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Mobile vs Web: What’s the Difference?

Summary

BuilderPal works on both mobile and web, and both versions contain the same features, projects, and data. The difference is how you navigate. Mobile is optimized for fast, field-ready workflows; desktop is optimized for office work, reviewing information, and setup tasks.

Why It Matters

Problem it solves: Contractors often switch between jobsite tools and office tools. Without understanding the differences, it can feel like one version is “missing” something or harder to use.

Benefit to contractors: BuilderPal’s design keeps field work extremely fast and office work highly organized—so teams can move between devices without losing context.

How It Works

Core Navigation Differences

Both platforms access the same information, but the layout is tailored to the user’s environment.

Mobile App (Field-Optimized)

  • Home screen opens to the Inbox

  • Bottom navigation bar: Inbox, To-Do List, + (Quick Actions), Projects, Menu

  • Quick Actions panel provides one-tap access to:

    • Clock In/Out
    • Job Connector
    • Team Office
    • Support
    • Project tools (Overview, Schedule, Actions, Documents, Job Chat, Bidding, Subcontractors, Participants, Site Office)
[![Screenshot 2025-12-01 at 11.49.55 AM.png](https://docs.builderpal.com/uploads/images/gallery/2025-12/scaled-1680-/screenshot-2025-12-01-at-11-49-55-am.png)](https://docs.builderpal.com/uploads/images/gallery/2025-12/screenshot-2025-12-01-at-11-49-55-am.png)

[SCREENSHOT: Quick Actions panel expanded with global tools + project tools]

Best for:

  • Fast jobsite navigation
  • Uploading photos
  • Responding to updates
  • Clocking in/out
  • Walking the job while accessing project tools

Web App (Office-Optimized)

  • Uses a left-hand sidebar for navigation
  • Wider screen makes admin tasks, project setup, long lists, and reviews easier
  • Ideal for GC admins, PMs, coordinators, and office teams
[SCREENSHOT: Web Inbox with left sidebar]

Best for:

  • Reviewing schedules, documents, and long lists
  • Detailed project setup
  • Bid management
  • Timesheet approvals
  • Team and company-level settings

Real-World Example

On the jobsite: A supervisor clocks in, checks updates in the Inbox, opens the Quick Actions menu, and uploads photos to Documents—all from their phone.

In the office: A PM reviews yesterday’s activity, updates the schedule, edits subcontractor details, and reviews bid packages—all from the desktop sidebar.

When to Use Each

Use Mobile When…

  • You’re physically on-site
  • You need fast access to project tools
  • You’re completing Actions or capturing jobsite conditions
  • You’re clocking in or switching cost codes
  • You’re responding to real-time updates

Use Web When…

  • You’re setting up new projects or trades
  • You’re reviewing or managing large sets of data
  • You’re approving timesheets
  • You’re updating documents or cost codes
  • You’re doing managerial or administrative work

Screenshot Guidance

Use mobile screenshots for:

  • Inbox
  • Bottom navigation bar
  • Quick Actions panel

Use web screenshots for:

  • Sidebar navigation
  • Desktop Inbox view
  • Example of a desktop project page

(Matches template requirements: mobile for field tasks, desktop for office tasks)

Next Steps

  • Learn how to navigate the mobile app
  • Learn how to navigate the desktop sidebar
  • Try switching between devices to see how everything stays synced
  • Workflow / Tutorial: How to Navigate the Mobile App
  • Reference: Key Parts of the BuilderPal Inbox
  • Troubleshooting / FAQ: Why Can’t I Find a Tool on Mobile?

Metadata

  • Relevant Roles: Admin (GC), Admin (SUB), Admin (SHORTCUT), Team Project Manager, Team Member, Team Finance Manager, Team Business Manager, Team Supervisor
  • Feature Area: Platform Basics / Navigation
  • Article Type: Concept / Overview

If you want, I can now convert the Mobile App Navigation article into the Concept OR Workflow template as well—just tell me which template it should follow.

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