Quick Overview
- 1#1: AuditBoard - Cloud-native platform for managing audit, risk, SOX compliance, and internal controls with automation and analytics.
- 2#2: Workiva - Connected reporting platform that streamlines financial and operational internal controls, compliance, and disclosures.
- 3#3: BlackLine - Automates financial close, reconciliations, and task management with embedded controls for accuracy and compliance.
- 4#4: MetricStream - Comprehensive GRC platform for defining, testing, and monitoring enterprise-wide internal controls and risks.
- 5#5: Archer - Integrated risk management solution for internal controls assessment, audit workflows, and regulatory compliance.
- 6#6: LogicGate - No-code risk and compliance platform enabling custom internal control frameworks and automated testing.
- 7#7: ServiceNow GRC - Integrated GRC suite for policy management, control monitoring, and integrated risk assessments within IT service management.
- 8#8: Diligent HighBond - Analytics-driven platform for internal audit, controls testing, risk assessments, and continuous monitoring.
- 9#9: TeamMate+ - Audit management software focused on internal controls documentation, testing, and workflow automation.
- 10#10: Resolver - Enterprise risk intelligence platform supporting internal controls, incident management, and audit programs.
We ranked these tools based on feature depth (including automation, compliance alignment, and usability), user experience (interface intuitiveness and learning curve), and overall value (functionality-to-cost ratio and post-implementation support).
Comparison Table
Navigating internal control software requires clarity on key features and capabilities. This comparison table breaks down tools like AuditBoard, Workiva, BlackLine, MetricStream, Archer, and more, helping readers identify which option aligns with their unique operational and compliance needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | AuditBoard Cloud-native platform for managing audit, risk, SOX compliance, and internal controls with automation and analytics. | enterprise | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.1/10 | 9.3/10 |
| 2 | Workiva Connected reporting platform that streamlines financial and operational internal controls, compliance, and disclosures. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 3 | BlackLine Automates financial close, reconciliations, and task management with embedded controls for accuracy and compliance. | enterprise | 8.8/10 | 9.4/10 | 8.1/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 4 | MetricStream Comprehensive GRC platform for defining, testing, and monitoring enterprise-wide internal controls and risks. | enterprise | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | Archer Integrated risk management solution for internal controls assessment, audit workflows, and regulatory compliance. | enterprise | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | LogicGate No-code risk and compliance platform enabling custom internal control frameworks and automated testing. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 7 | ServiceNow GRC Integrated GRC suite for policy management, control monitoring, and integrated risk assessments within IT service management. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 8 | Diligent HighBond Analytics-driven platform for internal audit, controls testing, risk assessments, and continuous monitoring. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 9 | TeamMate+ Audit management software focused on internal controls documentation, testing, and workflow automation. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 10 | Resolver Enterprise risk intelligence platform supporting internal controls, incident management, and audit programs. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.8/10 |
Cloud-native platform for managing audit, risk, SOX compliance, and internal controls with automation and analytics.
Connected reporting platform that streamlines financial and operational internal controls, compliance, and disclosures.
Automates financial close, reconciliations, and task management with embedded controls for accuracy and compliance.
Comprehensive GRC platform for defining, testing, and monitoring enterprise-wide internal controls and risks.
Integrated risk management solution for internal controls assessment, audit workflows, and regulatory compliance.
No-code risk and compliance platform enabling custom internal control frameworks and automated testing.
Integrated GRC suite for policy management, control monitoring, and integrated risk assessments within IT service management.
Analytics-driven platform for internal audit, controls testing, risk assessments, and continuous monitoring.
Audit management software focused on internal controls documentation, testing, and workflow automation.
Enterprise risk intelligence platform supporting internal controls, incident management, and audit programs.
AuditBoard
enterpriseCloud-native platform for managing audit, risk, SOX compliance, and internal controls with automation and analytics.
Connected Risk platform that unifies controls, risks, audits, and issues in a single, interconnected ecosystem for end-to-end visibility.
AuditBoard is a cloud-based governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) platform that excels in internal audit management, SOX compliance, and internal controls testing. It automates control documentation, testing workflows, evidence collection, and remediation tracking, enabling continuous monitoring and real-time visibility into control effectiveness. The platform integrates risk assessments, issue management, and advanced analytics to help organizations streamline compliance processes and reduce audit cycles significantly.
Pros
- Comprehensive SOX and internal controls automation with narrative builder and testing workflows
- Real-time dashboards and AI-powered insights for proactive risk management
- Seamless integration with ERP systems and strong collaboration tools
Cons
- High cost suitable mainly for mid-to-large enterprises
- Steep initial learning curve for advanced features
- Customization often requires professional services
Best For
Large enterprises and public companies managing complex SOX 404 compliance and internal control frameworks.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically starts at $50,000+ annually depending on modules, users, and implementation.
Workiva
enterpriseConnected reporting platform that streamlines financial and operational internal controls, compliance, and disclosures.
Dynamic data linking that automatically propagates updates across linked reports and control documentation
Workiva is a cloud-based platform designed for connected reporting, compliance, and risk management, with strong capabilities in internal controls through automated workflows, SOX compliance tools, and audit management. It enables organizations to document, test, and monitor controls with linked data across financial reports and disclosures, reducing errors and ensuring audit readiness. The platform supports risk assessments, control self-assessments, and real-time collaboration for finance and compliance teams.
Pros
- Comprehensive SOX compliance and internal control automation with robust audit trails
- Seamless data linking across documents and reports for accuracy and efficiency
- Strong security, collaboration tools, and integrations with ERPs like Oracle and SAP
Cons
- High enterprise-level pricing limits accessibility for smaller firms
- Steep initial learning curve and setup for complex deployments
- Less flexibility for non-financial or operational control management
Best For
Large public companies and enterprises requiring integrated SOX compliance, financial reporting, and internal control management.
Pricing
Custom enterprise subscription pricing; typically starts at $50,000+ annually based on users and modules, with quotes via sales.
BlackLine
enterpriseAutomates financial close, reconciliations, and task management with embedded controls for accuracy and compliance.
AI-powered Transaction Matching that automates reconciliation with high accuracy and continuous monitoring
BlackLine is a cloud-based platform specializing in financial and accounting automation, particularly for streamlining the month-end close process through account reconciliations, task management, journal entries, and variance analysis. It bolsters internal controls by providing robust audit trails, segregation of duties enforcement, real-time visibility, and compliance tools aligned with SOX and other regulations. This solution helps finance teams reduce manual errors, accelerate closes, and mitigate risks in financial reporting.
Pros
- Comprehensive automation for reconciliations and close tasks with strong internal control features
- Excellent audit trails and compliance reporting for regulatory adherence
- Scalable integrations with ERP systems like SAP and Oracle
Cons
- High implementation costs and time requirements
- Steep learning curve for non-expert users
- Premium pricing may not suit smaller organizations
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises with complex financial closes needing robust automation and SOX-compliant internal controls.
Pricing
Custom quote-based; typically starts at $50,000+ annually based on users, modules, and company size.
MetricStream
enterpriseComprehensive GRC platform for defining, testing, and monitoring enterprise-wide internal controls and risks.
AI-powered continuous control monitoring with real-time risk intelligence
MetricStream is a comprehensive Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) platform designed to streamline internal control management, including control design, testing, monitoring, and remediation. It supports SOX compliance, audit management, and enterprise-wide risk assessment through automated workflows and AI-powered insights. The software integrates with ERP systems and provides real-time dashboards for proactive control oversight.
Pros
- Robust automation for control testing and continuous monitoring
- Advanced AI and analytics for risk prediction and insights
- Highly scalable with strong integration capabilities for enterprises
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup
- High implementation costs and long deployment timelines
- Pricing lacks transparency, often requiring custom quotes
Best For
Large enterprises with complex compliance needs seeking an integrated GRC solution for SOX and internal controls.
Pricing
Enterprise-level custom pricing, typically starting at $100,000+ annually based on modules and users.
Archer
enterpriseIntegrated risk management solution for internal controls assessment, audit workflows, and regulatory compliance.
Archer Unity platform for seamless, integrated GRC across internal controls, risk, audit, and cyber in a single configurable interface
Archer (archerirm.com) is a comprehensive governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) platform designed to manage internal controls, audits, risk assessments, and regulatory compliance. It provides a centralized repository for control documentation, automated workflows for testing and remediation, and advanced analytics for monitoring control effectiveness. The software excels in enterprise environments by integrating with ERP systems and offering scalable solutions for SOX, ITGC, and operational controls.
Pros
- Highly customizable no-code/low-code platform for tailored internal control frameworks
- Robust integration with enterprise systems like SAP and Oracle
- Advanced reporting and real-time dashboards for control monitoring
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial configuration
- High implementation costs and long setup time
- Pricing is opaque and enterprise-focused, less suitable for SMBs
Best For
Large enterprises with complex, multi-regulatory compliance needs requiring scalable GRC integration.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically starting at $50,000+ annually based on users, modules, and deployment (on-premise or SaaS).
LogicGate
enterpriseNo-code risk and compliance platform enabling custom internal control frameworks and automated testing.
No-code Process Designer enabling drag-and-drop creation of interconnected workflows for internal controls without developer resources
LogicGate is a cloud-based Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) platform specializing in internal controls, risk management, audit workflows, and regulatory compliance. It features a no-code environment with drag-and-drop tools to build custom processes, assessments, and dashboards tailored to organizational needs. The software automates control testing, monitors key risks, and provides real-time analytics to enhance operational resilience and ensure adherence to standards like SOX, NIST, and ISO.
Pros
- Highly configurable no-code workflow builder for custom internal control processes
- Robust automation and real-time reporting for audits and compliance
- Seamless integrations with enterprise tools like Microsoft Office and ServiceNow
Cons
- Steep initial learning curve for complex configurations
- Pricing is opaque and enterprise-focused, less ideal for SMBs
- Fewer pre-built templates than some specialized competitors
Best For
Mid-sized to large enterprises needing a flexible, scalable platform for comprehensive GRC and internal control management.
Pricing
Quote-based enterprise pricing starting at around $50,000/year; modular based on users, processes, and support.
ServiceNow GRC
enterpriseIntegrated GRC suite for policy management, control monitoring, and integrated risk assessments within IT service management.
Integrated GRC on the Now Platform with native AI and Performance Analytics for real-time, cross-functional risk and control visibility
ServiceNow GRC is a comprehensive governance, risk, and compliance platform integrated into the ServiceNow Now Platform, designed to manage internal controls, risk assessments, policy lifecycles, and regulatory compliance. It enables organizations to design, test, monitor, and report on controls with automated workflows, continuous monitoring, and AI-driven insights for proactive risk management. Ideal for enterprises seeking an all-in-one solution that ties GRC to IT service management and operational processes.
Pros
- Deep integration with ServiceNow ITSM and other modules for seamless workflows
- Advanced automation, AI-powered risk scoring, and continuous control monitoring
- Scalable for enterprise-wide deployment with robust reporting and analytics
Cons
- Complex implementation requiring significant customization and expertise
- High cost structure that may not suit smaller organizations
- Steep learning curve for users unfamiliar with the ServiceNow platform
Best For
Large enterprises already invested in the ServiceNow ecosystem needing integrated, scalable internal control management.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription pricing, typically starting at $100,000+ annually depending on modules, users, and deployment scale.
Diligent HighBond
enterpriseAnalytics-driven platform for internal audit, controls testing, risk assessments, and continuous monitoring.
Interconnected GRC apps with Metrics Management for real-time, visual control performance tracking across the organization
Diligent HighBond is a unified governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) platform designed to streamline internal control management, audits, and risk assessments. It enables continuous monitoring of controls, automated testing, and real-time analytics through interconnected modules like AuditBond, RiskBond, and ControlBond. Organizations use it to achieve SOX compliance, visualize risks on interactive boards, and integrate data from multiple sources for a holistic view of internal controls.
Pros
- Comprehensive automation for control testing and continuous monitoring
- Powerful integrations with ERP systems and data sources
- Advanced visualizations and customizable dashboards for risk insights
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive features
- High enterprise-level pricing
- Can be overly complex for smaller organizations
Best For
Large enterprises with complex SOX compliance needs and multi-departmental GRC requirements.
Pricing
Custom enterprise subscription pricing, typically starting at $50,000+ annually based on users, modules, and deployment scale.
TeamMate+
enterpriseAudit management software focused on internal controls documentation, testing, and workflow automation.
Integrated TeamMate Analytics with AI-powered risk scoring and automated control testing
TeamMate+ by Wolters Kluwer is a comprehensive audit management platform tailored for internal audit teams, enabling end-to-end management of audits, risk assessments, and internal controls. It facilitates planning, fieldwork execution, issue management, and reporting while supporting SOX compliance and control testing through customizable workflows and documentation. Advanced analytics and AI-driven insights help prioritize risks and improve audit quality.
Pros
- Robust end-to-end audit lifecycle coverage with strong internal control testing tools
- Integrated analytics and AI for risk prioritization and insights
- Highly customizable workflows and real-time collaboration features
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to complexity
- High cost may not suit smaller organizations
- Limited out-of-the-box integrations with non-Wolters Kluwer tools
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises with mature internal audit functions needing scalable SOX compliance and risk management.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically quote-based starting at $50,000+ annually depending on users, modules, and deployment.
Resolver
enterpriseEnterprise risk intelligence platform supporting internal controls, incident management, and audit programs.
Unified dashboard for real-time risk intelligence and incident-to-control traceability
Resolver is a robust governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) platform designed to streamline internal control management, including audit tracking, policy enforcement, and control testing. It offers modules for risk assessment, incident reporting, and compliance monitoring, enabling organizations to automate workflows and generate actionable insights. With strong customization options, Resolver supports SOX compliance and enterprise-wide internal control frameworks effectively.
Pros
- Comprehensive GRC modules covering audits, risks, and incidents
- Highly customizable workflows and reporting
- Strong integration capabilities with enterprise systems
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Complex initial setup and implementation
- Premium pricing may not suit smaller organizations
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises requiring an integrated platform for internal controls, compliance, and risk management.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically starting at $50,000 annually based on modules, users, and deployment scale.
Conclusion
While the list of top internal control tools offers robust options, AuditBoard claims the top spot with its cloud-native design, automated analytics, and integrated management of audits, risk, and compliance. Workiva excels with its streamlined connected reporting for financial and operational controls, and BlackLine stands out for its focus on automating critical financial close and reconciliation tasks. Each tool addresses unique needs, but AuditBoard emerges as the strongest across comprehensive functionality.
Take the first step toward stronger internal controls—explore AuditBoard today to discover how its integrated platform can transform your compliance and risk management processes.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison