Plutio vs. Dubsado: Which CRM Is Best for Your Agency in 2025?

You don't want your business growth to stall just because of picking the wrong CRM--let this detailed comparison of Plutio and Dubsado help you start off on the right foot. 

As a creative agency owner or manager, we know that you're looking for a CRM that

• Allows you to manage current clients, not just sales leads.
• Consolidates all features you need so you won't have to pay for multiple apps every month.
• Integrates well with your current workflow.

In this article, we'll go beyond surface-level comparison to figure out which between Plutio and Dubsado checks all the boxes and can change the way you handle and deal with demanding client requests.

At a Glance: Plutio vs Dubsado

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Choosing Between Plutio and Dubsado: What to Look For

Whether you’re a small creative agency just starting out or a more established team looking to optimize workflows, these considerations will help you select a platform that truly aligns with your unique needs.

Let’s now see how Plutio and Dubsado stack up against each other in terms of features mentioned above.

1. Streamlined Project & Task Management

Project management is more than just listing tasks—it’s about visualizing workflows, ensuring deadlines are met, and keeping your team on the same page throughout the creative process. Let’s see how Plutio and Dubsado fare in this department. 

Plutio

• Intuitive visual dashboards with engaging interfaces that display tasks and deadlines clearly.
• Real-time collaboration with live updates to keep all team members informed and aligned.
• Customizable workflow templates to adapt processes to an agency’s specific needs.

Dubsado

• Streamlined task lists for tracking milestones and deliverables efficiently.
• Basic visual aids for task representation but with fewer options compared to Plutio.
• Task assignment and tracking features to ensure team accountability.
• Limited customization in views and workflow adjustments, restricting creative flexibility.

Verdict: Plutio takes the lead for its comprehensive suite of visual tools and flexible workflow options that make it easier to manage complex creative projects.

2. Collaboration & Communication Tools

Whether it's coordinating internal projects or managing client feedback, the right communication tools can streamline your workflow and ensure everyone stays on the same page. Here’s what the two software have to offer: 

Plutio

• Integrated messaging system for direct team communication within the platform.
• Robust file sharing and commenting for seamless feedback and collaboration.
• Dedicated team and client channels to keep internal and external communications separate.

Dubsado

• Centralized client portal for project access, communication, and approvals.
• Basic messaging features that are less comprehensive than Plutio’s system.
• Public proposals and approvals to enhance transparency and streamline client interactions.
• Limited internal communication tools, with a stronger focus on client-facing workflows.

Verdict: Plutio is the stronger choice, thanks to its integrated messaging and real-time updates that make it easier to keep every stakeholder informed. Dubsado excels primarily in client-facing interactions but falls short in internal teamwork.

3. Workflow Automation & Customization

A platform that can be tailored to mirror your step-by-step operations—from design drafts to client approvals—saves time and minimizes manual errors. Let’s see what level of automation is available in the two software: 

Plutio

• Deep automation capabilities with configurable triggers and actions to streamline repetitive tasks.
• Highly customizable workflows that adapt to an agency’s specific creative processes.
• Reusable templates for proposals, contracts, and project flows to ensure consistency.

Dubsado

• Standard automation tools for invoicing, follow-ups, and client communications.
• Moderate workflow customization with some flexibility but requiring manual adjustments for complex projects.
• Preset templates that simplify routine processes but offer limited customization.

Verdict: Plutio wins for its extensive customization and deep automation capabilities that empower you to fine-tune every aspect of your creative process. Dubsado’s more basic approach might fall short for businesses with intricate workflows.

4. Invoicing & Payment Processing

The ideal platform should offer easy invoice creation, integrated payment processing, and automated follow-ups. Here’s how Plutio and Dubsado make sure client invoices are sent and get paid on time:

Plutio

• Seamless invoice creation with fully customizable, professional designs.
• Integrated payment gateways supporting Stripe and PayPal for easy transactions.
• Automated payment reminders to follow up with clients and reduce overdue invoices.

Dubsado

• Streamlined invoicing process with invoices directly linked to client proposals.
• Client-focused payment portal for viewing and managing invoices in one place.
• Basic payment tracking with standard tools but limited automation.

Verdict: Plutio emerges as the clear winner for its seamless invoice generation, robust integration with major payment gateways, and automated follow-ups. 

5. Client Portal & CRM Features

A solid client portal paired with robust CRM capabilities not only consolidates client communications and project details in one accessible hub but also offers customizable options to match your unique workflow. Let’s check how Plutio and Dubsado meet business’ needs for these features. 

Plutio

• Comprehensive CRM integration that centralizes client information, communications, and project histories.
• User-friendly client portal where clients can access project updates, invoices, and deliverables.
• Customizable data fields and workflows to tailor the client experience to your agency’s needs.

Dubsado

• Detailed client management with extensive tracking focused on lead conversion and retention.
• Dedicated client portal for proposals, contracts, and project statuses, improving transparency.
• Automated client onboarding with built-in workflows to reduce manual follow-ups.

Verdict: Plutio breats Dubsado with its extensive customization and seamless integration of client portal and CRM features. Dubsado’s focus on public proposals is beneficial but doesn’t quite match Plutio’s versatility for creative workflows.

6. Branding & Professional Image

Your client management software should reflect your agency’s personality, enhance your professional image, and make a memorable first impression with every interaction. Let’s see what the two software have to offer in terms of branding. 

Plutio

• Extensive customization options with white-labeling and branded interfaces for a seamless client experience.
• Tailored client-facing materials, allowing full design control over proposals, invoices, and portals.
• Consistent branding across every client interaction, reinforcing your agency’s professional identity.

Dubsado

• Professional pre-designed templates that maintain a polished and cohesive look.
• Streamlined client portals with a simple, user-friendly interface but limited customization.
• Standardized branding elements that ensure consistency but may lack deeper personalization.

Verdict: Plutio gets the crown with its extensive customization options and flexible design tools which allow you to create a truly unique, branded experience that speaks directly to your creative identity. On the other hand, Dubsado’s more standardized approach may feel limiting for those looking to make a bold professional statement.

7. Integrations with Creative Tools

Whether it’s Adobe Creative Cloud, Google Drive, or Dropbox, your client management software should effortlessly connect with your creative ecosystem to streamline file sharing, updates, and collaboration.

Plutio

• App integrations with major creative platforms like Adobe Creative Cloud, Google Drive, and Dropbox.
• Comprehensive integration ecosystem to keep creative assets centralized and easily accessible.
• Custom API access for agencies needing bespoke integrations with niche creative tools.

Dubsado

• Adequate creative tool support with basic integrations like Google Drive.
• Client-focused file management that links proposals and contracts with attached files.
• Limited file syncing options, requiring manual management for more complex workflows.

Verdict: Plutio is the clear winner because of its broader integration ecosystem, smooth file syncing, and API access that provide a more flexible and comprehensive solution—something Dubsado’s more limited integrations may struggle to deliver.

8. Scalability & Affordability

As your business grows, your client management software should adapt without breaking the bank. It’s important to consider not only the initial cost but also how the platform scales with your expanding team and evolving needs.

Plutio

• Affordable pricing structure designed for both startups and growing businesses.
• Flexible growth options with tiered plans that scale as your company expands.
• Transparent costs with no hidden fees, making budgeting straightforward.

Dubsado

• Flexible pricing options with monthly or annual plans for small agencies.
• Potential for higher scaling costs as team size and feature needs increase.
• Standard feature set at lower tiers, but advanced tools require higher-tier plans.

Verdict: Plutio stands out because of its transparent, scalable pricing and feature-rich plans that provide better long-term value, whereas Dubsado may lead to higher expenses as your agency scales.

9. Support & Community

A robust support network not only helps resolve issues quickly but also provides valuable insights and best practices shared by fellow users. Here’s what Plutio and Dubsado have to offer when it comes to customer support. 

Plutio

• Responsive support channels with fast assistance via live chat, email, and a detailed help center.
• Active user community that shares insights, tutorials, and best practices.
• Extensive knowledge base with in-depth documentation, FAQs, and video guides for easy navigation.

Dubsado

• Reliable customer support through email and scheduled calls, though response times may vary.
• Growing community resources with user forums and groups, though less active than Plutio’s.
• Standard documentation with basic guides and tutorials, sometimes requiring additional external help.

Verdict: Plutio offers proactive customer service, extensive knowledge base, and active user community. Meanwhile, Dubsado’s reliable support and smaller community may not fully meet the needs of a fast-paced creative agency.

10. Reporting & Analytics

Effective reporting and analytics allow you to monitor performance, optimize resource allocation, and make informed decisions that drive growth. Check out how Plutio and Dubsado can help you gain valuable insights with their integrated reporting tools. 

Plutio

• Customizable dashboards that highlight key agency metrics for better decision-making.
• Insightful financial reports covering invoicing, cash flow, and profitability.
• Real-time data tracking to monitor project progress and team performance effectively.

Dubsado

• Basic reporting tools with standard insights on project status and client interactions.
• Standard financial analytics with essential reports but limited customization.
• Simplified dashboard views that present key data in an easy-to-read format but lack depth.

Verdict: Plutio excels with its comprehensive, customizable dashboards and real-time reporting that deliver the nuanced insights needed to fine-tune creative processes. On the other hand, Dubsado’s more basic analytics may leave gaps in your data-driven strategy.

Why ManyRequests Is the Best Alternative for Creative Agencies

Plutio and Dubsado are both marketed as all-in-one solutions for agencies, but neither is designed specifically for the way creative teams operate. Managing client projects, handling service requests, and streamlining collaboration often requires additional tools—something that Plutio and Dubsado don’t fully address.

This is where ManyRequests stands apart. It’s built for creative agencies that need a seamless client portal, project tracking, invoicing, and approvals all in one place.

Instead of piecing together multiple platforms, ManyRequests offers a more streamlined and scalable approach to managing agency workflows.

Here’s how it outperforms both Plutio and Dubsado.

1. A Fully Integrated Client Portal

While Plutio and Dubsado offer client-facing features, neither provides a full-service client portal that covers everything from service requests to approvals and payments in one dashboard.

ManyRequests takes a different approach. It provides a dedicated, agency-branded client portal where clients can submit service requests, track progress, approve work, and handle payments—all without needing separate software. This eliminates scattered emails, missed approvals, and manual invoicing, making the client experience smoother and more efficient.

2. A Built-In Ordering System for Agency Services

Plutio and Dubsado require agencies to rely on external checkout systems or invoicing setups to sell services, adding extra friction to the sales process.

ManyRequests eliminates that issue by offering a built-in service ordering system that lets agencies sell packages, retainers, and one-time projects directly through the platform.

Clients can:

• Browse and purchase services within their portal.
• Submit structured requests based on the services they’ve purchased.
• Track their orders and receive updates without additional follow-ups.

For agencies offering recurring services or monthly retainers, this feature can streamline the entire client experience from order to delivery.

3. A Request-Based Workflow System Built for Agencies

Unlike Plutio’s task-based system or Dubsado’s form-driven workflows, ManyRequests uses a request-based workflow that helps agencies manage client work more effectively.

This approach allows agencies to:

• Standardize service requests so clients submit structured, detailed briefs instead of vague emails.
• Track and manage requests in a centralized dashboard instead of relying on scattered conversations.
• Automate approvals and revisions, reducing the back-and-forth typically involved in client feedback.

4. Full White-Labeling for a Branded Experience

Brand consistency matters for agencies, yet Plutio charges extra for white-labeling, and Dubsado offers only limited customization options for branding. ManyRequests provides fully white-labeled portals at no extra cost, allowing agencies to:

• Use a custom domain for their client portal.
• Brand their invoices, proposals, and service pages with their own logo, colors, and fonts.
• Deliver a high-end, professional experience without paying extra for branding features.

5. A Built-In CRM Designed for Creative Agencies

Neither Plutio nor Dubsado provides a dedicated agency CRM that helps businesses track leads, manage client relationships, and store key details in one place.

ManyRequests includes a CRM built specifically for creative teams, allowing agencies to:

• Organize and track client relationships with contact details, notes, and project histories.
• Segment clients and leads for better follow-ups and marketing efforts.
• Manage recurring and one-time service requests within the same system.

Unlike generic CRMs, ManyRequests’ CRM is built with design and creative agencies in mind, making it easier to track ongoing projects, client needs, and long-term partnerships. 

Try it free for 14 days and see why creative agencies choose it over generic CRMs. 

Wrapping Up

While Plution and Dubsado have their own merits, both platforms often offer more than what creative agencies truly need, leading to unnecessary complexity and clutter.

ManyRequests is the best alternative to these two popular CRMs by eliminating obstacles and focusing solely on what matters most for creative teams. 

With its intuitive interface, centralized client portal, and streamlined request management, ManyRequests simplifies client management so your agency can concentrate on delivering exceptional creative work.

Try ManyRequests free for 14 days and see how effortlessly you can elevate your agency’s workflow!

Originally Published: April 19, 2021