"I think this is a pretty powerful combination," says Jurewicz. "We've always felt that our focus has always been building this network of interconnected contractors. Now that we feel that we've reached a point of critical mass, we've been talking with companies [like Textura] about adding pieces onto the puzzle."

For Textura, adding GradeBeam helps it move deeper into the construction business. Its existing prequalification and invoicing tools make information exchanges easier at the beginning and end of a project. GradeBeam offers collaboration during construction, where invitations to bid, construction drawings and requests for information can bog down projects.

The new bidding software will be ready in the middle of 2012, Allin says. GradeBeam and Textura databases, he adds, will help mitigate risk.

"It's really a lot like buying a T.V.," Allin says. "What we are hoping to do here is provide some tools that will facilitate better decisions and faster decisions."

Both companies say they have expanded during the economic downturn as construction firms have looked to cut costs and boost productivity.

"Now, people are being forced to do more with less," says Jurewicz. "They are leveraging technology to compete more efficiently and enter new markets."

For now, Textura plans to keep the GradeBeam brand name and operate it as a standalone division.

"Their clients will continue to be supported by the same people," Allin says.