Quick Overview
- 1#1: Workday - Unified HCM platform with advanced compensation planning, modeling, budgeting, and total rewards management.
- 2#2: SAP SuccessFactors - Cloud HCM solution offering robust compensation management for salary planning, merit cycles, and incentives.
- 3#3: Oracle HCM Cloud - Enterprise-grade compensation workbench for detailed salary planning, forecasts, and compliance.
- 4#4: UKG Pro - Integrated workforce management suite with compensation planning, payroll integration, and analytics.
- 5#5: ADP Workforce Now - Comprehensive HR and payroll platform supporting compensation budgeting, modeling, and administration.
- 6#6: Dayforce - Real-time HCM system with continuous compensation planning, pay equity analysis, and forecasting.
- 7#7: Paylocity - Modern all-in-one HR platform with tools for salary structuring, performance-linked pay, and budgeting.
- 8#8: beqom - Specialized total compensation management software for strategic salary planning and optimization.
- 9#9: CompAnalyst - Compensation data and software platform for market-based salary planning and structure building.
- 10#10: PayScale - Market compensation intelligence platform with tools for salary benchmarking and planning workflows.
Tools were chosen and ranked based on features like compensation modeling, user-friendliness, integration capabilities, and overall value, ensuring they meet the needs of modern HR and finance teams.
Comparison Table
Salary planning software is essential for organizations to streamline compensation strategies, ensuring alignment with budgets and equity goals. This comparison table examines top tools including Workday, SAP SuccessFactors, Oracle HCM Cloud, UKG Pro, ADP Workforce Now, and more, providing insights into features, integration, and usability to help users select the right solution for their needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Workday Unified HCM platform with advanced compensation planning, modeling, budgeting, and total rewards management. | enterprise | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | SAP SuccessFactors Cloud HCM solution offering robust compensation management for salary planning, merit cycles, and incentives. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.6/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 3 | Oracle HCM Cloud Enterprise-grade compensation workbench for detailed salary planning, forecasts, and compliance. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 4 | UKG Pro Integrated workforce management suite with compensation planning, payroll integration, and analytics. | enterprise | 8.3/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 5 | ADP Workforce Now Comprehensive HR and payroll platform supporting compensation budgeting, modeling, and administration. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 6 | Dayforce Real-time HCM system with continuous compensation planning, pay equity analysis, and forecasting. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 7 | Paylocity Modern all-in-one HR platform with tools for salary structuring, performance-linked pay, and budgeting. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.1/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 8 | beqom Specialized total compensation management software for strategic salary planning and optimization. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 9 | CompAnalyst Compensation data and software platform for market-based salary planning and structure building. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 10 | PayScale Market compensation intelligence platform with tools for salary benchmarking and planning workflows. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.0/10 |
Unified HCM platform with advanced compensation planning, modeling, budgeting, and total rewards management.
Cloud HCM solution offering robust compensation management for salary planning, merit cycles, and incentives.
Enterprise-grade compensation workbench for detailed salary planning, forecasts, and compliance.
Integrated workforce management suite with compensation planning, payroll integration, and analytics.
Comprehensive HR and payroll platform supporting compensation budgeting, modeling, and administration.
Real-time HCM system with continuous compensation planning, pay equity analysis, and forecasting.
Modern all-in-one HR platform with tools for salary structuring, performance-linked pay, and budgeting.
Specialized total compensation management software for strategic salary planning and optimization.
Compensation data and software platform for market-based salary planning and structure building.
Market compensation intelligence platform with tools for salary benchmarking and planning workflows.
Workday
enterpriseUnified HCM platform with advanced compensation planning, modeling, budgeting, and total rewards management.
Real-time, unified data model enabling collaborative compensation planning with instant what-if simulations
Workday is a comprehensive cloud-based HCM platform renowned for its Compensation module, which streamlines salary planning by enabling merit increases, promotions, bonuses, and equity management. It offers advanced scenario modeling, eligibility rules, and budget controls integrated with real-time HR and finance data. The platform supports collaborative planning across departments with AI-driven insights for equitable pay decisions. Its unified data model ensures accuracy and compliance in enterprise environments.
Pros
- Seamless integration with full HCM, finance, and talent modules for holistic planning
- Advanced what-if scenario modeling and AI-powered recommendations
- Robust scalability, compliance tools, and real-time data visibility
Cons
- High implementation costs and lengthy setup for enterprises
- Steep learning curve for non-admin users
- Premium pricing unsuitable for small organizations
Best For
Large enterprises requiring integrated, scalable salary planning with deep HR and finance connectivity.
Pricing
Custom enterprise subscription; typically $100-250 per employee/year, depending on modules and scale.
SAP SuccessFactors
enterpriseCloud HCM solution offering robust compensation management for salary planning, merit cycles, and incentives.
AI-powered compensation recommendations via Joule, which analyzes market data and internal benchmarks for personalized salary proposals
SAP SuccessFactors is a comprehensive cloud-based HCM suite with a robust Compensation module tailored for enterprise-level salary planning. It supports merit-based increases, bonus allocations, equity management, and total rewards modeling through configurable rules, budgets, and workflows. The platform integrates performance data, enabling data-driven decisions, and offers advanced analytics for forecasting compensation costs.
Pros
- Advanced scenario modeling and what-if simulations for budget optimization
- Deep integration with SAP ERP, payroll, and other HCM modules
- Strong compliance features with audit trails and global regulatory support
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial configuration
- High implementation costs and time (often 6-12 months)
- Premium pricing not ideal for small to mid-sized organizations
Best For
Large multinational enterprises with complex, performance-linked compensation structures needing scalable, integrated HCM solutions.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically $10-25 per employee/month for the full suite; requires contacting SAP sales.
Oracle HCM Cloud
enterpriseEnterprise-grade compensation workbench for detailed salary planning, forecasts, and compliance.
Configurable multi-dimensional compensation worksheets with real-time budget tracking and eligibility engine
Oracle HCM Cloud is an enterprise-grade human capital management platform with a robust Compensation module designed for comprehensive salary planning. It supports merit-based increases, promotions, market adjustments, and total rewards management through configurable worksheets, eligibility rules, and multi-stage approval workflows. The solution integrates deeply with performance management, workforce planning, and analytics for data-driven compensation decisions, making it ideal for complex, global organizations.
Pros
- Scalable for global enterprises with complex hierarchies and compliance needs
- Advanced analytics, scenario modeling, and AI-driven insights for compensation forecasting
- Seamless integration with full HCM suite including performance and talent modules
Cons
- Steep learning curve and requires significant training for users
- High implementation costs and lengthy setup time
- Premium pricing may not suit small to mid-sized businesses
Best For
Large multinational enterprises with intricate compensation structures seeking an integrated HCM ecosystem.
Pricing
Subscription-based enterprise licensing, typically $15-25 per employee per month, with custom quotes based on modules and user volume.
UKG Pro
enterpriseIntegrated workforce management suite with compensation planning, payroll integration, and analytics.
AI-powered workforce analytics for predictive salary modeling and total rewards optimization
UKG Pro is an enterprise-grade Human Capital Management (HCM) platform that includes robust salary planning tools within its compensation management module. It enables HR teams to model merit increases, promotions, market adjustments, and total rewards budgeting using real-time employee data integrated from payroll, performance, and workforce analytics. The solution supports scenario planning, equity analysis, and compliance with global regulations, making it suitable for complex organizational structures.
Pros
- Seamless integration with full HCM suite for accurate, real-time data
- Advanced modeling and scenario planning for budgeting accuracy
- Scalable for global enterprises with strong compliance features
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex implementation
- High cost unsuitable for small businesses
- Customization requires significant configuration
Best For
Large enterprises with complex, global workforces needing integrated HCM-driven salary planning.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically starting at $10+ per employee/month for enterprise plans.
ADP Workforce Now
enterpriseComprehensive HR and payroll platform supporting compensation budgeting, modeling, and administration.
Integrated payroll execution for real-time salary adjustments without manual data transfers
ADP Workforce Now is a comprehensive human capital management (HCM) platform that includes a dedicated compensation management module for salary planning, enabling organizations to model merit increases, promotions, equity adjustments, and total rewards budgets. It leverages data from performance reviews, market benchmarks, and employee data to create accurate salary structures and forecasts. The tool supports collaborative planning workflows with approvals and integrates directly with ADP's payroll for seamless execution.
Pros
- Deep integration with full HCM suite including payroll and performance
- Advanced scenario modeling and budgeting tools
- Strong compliance features and market data benchmarking
Cons
- High implementation costs and complexity
- Steep learning curve for non-HR experts
- Custom pricing lacks transparency for smaller firms
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises requiring an integrated HCM platform with enterprise-grade salary planning.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing; typically $20-60 per employee per month, depending on modules and company size.
Dayforce
enterpriseReal-time HCM system with continuous compensation planning, pay equity analysis, and forecasting.
AI-powered total rewards modeling with real-time payroll integration for dynamic scenario planning
Dayforce is a comprehensive cloud-based HCM platform from Ceridian that includes advanced salary planning capabilities within its compensation management module. It supports merit increases, bonus planning, promotion modeling, and budget forecasting with real-time data integration from HR, payroll, and performance systems. The tool excels in scenario planning and market benchmarking, making it suitable for complex, global compensation cycles.
Pros
- Deep integration with full HCM suite for seamless data flow
- Powerful analytics and scenario modeling for accurate budgeting
- Supports global compliance and multi-currency planning
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive features
- High implementation and customization costs
- Less intuitive for small teams without dedicated admins
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises with complex, global workforces seeking integrated HCM-driven salary planning.
Pricing
Enterprise subscription pricing with custom quotes, typically $20-50 per employee/month depending on modules and scale.
Paylocity
enterpriseModern all-in-one HR platform with tools for salary structuring, performance-linked pay, and budgeting.
Integrated compensation planning with automated budget allocation and what-if scenario modeling tied directly to payroll execution
Paylocity is a comprehensive human capital management (HCM) platform that includes a dedicated Compensation Management module for salary planning, enabling organizations to create merit matrices, model budget scenarios, and perform market pricing analysis. It integrates salary planning with payroll, benefits, and performance management for streamlined compensation cycles. The tool supports pay equity audits and total rewards statements, making it suitable for mid-market employers seeking an all-in-one HR solution.
Pros
- Seamless integration with payroll and HR modules for end-to-end compensation processes
- Robust scenario modeling and budgeting tools with real-time analytics
- Strong market data integration and pay equity reporting
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for smaller organizations focused solely on salary planning
- Full suite may feel overwhelming for users needing only compensation tools
- Customization requires admin expertise and setup time
Best For
Mid-sized companies seeking an integrated HCM platform with advanced salary planning capabilities.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing, typically $20-$40 per employee per month depending on selected modules and company size.
beqom
specializedSpecialized total compensation management software for strategic salary planning and optimization.
AI-powered continuous compensation optimization with real-time market benchmarking
beqom is a comprehensive compensation management platform designed for salary planning, incentive design, and total rewards optimization. It supports merit cycles, promotions, equity adjustments, and budget management through real-time data modeling and scenario simulations. The software integrates market benchmarking, HRIS systems, and advanced analytics to enable data-driven compensation decisions for enterprises.
Pros
- Powerful scenario modeling and what-if analysis for salary planning
- Real-time collaboration and workflow automation across compensation cycles
- Deep integrations with HRIS, payroll, and market data sources
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive enterprise-level customization
- High implementation time and costs for setup
- Less suitable for small businesses with simpler needs
Best For
Large enterprises with complex, global compensation structures requiring advanced planning and analytics.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing via quote; typically starts at $50,000+ annually based on users, modules, and deployment.
CompAnalyst
specializedCompensation data and software platform for market-based salary planning and structure building.
Proprietary database with real-time salary data from over 14 million employees for precise market benchmarking
CompAnalyst by Salary.com is a robust compensation management platform focused on salary planning, offering access to one of the largest proprietary salary databases for market benchmarking and job pricing. It enables HR teams to build pay structures, model merit increases, equity adjustments, and total rewards budgets with scenario planning tools. The software also includes pay equity analytics and compliance reporting to support data-driven compensation decisions.
Pros
- Extensive proprietary salary survey data covering millions of employees
- Advanced planning tools for merit, equity, and budget modeling
- Strong pay equity and compliance analytics
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-expert users
- Custom pricing can be expensive for SMBs
- Limited native integrations with some HRIS systems
Best For
Mid-sized to large enterprises needing comprehensive market data and advanced salary planning capabilities.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically $10,000–$50,000+ annually based on company size, users, and modules.
PayScale
specializedMarket compensation intelligence platform with tools for salary benchmarking and planning workflows.
Proprietary crowdsourced compensation database with continuous real-time updates for accurate market pay insights
PayScale is a compensation intelligence platform specializing in salary data and analytics for effective salary planning and management. It provides real-time market salary benchmarks, compensation modeling tools, and analytics to help HR teams plan budgets, merit increases, promotions, and equitable pay structures. The software leverages a massive crowdsourced database to deliver customized insights for forecasting and compliance.
Pros
- Extensive real-time market salary data from millions of data points
- Intuitive interface for quick benchmarking and reporting
- Strong focus on pay equity analytics and compliance tools
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for small businesses
- Limited advanced what-if scenario planning compared to enterprise tools
- Integrations with some HRIS systems are not as seamless
Best For
Mid-sized companies needing reliable market data for salary benchmarking and basic planning.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically starts at $5,000-$10,000 annually for core modules, scaling with company size and features.
Conclusion
Salary planning software options vary widely in features like compensation modeling, integration, and analytics, with the top tools delivering exceptional results. Workday leads as the top choice, offering a unified HCM platform and advanced total rewards management, while SAP SuccessFactors and Oracle HCM Cloud stand out as strong alternatives, each excelling in areas such as merit cycles or enterprise-grade compliance. Whether prioritizing real-time insights or specialized structures, these tools provide actionable solutions to enhance salary planning processes.
Take the first step toward efficient salary planning—explore Workday to unlock its comprehensive capabilities and optimize your organization's compensation strategies.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison