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Top 10 Best Abstract Management Software of 2026

Discover top abstract management software to streamline workflows. Compare features, find the best fit, and start optimizing – get started now!

Sarah Mitchell

Sarah Mitchell

Feb 11, 2026

10 tools comparedExpert reviewed
Independent evaluation · Unbiased commentary · Updated regularly
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Abstract management software is critical for modern event organizations, simplifying submission, review, and scheduling to enhance efficiency and outcome quality. The tools in this ranking—ranging from comprehensive platforms to tailored solutions—address diverse needs, making this guide essential for selecting the ideal fit.

Quick Overview

  1. 1#1: EasyChair - Comprehensive conference management platform for handling abstract submissions, peer reviews, and program scheduling.
  2. 2#2: OpenConf - Flexible peer-review and conference management system supporting abstract submissions, reviewing, and scheduling.
  3. 3#3: Oxford Abstracts - User-friendly abstract management software for collecting, reviewing, and shortlisting submissions for events.
  4. 4#4: ConfTool - Robust online conference service for managing paper submissions, reviews, and registration processes.
  5. 5#5: Microsoft CMT - Free conference management toolkit for paper/abstract submission, bidding, reviewing, and discussion.
  6. 6#6: PaperCept - Professional conference management system used by IEEE for submissions, reviews, and proceedings.
  7. 7#7: Ex Ordo - Modern abstract management and peer review platform with mobile apps and analytics.
  8. 8#8: Morressier - Digital conference platform for abstract submission, interactive posters, and live streaming.
  9. 9#9: Fourwaves - Conference platform with abstract submission, review workflows, and interactive agendas.
  10. 10#10: Sessionize - Call for papers tool for collecting, reviewing, and scheduling conference sessions and abstracts.

We evaluated tools based on features, usability, reliability, and value, ensuring a balanced list that caters to global conferences, professional networks, and smaller events, prioritizing both functionality and accessibility.

Comparison Table

Abstract management software simplifies the handling of academic and professional content submissions, reviews, and organization, being vital for conferences, journals, and research projects. This comparison table examines popular tools like EasyChair, OpenConf, Oxford Abstracts, ConfTool, Microsoft CMT, and others, detailing their core features, workflows, and usability. Readers will learn to evaluate each platform’s strengths, enabling them to choose the most suitable solution for managing abstract submissions and peer review processes.

1EasyChair logo9.3/10

Comprehensive conference management platform for handling abstract submissions, peer reviews, and program scheduling.

Features
9.8/10
Ease
7.8/10
Value
10/10
2OpenConf logo8.8/10

Flexible peer-review and conference management system supporting abstract submissions, reviewing, and scheduling.

Features
9.3/10
Ease
8.2/10
Value
9.0/10

User-friendly abstract management software for collecting, reviewing, and shortlisting submissions for events.

Features
9.2/10
Ease
8.5/10
Value
8.0/10
4ConfTool logo8.1/10

Robust online conference service for managing paper submissions, reviews, and registration processes.

Features
8.7/10
Ease
7.6/10
Value
8.0/10

Free conference management toolkit for paper/abstract submission, bidding, reviewing, and discussion.

Features
8.8/10
Ease
6.5/10
Value
9.8/10
6PaperCept logo8.0/10

Professional conference management system used by IEEE for submissions, reviews, and proceedings.

Features
8.5/10
Ease
7.0/10
Value
7.5/10
7Ex Ordo logo8.5/10

Modern abstract management and peer review platform with mobile apps and analytics.

Features
9.0/10
Ease
8.2/10
Value
8.0/10
8Morressier logo8.2/10

Digital conference platform for abstract submission, interactive posters, and live streaming.

Features
8.7/10
Ease
7.9/10
Value
7.4/10
9Fourwaves logo8.7/10

Conference platform with abstract submission, review workflows, and interactive agendas.

Features
9.2/10
Ease
8.5/10
Value
8.0/10
10Sessionize logo8.4/10

Call for papers tool for collecting, reviewing, and scheduling conference sessions and abstracts.

Features
8.6/10
Ease
9.1/10
Value
9.3/10
1
EasyChair logo

EasyChair

specialized

Comprehensive conference management platform for handling abstract submissions, peer reviews, and program scheduling.

Overall Rating9.3/10
Features
9.8/10
Ease of Use
7.8/10
Value
10/10
Standout Feature

Automated reviewer bidding and intelligent conflict-aware assignment system

EasyChair is a leading web-based conference and abstract management platform designed primarily for academic and scientific events. It handles the full lifecycle of submissions, from abstract and paper collection to reviewer assignment, bidding, conflict management, and decision-making tools for program committees. Widely adopted by thousands of conferences worldwide, it supports scalable operations for events of all sizes with robust automation and reporting features.

Pros

  • Completely free for core functionality with no limits on submissions or users
  • Sophisticated reviewer bidding, assignment, and conflict detection algorithms
  • Handles massive scales, used by top conferences like ICML and NeurIPS

Cons

  • Dated user interface that feels clunky and overwhelming for newcomers
  • Limited customization options for branding or workflows
  • Minimal official support; relies on documentation and community forums

Best For

Academic conference organizers and program chairs managing peer-reviewed abstract and paper submissions at large-scale events.

Pricing

Free for all standard features; enterprise options available for custom integrations and dedicated support.

Visit EasyChaireasychair.org
2
OpenConf logo

OpenConf

specialized

Flexible peer-review and conference management system supporting abstract submissions, reviewing, and scheduling.

Overall Rating8.8/10
Features
9.3/10
Ease of Use
8.2/10
Value
9.0/10
Standout Feature

Advanced configurable review workflows supporting multi-stage, single/double-blind, and conflict-of-interest management.

OpenConf is a web-based conference management platform specializing in abstract and paper submission handling for academic and professional events. It streamlines the entire process from call-for-papers through peer review, acceptance notifications, and scheduling. With customizable forms, multi-track support, and automated workflows, it enables organizers to manage submissions efficiently at scale.

Pros

  • Highly customizable submission and review forms
  • Robust peer review tools with blind review support
  • Scalable for conferences of any size with reliable uptime

Cons

  • Dated user interface that feels clunky
  • Limited native integrations with modern tools like Zoom or Slack
  • Initial setup requires technical configuration

Best For

Academic conference chairs and organizers managing high-volume abstract submissions with complex review needs.

Pricing

Tiered pricing starting at $500 per conference for up to 100 submissions, scaling to $2,000+ for larger events; one-time fee model with no subscriptions.

Visit OpenConfopenconf.com
3
Oxford Abstracts logo

Oxford Abstracts

specialized

User-friendly abstract management software for collecting, reviewing, and shortlisting submissions for events.

Overall Rating8.7/10
Features
9.2/10
Ease of Use
8.5/10
Value
8.0/10
Standout Feature

Configurable multi-stage review processes with automated conflict detection and AI-assisted scoring suggestions

Oxford Abstracts is a robust online platform specializing in abstract management for conferences, events, and academic gatherings. It handles the full lifecycle from submission collection and automated reminders to blind peer review, scoring, and program scheduling. The software integrates delegate registration and virtual session tools, making it suitable for both in-person and hybrid events.

Pros

  • Flexible review workflows with blind review and customizable scoring
  • Integrated scheduling and delegate management
  • Strong customer support and reliable uptime

Cons

  • Pricing scales quickly for large events
  • Some advanced customizations require add-ons
  • Mobile app is basic compared to desktop experience

Best For

Academic conference organizers managing mid-to-large volumes of submissions who need end-to-end workflow automation.

Pricing

Starts at £795 for basic events, with custom tiers from £1,495+ based on submissions, reviewers, and features; no free plan.

Visit Oxford Abstractsoxfordabstracts.com
4
ConfTool logo

ConfTool

specialized

Robust online conference service for managing paper submissions, reviews, and registration processes.

Overall Rating8.1/10
Features
8.7/10
Ease of Use
7.6/10
Value
8.0/10
Standout Feature

Integrated virtual program committee meeting system with discussion forums and conflict management

ConfTool is a web-based conference management system specializing in abstract and paper submission handling for academic events. It supports the full lifecycle, including customizable submission forms, double-blind peer review workflows, reviewer assignment, and program scheduling. Widely used by thousands of conferences since 2000, it provides tools for organizers, authors, and reviewers to collaborate efficiently.

Pros

  • Highly customizable workflows for submissions and reviews
  • Proven reliability with extensive academic use cases
  • Strong support for blind reviewing and PC meeting tools

Cons

  • Dated interface lacking modern UI/UX polish
  • Limited integrations with contemporary tools like video platforms
  • Per-conference pricing can escalate for large events

Best For

Academic conference chairs organizing medium to large events focused on rigorous peer review processes.

Pricing

Starts at €390 for basic setup per conference, with add-ons for advanced features scaling to €2,000+ based on submissions and customization.

Visit ConfToolconftool.net
5
Microsoft CMT logo

Microsoft CMT

enterprise

Free conference management toolkit for paper/abstract submission, bidding, reviewing, and discussion.

Overall Rating8.2/10
Features
8.8/10
Ease of Use
6.5/10
Value
9.8/10
Standout Feature

Advanced reviewer-paper matching via integrated Toronto Paper Matching System (TPMS) for optimal assignments

Microsoft CMT (cmt.research.microsoft.com) is a free, web-based conference management toolkit primarily used for handling abstract and paper submissions in academic conferences, especially in computer science. It streamlines the entire process from author submissions and metadata entry to reviewer bidding, assignment, conflict detection, reviewing, discussion forums, and final decisions by program chairs. The platform supports large-scale events with thousands of submissions and includes camera-ready paper collection.

Pros

  • Completely free with no usage limits
  • Proven scalability for major conferences like NeurIPS and ICML
  • Robust tools for reviewer bidding, matching, and conflict management

Cons

  • Dated and clunky user interface
  • Limited customization and modern features
  • Less intuitive for non-technical users and non-CS fields

Best For

Program chairs and organizers of large computer science conferences needing a reliable, no-cost solution for high-volume abstract and paper management.

Pricing

Entirely free for all features and scale.

Visit Microsoft CMTcmt.research.microsoft.com
6
PaperCept logo

PaperCept

enterprise

Professional conference management system used by IEEE for submissions, reviews, and proceedings.

Overall Rating8.0/10
Features
8.5/10
Ease of Use
7.0/10
Value
7.5/10
Standout Feature

Advanced customizable review processes with support for multiple tracks, sub-reviews, and conflict management

PaperCept is a web-based conference management platform specializing in abstract and paper submission, peer review coordination, and program scheduling for academic and professional conferences. It supports the full lifecycle of scholarly events, from call-for-papers to final proceedings generation and delegate registration. Trusted by numerous societies and events worldwide, it handles high-volume submissions with customizable workflows.

Pros

  • Robust peer review and workflow customization for complex conference needs
  • Reliable handling of large-scale submissions (thousands of papers)
  • Integrated tools for scheduling, proceedings, and registration

Cons

  • Dated user interface that feels clunky compared to modern alternatives
  • Steep learning curve for organizers new to the system
  • Opaque and potentially high pricing without transparent tiers

Best For

Large academic conferences and scholarly societies requiring comprehensive submission and review management.

Pricing

Custom quotes based on submission volume, typically $1-2 per submission plus setup fees; free for small events under certain limits.

Visit PaperCeptpapercept.net
7
Ex Ordo logo

Ex Ordo

specialized

Modern abstract management and peer review platform with mobile apps and analytics.

Overall Rating8.5/10
Features
9.0/10
Ease of Use
8.2/10
Value
8.0/10
Standout Feature

AI-powered conflict detection and automated review assignment for efficient peer review workflows

Ex Ordo is a robust conference management platform specializing in abstract submission, peer review, and program scheduling for academic and professional events. It provides customizable submission forms, blind review workflows, automated conflict detection, and tools for delegate registration and virtual sessions. Designed to handle the full event lifecycle, it supports organizers in managing large volumes of abstracts efficiently while ensuring a smooth reviewer and author experience.

Pros

  • Comprehensive peer review tools with blind reviewing, scoring, and conflict management
  • Customizable submission and registration forms with multilingual support
  • Integrated scheduling and program builder for seamless event planning

Cons

  • Pricing is quote-based and can be expensive for small or one-off events
  • Steeper learning curve for advanced customization and reporting features
  • Limited free tier or trial, requiring contact for demos

Best For

Academic conference organizers managing mid-to-large events with complex review processes and scheduling needs.

Pricing

Custom quote-based pricing starting around €999 per event for basic plans, scaling up with add-ons for premium features like virtual platforms and advanced analytics.

Visit Ex Ordoexordo.com
8
Morressier logo

Morressier

specialized

Digital conference platform for abstract submission, interactive posters, and live streaming.

Overall Rating8.2/10
Features
8.7/10
Ease of Use
7.9/10
Value
7.4/10
Standout Feature

Interactive Posters with 3D zoom, embedded videos, and collaborative annotations

Morressier is a specialized platform for abstract management in scientific conferences, handling submissions, peer review, and scheduling workflows seamlessly. It excels in transforming static posters into interactive online experiences with multimedia support, video abstracts, and 3D viewers. The tool also offers event management features like live streaming, networking, and detailed analytics for organizers.

Pros

  • Robust interactive poster and multimedia capabilities for engaging presentations
  • Comprehensive end-to-end workflow from abstract submission to publication
  • Strong analytics and integration with ORCID and other academic tools

Cons

  • Pricing can be high for smaller events or budgets
  • Steeper learning curve for advanced features
  • Limited customization options for non-scientific events

Best For

Organizers of large scientific or academic conferences prioritizing interactive and multimedia-rich abstract presentations.

Pricing

Custom pricing based on event scale; typically starts at €5,000+ for mid-sized conferences with tiered plans for features.

Visit Morressiermorressier.com
9
Fourwaves logo

Fourwaves

specialized

Conference platform with abstract submission, review workflows, and interactive agendas.

Overall Rating8.7/10
Features
9.2/10
Ease of Use
8.5/10
Value
8.0/10
Standout Feature

AI-powered reviewer assignment with conflict-of-interest detection and balanced workload distribution

Fourwaves is a comprehensive event management platform designed primarily for academic conferences, offering robust abstract submission, peer review, and management tools. It enables organizers to handle calls for papers, assign reviewers with conflict detection, and generate schedules seamlessly within one interface. The software also supports virtual and hybrid events, attendee registration, and post-event reporting, making it a full-cycle solution for scientific gatherings.

Pros

  • Powerful abstract management with customizable forms and deadlines
  • Integrated peer review system with automated reviewer matching and COI detection
  • Seamless transition from submissions to scheduling and virtual hosting

Cons

  • Pricing is quote-based and can be expensive for small events
  • Fewer third-party integrations compared to larger platforms
  • Advanced customization requires support team assistance

Best For

Academic conference organizers handling 100+ abstract submissions who need an all-in-one tool for review and event management.

Pricing

Custom quote-based pricing; basic plans start around $999 per event, scaling to enterprise tiers with volume discounts.

Visit Fourwavesfourwaves.com
10
Sessionize logo

Sessionize

specialized

Call for papers tool for collecting, reviewing, and scheduling conference sessions and abstracts.

Overall Rating8.4/10
Features
8.6/10
Ease of Use
9.1/10
Value
9.3/10
Standout Feature

AI-powered scheduling optimizer that automatically resolves conflicts and balances tracks

Sessionize is a comprehensive platform tailored for conference and event organizers, specializing in call for papers (CFP) management, abstract submissions, peer reviews, and interactive agenda building. It enables organizers to collect speaker proposals, facilitate blind reviews, select sessions, and create dynamic schedules with drag-and-drop tools. The software also supports speaker profiles, attendee voting, and integrations with platforms like Eventbrite and Zoom, making it a full-cycle solution for event programming.

Pros

  • Generous free plan with core abstract management tools
  • Intuitive drag-and-drop agenda builder and scheduling
  • Strong community features like voting and peer reviews

Cons

  • Limited advanced reporting and analytics in free tier
  • Customization options can feel restrictive for large-scale events
  • Some integrations require premium upgrades

Best For

Mid-sized conference organizers seeking an affordable, user-friendly tool for managing CFPs, reviews, and schedules without complex setup.

Pricing

Free plan for up to 250 submissions; paid plans start at $299/event or $99/month for unlimited features and advanced support.

Visit Sessionizesessionize.com

Conclusion

Evaluating the top abstract management tools reveals EasyChair as the clear leader, boasting comprehensive features for abstract submissions, peer reviews, and program scheduling. OpenConf and Oxford Abstracts follow as strong alternatives, offering flexibility and user-friendliness, respectively, to suit diverse operational needs. The right choice depends on specific goals, but EasyChair stands out as the most versatile all-in-one solution.

EasyChair logo
Our Top Pick
EasyChair

Explore EasyChair's streamlined approach to abstract management today—its intuitive design and robust capabilities are sure to enhance your event organization.