SAP SuccessFactors vs. Workday: Comparison & Expert Reviews For 2025
SAP SuccessFactors vs Workday is a common comparison for organizations seeking the best Human Capital Management (HCM) software. SAP SuccessFactors offers a robust solution for managing your workforce needs with comprehensive HCM capabilities, while Workday provides a dynamic platform focused on adaptability and user experience.
Both tools deliver powerful HCM solutions, but they differ in their approach to integration and user engagement—factors that can impact your team’s overall efficiency.
In this article, you'll find a detailed comparison of their features, pros and cons, pricing, and more to help you choose the best Human Capital Management (HCM) solution for your organization.
SAP SuccessFactors vs. Workday: An Overview
SAP SuccessFactors
Workday
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SAP SuccessFactors vs. Workday Pricing Comparison
| SAP SuccessFactors | Workday | |
|---|---|---|
| Free Trial | Free trial + free demo available | Free demo available |
| Pricing | Pricing upon request | Pricing upon request |
Get free help from our project management software advisors to find your match.
Get Expert AdviceOpens new windowSAP SuccessFactors and Workday Pricing & Hidden Costs
SAP SuccessFactors pricing is based on a subscription model, with costs varying according to the number of users and selected modules, which may lead to additional expenses if your needs expand. Workday pricing also follows a subscription-based model, often requiring a minimum contract term, and can include extra fees for implementation and customization.
To choose the tool with the correct pricing for your needs, evaluate your organization's specific requirements and potential growth, and request detailed quotes from both vendors to understand the total cost of ownership over time.
SAP SuccessFactors vs. Workday Feature Comparison
With SAP SuccessFactors’ robust performance management feature, you can efficiently track and manage employee goals and appraisals, making it invaluable during annual reviews. Alternatively, Workday’s comprehensive reporting and analytics tools are excellent for gaining actionable insights into workforce trends, especially useful for strategic decision-making.
While SAP SuccessFactors excels in performance tracking, Workday offers superior data analysis capabilities, catering to different aspects of HR management.
| SAP SuccessFactors | Workday | |
|---|---|---|
| API | ||
| Application Tracking | ||
| Attendance Tracking | ||
| Compliance Tracking | ||
| Employee Database | ||
| Employee Engagement | ||
| Employee Incentive Management | ||
| Employee Onboarding | ||
| Employee Training | ||
| Expense Tracking | ||
| External Integrations | ||
| Feedback Management | ||
| Payroll | ||
| Time Management | ||
| Timesheets | ||
| Vacation & Absence Calendar |
Get free help from our project management software advisors to find your match.
Get Expert AdviceOpens new windowSAP SuccessFactors vs. Workday Integrations
| Integration | SAP SuccessFactors | Workday |
| Microsoft 365 | ✅ | ✅ |
| Google Workspace | ✅ | ✅ |
| Slack | ✅ | ✅ |
| DocuSign | ✅ | ✅ |
| Salesforce | ✅ | ✅ |
| ServiceNow | ✅ | ✅ |
| Oracle | ❌ | ✅ |
| GitHub | ✅ | ❌ |
| API | ✅ | ✅ |
| Zapier | ✅ | ✅ |
With SAP SuccessFactors' integration with Salesforce, you can streamline your recruitment process by syncing candidate data for more efficient talent acquisition. Conversely, Workday's integration with Oracle is great for organizations needing to unify their finance and HR data, providing comprehensive insights across departments.
While SAP SuccessFactors excels in recruitment integration, Workday offers robust financial data synchronization, catering to the diverse needs of various organizations.
SAP SuccessFactors vs. Workday Security, Compliance & Reliability
| Factor | SAP SuccessFactors | Workday |
| Data Encryption | Uses advanced encryption methods to protect data in transit and at rest, ensuring confidentiality. | Employs AES-256 encryption for data protection, both in transit and at rest. |
| Regulatory Compliance | Supports compliance with global regulations like GDPR and CCPA by offering configurable data management settings. | Provides compliance tools for GDPR and other regulations, with regular audits to ensure adherence. |
| Reliability | Guarantees a 99.9% uptime with robust infrastructure and continuous monitoring. | Maintains a 99.9% uptime through redundant systems and proactive monitoring. |
SAP SuccessFactors and Workday both offer strong security and compliance features, but differ slightly in their implementation approaches. To evaluate these features for your team, focus on the specific regulatory requirements your organization must meet, and review each vendor's compliance certifications and encryption standards.
SAP SuccessFactors vs. Workday Ease of Use
| Factor | SAP SuccessFactors | Workday |
| User Interface | Offers a modern interface with customizable dashboards for streamlined navigation. | Features an intuitive interface with a clean design and easy access to key functions. |
| Onboarding Experience | Provides detailed tutorials and guided steps to help new users get started quickly. | Onboarding is user-friendly with a comprehensive setup wizard and support resources. |
| Support | Delivers robust support through community forums and dedicated help desks. | Offers 24/7 support with live chat and a comprehensive knowledge base for quick answers. |
SAP SuccessFactors is easier to customize with its flexible dashboard options, but Workday excels in providing a straightforward onboarding process and accessible support around the clock.
SAP SuccessFactors may require more initial setup time, whereas Workday's clean interface allows for effortless navigation from the start.
SAP SuccessFactors vs Workday: Pros & Cons
SAP SuccessFactors
- The platform's scalability supports your growing business needs without compromising performance.
- Its robust analytics provide valuable insights to help you make data-driven decisions.
- It offers comprehensive talent management tools that streamline your team's recruitment and performance tracking.
- Navigating the extensive features may require more training for effective use.
- Customizing the software to fit specific needs often requires additional support.
- The user interface can be complex, which might slow down your team's workflow initially.
Workday
- The user-friendly interface makes it easy for your team to navigate and manage HR tasks efficiently.
- It offers advanced talent management tools that enhance your team's capabilities.
- Workday HCM is highly configurable, allowing you to tailor HR processes to fit your needs.
- Mid-market companies might find the premium pricing challenging due to high costs.
- Its Applicant Tracking System and Payroll modules might not match specialized third-party solutions.
- The implementation process can be complex and may require full-time consultants.
Best Use Cases For SAP SuccessFactors And Workday
SAP SuccessFactors
- Large Enterprises SAP SuccessFactors scales efficiently to handle large employee bases and complex workflows.
- Healthcare Industry The software’s compliance and regulatory features are ideal for the healthcare sector’s stringent requirements.
- Manufacturing Sector Its robust analytics help you optimize workforce allocation and improve operational efficiency.
- HR Departments Your team benefits from its complete suite of tools for managing recruitment, performance, and employee development.
- Talent Acquisition Teams The platform’s recruitment features streamline your hiring processes and improve candidate experience.
- Global Companies SAP SuccessFactors supports multiple languages and currencies, perfect for managing your international workforce.
Workday
- Large Enterprises Workday HCM’s scalability and robust features support your complex HR needs across global locations.
- Healthcare Organizations The system’s compliance tools help you manage regulatory requirements in your HR processes.
- Finance Sector Workday HCM’s analytical tools can enhance your workforce planning and decision-making.
- Technology Companies Its talent management features can help you attract and retain top tech talent in a competitive market.
- Human Resources Departments The intuitive interface and comprehensive tools streamline HR tasks for your team.
- Multinational Corporations Workday HCM supports multi-currency and multi-language capabilities, crucial for your global operations.
Get free help from our project management software advisors to find your match.
Get Expert AdviceOpens new windowWho Should Use SAP SuccessFactors and Workday?
In my opinion, SAP SuccessFactors is an excellent fit for large enterprises that need a comprehensive solution with robust customization options and global compliance support. If you're in a highly-regulated industry or have complex HR needs, it might be the right choice for your team.
On the other hand, Workday is ideal for organizations seeking a user-friendly interface and robust analytics capabilities. It's a solid option if you want seamless integration across departments and prioritize ease of use.
Differences Between SAP SuccessFactors And Workday
Here’s a side-by-side breakdown of how SAP SuccessFactors and Workday differ in functionality, integrations, and pricing.
| SAP SuccessFactors | Workday | |
|---|---|---|
| Automation | Supports automation in performance management and appraisals. | Provides robust automation for reporting and analytics tasks. |
| Customization | Provides extensive customization options for diverse needs. | Offers less customization but focuses on streamlined, out-of-the-box solutions. |
| Integrations | Integrates well with Salesforce and other major platforms. | Excels in integrating with Oracle and provides comprehensive data analysis. |
| Pricing | Uses a subscription model with costs based on users and modules. | Follows a subscription model, often with minimum contract terms. |
| User Interface | Offers customizable dashboards for personalized navigation. | Features a clean, intuitive interface for straightforward navigation. |
| Visit SAP SuccessFactorsOpens new window | Visit WorkdayOpens new window |
Similarities Between SAP SuccessFactors And Workday
Despite their differences, SAP SuccessFactors and Workday share several core features and capabilities—see how they align below.
| Analytics Tools | Both platforms offer comprehensive analytics tools, providing you with valuable insights into workforce trends. SAP SuccessFactors excels in performance data, while Workday shines in financial and HR analytics. |
|---|---|
| Compliance | The solutions support compliance with international regulations, such as GDPR, helping your team manage data privacy effectively across borders. They offer configurable settings to meet varying legal requirements. |
| Data Security | They employ strong encryption methods to protect your data, ensuring confidentiality and integrity. They prioritize security with continuous monitoring and updates. |
| Mobile Usability | With mobile apps, both SAP SuccessFactors and Workday let your team access key features on the go, enhancing flexibility and productivity. They support task management and approvals from any location. |
| Subscription Model | SAP SuccessFactors and Workday offer subscription pricing, allowing you to scale as your team grows. Each adjusts costs based on users and features, providing flexibility in managing expenses. |
| Visit SAP SuccessFactorsOpens new window Visit WorkdayOpens new window | |