Dubsado vs. Honeybook: Which CRM is Best for Your Creative Business?
After years in business and over 41 entrepreneurs served, I’ve learned a thing or two about the creative mind. And one thing I know for certain is that it takes structure to stay in a flow state. Utilizing tech, automations, and the powerful tools at our disposal helps us to do what we do best, but do it even better. Being smart with how you use tech in your business isn’t just about your client experience and your bottom line… it’s about peace of mind.
That’s why finding the right client relationship management (CRM) system can make a world of difference for you, as a creative business owner. With the right CRM, you’re essentially building a well-oiled machine that handles the back end of your business so you can focus on what you love most—creating. Among the top contenders, Dubsado and HoneyBook stand out for their features tailored to small business needs. Let’s dive into what makes each platform unique and which one might be the best fit for you.
Dubsado and HoneyBook at a Glance
Dubsado and HoneyBook are both powerful CRM platforms specifically designed for freelancers, creatives, and small business owners. They each offer essential features like client management, invoicing, proposal generation, and workflow automation. However, they differ in terms of customization and functionality.
The Pros and Cons of Dubsado
Dubsado is well-known for its high level of customization. If you’re a detail-oriented creative looking to fine-tune every aspect of your client experience, Dubsado may be your ideal CRM.
With Dubsado, you can:
- Tailor workflows precisely to your process: Dubsado’s workflow automation is robust, allowing you to have everything from automated emails and follow-ups to customized client portals. This is ideal for creatives with multi-step onboarding and offboarding processes.
- Highly customizable forms and templates: Unlike some other platforms, Dubsado provides extensive customization options for forms, contracts, and proposals. You can have beautifully branded documents that feel unique to your business, setting you apart from others who use standard templates.
- Client portals for a cohesive experience: Dubsado offers client portals where clients can access all of their documents, messages, and files in one place. This creates a smooth, centralized experience that enhances communication and reduces the risk of missed information.
- Advanced task management integrations: Dubsado integrates well with task management tools like ClickUp, which makes it easier to manage both client work and internal tasks without losing track of what needs to be done.
Pros of Dubsado:
- Extensive customization options
- Advanced workflow automation
- Client portals for an organized experience
- Strong integrations with task management tools
Cons of Dubsado:
- Steeper learning curve for those learning the system on their own
- Can feel overwhelming due to extensive features
The Pros and Cons of HoneyBook
HoneyBook is designed for ease of use, so it’s especially appealing for beginners or business owners who prefer a straightforward setup. If your priority is simplicity and streamlined processes, HoneyBook could be a strong fit.
HoneyBook’s standout features include:
- Quick and simple setup: HoneyBook’s interface is simple and easy to navigate, making it a great choice for creatives who want to get started quickly without extensive training or setup time.
- Easy collaboration features: HoneyBook makes it easy to communicate and collaborate with clients. With its centralized workspace, clients can access their invoices, proposals, and contracts all in one place, which is especially helpful for projects requiring frequent feedback and collaboration.
- Pre-designed templates: For business owners who don’t need customization, HoneyBook offers pre-designed templates for invoices, contracts, and proposals. These templates offer some personalization to reflect your brand, though the customization options are limited.
- Timeline and project management tools: HoneyBook includes built-in project management tools, which help keep track of timelines and project milestones. While not as advanced as Dubsado’s task management, these features are beneficial for projects that follow a simpler workflow.
Pros of HoneyBook:
- Intuitive, user-friendly interface
- Quick setup and implementation
- Pre-designed templates for a professional look
- Integrated project timeline features
Cons of HoneyBook:
- Limited customization options compared to Dubsado
- Less robust workflow automation
Which Platform Is Right for Your Business?
Both Dubsado and HoneyBook are strong CRM options, but the best choice depends on the specific needs of your business.
- Choose Dubsado if… you’re looking for an all-in-one solution that allows for extensive customization and tailored workflows. If you want a unique, highly personalized experience for your clients, Dubsado is likely your best bet. The platform shines when it comes to intricate workflows, automated processes, and branded documents that make a lasting impression.
- Choose HoneyBook if… you prioritize ease of use and speed. HoneyBook is ideal if you want a straightforward CRM that lets you onboard clients, track projects, and get paid without needing a custom setup. It’s a great option for business owners who prefer a “plug and play” CRM solution.
The bottom line
As you consider your options, keep in mind that the right CRM can be the difference between feeling stuck in a cycle of administrative tasks and having the freedom to focus on your craft. And if tech feels like a barrier, remember—you don’t have to settle for a simpler solution out of fear. That’s where I come in.
One of my clients, Steph Marshall from Studio Monday, was initially hesitant to integrate Dubsado, thinking she was "tech-averse." Here’s what she had to say after we worked together:
"I thought I was tech averse before I met Jess. Jess was absolutely amazing to work with. She was patient and kind, answering my thousands of questions in detail. She made me feel super supported and comfortable with a system I was initially hesitant and scared to integrate. Ultimately I knew deep down I needed to face my fear of tech for the greater good of my clients and it was so worth it.
As a designer, I have quite a specific way I like my brand to look, and Jess absolutely nailed all of the things she created for me. She has such a deep knowledge of client experience and was so helpful in sharing areas I could strengthen my process and then helped me to implement these things. I am super grateful I chose to work with her—the value was incredible, and I can't wait to use the system in my business."
If you’re ready to feel how smooth, supported, and transformative your business can be with the right tech, let’s talk.
Your intuition has led you here, and it’s only up from here.
If you’re ready to feel how smooth, supported, and transformative your business can be with the right tech, let’s talk. Book a call with me today to learn more about The Dubsado Signature Experience or The Dubsado & ClickUp Overhaul.
Let me create a custom, done-for-you system that frees you up to do what you love most.