integrations include Google Drive, Dropbox, Slack, PayPal, Stripe, Square, Zoom, Mailchimp, Salesforce, and HubSpot.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Supports esign
- Drag-and-drop editor
- Highly customizable forms
Cons:
- Requires internet connection
- Limited advanced analytics
Zluri is a SaaS management platform tailored for businesses that need to streamline their software usage and contract management. It serves IT teams and procurement managers by helping them optimize software spend and manage vendor contracts effectively.
Why I picked Zluri: Zluri’s particularly useful for businesses managing multiple SaaS applications. It provides a centralized dashboard to monitor software usage and expenses, helping your team make informed decisions. The software’s contract management feature also ensures you never miss renewal dates or compliance requirements. Additionally, its automated workflows simplify vendor management and contract approvals.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include automated application discovery, spend analytics, and compliance monitoring.
Integrations include Salesforce, Slack, Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, Okta, Zoom, Dropbox, Asana, GitHub, and Jira.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Streamlined vendor management
- Detailed spend analytics
- Centralized SaaS management
Cons:
- Complex for non-technical users
- Requires initial configuration
Agiloft is a highly configurable contract management platform designed for businesses needing tailored contract lifecycle solutions. It serves enterprises and legal teams by offering customizable workflows and comprehensive contract management.
Why I picked Agiloft: Agiloft is perfect for teams that require custom workflows, as it allows your team to build and modify workflows to fit specific needs, enhancing efficiency. The platform offers automated contract creation and approvals, reducing manual intervention. Additionally, Agiloft’s reporting tools provide insights into contract performance and compliance.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include an intuitive dashboard, contract lifecycle automation, and advanced reporting. The dashboard also keeps your team organized and informed about key activities, while its lifecycle automation ensures contracts move smoothly through each stage.
Integrations include Salesforce, Microsoft Office 365, Docusign, Adobe Sign, Google Workspace, Slack, SAP, Oracle NetSuite, Dropbox, and Box.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Detailed compliance tracking
- Efficient contract automation
- Advanced reporting capabilities
Cons:
- Basic mobile app feature
- Requires technical expertise for setup
SpotDraft is a contract management platform aimed at businesses seeking to automate their contract processes. It serves legal teams and small to medium enterprises by providing tools for drafting, reviewing, and managing contracts efficiently.
Why I picked SpotDraft: SpotDraft excels in automating reminders, which is a vital feature for businesses managing multiple contracts. The platform offers automated notifications for important dates, reducing the risk of missing deadlines, while its intuitive dashboard allows your team to view and manage contracts effortlessly. Additionally, the platform's focus on automation helps your team save time on routine tasks.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include contract analytics, collaborative editing, real-time updates, and version control.
Integrations include Salesforce, Slack, Google Workspace, Microsoft Teams, Docusign, Adobe Sign, Okta, Zapier, HubSpot, and Dropbox.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Comprehensive version control
- Intuitive user interface
- Automated task reminders
Cons:
- Requires frequent updates
- Limited customization options
Concord is a contract management platform designed for teams that need efficient contract generation and e-signatures. It serves small to medium-sized businesses by simplifying agreement workflows and ensuring secure document handling.
Why I picked Concord: Concord offers unlimited e-signatures, which is beneficial for teams with high-volume contract cycles. The platform supports collaborative editing, allowing your team to work together effortlessly, while its automated approval processes reduce manual effort, enhancing productivity. Plus, the software’s audit trail feature ensures transparency and compliance throughout the contract lifecycle.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include real-time editing, approval workflows, automated reminders, and an advanced audit trail.
Integrations include Salesforce, Google Drive, Dropbox, Zapier, Slack, Microsoft OneDrive, Box, Docusign, Adobe Sign, and QuickBooks.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Automated approval workflows
- Effective collaborative editing
- Unlimited e-signatures
Cons:
- Occasional performance slowdowns
- Limited advanced analytics
Zoho Contracts is a contract management tool tailored for small businesses and startups looking for cost-effective solutions. It aids in drafting, reviewing, and managing contracts, ensuring compliance and efficiency.
Why I picked Zoho Contracts: Zoho Contracts is ideal for those needing a budget-friendly solution. The software offers features like automated workflows and a centralized contract repository that save time and effort. Its user-friendly interface also makes it accessible for teams with limited technical resources, while its auditing capabilities ensure compliance, which is vital for small businesses.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include automated alerts for upcoming renewals, customizable contract templates, and an advanced audit trail.
Integrations include Zoho CRM, Zoho Books, Zoho Sign, Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive, Microsoft 365, Slack, Zapier, and QuickBooks.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Effective automated alerts
- Comprehensive auditing features
- User-friendly for small teams
Cons:
- Basic reporting capabilities
- Limited advanced analytics
PandaDoc is a document management platform primarily used by sales teams and businesses that require detailed document analytics. It helps streamline the process of creating, sending, and tracking documents, offering insights into client interactions.
Why I picked PandaDoc: PandaDoc is particularly useful for teams needing in-depth document analytics. The software provides features like real-time activity tracking and analytics dashboards that help your team understand client engagement. These tools allow you to optimize your document strategy based on actual data. PandaDoc also offers customizable templates to speed up your document creation.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include a drag-and-drop editor, automated workflows, and e-signature capabilities. PandaDoc's editor also allows you to design documents with ease, while automated workflows reduce manual tasks, saving your team time.
Integrations include Salesforce, HubSpot, Pipedrive, Zoho CRM, Microsoft Dynamics, Slack, Zapier, QuickBooks, Stripe, and PayPal.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Detailed analytics dashboards
- Customizable templates
- Real-time document tracking
Cons:
- Occasional syncing issues
- Limited offline access
Ironclad is a contract lifecycle management platform designed for businesses seeking to automate their workflows. It primarily serves legal teams and enterprises by simplifying the entire contract lifecycle, from contract negotiation and creation, to management processes and contract review.
Why I picked Ironclad: Ironclad’s excellent for teams looking to automate workflows and reduce manual intervention. The software offers a dynamic workflow designer that lets your team build and customize contract processes. Its built-in editor also allows for collaborative drafting and negotiation, enhancing team productivity. Additionally, the platform's automated approval processes help ensure compliance and efficiency.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include a dynamic workflow designer, a built-in document editor, real-time collaboration features, and automated compliance checks.
Integrations include Salesforce, Slack, Docusign, Adobe Sign, Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, Box, Dropbox, Okta, and Workday.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Comprehensive contract tracking
- Built-in document editor
- Dynamic workflow customization
Cons:
- Occasional integration issues
- Limited offline capabilities
ContractHound is a contract management platform specifically designed for small businesses and non-profits. It assists users in securely sharing contracts, setting deadline reminders, and organizing contracts efficiently.
Why I picked ContractHound: ContractHound is great for small teams looking for a straightforward solution without unnecessary complexity. The software offers features like secure contract sharing and deadline reminders, which align with the needs of small teams. Users can also easily create folders and utilize a quick finder for better organization. Additionally, its ability to search by custom fields makes it even more adaptable to specific needs.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include secure sharing of contracts, deadline reminders, and easy organization. The platform also allows users to create folders and search by custom fields, enhancing contract management.
Integrations include Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, Box, Dropbox, Slack, and Salesforce.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Quick setup process
- Saves administrative time
- Intuitive design
Cons:
- Not ideal for large enterprises
- Limited advanced features
Dock is a contract management solution designed for businesses that heavily rely on Microsoft tools. It helps in drafting, managing, and storing contracts while leveraging the Microsoft ecosystem for enhanced collaboration and efficiency.
Why I picked Dock: Dock is perfect for teams already using Microsoft products. The software integrates smoothly with Microsoft tools, enhancing your existing workflows. Its document management capabilities also make it easy to organize contracts. Along with these features, Dock’s focus on security ensures your data stays protected within the Microsoft environment.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include automated contract reminders, a centralized repository, and customizable templates. The software’s automated reminders also keep your team informed about key dates, while its centralized storage simplifies document access and management.
Integrations include Microsoft Office 365, SharePoint, Teams, Outlook, Dynamics 365, Salesforce, Slack, Google Workspace, Dropbox, and Docusign.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Customizable templates
- Centralized document and contract storage
- Strong Microsoft integration
Cons:
- Basic analytics features
- Complex setup process
Other Small Business Contract Management Software
Here are some additional small business contract management software options that didn’t make it onto my shortlist, but are still worth checking out:
- LawVu
Best for legal teams
- Freshservice
Best for IT service companies
- ContractSafe
Best for easy document search
- Juro
Best for in-browser contract editing
- LinkSquares Cloud
Best for AI-driven insights
- Cobblestone Software
Best for compliance tracking
- HoneyBook
Best for creative professionals
Small Business Contract Management Software Selection Criteria
When selecting the best small business contract management software to include in this list, I considered common buyer needs and pain points like affordability and ease of use. I also used the following framework to keep my evaluation structured and fair:
Core Functionality (25% of total score)
To be considered for inclusion in this list, each solution had to fulfill these common use cases:
- Document storage and organization
- Contract drafting and editing
- E-signature capability
- Renewal and expiration reminders
- Access control and permissions
Additional Standout Features (25% of total score)
To help further narrow down the competition, I also looked for unique features, such as:
- AI-powered contract analysis
- Customizable end-to-end workflow automation
- Integration with third-party tools
- Advanced compliance tracking
- Real-time collaboration features
Usability (10% of total score)
To get a sense of the usability of each system, I considered the following:
- Intuitive interface design
- Ease of navigation
- Minimal learning curve
- Customization options
- Accessibility on mobile devices
- Cloud-based management
Onboarding (10% of total score)
To evaluate the onboarding experience for each platform, I considered the following:
- Availability of training videos
- Pre-built templates
- Interactive product tours
- Access to chatbots for guidance
- Regular webinars or workshops
Customer Support (10% of total score)
To assess each software provider’s customer support services, I considered the following:
- 24/7 support availability
- Multiple support channels
- Response time for queries
- Access to a help center or FAQ
- Dedicated account managers
Value For Money (10% of total score)
To evaluate the value for money of each platform, I considered the following:
- Pricing versus features offered
- Availability of tiered pricing plans
- Cost-effectiveness for small businesses
- Hidden fees or charges
- Discounts for annual subscriptions
Customer Reviews (10% of total score)
To get a sense of overall customer satisfaction, I considered the following when reading customer reviews:
- Overall satisfaction ratings
- Commonly mentioned pros and cons
- Feedback on customer support
- Reports on software reliability
- Testimonials on ease of use
Trends In Small Business Contract Management Software
In my research, I sourced countless product updates, press releases, and release logs from different small business contract management software vendors. Here are some of the emerging trends I’m keeping an eye on:
- AI-Enhanced Contract Analytics: AI tools are now being used to analyze contract data, helping unlimited users identify risks and opportunities. This trend is making it easier for small businesses to make informed decisions quickly.
- Blockchain for Contract Security: Some vendors are exploring blockchain technology to enhance contract security and ensure authenticity. This tech offers a tamper-proof way to track changes and verify contract integrity, appealing to businesses concerned about data security.
- Greater Focus on Compliance Management: With increasing regulations, there's a growing emphasis on features that help businesses stay compliant. Tools are being updated to include more advanced compliance tracking and reporting, which is important for industries with strict regulatory requirements.
- User-Driven Customizability: More tools are allowing users to customize their contract management experience, tailoring workflows and templates to fit unique business needs. This trend is driven by the demand for flexibility, with platforms like Agiloft leading the way in offering such options.
- Visual Contract Design Tools: As user experience becomes a priority, visual design tools are emerging to make contract creation intuitive. These tools allow users to create visually appealing contracts without needing design skills, which is becoming a key feature for attracting users.
What Is Small Business Contract Management Software?
Small business contract management software is a tool that helps businesses draft, organize, and manage contracts efficiently. These tools are generally used by legal professionals, procurement managers, and small business owners who need to keep track of agreements and ensure compliance.
Key features, like document storage, e-signature capability, and automated reminders, help with organizing contracts, ensuring deadlines are met and maintaining compliance. Overall, these tools simplify contract management and reduce the risk of errors, saving time and resources for businesses.
Features of Small Business Contract Management Software
When selecting small business contract management software, keep an eye out for the following key features:
- Document Storage: Centralizes all contracts in one place, making it easy to access and manage documents.
- E-Signature Capability: Allows contracts to be signed electronically, speeding up approval processes and reducing paperwork.
- Automated Reminders: Notifies users of important dates like renewals and expirations to ensure nothing is missed.
- Customizable Templates: Provides pre-built templates that can be tailored to fit specific business needs, saving time on contract creation.
- Audit Trail: Tracks all contract changes and activities, ensuring transparency and accountability.
- Compliance Tracking: Helps businesses stay up-to-date with regulations and avoid potential legal issues.
- Workflow Automation: Streamlines contract processes by automating repetitive tasks, improving efficiency.
- Real-Time Collaboration: Enables multiple users to work on contracts simultaneously, enhancing teamwork and productivity.
- Contract Analytics: Analyzes contract data to provide insights on performance and risk, aiding in better decision-making.
- Security Measures: Protects sensitive contract information with encryption and access controls to prevent unauthorized access.
Benefits of Small Business Contract Management Software
Implementing small business contract management software provides several benefits for your team and your business. Here are a few you can look forward to:
- Improved Organization: Centralized document storage helps keep all your contracts in one place, making it easy to find and manage them.
- Faster Approvals: E-signature capability speeds up the signing process, reducing delays in contract execution.
- Timely Renewals: Automated reminders ensure you never miss important dates like contract renewals or expirations.
- Enhanced Compliance: Compliance tracking helps your business adhere to regulations, reducing the risk of legal issues.
- Increased Efficiency: Workflow automation takes care of repetitive tasks, freeing up your team to focus on more strategic activities.
- Better Collaboration: Real-time collaboration features allow your team to work together on contracts, boosting productivity and teamwork.
- Informed Decision-Making: Contract analytics provide valuable insights into contract performance and risks, aiding in better business decisions.
Costs and Pricing of Small Business Contract Management Software
Selecting small business contract management software requires an understanding of the various pricing models and plans available. Costs vary based on features, team size, add-ons, and more. The table below summarizes common plans, their average prices, and typical features included in small business contract management software solutions:
Plan Comparison Table for Small Business Contract Management Software
Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
Free Plan | $0/user/month | Basic document storage, limited e-signatures, and basic templates. |
Personal Plan | $10-$20/user/month | Document storage, e-signature capability, automated reminders, and basic analytics. |
Business Plan | $25-$50/user/month | Advanced document storage, customizable templates, compliance tracking, and workflow automation. |
Enterprise Plan | $55-$100/user/month | Unlimited document storage, advanced analytics, real-time collaboration, and dedicated support. |
Small Business Contract Management Software FAQs
Here are some answers to common questions about small business contract management software:
How can contract management software improve my workflow?
Contract management software can automate repetitive tasks, such as sending reminders for renewals or approvals, which saves you time. It also helps keep your contracts organized in one place, making them easy to find and manage. By using templates, you can quickly draft new contracts without starting from scratch. This streamlines your workflow and allows your team to focus on more strategic tasks.
Are there any security concerns with using contract management software?
Security is a top priority for contract management software providers. They use encryption and access controls to protect your data from unauthorized access. Make sure the software you choose complies with relevant data protection regulations, like GDPR or CCPA. Regular updates and security audits also enhance the protection of your sensitive information.
Can small business contract management software integrate with other tools?
Yes, most contract management software offers integrations with tools your team already uses, like CRM systems, email platforms, and cloud storage services. These integrations help ensure a smooth transfer of data between applications. Check with the software provider to see which integrations they offer and how they can benefit your workflow.
What should I expect during the onboarding process?
Onboarding typically includes setting up your account, importing existing contracts, and configuring templates and workflows. Many providers offer training resources, like videos or webinars, to help your team get started. Look for software that provides dedicated support to guide you through the onboarding process and ensure a smooth transition.
How can I measure the success of my contract management software?
To measure success, track metrics like time saved on contract creation, the number of contracts successfully renewed without missing deadlines, and user satisfaction within your team. Regularly review these metrics to see if the software meets your goals. Adjust your workflows and settings as needed to optimize performance.
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