Quick Overview
- 1#1: Anaplan - Cloud-native platform for connected planning, budgeting, forecasting, and performance management across finance and operations.
- 2#2: Workday Adaptive Planning - Comprehensive FP&A solution for enterprise budgeting, planning, forecasting, and reporting integrated with Workday HCM and Finance.
- 3#3: Planful - Continuous planning platform that combines budgeting, forecasting, consolidation, and analytics for finance teams.
- 4#4: OneStream - Unified CPM platform for enterprise financial close, planning, consolidation, reporting, and analytics.
- 5#5: Vena Solutions - Excel-native corporate planning software for budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting.
- 6#6: Jedox - Integrated business planning and performance management platform for budgeting, forecasting, and BI analytics.
- 7#7: Prophix - One-platform solution for corporate performance management including budgeting, planning, and financial consolidation.
- 8#8: Cube - Spreadsheet-native FP&A platform for headcount planning, budgeting, and real-time financial modeling.
- 9#9: Pigment - Next-gen business planning platform with real-time modeling, scenario planning, and collaborative forecasting.
- 10#10: LivePlan - Business planning software with integrated budgeting, forecasting, and performance tracking for small businesses.
Tools were evaluated based on feature breadth, user experience, technical reliability, and overall value, prioritizing those that deliver robust performance across budgeting, forecasting, and strategic planning workflows.
Comparison Table
Budgeting and planning software is critical for modern businesses, yet options like Anaplan, Workday Adaptive Planning, Planful, OneStream, Vena Solutions, and more differ significantly in capabilities. This comparison table breaks down key features, usability, and alignment with diverse business needs to help readers find the right tool.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Anaplan Cloud-native platform for connected planning, budgeting, forecasting, and performance management across finance and operations. | enterprise | 9.4/10 | 9.8/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 2 | Workday Adaptive Planning Comprehensive FP&A solution for enterprise budgeting, planning, forecasting, and reporting integrated with Workday HCM and Finance. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 3 | Planful Continuous planning platform that combines budgeting, forecasting, consolidation, and analytics for finance teams. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.8/10 |
| 4 | OneStream Unified CPM platform for enterprise financial close, planning, consolidation, reporting, and analytics. | enterprise | 9.0/10 | 9.5/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 5 | Vena Solutions Excel-native corporate planning software for budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 6 | Jedox Integrated business planning and performance management platform for budgeting, forecasting, and BI analytics. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.3/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 7 | Prophix One-platform solution for corporate performance management including budgeting, planning, and financial consolidation. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.8/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 8 | Cube Spreadsheet-native FP&A platform for headcount planning, budgeting, and real-time financial modeling. | specialized | 8.3/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 9 | Pigment Next-gen business planning platform with real-time modeling, scenario planning, and collaborative forecasting. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 10 | LivePlan Business planning software with integrated budgeting, forecasting, and performance tracking for small businesses. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.6/10 |
Cloud-native platform for connected planning, budgeting, forecasting, and performance management across finance and operations.
Comprehensive FP&A solution for enterprise budgeting, planning, forecasting, and reporting integrated with Workday HCM and Finance.
Continuous planning platform that combines budgeting, forecasting, consolidation, and analytics for finance teams.
Unified CPM platform for enterprise financial close, planning, consolidation, reporting, and analytics.
Excel-native corporate planning software for budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting.
Integrated business planning and performance management platform for budgeting, forecasting, and BI analytics.
One-platform solution for corporate performance management including budgeting, planning, and financial consolidation.
Spreadsheet-native FP&A platform for headcount planning, budgeting, and real-time financial modeling.
Next-gen business planning platform with real-time modeling, scenario planning, and collaborative forecasting.
Business planning software with integrated budgeting, forecasting, and performance tracking for small businesses.
Anaplan
enterpriseCloud-native platform for connected planning, budgeting, forecasting, and performance management across finance and operations.
Hyperblock™ in-memory engine for real-time, limitless scalability and calculations on massive multi-dimensional datasets
Anaplan is a cloud-native connected planning platform that empowers organizations with real-time budgeting, forecasting, financial planning, and operational modeling across finance, sales, supply chain, and HR. Its proprietary in-memory Hyperblock engine handles massive datasets and complex multi-dimensional models, enabling scenario analysis and what-if simulations without performance lags. Designed for enterprise-scale collaboration, it integrates data from multiple sources for unified planning insights.
Pros
- Infinite scalability with Hyperblock technology for handling petabyte-scale models
- Real-time collaboration and scenario planning across departments
- No-code/low-code model building with strong integrations (e.g., ERP, CRM)
Cons
- Steep learning curve for building complex models
- High enterprise-level pricing
- Overkill and complex for small businesses or simple budgeting needs
Best For
Large enterprises requiring integrated, real-time planning across finance, operations, and multiple business functions.
Pricing
Custom enterprise subscription pricing, typically starting at $20,000-$50,000 annually based on users, modules, and usage; contact sales for quotes.
Workday Adaptive Planning
enterpriseComprehensive FP&A solution for enterprise budgeting, planning, forecasting, and reporting integrated with Workday HCM and Finance.
Continuous planning with AI-powered insights and real-time multi-user collaboration
Workday Adaptive Planning is a cloud-based enterprise planning platform that streamlines budgeting, forecasting, modeling, and reporting for finance teams. It offers driver-based planning, scenario analysis, and real-time collaboration through an Excel-like interface, enabling agile decision-making. Seamlessly integrated with Workday's HCM and Financials, it unifies operational and financial planning across organizations.
Pros
- Robust driver-based modeling and scenario planning capabilities
- Real-time collaboration with version control and workflow approvals
- Deep integration with Workday ecosystem for unified financial insights
Cons
- High cost suitable mainly for mid-to-large enterprises
- Complex initial setup requiring professional services
- Excel-like interface may overwhelm non-finance users
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises with complex budgeting needs and existing Workday implementations seeking integrated, collaborative planning.
Pricing
Custom enterprise subscription pricing, typically starting at $50,000+ annually depending on users, modules, and deployment scale.
Planful
enterpriseContinuous planning platform that combines budgeting, forecasting, consolidation, and analytics for finance teams.
Planful Predict: AI-powered layer that automates anomaly detection, scenario analysis, and predictive forecasting for proactive planning.
Planful is a cloud-based Financial Performance Management (FPM) platform designed for budgeting, forecasting, reporting, and financial consolidation. It empowers finance teams to replace spreadsheets with dynamic, driver-based planning models and enables continuous planning through real-time collaboration and scenario modeling. With AI-powered predictive analytics via Planful Predict, it delivers actionable insights to drive strategic decision-making across mid-market to enterprise organizations.
Pros
- Comprehensive FP&A suite with continuous planning and driver-based modeling
- AI-driven Predict layer for anomaly detection and forecasting accuracy
- Strong integrations with ERPs like NetSuite, SAP, and Excel compatibility
Cons
- High implementation costs and setup time for complex environments
- Pricing is custom and can be prohibitive for small businesses
- Advanced customization often requires professional services
Best For
Mid-market and enterprise finance teams needing scalable, collaborative FP&A tools for strategic planning and real-time insights.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing starting around $50,000 annually for core modules, scaling with users, modules, and company size.
OneStream
enterpriseUnified CPM platform for enterprise financial close, planning, consolidation, reporting, and analytics.
OneStream's 'One Platform' architecture seamlessly unifies planning, consolidation, and reporting without data movement or reconciliation
OneStream is a unified Corporate Performance Management (CPM) platform that integrates financial close, consolidation, planning, budgeting, forecasting, reporting, and analytics into a single solution. It enables driver-based planning, scenario modeling, and continuous forecasting with real-time data integration from multiple sources. Ideal for enterprises, it eliminates silos by handling complex, multi-entity workflows without requiring separate tools for each process.
Pros
- Unified platform reduces tool sprawl and data silos
- Advanced driver-based planning and AI-powered forecasting
- Highly scalable for global enterprises with multi-currency support
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup
- High cost unsuitable for SMBs
- Requires skilled administrators for customization
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises needing an integrated CPM solution for enterprise-wide budgeting, planning, and consolidation.
Pricing
Custom enterprise subscription pricing, typically starting at $150,000+ annually based on modules, users, and deployment size.
Vena Solutions
enterpriseExcel-native corporate planning software for budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting.
Patented Excel-native platform that transforms any Excel workbook into a secure, auditable enterprise planning application
Vena Solutions is a cloud-based Corporate Performance Management (CPM) platform designed for budgeting, forecasting, planning, and reporting, with deep integration into Microsoft Excel. It allows finance teams to leverage familiar spreadsheets while adding enterprise-grade controls, workflow automation, and data integration from ERPs like NetSuite or SAP. Vena supports driver-based planning, scenario modeling, and real-time analytics, making it suitable for FP&A processes in mid-to-large organizations.
Pros
- Seamless native integration with Microsoft Excel, preserving existing workflows and templates
- Comprehensive FP&A tools including advanced forecasting, driver-based planning, and multi-dimensional reporting
- Robust integrations with major ERPs, CRMs, and HR systems for automated data flows
Cons
- Pricing is quote-based and can be expensive for smaller teams or startups
- Complex implementations may require consulting support and Excel proficiency
- Less ideal for users preferring modern, non-spreadsheet interfaces
Best For
Mid-market to enterprise finance teams heavily reliant on Excel who need scalable, governed planning without switching tools.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically starting at $100-$200/user/month depending on modules and scale; annual contracts with quotes required.
Jedox
enterpriseIntegrated business planning and performance management platform for budgeting, forecasting, and BI analytics.
Spreadsheet-centric planning interface powered by an enterprise OLAP engine, blending Excel familiarity with high-performance multidimensional modeling
Jedox is a robust enterprise performance management (EPM) platform specializing in integrated business planning, budgeting, forecasting, and reporting. It leverages an in-memory OLAP engine combined with a familiar spreadsheet interface to enable flexible, scalable planning models across finance, sales, HR, and operations. Organizations use Jedox for real-time collaboration, scenario modeling, and data-driven decision-making in complex environments.
Pros
- Highly flexible spreadsheet-based modeling for complex planning
- Scalable OLAP engine handles large datasets and real-time processing
- Strong integrations with Excel, ERP systems, and BI tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users
- High implementation costs and dependency on consultants
- Pricing can be prohibitive for small businesses
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises requiring sophisticated, cross-departmental planning and forecasting capabilities.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing; typically starts at $30,000-$50,000 annually for small deployments, scaling to six figures based on users, modules, and hosting.
Prophix
enterpriseOne-platform solution for corporate performance management including budgeting, planning, and financial consolidation.
Driver-based planning with dimensional modeling for agile, what-if scenario analysis
Prophix is a comprehensive Corporate Performance Management (CPM) platform designed for financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, reporting, and consolidation. It enables driver-based planning, scenario modeling, and workflow automation to replace spreadsheets with scalable, collaborative tools. The software integrates seamlessly with ERPs like NetSuite, Sage, and QuickBooks, supporting mid-market to enterprise finance teams in data-driven decision-making.
Pros
- Powerful driver-based budgeting and multi-scenario forecasting
- Advanced workflow automation and collaboration tools
- Strong ERP integrations and real-time reporting capabilities
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users
- Pricing is quote-based and can be expensive for small businesses
- Customization often requires professional services
Best For
Mid-sized to large enterprises with complex FP&A needs looking for an integrated CPM solution.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing, typically starting at $20,000-$50,000 annually depending on users, modules, and implementation.
Cube
specializedSpreadsheet-native FP&A platform for headcount planning, budgeting, and real-time financial modeling.
Spreadsheet-native modeling that combines Excel familiarity with a multi-dimensional database for real-time, scalable planning
Cube is a cloud-based FP&A platform designed for finance teams to handle budgeting, forecasting, scenario planning, and reporting in a spreadsheet-native environment backed by a robust database. It integrates seamlessly with tools like Google Sheets, Excel, QuickBooks, NetSuite, and Snowflake, enabling real-time data syncing and collaborative modeling without manual uploads. Cube streamlines financial planning processes, making it easier to create driver-based models, manage workflows, and generate insights for mid-market businesses.
Pros
- Spreadsheet-native interface familiar to Excel users with database scalability
- Quick setup and strong integrations with ERP and BI tools
- Real-time collaboration and scenario modeling capabilities
Cons
- Pricing scales quickly and may be expensive for small teams
- Limited built-in advanced analytics or AI features compared to enterprise rivals
- Customization can require developer support for complex needs
Best For
Mid-sized finance teams seeking an intuitive, spreadsheet-powered upgrade from manual Excel budgeting without a steep learning curve.
Pricing
Starts at $1,500/month for Starter plan (billed annually), with Growth at $2,250/month, Pro at $4,500/month, and custom Enterprise pricing.
Pigment
enterpriseNext-gen business planning platform with real-time modeling, scenario planning, and collaborative forecasting.
Unified data model that combines planning, forecasting, and BI in real-time for instant scenario simulations
Pigment is a cloud-native business planning platform designed for finance teams to handle budgeting, forecasting, scenario planning, and financial modeling at scale. It unifies data from multiple sources into a single model, enabling real-time collaboration, what-if analysis, and interactive dashboards. With its no-code/low-code interface and powerful calculation engine, it replaces spreadsheets for enterprise FP&A while integrating BI capabilities.
Pros
- Highly flexible and scalable modeling engine for complex planning
- Real-time collaboration and multi-dimensional data handling
- Seamless integrations with ERP, CRM, and BI tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced custom models
- Pricing opaque and geared toward enterprises
- Limited options for very small teams or simple budgeting needs
Best For
Mid-sized to large enterprises with complex FP&A requirements seeking a unified planning and analytics platform.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; typically starts at $50+/user/month for Pro plans, with higher tiers for advanced features and unlimited users.
LivePlan
specializedBusiness planning software with integrated budgeting, forecasting, and performance tracking for small businesses.
Industry benchmarks that automatically compare your financials to peers for realistic planning
LivePlan is a comprehensive cloud-based platform designed for business planning, financial forecasting, and budgeting, helping users create professional business plans with integrated financial models. It features interactive dashboards for real-time performance tracking against projections, scenario planning, and cash flow management. The software integrates seamlessly with tools like QuickBooks and Xero, making it easier for small businesses to align plans with actual financial data.
Pros
- Robust financial forecasting and budgeting tools with scenario modeling
- User-friendly templates and guided business plan builder
- Real-time dashboards and integrations with accounting software
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for solo users or very small operations
- Limited advanced enterprise-level analytics and customization
- Learning curve for complex financial projections despite intuitive design
Best For
Startups and small businesses needing integrated business planning and budgeting tools without a dedicated finance team.
Pricing
Starts at $20/user/month (billed annually) for Standard plan; Premium at $40/user/month with advanced forecasting and collaboration.
Conclusion
The reviewed tools deliver powerful solutions for budgeting and planning, with Anaplan leading as the top choice due to its cloud-native platform that unifies connected planning, forecasting, and performance management across finance and operations. Workday Adaptive Planning stands out as a strong alternative, offering a comprehensive FP&A solution integrated with HCM and Finance to align planning with workforce and financial data, while Planful distinguishes itself with continuous planning capabilities that merge budgeting, forecasting, and analytics for agile decision-making. The best pick depends on specific needs, but Anaplan, Workday, and Planful set the standard for excellence in the space.
To start simplifying and enhancing your budgeting and planning processes, explore Anaplan—its robust, cloud-native design is built to streamline complex workflows and drive more informed, efficient decisions.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
