Quick Overview
- 1#1: Anaplan - Provides connected workforce planning with advanced scenario modeling, forecasting, and skills gap analysis for strategic headcount decisions.
- 2#2: Workday - Offers adaptive workforce planning integrated with HCM for skills forecasting, succession planning, and organizational agility.
- 3#3: SAP SuccessFactors - Delivers workforce analytics and planning tools for identifying future talent needs, gaps, and mobility across the organization.
- 4#4: Oracle HCM Cloud - Enables sophisticated workforce modeling, capacity planning, and predictive analytics within a unified HCM platform.
- 5#5: UKG - Supports workforce management with scheduling, demand forecasting, and compliance-driven planning for shift-based operations.
- 6#6: Visier - AI-driven people analytics platform for workforce planning, turnover prediction, and strategic talent decisions.
- 7#7: Pigment - Modern planning platform for real-time headcount modeling, budget forecasting, and collaborative workforce scenarios.
- 8#8: Planful - Cloud-based FP&A solution with workforce planning for expense forecasting, headcount optimization, and variance analysis.
- 9#9: Crunchr - People analytics tool specializing in workforce planning, benchmarking, and actionable insights for HR leaders.
- 10#10: Fuze - Strategic workforce planning software for capacity simulation, scenario planning, and aligning teams with business goals.
Tools were ranked based on features (including forecasting, skills analysis, and scenario modeling), user experience, technical reliability, and value, ensuring a balanced assessment of both functionality and practicality.
Comparison Table
Workforce planning software is critical for aligning talent strategies with organizational objectives, and evaluating tools requires assessing features, scalability, and integration. This comparison table explores top platforms including Anaplan, Workday, SAP SuccessFactors, Oracle HCM Cloud, UKG, and more, offering insights to help readers find the right fit for workforce forecasting, resource allocation, and operational efficiency.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Anaplan Provides connected workforce planning with advanced scenario modeling, forecasting, and skills gap analysis for strategic headcount decisions. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 2 | Workday Offers adaptive workforce planning integrated with HCM for skills forecasting, succession planning, and organizational agility. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 3 | SAP SuccessFactors Delivers workforce analytics and planning tools for identifying future talent needs, gaps, and mobility across the organization. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.1/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 4 | Oracle HCM Cloud Enables sophisticated workforce modeling, capacity planning, and predictive analytics within a unified HCM platform. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | UKG Supports workforce management with scheduling, demand forecasting, and compliance-driven planning for shift-based operations. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 6 | Visier AI-driven people analytics platform for workforce planning, turnover prediction, and strategic talent decisions. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.1/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 7 | Pigment Modern planning platform for real-time headcount modeling, budget forecasting, and collaborative workforce scenarios. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.8/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 8 | Planful Cloud-based FP&A solution with workforce planning for expense forecasting, headcount optimization, and variance analysis. | enterprise | 8.3/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 9 | Crunchr People analytics tool specializing in workforce planning, benchmarking, and actionable insights for HR leaders. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 10 | Fuze Strategic workforce planning software for capacity simulation, scenario planning, and aligning teams with business goals. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 8.1/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.2/10 |
Provides connected workforce planning with advanced scenario modeling, forecasting, and skills gap analysis for strategic headcount decisions.
Offers adaptive workforce planning integrated with HCM for skills forecasting, succession planning, and organizational agility.
Delivers workforce analytics and planning tools for identifying future talent needs, gaps, and mobility across the organization.
Enables sophisticated workforce modeling, capacity planning, and predictive analytics within a unified HCM platform.
Supports workforce management with scheduling, demand forecasting, and compliance-driven planning for shift-based operations.
AI-driven people analytics platform for workforce planning, turnover prediction, and strategic talent decisions.
Modern planning platform for real-time headcount modeling, budget forecasting, and collaborative workforce scenarios.
Cloud-based FP&A solution with workforce planning for expense forecasting, headcount optimization, and variance analysis.
People analytics tool specializing in workforce planning, benchmarking, and actionable insights for HR leaders.
Strategic workforce planning software for capacity simulation, scenario planning, and aligning teams with business goals.
Anaplan
enterpriseProvides connected workforce planning with advanced scenario modeling, forecasting, and skills gap analysis for strategic headcount decisions.
Hyperblock in-memory calculation engine for lightning-fast scenario planning on billions of data points
Anaplan is a cloud-based connected planning platform that excels in workforce planning by enabling organizations to model headcount, compensation, skills gaps, and attrition scenarios in real-time. It integrates seamlessly with HRIS, finance, and other enterprise systems for holistic, data-driven workforce decisions. With its multi-dimensional modeling capabilities, users can run what-if analyses and forecast future workforce needs across global operations.
Pros
- Highly flexible multi-dimensional modeling for complex workforce scenarios
- Real-time collaboration and instant recalculations on massive datasets
- Seamless integrations with HR, finance, and ERP systems
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring training for non-technical users
- High implementation costs and time for custom builds
- Pricing can be prohibitive for small to mid-sized organizations
Best For
Large enterprises with complex, global workforce planning needs requiring integrated scenario modeling and real-time insights.
Pricing
Custom enterprise subscription pricing, typically starting at $100,000+ annually based on users, modules, and deployment scale.
Workday
enterpriseOffers adaptive workforce planning integrated with HCM for skills forecasting, succession planning, and organizational agility.
Workday Skills Cloud, enabling skills-based planning and talent mobility with a comprehensive, AI-curated skills ontology.
Workday is a leading cloud-based enterprise platform that provides comprehensive human capital management (HCM) solutions, with robust workforce planning capabilities integrated into its suite. Its Workforce Planning module leverages AI-driven analytics, skills mapping, and scenario modeling to help organizations forecast talent needs, optimize staffing, and align workforce strategies with business goals. Key features include succession planning, skills-based workforce optimization, and real-time dashboards for data-driven decision-making.
Pros
- Seamless integration with full HCM, finance, and analytics suite
- Advanced AI and predictive modeling for accurate workforce forecasting
- Highly scalable for global enterprises with strong customization options
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex implementation for non-experts
- Premium pricing that may not suit small or mid-sized businesses
- Occasional performance lags in highly customized deployments
Best For
Large enterprises seeking an integrated, AI-powered workforce planning solution within a comprehensive HCM ecosystem.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically quote-based starting at $150-$250 per user per month for core modules, with annual contracts often scaling into millions for full deployments.
SAP SuccessFactors
enterpriseDelivers workforce analytics and planning tools for identifying future talent needs, gaps, and mobility across the organization.
Intelligent Scenario Planner with AI simulations for testing workforce strategies under various business conditions
SAP SuccessFactors is a comprehensive cloud-based HCM platform with robust Workforce Planning capabilities, enabling organizations to forecast talent needs, identify skill gaps, and simulate future scenarios through advanced analytics. It integrates workforce data with financial planning for strategic alignment and supports succession planning, diversity analytics, and what-if modeling. As part of the SAP ecosystem, it leverages AI and machine learning for predictive insights into attrition, hiring, and capacity.
Pros
- Powerful AI-driven predictive analytics and scenario modeling for accurate forecasting
- Deep integration with SAP ERP and other HCM modules for holistic planning
- Comprehensive reporting and visualization tools for data-driven decisions
Cons
- Complex implementation and steep learning curve for non-experts
- High cost, especially for smaller organizations
- Customization often requires SAP consultants or partners
Best For
Large enterprises with complex, global workforces needing integrated strategic planning.
Pricing
Subscription-based; typically $10-25 per employee/month for core modules, with custom enterprise pricing starting at $100K+ annually.
Oracle HCM Cloud
enterpriseEnables sophisticated workforce modeling, capacity planning, and predictive analytics within a unified HCM platform.
AI-powered predictive workforce simulations with driver-based modeling and what-if scenario analysis
Oracle HCM Cloud is an enterprise-grade human capital management suite with robust workforce planning capabilities, enabling organizations to forecast headcount, model scenarios, and align talent strategies with business objectives. It leverages AI-driven analytics for predictive insights into skills gaps, succession planning, and budgeting. The platform integrates seamlessly with Oracle's broader ecosystem, providing a unified view of HR and financial data for strategic decision-making.
Pros
- Advanced AI and predictive analytics for accurate workforce forecasting and scenario modeling
- Seamless integration with Oracle ERP and financial systems for holistic planning
- Comprehensive tools for skills management, succession planning, and budgeting
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex implementation for non-enterprise users
- High cost, especially for smaller organizations
- Customization requires significant IT resources and expertise
Best For
Large enterprises with complex, global workforces seeking integrated workforce and financial planning.
Pricing
Subscription-based enterprise pricing, typically $15-25 per employee per month, plus implementation fees; custom quotes required.
UKG
enterpriseSupports workforce management with scheduling, demand forecasting, and compliance-driven planning for shift-based operations.
AI-powered intelligent forecasting that uses historical data, trends, and external factors to predict staffing needs with high accuracy
UKG (Ultimate Kronos Group) is a comprehensive workforce management platform that excels in workforce planning through advanced forecasting, intelligent scheduling, and real-time analytics to optimize staffing and reduce labor costs. It integrates seamlessly with HR, payroll, and time-tracking systems, enabling organizations to predict demand, manage shifts, and ensure compliance across global operations. Designed for mid-to-large enterprises, UKG leverages AI and machine learning for proactive planning and scenario modeling.
Pros
- Powerful AI-driven forecasting and predictive scheduling for accurate demand planning
- Deep integrations with HR, payroll, and ERP systems for unified workforce data
- Scalable for multi-location enterprises with strong compliance and reporting tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup requiring significant IT involvement
- High implementation costs and long deployment timelines
- Pricing is opaque and expensive for smaller organizations
Best For
Large enterprises with complex, multi-site operations needing integrated workforce forecasting and compliance management.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically $20-60 per employee/month for core workforce planning modules, with additional fees for implementation and advanced features.
Visier
specializedAI-driven people analytics platform for workforce planning, turnover prediction, and strategic talent decisions.
AI-driven Workforce Simulator for interactive what-if scenario planning and predictive capacity optimization
Visier is a cloud-based people analytics platform focused on workforce planning, offering AI-driven insights into headcount forecasting, skills intelligence, attrition prediction, and scenario modeling. It integrates data from HR systems, finance, and other sources to enable strategic workforce decisions without requiring data science expertise. Designed for enterprises, it supports succession planning, diversity analytics, and capacity optimization through intuitive dashboards and no-code tools.
Pros
- Powerful AI and predictive analytics for accurate workforce forecasting
- Seamless integration with multiple HRIS and data sources
- Flexible scenario planning and what-if modeling for strategic decisions
Cons
- High enterprise-level pricing can be prohibitive for mid-sized firms
- Initial data integration and setup require significant effort
- Advanced features may overwhelm users without analytics background
Best For
Large enterprises with complex workforce data needs seeking AI-powered strategic planning and analytics.
Pricing
Quote-based annual subscription, typically $10-25 per employee per month depending on data volume and features.
Pigment
enterpriseModern planning platform for real-time headcount modeling, budget forecasting, and collaborative workforce scenarios.
Hypercubes for multidimensional, real-time what-if scenario planning across workforce and financial metrics
Pigment is a cloud-based connected planning platform that excels in unifying workforce planning with financial and operational forecasting for mid-to-large enterprises. It enables detailed headcount modeling, compensation scenario analysis, attrition forecasting, and capacity planning through customizable dashboards and real-time collaboration. The tool integrates HR data with finance systems to provide a single source of truth for strategic workforce decisions.
Pros
- Highly flexible driver-based modeling for complex workforce scenarios
- Real-time collaboration and scenario planning across teams
- Strong integrations with HRIS, finance tools, and BI platforms
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users
- Enterprise pricing lacks transparency and can be costly
- Fewer pre-built workforce templates compared to HR specialists
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises seeking integrated workforce and financial planning with advanced scenario modeling.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing based on users and modules; typically starts at $100,000+ annually.
Planful
enterpriseCloud-based FP&A solution with workforce planning for expense forecasting, headcount optimization, and variance analysis.
Seamless unification of workforce planning with financial budgeting and forecasting in one platform
Planful is a cloud-based Enterprise Performance Management (EPM) platform primarily focused on financial planning and analysis, with a dedicated workforce planning module for headcount forecasting, compensation modeling, and benefits planning. It integrates workforce data with financial budgets, enabling scenario modeling and what-if analyses to align talent strategies with business goals. The tool supports real-time collaboration and reporting, making it suitable for finance-led workforce planning initiatives.
Pros
- Intuitive Excel-like interface for quick adoption by finance teams
- Strong integration with HRIS systems like Workday for accurate data syncing
- Driver-based modeling for dynamic headcount and compensation forecasting
Cons
- Less emphasis on advanced HR-specific features like skills or succession planning
- Pricing can be high for smaller organizations without broad FP&A needs
- Customization often requires professional services
Best For
Mid-to-large enterprises with finance teams seeking integrated financial and workforce planning.
Pricing
Quote-based enterprise pricing, typically starting at $50,000+ annually depending on users and modules.
Crunchr
specializedPeople analytics tool specializing in workforce planning, benchmarking, and actionable insights for HR leaders.
Spreadsheet-style collaborative planning sheets that mimic Excel while adding real-time data integration and scenario automation
Crunchr is a cloud-based workforce planning platform that enables organizations to forecast headcount, capacity, and financials through intuitive modeling tools. It integrates seamlessly with HRIS systems like Workday and BambooHR, allowing for real-time data synchronization and scenario-based planning. The software provides customizable dashboards for tracking hiring pipelines, attrition rates, and budget alignment, making it suitable for strategic workforce optimization.
Pros
- Powerful scenario planning with what-if analysis
- Strong integrations with popular HRIS platforms
- Excel-like interface for familiar modeling experience
Cons
- Pricing lacks transparency and requires custom quotes
- Limited advanced AI-driven insights compared to top competitors
- Steeper learning curve for complex multi-scenario models
Best For
Mid-sized enterprises in tech or professional services needing integrated headcount and financial forecasting.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing upon request, typically starting at $10,000+ annually based on company size and users.
Fuze
specializedStrategic workforce planning software for capacity simulation, scenario planning, and aligning teams with business goals.
AI-driven capacity heatmaps that dynamically visualize team utilization and bottlenecks
Fuze is a workforce planning platform focused on capacity planning, resource allocation, and demand forecasting for tech and engineering teams. It integrates with tools like Jira, GitHub, and Slack to provide real-time visibility into team skills, availability, and project pipelines. The software enables scenario modeling to optimize hiring, prevent burnout, and align resources with business goals.
Pros
- Seamless integrations with Jira and other dev tools for accurate data syncing
- Strong capacity forecasting and scenario planning capabilities
- Intuitive dashboards for real-time team visibility
Cons
- Primarily tailored to tech/engineering teams, less versatile for other industries
- Pricing can be steep for smaller teams
- Limited advanced AI analytics compared to top competitors
Best For
Mid-sized tech companies seeking to optimize engineering team capacity and project delivery.
Pricing
Custom pricing with tiers starting at ~$15/user/month for Starter, up to $35+/user/month for Growth and Enterprise plans.
Conclusion
Across the reviewed tools, Anaplan leads as the top choice, offering connected workforce planning, advanced scenario modeling, and skills gap analysis to inform strategic headcount decisions. Workday and SAP SuccessFactors follow closely, with Workday excelling in adaptive integration with HCM for organizational agility and SAP SuccessFactors delivering powerful analytics for talent needs and mobility. Each tool brings unique strengths, ensuring clarity for choosing the right fit based on specific planning priorities.
Don’t wait—explore Anaplan’s capabilities to transform your workforce planning, empowering smarter, more proactive decisions that drive business success.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison