An important decision to make when choosing real estate project management software is where you want the software hosted. A client-server solution is internally hosted: you install the software on your computers.

This set up gives you the greatest control over your real estate project management software. However, it can take considerable expertise and effort to maintain. In addition, keeping the data in-house gives you the responsibility of making regular backups in case of a system crash.

ASP (application service provider) real estate project management software is hosted by the provider, instead – they run the software in secure data centers with dependable backup power systems and the latest in security. You access the software and data through a web browser or specialized client software.

The main advantage of ASP solutions is that your information can be accessed from multiple locations without significant investment in networking technology, often allowing you to check in on your properties at any time, on any computer. In addition, ASP vendors work to ensure that your information will be kept secure and available. However, the biggest downside is that it requires an active Internet connection.

If you choose client-server real estate project management software, you’ll pay a lump sum upfront to buy and set up the system, including software and servers. With online providers, payment is based on a smaller setup fee and ongoing monthly payments based on usage.

Which type of real estate contact management software is best?
Both client-server and ASP solutions have their advantages. If you need extensive customization for your real estate contact management software, client-server is probably the best route; if you don’t have much computer experience, it can be easier to get started with the ASP model.

Since both options provide secure, reliable real estate management options, a final way to make the choice is to consider which of the potential downsides you fear more: being unable to access your software while your Internet connection is down, or losing data and time because your server crashes.

Instead of struggling with the decision, why not let BuyerZone’s network of real estate project management software vendors help? By using our free request for contact management software quotes service, you can reach as many as six vendors who will review your needs and help you decide the right fit for your business.