Workiva Review 2025: Pricing, Features, Pros & Cons, Ratings & More

Imed Bouchrika, Phd

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Share

Workiva: Top Financial Software

4.65 / 5

Top 3 Workiva Alternatives

Featured Financial Software Alternatives for Workiva

NetSuite ERP
NetSuite ERP
5 / 5
Pricing

Custom

Free Trial

No

Key Features

regulatory compliance, automation, cloud access

Editor's Take

NetSuite ERP is a comprehensive cloud-based enterprise resource planning (ERP) software designed to streamline business processes for organizations of all sizes. Key features include financial management, order management, inventory control, and procurement. It also offers advanced analytics and real-time reporting, making it ideal for decision-making. Pros include scalability, extensive customization, and seamless integration with other NetSuite modules like CRM and eCommerce. However, it can have a steep learning curve, and pricing may be high for smaller businesses. NetSuite ERP is best suited for growing companies needing a robust, all-in-one platform to manage complex operations across multiple departments.

Expert Score

In evaluating SaaS software, a comprehensive and structured methodology ensures a fair and accurate comparison across key metrics. This approach focuses on the most critical aspects that affect user experience, functionality, and business value. The following metrics—general features, cost, customer service, integrations, and mobile support—are evaluated to provide a holistic view of each software solution’s strengths and weaknesses. These metrics are selected based on their direct impact on software usability, scalability, and long-term effectiveness for businesses.

1. General Features - scoring weight 40%
This metric evaluates the core functionalities and tools the software offers. It involves assessing the comprehensiveness of the features, their relevance to the target users, and the ease of use. This is important because robust and well-designed features determine the software's overall utility and efficiency in solving user problems.

2. Cost - scoring weight 15%  
Cost analysis focuses on pricing models, value for money, and scalability. It's crucial to evaluate whether the software’s features justify its price, considering different plans for small and large organizations. This is vital for businesses to ensure they invest in cost-effective solutions that fit their budget.

3. Customer Service - scoring weight 15%  
This evaluates the responsiveness, quality, and availability of customer support, including channels like chat, email, or phone. Good customer service is essential for troubleshooting and ensuring smooth software usage, which reduces downtime and frustration for users.

4. Integrations - scoring weight 15%  
This examines how well the software integrates with third-party tools (e.g., CRM, payment systems, collaboration apps). Seamless integrations are key for creating a unified workflow and enhancing productivity by connecting multiple systems, which is crucial for operational efficiency.

5. Mobile Support - scoring weight 15%  
Mobile support assesses the software’s functionality and performance on mobile devices, including apps and mobile web versions. With increasing remote work and on-the-go usage, strong mobile support is critical to ensure users can access and utilize the software effectively, regardless of location.

Spreadsheet Server
Spreadsheet Server
4.5 / 5
Pricing

Quote-based

Free Plan

No

Key Features

Real-Time Reporting, ERP Integration, Excel Compatibility

Editor's Take

Spreadsheet Server is a reporting and analytics tool that integrates with ERP systems to generate real-time financial and operational reports. It allows users to work within Excel, leveraging familiar tools to design and automate reports. The platform simplifies data extraction, enabling organizations to gain insights quickly without manual processing. Spreadsheet Server supports multiple data sources, ensuring comprehensive analysis and decision-making. Its ease of use and robust functionality make it a valuable solution for finance and operations teams.

Expert Score

In evaluating SaaS software, a comprehensive and structured methodology ensures a fair and accurate comparison across key metrics. This approach focuses on the most critical aspects that affect user experience, functionality, and business value. The following metrics—general features, cost, customer service, integrations, and mobile support—are evaluated to provide a holistic view of each software solution’s strengths and weaknesses. These metrics are selected based on their direct impact on software usability, scalability, and long-term effectiveness for businesses.

1. General Features - scoring weight 40%
This metric evaluates the core functionalities and tools the software offers. It involves assessing the comprehensiveness of the features, their relevance to the target users, and the ease of use. This is important because robust and well-designed features determine the software's overall utility and efficiency in solving user problems.

2. Cost - scoring weight 15%  
Cost analysis focuses on pricing models, value for money, and scalability. It's crucial to evaluate whether the software’s features justify its price, considering different plans for small and large organizations. This is vital for businesses to ensure they invest in cost-effective solutions that fit their budget.

3. Customer Service - scoring weight 15%  
This evaluates the responsiveness, quality, and availability of customer support, including channels like chat, email, or phone. Good customer service is essential for troubleshooting and ensuring smooth software usage, which reduces downtime and frustration for users.

4. Integrations - scoring weight 15%  
This examines how well the software integrates with third-party tools (e.g., CRM, payment systems, collaboration apps). Seamless integrations are key for creating a unified workflow and enhancing productivity by connecting multiple systems, which is crucial for operational efficiency.

5. Mobile Support - scoring weight 15%  
Mobile support assesses the software’s functionality and performance on mobile devices, including apps and mobile web versions. With increasing remote work and on-the-go usage, strong mobile support is critical to ensure users can access and utilize the software effectively, regardless of location.

Gaviti
Gaviti
4.5 / 5
Pricing

By quote

Free Trial

Demo available

Key Features

payment reminders, customizable workflows, analytics

Editor's Take

Gaviti is a specialized accounts receivable (AR) software designed to streamline and optimize the invoice collection process. Tailored for finance teams, Gaviti automates the entire AR workflow, from invoice generation to payment collection, helping businesses reduce late payments and improve cash flow. Its user-friendly platform provides real-time visibility into payment statuses and collection activities, enabling teams to track, manage, and prioritize outstanding invoices effectively.

Key features include automated payment reminders, customizable workflows, and detailed analytics for tracking AR performance. Gaviti also integrates seamlessly with existing accounting and ERP systems, allowing for smooth data synchronization and improved efficiency in managing receivables.

With its focus on improving the efficiency of AR processes and reducing the payment cycle, Gaviti is ideal for businesses looking to enhance their cash flow management and reduce operational bottlenecks in collections.

Expert Score

In evaluating SaaS software, a comprehensive and structured methodology ensures a fair and accurate comparison across key metrics. This approach focuses on the most critical aspects that affect user experience, functionality, and business value. The following metrics—general features, cost, customer service, integrations, and mobile support—are evaluated to provide a holistic view of each software solution’s strengths and weaknesses. These metrics are selected based on their direct impact on software usability, scalability, and long-term effectiveness for businesses.

1. General Features - scoring weight 40%
This metric evaluates the core functionalities and tools the software offers. It involves assessing the comprehensiveness of the features, their relevance to the target users, and the ease of use. This is important because robust and well-designed features determine the software's overall utility and efficiency in solving user problems.

2. Cost - scoring weight 15%  
Cost analysis focuses on pricing models, value for money, and scalability. It's crucial to evaluate whether the software’s features justify its price, considering different plans for small and large organizations. This is vital for businesses to ensure they invest in cost-effective solutions that fit their budget.

3. Customer Service - scoring weight 15%  
This evaluates the responsiveness, quality, and availability of customer support, including channels like chat, email, or phone. Good customer service is essential for troubleshooting and ensuring smooth software usage, which reduces downtime and frustration for users.

4. Integrations - scoring weight 15%  
This examines how well the software integrates with third-party tools (e.g., CRM, payment systems, collaboration apps). Seamless integrations are key for creating a unified workflow and enhancing productivity by connecting multiple systems, which is crucial for operational efficiency.

5. Mobile Support - scoring weight 15%  
Mobile support assesses the software’s functionality and performance on mobile devices, including apps and mobile web versions. With increasing remote work and on-the-go usage, strong mobile support is critical to ensure users can access and utilize the software effectively, regardless of location.


What is Workiva

Workiva cloud-based compliance platform is designed to simplify complex regulatory and financial reporting by consolidating data from multiple sources into a single, unified environment. This approach reduces manual tasks and errors, ensuring up-to-date information flows seamlessly across linked documents, spreadsheets, and presentations. The platform’s real-time collaboration tools enable teams to work together efficiently, managing tasks, comments, and version control in a secure setting.

Accuracy and auditability are central to the Workiva financial reporting software, which supports filings such as SEC annual and quarterly reports. It offers comprehensive lifecycle management features, including validation checks, audit trails, and user access controls, helping organizations meet stringent compliance requirements. The software also integrates with enterprise systems like ERP and financial management tools to automate data imports, further enhancing data integrity and reducing discrepancies.

Security is a priority, with enterprise-grade measures like data encryption and multi-factor authentication protecting sensitive financial and operational information. Compliance with standards such as SOC 1 and SOC 2 demonstrates Workiva’s commitment to safeguarding data within its cloud environment. Its user-friendly interface mimics familiar spreadsheet layouts, minimizing training time for finance and compliance professionals.

Beyond core reporting, Workiva’s adaptable platform supports additional use cases such as risk management and ESG reporting, making it a versatile solution for various business needs. For those evaluating software options, consulting a ranking of the top enterprise learning management system can provide valuable insights into integrating learning and compliance processes effectively.

What is Workiva

Featured Financial Software Products

NetSuite ERP
NetSuite ERP
5 / 5
Pricing

Custom

Free Trial

No

Key Features

regulatory compliance, automation, cloud access

Editor's Take

NetSuite ERP is a comprehensive cloud-based enterprise resource planning (ERP) software designed to streamline business processes for organizations of all sizes. Key features include financial management, order management, inventory control, and procurement. It also offers advanced analytics and real-time reporting, making it ideal for decision-making. Pros include scalability, extensive customization, and seamless integration with other NetSuite modules like CRM and eCommerce. However, it can have a steep learning curve, and pricing may be high for smaller businesses. NetSuite ERP is best suited for growing companies needing a robust, all-in-one platform to manage complex operations across multiple departments.

Expert Score

In evaluating SaaS software, a comprehensive and structured methodology ensures a fair and accurate comparison across key metrics. This approach focuses on the most critical aspects that affect user experience, functionality, and business value. The following metrics—general features, cost, customer service, integrations, and mobile support—are evaluated to provide a holistic view of each software solution’s strengths and weaknesses. These metrics are selected based on their direct impact on software usability, scalability, and long-term effectiveness for businesses.

1. General Features - scoring weight 40%
This metric evaluates the core functionalities and tools the software offers. It involves assessing the comprehensiveness of the features, their relevance to the target users, and the ease of use. This is important because robust and well-designed features determine the software's overall utility and efficiency in solving user problems.

2. Cost - scoring weight 15%  
Cost analysis focuses on pricing models, value for money, and scalability. It's crucial to evaluate whether the software’s features justify its price, considering different plans for small and large organizations. This is vital for businesses to ensure they invest in cost-effective solutions that fit their budget.

3. Customer Service - scoring weight 15%  
This evaluates the responsiveness, quality, and availability of customer support, including channels like chat, email, or phone. Good customer service is essential for troubleshooting and ensuring smooth software usage, which reduces downtime and frustration for users.

4. Integrations - scoring weight 15%  
This examines how well the software integrates with third-party tools (e.g., CRM, payment systems, collaboration apps). Seamless integrations are key for creating a unified workflow and enhancing productivity by connecting multiple systems, which is crucial for operational efficiency.

5. Mobile Support - scoring weight 15%  
Mobile support assesses the software’s functionality and performance on mobile devices, including apps and mobile web versions. With increasing remote work and on-the-go usage, strong mobile support is critical to ensure users can access and utilize the software effectively, regardless of location.

Spreadsheet Server
Spreadsheet Server
4.5 / 5
Pricing

Quote-based

Free Plan

No

Key Features

Real-Time Reporting, ERP Integration, Excel Compatibility

Editor's Take

Spreadsheet Server is a reporting and analytics tool that integrates with ERP systems to generate real-time financial and operational reports. It allows users to work within Excel, leveraging familiar tools to design and automate reports. The platform simplifies data extraction, enabling organizations to gain insights quickly without manual processing. Spreadsheet Server supports multiple data sources, ensuring comprehensive analysis and decision-making. Its ease of use and robust functionality make it a valuable solution for finance and operations teams.

Expert Score

In evaluating SaaS software, a comprehensive and structured methodology ensures a fair and accurate comparison across key metrics. This approach focuses on the most critical aspects that affect user experience, functionality, and business value. The following metrics—general features, cost, customer service, integrations, and mobile support—are evaluated to provide a holistic view of each software solution’s strengths and weaknesses. These metrics are selected based on their direct impact on software usability, scalability, and long-term effectiveness for businesses.

1. General Features - scoring weight 40%
This metric evaluates the core functionalities and tools the software offers. It involves assessing the comprehensiveness of the features, their relevance to the target users, and the ease of use. This is important because robust and well-designed features determine the software's overall utility and efficiency in solving user problems.

2. Cost - scoring weight 15%  
Cost analysis focuses on pricing models, value for money, and scalability. It's crucial to evaluate whether the software’s features justify its price, considering different plans for small and large organizations. This is vital for businesses to ensure they invest in cost-effective solutions that fit their budget.

3. Customer Service - scoring weight 15%  
This evaluates the responsiveness, quality, and availability of customer support, including channels like chat, email, or phone. Good customer service is essential for troubleshooting and ensuring smooth software usage, which reduces downtime and frustration for users.

4. Integrations - scoring weight 15%  
This examines how well the software integrates with third-party tools (e.g., CRM, payment systems, collaboration apps). Seamless integrations are key for creating a unified workflow and enhancing productivity by connecting multiple systems, which is crucial for operational efficiency.

5. Mobile Support - scoring weight 15%  
Mobile support assesses the software’s functionality and performance on mobile devices, including apps and mobile web versions. With increasing remote work and on-the-go usage, strong mobile support is critical to ensure users can access and utilize the software effectively, regardless of location.

Gaviti
Gaviti
4.5 / 5
Pricing

By quote

Free Trial

Demo available

Key Features

payment reminders, customizable workflows, analytics

Editor's Take

Gaviti is a specialized accounts receivable (AR) software designed to streamline and optimize the invoice collection process. Tailored for finance teams, Gaviti automates the entire AR workflow, from invoice generation to payment collection, helping businesses reduce late payments and improve cash flow. Its user-friendly platform provides real-time visibility into payment statuses and collection activities, enabling teams to track, manage, and prioritize outstanding invoices effectively.

Key features include automated payment reminders, customizable workflows, and detailed analytics for tracking AR performance. Gaviti also integrates seamlessly with existing accounting and ERP systems, allowing for smooth data synchronization and improved efficiency in managing receivables.

With its focus on improving the efficiency of AR processes and reducing the payment cycle, Gaviti is ideal for businesses looking to enhance their cash flow management and reduce operational bottlenecks in collections.

Expert Score

In evaluating SaaS software, a comprehensive and structured methodology ensures a fair and accurate comparison across key metrics. This approach focuses on the most critical aspects that affect user experience, functionality, and business value. The following metrics—general features, cost, customer service, integrations, and mobile support—are evaluated to provide a holistic view of each software solution’s strengths and weaknesses. These metrics are selected based on their direct impact on software usability, scalability, and long-term effectiveness for businesses.

1. General Features - scoring weight 40%
This metric evaluates the core functionalities and tools the software offers. It involves assessing the comprehensiveness of the features, their relevance to the target users, and the ease of use. This is important because robust and well-designed features determine the software's overall utility and efficiency in solving user problems.

2. Cost - scoring weight 15%  
Cost analysis focuses on pricing models, value for money, and scalability. It's crucial to evaluate whether the software’s features justify its price, considering different plans for small and large organizations. This is vital for businesses to ensure they invest in cost-effective solutions that fit their budget.

3. Customer Service - scoring weight 15%  
This evaluates the responsiveness, quality, and availability of customer support, including channels like chat, email, or phone. Good customer service is essential for troubleshooting and ensuring smooth software usage, which reduces downtime and frustration for users.

4. Integrations - scoring weight 15%  
This examines how well the software integrates with third-party tools (e.g., CRM, payment systems, collaboration apps). Seamless integrations are key for creating a unified workflow and enhancing productivity by connecting multiple systems, which is crucial for operational efficiency.

5. Mobile Support - scoring weight 15%  
Mobile support assesses the software’s functionality and performance on mobile devices, including apps and mobile web versions. With increasing remote work and on-the-go usage, strong mobile support is critical to ensure users can access and utilize the software effectively, regardless of location.

Zoho Books
Zoho Books
4.2 / 5
Pricing

$15 per month, free plan is available

Free Trial

14 days

Key Features
Editor's Take

Zoho Books is a versatile, cloud-based accounting software designed to meet the financial needs of small to medium-sized businesses. Part of the comprehensive Zoho suite, it offers end-to-end tools for managing core accounting functions, from invoicing and expense tracking to bank reconciliation and tax compliance. Zoho Books stands out for its user-friendly interface and integration capabilities, especially for businesses already using other Zoho applications like Zoho CRM, Zoho Inventory, or Zoho Projects. This seamless connectivity makes Zoho Books an attractive option for businesses aiming to centralize and streamline their financial operations.

Zoho Books simplifies invoicing with customizable templates and automated payment reminders, helping businesses accelerate cash flow and keep track of payments in real time. Expense tracking and bank reconciliation tools make it easy to monitor spending and match financial records accurately, enhancing visibility into cash flow. For companies managing multiple projects, Zoho Books also includes project-based accounting features, allowing users to log billable hours, track project-specific expenses, and generate dedicated reports.

With built-in tax compliance tools, Zoho Books supports tax tracking and automated calculations for various jurisdictions, including GST and VAT, which helps businesses stay compliant with local regulations. The platform also integrates with popular third-party tools like PayPal and Stripe, broadening its versatility for managing payments and transactions.

For businesses that rely on inventory, Zoho Books includes inventory management capabilities, supporting low-stock alerts, stock movement tracking, and inventory valuation. With robust reporting features, Zoho Books provides insights into profits, expenses, and taxes, empowering businesses to make data-driven financial decisions and remain compliant.

Overall, Zoho Books is a well-rounded solution that streamlines accounting for small and growing businesses, combining essential accounting functions with the flexibility to grow alongside a business’s needs.

Expert Score

In evaluating SaaS software, a comprehensive and structured methodology ensures a fair and accurate comparison across key metrics. This approach focuses on the most critical aspects that affect user experience, functionality, and business value. The following metrics—general features, cost, customer service, integrations, and mobile support—are evaluated to provide a holistic view of each software solution’s strengths and weaknesses. These metrics are selected based on their direct impact on software usability, scalability, and long-term effectiveness for businesses.

1. General Features - scoring weight 40%

This metric evaluates the core functionalities and tools the software offers. It involves assessing the comprehensiveness of the features, their relevance to the target users, and the ease of use. This is important because robust and well-designed features determine the software’s overall utility and efficiency in solving user problems.

2. Cost - scoring weight 15%

Cost analysis focuses on pricing models, value for money, and scalability. It’s crucial to evaluate whether the software’s features justify its price, considering different plans for small and large organizations. This is vital for businesses to ensure they invest in cost-effective solutions that fit their budget.

3. Customer Service - scoring weight 15%

This evaluates the responsiveness, quality, and availability of customer support, including channels like chat, email, or phone. Good customer service is essential for troubleshooting and ensuring smooth software usage, which reduces downtime and frustration for users.

4. Integrations - scoring weight 15%

This examines how well the software integrates with third-party tools (e.g., CRM, payment systems, collaboration apps). Seamless integrations are key for creating a unified workflow and enhancing productivity by connecting multiple systems, which is crucial for operational efficiency.

5. Mobile Support - scoring weight 15%

Mobile support assesses the software’s functionality and performance on mobile devices, including apps and mobile web versions. With increasing remote work and on-the-go usage, strong mobile support is critical to ensure users can access and utilize the software effectively, regardless of location.

How much does Workiva cost

Workiva: Top Financial Software

4.65 / 5

There is no publicly available pricing information for Workiva software. Interested customers are advised to contact Workiva directly to obtain detailed pricing and plan options tailored to their specific needs.

How much does Workiva cost

What are the pros of Workiva

  • Cloud-based collaboration enabling multiple users to edit documents simultaneously with real-time updates
  • Strong integration with accounting and ERP systems for seamless data import/export
  • Comprehensive compliance management tools for automating regulatory reporting like SEC and SOX filings
  • Extensive data linking across documents and spreadsheets ensuring consistency through automatic updates
  • Advanced audit trails providing detailed logs of all platform changes to enhance transparency

What are the cons of Workiva

  • Complex and unintuitive user interface causing a steep learning curve for new users
  • Limited customization options restricting tailored workflows and specific report formats
  • Performance slowdowns and lag with large datasets or complex documents
  • Collaboration tools prone to synchronization delays and version control difficulties
  • Mobile app lacks full functionality compared to desktop version
  • Restricted file export formats and challenges maintaining exact formatting externally

What are the core features of Workiva

Workiva: Top Financial Software

4.65 / 5

Workiva offers a comprehensive suite of tools designed to streamline financial reporting, compliance, and data management processes. Its platform integrates advanced capabilities that support collaboration, automation, and secure data handling, helping organizations improve accuracy and efficiency.

  • Data analysis: Enables aggregation and manipulation of large datasets within a single platform, enhancing insight accuracy and operational efficiency.
  • Collaboration: Allows multiple users to work together in real time on documents and data, with change tracking and communication features.
  • Version control: Records all document edits and updates, providing audit trails and the ability to revert to previous versions for compliance.
  • Real-time data updates: Links source data directly to reports so changes automatically reflect across all outputs, minimizing errors and saving time.
  • Formulas: Supports dynamic budgeting models that automatically update calculations based on input changes.
  • Consolidation: Combines financial data from multiple entities or departments into unified reports through reconciliation tools.
  • Management tools for reconciliation: Facilitate tracking, reviewing, and approving financial close activities to ensure completeness and accuracy.
  • Report types: Offers flexibility with financial statements, compliance reports, operational dashboards, and both standard and custom reports tailored to specific needs.
  • Closing process: Features integrated audit trails documenting each step and change to support regulatory compliance.
  • Journal entries management: Enables accurate recording and review within the financial close workflow.
  • Distribution tools: Securely share finalized reports with control over access permissions for stakeholders.
  • Financial planning and reporting: Integrates budgeting and forecasting functions to provide consistent visibility into financial performance.
  • Integration capabilities: Connects with ERP, accounting, and data management systems to streamline data flow and reduce manual input.
  • Automation: Reduces repetitive tasks by linking data points and automating updates across reports and compliance documents.
  • Secure cloud environment: Ensures data integrity, availability, and compliance with standards like SOC 2 and GDPR.
  • Customizable dashboards: Enable users to monitor key metrics and progress in real time for improved decision-making.
  • Multi-format export: Supports exporting reports in Excel, PDF, and XBRL formats to meet diverse requirements.
  • Embedded analytics: Provides tools for visualizing data trends and anomalies directly within reports and documents.
  • User permission controls: Offers granular access management based on user roles and responsibilities.
  • Compliance management: Helps track regulatory changes and ensures reporting aligns with current standards.
  • Mobile-friendly design: Enables secure document review and collaboration from various devices and locations.
  • Task management and workflow automation: Assigns, tracks, and completes reporting and close-related activities efficiently.
  • Audit readiness tools: Organize documentation and evidence to prepare for internal and external audits.
  • Real-time notifications: Alert users to changes, approvals, or required actions within reporting and compliance workflows.
  • Identity management integration: Enhances security and simplifies user authentication by connecting with popular systems.
  • Metadata tagging: Improves document and data searchability and organization.
  • API capabilities: Allow custom integrations and extensibility to tailor workflows as needed.
  • Centralized document repository: Stores all relevant files securely with authorized user access.
  • Training and support resources: Embedded within the platform to help users maximize feature use and maintain compliance.

Benefits of using Workiva

Workiva offers a range of powerful benefits designed to improve efficiency, accuracy, and collaboration for organizations managing complex reporting and compliance tasks. Below, you’ll find an overview of its key advantages that highlight how this cloud-based platform can meet diverse business needs.

  • Centralized and Accurate Data Management: By consolidating information from multiple sources into one unified platform, Workiva minimizes duplication and ensures consistency. Direct links to source systems maintain data integrity throughout the reporting lifecycle, resulting in dependable, up-to-date outputs.
  • Real-Time Collaboration and Version Control: Teams can work simultaneously on documents, seeing changes instantly, which eliminates version confusion and streamlines teamwork. Comprehensive version histories allow easy comparison and rollback, fostering accountability.
  • Automation and Workflow Efficiency: Routine processes like data aggregation and report generation are automated, cutting down manual labor and reducing errors. Workflow tools help assign tasks, monitor progress, and manage approvals, enhancing project oversight.
  • Compliance and Regulatory Support: Workiva aids in meeting strict regulatory demands such as SEC filings, SOX compliance, and ESG reporting by offering audit trails and control features that simplify audit processes and improve transparency.
  • Robust Security Protocols: With encryption and multi-factor authentication, sensitive financial and compliance data is protected against unauthorized access, ensuring peace of mind for organizations handling confidential information.
  • Scalability and Flexible Reporting: The platform adapts to organizations of varying sizes and complexities, handling growing data volumes and user demands seamlessly. Customizable reports and flexible templates allow businesses to tailor outputs to their specific requirements.
  • Cloud-Based Accessibility: Being hosted in the cloud, Workiva supports remote work and distributed teams by providing secure access from any location, promoting collaboration regardless of physical boundaries.
  • Integration with Enterprise Systems: Workiva integrates smoothly with ERP, CRM, and data warehouses, enabling seamless data transfers across different platforms and enhancing overall operational efficiency.

Our expert take on Workiva

When I first explored the Workiva platform review and features, what stood out was its ability to unify complex financial reporting and compliance tasks into one seamless workflow. The dynamic linking of data across multiple documents is a game changer—any update in one place cascades instantly throughout, which really cuts down errors and audit time. For companies drowning in spreadsheets, this kind of real-time synchronization feels like a breath of fresh air.

Security is another pillar where Workiva shines. The platform’s robust governance controls and detailed audit trails provide peace of mind, especially when multiple departments or external auditors are involved. I’ve seen firsthand how these features help maintain strict compliance without bogging down collaboration, thanks to its cloud-based design that balances openness with tight permission settings.

That said, adopting Workiva isn’t without challenges. Mastering its full capabilities demands a steep learning curve, which means investing in dedicated training and support. For teams moving away from traditional spreadsheet reporting, this adjustment period is crucial to unlock its full potential. The pricing also requires careful consideration; while the efficiency gains are clear, smaller firms should weigh their reporting volume and compliance needs carefully before committing.

One aspect I find particularly valuable is how Workiva manages collaboration across diverse teams. It handles review cycles, comments, and version control within a centralized system, which keeps everyone accountable and audit-ready. This is especially important for organizations with distributed teams or cross-functional input from legal, finance, and audit departments. On a related note, if you’re interested in optimizing other operational areas, you might want to check out this list of the top facilities management software for schools; it offers insights that could complement your compliance and reporting workflows.

Finally, the platform’s responsiveness to changing regulations is impressive. Continuous updates ensure compliance standards evolve without requiring constant manual intervention. From my experience, this forward-looking approach aligns well with the demands of governance, risk, and compliance professionals who need agility amid fast-changing regulatory landscapes. Overall, the workiva pricing pros and cons balance out when you consider the comprehensive features aimed at improving reporting accuracy and transparency.

Our expert take on Workiva

What business types use Workiva

  • Publicly traded companies: These organizations leverage Workiva for automating SEC reporting requirements such as 10-Ks and 10-Qs, improving accuracy and auditability. Large financial institutions, including banks and insurers, depend on the platform to streamline regulatory filings and reduce compliance risks.
  • Accounting and audit firms: Serving multiple clients, these firms use Workiva to centralize documentation and maintain transparent audit trails, facilitating collaboration between auditors and clients while adhering to standards like GAAP and IFRS.
  • Government agencies and public sector organizations: Workiva helps these entities manage complex reporting mandates, including compliance with acts like the Federal Single Audit Act, enhancing transparency and efficiency in financial and performance reporting.
  • Energy and utilities companies: Operating within stringent regulatory frameworks, these companies utilize Workiva to integrate environmental compliance data with financial disclosures, ensuring stakeholders receive consistent and reliable information.
  • Healthcare and pharmaceutical companies: The platform supports these firms in managing compliance documentation, FDA reporting, and risk assessments, enhancing collaboration across departments and safeguarding sensitive data.
  • Manufacturing firms: Especially those with global operations, use Workiva to unify diverse accounting standards and regulatory compliance across jurisdictions, simplifying consolidated financial reporting.
  • Technology companies: Fast-growing and often publicly listed, these companies benefit from Workiva’s cloud-based tools for real-time collaboration among finance, legal, and compliance teams to manage dynamic financial disclosures and controls.
  • Real estate and investment firms: Workiva aids in standardizing financial reporting and investor communications, managing complex portfolios with multiple revenue streams and detailed audit requirements.

Companies using Workiva platform demand rigorous control over financial and regulatory reporting. Its adaptable features cater to industries requiring precision and collaboration, from finance and healthcare to technology and manufacturing. For those exploring erp software platforms, Workiva offers a specialized solution designed to handle complex data environments efficiently.


Best 4 alternatives to Workiva

1

4.2 / 5

Zoho Books is presented as a solution geared toward streamlining various financial management tasks for businesses, with its design intent centered on simplifying day-to-day accounting processes. Its framework appears to be constructed in a way that addresses key needs such as handling transactions and ensuring organized record-keeping, potentially easing the burden of traditional bookkeeping methods. Overall, the product is positioned as a resource that may offer valuable support to prospective customers seeking a robust and user-friendly accounting software solution.

2

Spreadsheet Server

4.5 / 5

Spreadsheet Server significantly enhances financial and operational reporting by allowing direct, real-time connections to over 140 ERP systems, eliminating the need for manual data exports and ensuring reports always reflect the most current information. Its adaptable reporting capabilities empower users to customize financial statements, KPIs, and dashboards within the familiar Excel environment, while the intuitive drill-down feature facilitates rapid transitions from high-level summaries to detailed transaction data. By automating routine processes such as reconciliations and variance analysis, the platform reduces manual workload and accelerates workflow efficiency. Additionally, built-in security measures like audit trails and version control provide robust data integrity and help organizations maintain compliance with regulatory standards.

3

NetSuite ERP

5 / 5

NetSuite ERP stands out by integrating data management across departments, breaking down silos to create a cohesive platform where finance, sales, HR, and operations teams can access synchronized, real-time information. This integration fosters enhanced collaboration, accelerates reporting processes, and supports more strategic decision-making throughout the company. Its automation capabilities streamline repetitive tasks such as sales order processing and invoice creation, which not only boosts productivity but also minimizes errors and manual workloads. Built on a cloud-based framework, NetSuite ERP offers scalable flexibility and secure remote access, making it an adaptable solution for businesses expanding their reach or supporting distributed teams.

4

Gaviti

4.5 / 5

Gaviti is an AI-driven platform designed to streamline accounts receivable processes by automating essential tasks such as invoice handling, payment reminders, and customer follow-ups, significantly easing the manual burden on finance teams. Its ability to reduce late payments by up to 50% and shorten Days Sales Outstanding (DSO) helps businesses accelerate cash flow and enhance financial stability. The software stands out for its adaptability, offering customizable workflows, personalized communication options, and tailored dashboards that fit seamlessly into existing business systems like SAP, QuickBooks, and NetSuite. Additionally, Gaviti provides in-depth visibility into team performance through its A/R Team Screen, empowering finance leaders with actionable insights to improve operational efficiency.

Frequently Asked Questions about Workiva

Is Workiva cloud-based or on-premises Software?

Workiva operates entirely on the cloud, offering users the flexibility to access and collaborate on documents from any location with internet access.

Does Workiva support real-time collaboration?

Yes, it allows multiple contributors to simultaneously edit documents, ensuring that all changes are instantly visible and minimizing issues related to version control.

How does Workiva assist with regulatory compliance?

The platform streamlines the collection and validation of data while maintaining detailed audit trails, which helps organizations satisfy regulatory demands such as SOX, SEC filings, and ESG disclosures.

Can Workiva integrate with other business systems?

Workiva provides integration options with common enterprise tools like ERP systems, financial databases, and data warehouses, enabling automated data imports and reducing manual data entry.

What security measures does Workiva implement?

It employs robust security protocols including encryption, multi-factor authentication, and adheres to standards like SOC 2 to safeguard sensitive information.

Is Workiva suitable For small businesses?

While its primary focus is on mid-sized to large organizations with complex reporting needs, some smaller companies might find it valuable depending on their compliance and reporting requirements.

Which industries commonly use Workiva?

Industries such as financial services, healthcare, energy, manufacturing, and the public sector frequently utilize Workiva due to their rigorous reporting and compliance demands.

Does Workiva offer mobile access?

Workiva supports mobile-friendly access through web browsers, enabling users to review and collaborate on their reports remotely.

How does Workiva handle version control?

The software automatically tracks all changes and preserves version histories, allowing users to review edits and revert to earlier versions when necessary.

What kind of customer support is available For Workiva users?

Support is provided through multiple channels including online resources, training materials, and direct assistance from support teams to facilitate implementation and ongoing use.

Is there a trial or demo available For Workiva?

Potential customers can typically arrange for demonstrations and consultations via Workiva’s sales representatives to evaluate the software.