Document management software (DMS) is a solution that allows companies to store, track, and manage their documents electronically. It functions as a centralized and organized storage for digital documents, where employees can access them securely.
DMS helps businesses improve document organization by providing a centralized location for all electronic documents. It streamlines the team workflows and productivity by reducing the time spent on file searches. Document management software also enhances collaboration through document sharing and real-time edits.
Geekflare tested dozens of document management software available in the market and picked the best DMS based on features, collaboration support, ease of use, user reviews, and price.
- Box – Best for Collaboration-Focused File Storage
- Zoho WorkDrive – Best Overall
- Folderit – Best for User-Friendly DMS and IT Control
- OpenKM – Best for Open-Source Flexibility (Self-Host or Cloud)
- Revver – Best for Secure Sharing and Versioning
- DocuWare – Best for Robust Document Automation and Workflow
- Hyland – Best for Enterprise Content Management (ECM)
- LogicalDOC – Best for Small to Medium Business
- DocuPhase – Best for Workflow Automation
- M-Files – Best for Metadata-Driven Organizations
- Microsoft SharePoint – Best for Teams Using Microsoft Office 365
- Hightail – Best for Large Files and Client Work
- Adobe Document Cloud – Best for PDF Workflows, E-Signatures, and Editing
- Clio – Best for Law Firm Document Management
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Box
Best for Collaboration-Focused File Storage
- Integration1500+
- ComplianceFINRA, HIPAA, GDPR
- Customer SupportChat, Phone, Tickets
About Box
Box helps companies bring all their content into one secured system to increase team productivity and reduce risks. It allows users to create and co-edit business documents from any device using real-time cloud collaboration tools like Box Canvas and Box Notes.
With Box, in addition to pre-built workflow templates and custom-configured templates, users can utilize the no-code builder to create document workflows. Its integration support lets companies connect their content with over 1500 apps, including Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, Zoom, Salesforce, Oracle, and Zapier.
Box Features
Offers a virtual whiteboard tool with chat and sticky note features for team collaboration.
Secures all files with AES 256-bit encryption at rest and in transit, and businesses have complete control of encryption keys.
Provides additional security measures that include seven types of user permission, device trust, application controls, an AI-powered data theft alert, and intelligent data leak prevention.
Box Pros/Cons
Content migration from 15 source systems.
Regulatory compliance support for GDPR, FINRA, HIPPA.
14-day free trial for all plans.
Limited in-app editing for some file types.
Per-user billing can be costlier for large enterprises.
Box Pricing
Box has pricing plans for Individuals and teams, with separate ones for businesses. These plans have a monthly or annual payment option. The popular plans have been listed below.
Plans | Monthly Pricing/user | Offering |
---|---|---|
Business | $15 | Upload files up to 5GB, unlimited storage, Box Canvas, 1500+ integrations, data loss protection, box relay standard automation. |
Business Plus | $25 | Upload files up to 15GB, unlimited users, advanced search filters, custom metadata, and templates with all the offerings of Business. |
Enterprise | $35 | Unlimited external collaborators, file upload to 50GB with unlimited storage, HIPAA/FedRAMP compliance, and document watermarking. |
Zoho WorkDrive
Best Overall
- Integrations900+
- ComplianceGDPR, HIPAA
- Customer SupportPhone, Chat, Form
About Zoho WorkDrive
Zoho WorkDrive functions as a central document repository that effectively streamlines information across the departments. It is suitable for all industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, legal, retail, IT, real estate, telecom, operations, R&D, and HR, making it the best overall document management solution.
Zoho WorkDrive provides a shared workspace for collaboration, where companies can store documents in the Team folder. Teammates get instant notifications when documents are changed, and admins can assign appropriate permissions to each member. It ensures security with video monitoring, biometric access, and data encryption.
Zoho WorkDrive Features
Allows unlimited version history to track the previous versions and contextual comments on the documents for feedback.
Offers a check-out feature that prevents everyone else from accessing a file unless you check in that file after making changes.
Provides file categorization, accelerated data discovery, data template, customized view and sorting, inviting guest users, and activity timeline are its other highlighted features.
Zoho WorkDrive Pros/Cons
Works on Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS apps.
15-day free trial for business users.
Complies with GDPR and HIPPA.
No free plan for businesses.
Not all features are available on mobile apps.
Zoho WorkDrive Pricing
Zoho WorkDrive’s pricing plans are billed monthly and annually, with plans that are built for a minimum of 3 users. The most popular plans are below.
Plans | Monthly Pricing/user | Offering |
---|---|---|
Starter | $2.5 | Storage starts at 1 TB/team, get additional shared storage of 100 GB/new user, 10GB upload limit per file. |
Team | $4.5 | Storage starts at 3 TB/team, there is an additional 300 GB/new user with a 50 GB upload limit per file. |
Business | $9 | Storage starts at 5 TB/team with 500 GB/new user as additional shared storage space with a 250 GB upload limit per file. |
Folderit
Best for User-Friendly DMS and IT Control
- IntegrationsLimited
- ComplianceHIPAA
- Customer SupportEmail
About Folderit
Folderit makes sustainable document management possible for the entire organization with robust IT control and a user-friendly interface. Users can easily find documents from this single source of truth using live search by name, keyword, metadata, and content. It uses OCR technology to make images and scanned documents searchable.
Folderit uses bank-level encryption to ensure the security of the documents. Users can additionally customize password policies, apply 2FA for all users, and use Azure Active Directory (AD) or Okta SSO to safeguard the business files. Admins can add and remove users, grant account-level access to users, get an overview of resource access, and manage custom metadata fields.
Folderit Features
Supports versioning of the documents and allows users to lock a file while they are editing it.
Lets users share documents, folders, sections, and entire accounts with tailored permission for easy collaboration.
Provides document numbering, reminders, audit trail logs, custom metadata, and file linking.
Folderit Pros/Cons
14-day free trial.
Uses Amazon (AWS) Datacenters.
White-label and separate instance installation.
Does not offer any free forever plan.
No mobile app.
Folderit Pricing
Plans | Monthly Pricing | Offering |
---|---|---|
Mini | $27 | 150 GB storage for up to 5 users. |
Medium | $83 | 500 GB storage for up to 10 users with retention automation, e-sign, and document numbering system. |
Business | $103 | A custom plan that starts at 0.5 TB storage and 5 users, which can be increased as per the need with additional features like API, Okta SSO and granular access management. |
OpenKM
Best for Open-Source Flexibility (Self-Host or Cloud)
- IntegrationsLimited
- ComplianceHIPAA
- Customer SupportPhone, Email
About OpenKM
OpenKM is a business document management solution that allows companies to control digital document production, storage, and distribution. It offers several administrative tools, such as user role definition, advanced search, access control, document security level, detail use log, automation setup, and user quota.
The OpenKM Zone OCR feature automatically captures a document’s metadata. It also comes with version control with a timestamp, barcode module support, and OCR for turning scanned documents into searchable ones.
OpenKM Features
Enables users to create content respiratory for quick decision-making and knowledge creation.
Offers a complete and configurable audit trail for any specific operation, procedure, or event.
Allows users to preview MS Office documents, Open Office documents, PDFs, AutoCAD, images, audio, and video files.
OpenKM Pros/Cons
Integrates with Bonitasoft BPM, Microsoft Office, and Vtiger.
Supports CIFS, FTP, and WebDAV protocols.
Community forum, videos, bug tracker, and knowledge center.
User interface looks cluttered.
Pricing information not available.
Revver
Best for Secure Sharing and Versioning
- IntegrationsLimited
- ComplianceHIPAA, WORM, GDPR
- Customer SupportChat
About Revver
Revver (formerly eFileCabinet) ensures secure document storage from all kinds of internal and external threats. It lets businesses organize the files using advanced features like intuitive folder structures, automated folder creation and security, and metadata.
Revver’s Integrated eSignatures allow users to sign or approve from anywhere. Users can route and receive documents without any hassle.
Revver Features
Facilitates collaboration through a secure document-sharing portal, file versioning, check-out, and co-authoring via M365 integration.
Users can search for their preferred document using full-text OCR search, missing item searches, profile groupings, and custom saved searches in addition to keywords and metadata.
Offers several feedback tools, such as comment, annotate, redact, and append/prepend documents, to exchange feedback with all stakeholders.
Revver Pros/Cons
Folder templates for seamless file organization.
No-code workflow automation.
Automatic application of governance and file retention policies.
Pricing information is unavailable.
Chat support is only available on weekdays.
DocuWare
Best for Robust Document Automation and Workflow
- Integrations500
- ComplianceHIPAA, GDPR
- Customer SupportChat, Support request
About DocuWare
DocuWare is a document management system where organizations can centrally and securely store all the documents and automate repetitive tasks using workflows. It uses AI for intelligent and structured indexing for quick searching. Companies can also utilize it to create a full-text record of all content for customizable search queries.
DocuWare is capable of capturing paper documents and turning them into digitized copies. Besides documents, it can store emails and attachments from Outlook or any other email client. Users can directly import folders from their Windows computer to securely store them.
DocuWare Features
Supports digital editing, where users use stamps, annotations, or image corrections without altering original documents.
Offers three different deployment options: cloud, on-premise, and hybrid, from which you can choose your preferred one.
Allows companies to keep document histories, define and clarify rules, map business processes, and sign documents with legally binding electronic signatures.
DocuWare Pros/Cons
Free DocuWare app for mobile access.
Integration with CRM, ERP, and other apps.
Free 30-day cloud trial.
Pricing information unavailable.
Editing interface looks cluttered.
Hyland
Best for Enterprise Content Management (ECM)
- Integrations500+
- ComplianceISO 27001, SOC 2, HITRUST
- Customer SupportPhone, Chat, Form
About Hyland
Hyland offers a content management suite specially developed for enterprises. Its intelligent process management feature enables streamlining of content-centric processes and faster decision-making.
Hyland offers repository services with features such as annotation, version control, and audit trails. It provides collaboration tools for the enterprise to enjoy the benefits of Microsoft 365 and Google Docs.
Hyland Features
Uses modern information security features like access security policies, encryption, and redaction to protect your content.
Allows users to preview the content of their document regardless of the file size or file type.
Users could alternatively enable high-resolution media and digital asset management workflows.
Hyland Pros/Cons
Integration with 500+ applications such as Microsoft 365, Box, SAP, and Adobe Sign.
API for customized business needs.
24×7 support for business-critical content and compliance.
No pricing information is available.
Steep learning curve.
LogicalDOC
Best for Small to Medium Business
- IntegrationsLimited
- ComplianceSoX, HIPPA
- Customer SupportEmail
About LogicalDOC
LogicalDOC is a powerful yet simple Enterprise Document Management System (EDMS). It simplifies how the business can organize and store documents either in digital or physical format.
ILogicalDOC easily manages paper documents and scanned copies, targeting digital document management. It has a web-based interface designed to make it easy for the user to manipulate tasks like file sharing, security roles, searching company records, and managing registers.
LogicalDOC Features
Integrates not only content but also record management so that key information can safely be stored in one archive, available to the whole organization.
Enhances collaboration through a collaborative environment and maintains optimum approval processes and reviews by using our effective workflow system.
Enables the central storage of large volumes of crucial business materials while boasting efficient features specifically crafted to boost productivity.
LogicalDOC Pros/Cons
Three deployment methods: stand-alone, shared server, LogicalDOC Cloud.
Free version.
User-friendly interface.
Multi-lingual assistants in 35 languages, which include English, Spanish, and French.
Customized actions and reports are unavailable in the community version.
Steep learning curve.
DocuPhase
Best for Workflow Automation
- IntegrationsMajor
- ComplianceHIPAA
- Customer SupportPhone, Email
About DocuPhase
DocuPhase is the top choice for businesses looking for a document management system with sophisticated workflow automation capabilities for routine tasks. This cloud-based solution enables companies to digitally store all their files in a single interface and allow remote access.
DocuPhase facilitates searching files and information using keyword and configurable search features so that users can seamlessly retrieve their required documents. Using workflows, companies can also automatically route the files across the organization.
DocuPhase Features
Uses OCR to interpret data from incoming files, reducing the burden of manual data entry.
Allows users to protect their sensitive information by applying highly customizable security protocols and granting appropriate access to the right employees.
Has AI and ML technologies to automatically assign pre-set tags to the uploaded documents.
DocuPhase Pros/Cons
Supports ERP integrations with NetSuite, Dynamics, and Sage.
Simplified electronic form building.
Dedicated data center to reduce on-site storage cost.
No transparent pricing.
Does not offer chat support.
M-Files
Best for Metadata-Driven Organizations
- IntegrationsLimited
- ComplianceGDPR, ISO, SOC, FDA 21 CFR
- Customer SupportPhone, Ticket
About M-Files
M-Files allows companies to organize their documents with metadata so that employees can easily find what they want. As a result, team productivity improves by up to 40%, as it takes less time to find the sought document regardless of the file location.
M-Files insert master record data into the documents. Businesses can leverage its Optical Character Recognition (OCR) feature to digitize print documents for better control. By replicating the folder interface, it ensures the auditability of the documents with electronic signatures and personalized views.
M-Files Features
Uses AI technology to scan existing business documents and automatically tag metadata.
Utilizes AI to scan legacy data to discover dark data.
Using permission control, admins can ensure the right people have access to documents.
M-Files Pros/Cons
30-day free trial.
Demo scheduling facility.
Integration with Google, Salesforce, Adobe, and SAP.
Pricing information is not available.
Unavailability of free plans.
Best for Teams Using Microsoft Office 365
- IntegrationsMajor
- ComplianceGDPR, DPA
- Customer SupportPhone, Chat
About Microsoft SharePoint
Microsoft SharePoint Online is the most suitable document management system for Microsoft 365 users because it syncs well with all other Microsoft 365 products. It allows companies to manage their content, quickly find the necessary information, and collaborate on documents across teams.
Microsoft SharePoint Online lets companies share common resources and applications on the home site and portals for better efficiency.
Microsoft SharePoint Features
Allows businesses to access and protect files.
Supports real-time co-authoring and editing of the same file.
Provides versioning and access control that enable content management in the document library.
Microsoft SharePoint Pros/Cons
Notifications upon document approval.
Custom apps for all devices, such as Mac, Android, and iOS.
Commenting and task management within the platform.
No free trial.
No free forever plan is available.
Hightail
Best for Large Files and Client Work
- IntegrationsMajor
- ComplianceNot specified
- Customer SupportChat, Phone
About Hightail
Hightail is one of the best document management systems, popular for its ability to share large files. It allows users to upload, share, and receive files while tracking them. The recipients are notified automatically, and the senders can secure file access with multiple security features. It lets users preview, stream, and download the files at a faster speed.
Hightail does not need someone to own its account to receive documents. Uploaders can generate a personal Uplink URL for sharing purposes. Businesses can upload documents from the local computer or import them from Microsoft OneDrive, Google Drive, and Dropbox. 256-bit AES encryption and other enterprise-grade security measures play an important role in strengthening the security of the content.
Hightail Features
Facilitates creative collaboration by letting companies collect assets and feedback in the same place.
Allows collaborators to have real-time conversations, route files for approval, control file versions, and preview files with side-by-side comparisons.
Creates accountable action items, offers client-ready views, and creates freehand annotations.
Hightail Pros/Cons
Free forever plan.
14-day free trial.
Available on Android and iOS apps.
File sharing process could be confusing.
The mobile app is buggy and sometimes crashes.
Adobe Document Cloud
Best for PDF Workflows, E-Signatures, and Editing
- IntegrationsMajor
- ComplianceHIPAA, GLBA, FERPA, FDA 21 CFR
- Customer SupportPhone
About Adobe Document Cloud
Adobe Document Cloud is a service offered by Adobe that includes Acrobat and Acrobat Sign. It allows businesses to seamlessly edit PDF documents, create PDF workflows, and add e-signatures to the files.
Adobe Document Cloud offers enterprise-level security and complies with industry-specific regulations, such as HIPAA, GLBA, FERPA, and FDA 21 CFR part 11. It also supports integration with prominent platforms such as Microsoft, Google, Salesforce, Workday, Box, Zoho, Dropbox, etc.
Adobe Document Cloud Features
Comes with features like making comments, collecting legally binding e-signatures, and tracking responses.
Allows companies to customize the e-signature requests with their logo, tagline, and welcome message.
Lets users send bulk e-signature requests and helps them track and manage those. Companies can customize the signature requests with their logo, tagline, and welcome message.
Adobe Document Cloud Pros/Cons
30-day free trial.
Full refund for cancellation within 14 days.
Smooth integration with all Adobe products.
Steep learning curve.
Only suitable for PDF management.
Clio
Best for Law Firm Document Management
- Integrations250+
- ComplianceGDPR, PCI, HIPAA, SOC2
- Customer SupportPhone, Email, Chat
About Clio
Clio is dedicated to legal document management software. Its features, like unlimited storage, advanced search, and e-signature, make it perfect for legal firms. It also lets organizations securely store text, image, audio, and video files through bulk upload.
Cilo is capable of converting text files into legal documents using dynamic legal templates. Its conditional logic feature can simplify drafting by making pronoun adjustments, adding clauses, setting up values for the variables, etc.
Clio Features
Supports sorting documents by folders, authors, dates, and custom categories.
Allows searching for a file using title, text, and metadata.
Ensures that legal professionals can access the files from anywhere and all updates are synced instantly.
Clio Pros/Cons
HIPPA liability protection.
Encrypted backups and 2FA.
7-day free trial to test functionality.
Support is not available on weekends.
No refunds for the current term upon plan cancellation.
Clio Pricing
Clio has 4 main plans, EasyStart, Essentials, Advanced, and Complete, of which the most popular are listed below. More could be added to these plans to meet business requirements.
Plans | Monthly Pricing/user | Offering |
---|---|---|
EasyStart | $49 | Case, calendar, and task management, unlimited document storage, E-signature, Gmail and Outlook integrations, etc. |
Essentials | $89 | Secure client portal, document templates, 250+ apps and integrations, virtual desktop drive, etc. |
Advanced | $129 | GDPR, PCI, HIPAA, SOC2 |
Document Management Software Comparison
The table below compares document management software based on parameters like rating, pricing, integrations, complaints, etc.
Product | Rating Geekflare’s editorial team determines ratings based on factors such as key features, ease of use, pricing, and customer support to help you choose the right business software. | Pricing (monthly) | Integrations | Compliance | Go to |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Box | $15 | 1500+ | FINRA, HIPAA, GDPR | ||
Zoho WorkDrive | $2.5 | 900+ | GDPR, HIPPA | ||
Folderit | $27 | Limited | HIPPA | ||
OpenKM | On request | Limited | HIPPA | ||
Revvr | On request | Limited | HIPAA, WORM, GDPR | ||
DocuWare | On request | 500 | HIPAA, GDPR | ||
Hyland | On request | 500+ | ISO 27001, SOC 2, HITRUST | ||
LogicalDOC | On request | Limited | SoX, HIPPA | ||
DocuPhase | On request | Major | HIPAA | ||
M-Files | On request | Limited | GDPR, ISO, SOC, FDA 21 CFR | ||
Microsoft SharePoint | $5 | Major | GDPR, DPA | ||
Hightail | $12 | Major | Not specified | ||
Adobe Document Cloud | $12.99 | Major | HIPAA, GLBA, FERPA, FDA 21 CFR |
Benefits of Document Management Software
The 5 benefits of document management software are mentioned below.
- Better Productivity: A document management system efficiently and securely organizes the company’s files. As a result, the team can worry less about maintaining documents and focus on the tasks that matter most. When people know that all their files are stored securely, their peace of mind fuels productivity.
- Improved Security: To protect crucial and mission-critical data, organizations use DMS to store sensitive documents and control access to these files. Thus, document management becomes highly traceable, and its audit trails can be used later if necessary.
- Reduced Storage Space: Using a digitized document management system means businesses do not have to maintain file cabinets, storage bins, and boxes anymore. It also helps them go paperless and manage documents digitally without occupying any physical space.
- Easy Document Retrieval: While manual document search and file retrieval are time-consuming, a document management system allows users to quickly locate the preferred file and saves valuable time. A DMS lets users search files based on name, metadata, and content.
- Optimum Team Collaboration: Most document management solutions support team collaboration. It can store files collected from various resources, and people can access the files from remote locations. Some tools also allow external users to access the system through authorized access.
How to Choose a Document Management System?
While choosing document management software, consider the volume and complexity of the documents. It is also important to identify how critical document security is and if users need internal or external collaboration features. See if the DMS software integrates with existing software and is scalable enough to grow with the business. Finally, select a DMS that matches your budget and meets your needs without breaking the bank.
What are Popular Document Storage Applications for Business?
There are 3 popular document storage applications for a business; Dropbox, Sync, and NordLocker are popular document storage applications for businesses. Here are their key features:
- DropBox: DropBox allows companies to store all their documents and files in one secure place. It also supports file syncing for remote and hybrid teams so that teams can collaborate on any file. It ensures file security with password, file permission, and digital watermarking. Businesses can choose from its multiple subscription plans or opt for its 30-day free trial.
- Sync: Sync enables organizations to access their files on the go. Users can collaborate on the files with features like shared team folders, granular permissions, activity logs, and folder management. Sync has several pricing plans, starting from $6/month per user.
- NordLocker: NordLocker lets businesses store their valuable documents in a secure cloud platform and share them with internal and external stakeholders. Its highlighted features include end-to-end encryption, protection against unauthorized access, file sharing via link, local and cloud lockers, and automatic backup. It offers a free lifetime plan and paid plans starting from $2.99/month.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Microsoft 365 (previously known as Office 365) has SharePoint Online, which its enterprise plan users can utilize as the document management system. Other Office 365 subscribers can use OneDrive as DMS.
Yes, you can use Google Drive to manage different types of documents, such as documents, spreadsheets, presentations, and PDFs. In addition to storing documents on Google Drive, you can manage, share, edit, and collaborate on them on this platform.