Top 10 AP Automation Platforms Reviewed
By Richard "Rick" Callahan | Published: 2024-10-27 | Category: Accounts Payable Automation Software
About Accounts Payable Automation Software
Accounts payable (AP) automation software streamlines and automates the process of managing supplier invoices and making payments. It helps organizations reduce manual data entry, improve accuracy, accelerate approvals, and enhance financial controls.
Scoring Criteria
- → Feature Set
- → Ease of Use
- → Integration Capabilities
- → Customer Support
- → Value for Money
The Best Accounts Payable Automation Software
#10
Yooz
By Yooz Inc.
Cloud-based AP automation solution leveraging AI and machine learning for invoice processing and approval workflows.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, iOS, Android
Best For: Invoice Data Capture, Automated Approval Workflows, Duplicate Detection, Integration with Accounting Software
Key Features
- ✓Smart Data Extraction: AI-powered OCR capable of capturing line-level detail. (Accurate Capture)
- ✓Dynamic Approval Workflow: Customizable workflows based on various criteria. (Flexible Routing)
- ✓Search & Reporting: Advanced search capabilities and standard AP reports. (Visibility)
- ✓Seamless Integration: Connectors for over 250 ERP and accounting systems. (Broad Compatibility)
Scorecard (Overall: 7.6 / 10.0)
Pricing
Custom
Contact Vendor
- Unlimited Users
- AI Data Capture
- Approval Workflows
- Search & Export
- Standard Integrations
- Basic Reporting
Limitations: Pricing based primarily on invoice volume, Requires custom quote
Pros
- + Strong AI/OCR capabilities
- + User-friendly interface
- + Competitive pricing structure often based on volume, not users
- + Wide range of integrations
Cons
- - Payment functionality may be less robust than some competitors
- - Customer support experiences can vary
- - Advanced reporting might require higher tiers or customization
Verdict
"A solid, user-friendly AP automation choice with strong data capture technology, offering good value especially for companies with high invoice volumes rather than many users."
#9
Medius
By Medius
Enterprise-focused source-to-pay platform including robust AP automation capabilities with strong integration potential.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web
Best For: Global AP Automation, Invoice Processing, PO Matching, Supplier Management, Source-to-Pay Suite
Key Features
- ✓Touchless Invoice Processing: AI-driven data capture and matching aiming for high automation rates. (Efficiency at Scale)
- ✓Advanced Workflow Engine: Handles complex approval rules and exceptions. (Enterprise Control)
- ✓Strong ERP Integration: Pre-built connectors and experience with major ERPs (SAP, Oracle, Dynamics). (Seamless Connectivity)
- ✓Supplier Portal: Self-service options for suppliers to track invoice status. (Reduced Inquiries)
Scorecard (Overall: 7.6 / 10.0)
Pricing
Custom
Contact Vendor
- AP Automation Module
- Optional Sourcing
- Contract Management
- Supplier Management
- Payments
- Analytics
Limitations: Pricing based on modules, transaction volume, and complexity, Requires custom quote
Pros
- + Comprehensive feature set for large organizations
- + Scalable architecture
- + Strong integration capabilities with major ERPs
- + Part of a broader source-to-pay offering
Cons
- - Implementation can be complex and lengthy
- - Higher cost compared to SMB/Mid-market solutions
- - User interface may feel less modern than competitors
- - Primarily targets larger enterprises
Verdict
"A powerful choice for large, global enterprises needing robust, scalable AP automation with deep ERP integration, potentially as part of a full source-to-pay strategy."
#8
Quadient AP (formerly Beanworks)
By Quadient
AP automation solution known for its usability and focus on streamlining invoice capture, approval, and payment workflows.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, iOS, Android
Best For: Invoice Approval Workflows, Purchase Order Management, Payment Processing, Expense Management (Optional Module)
Key Features
- ✓SmartCapture: AI-powered invoice data extraction with high accuracy claims. (Efficient Capture)
- ✓Custom Approval Channels: Flexible rule-based routing for invoice approvals. (Tailored Workflows)
- ✓PO Matching: Automated 2-way and 3-way matching of POs, invoices, and receipts. (Spend Control)
- ✓Multi-Entity Management: Supports organizations with multiple legal entities. (Scalability)
Scorecard (Overall: 7.8 / 10.0)
Pricing
Core AP
Contact Vendor
- Invoice Automation
- Approval Workflows
- Basic Reporting
- Standard Integration
Limitations: Requires custom quote, Pricing typically based on invoice volume and modules
AP + PO
Contact Vendor
- Everything in Core AP
- Purchase Order Module
Limitations: Requires custom quote
AP + PO + Payments
Contact Vendor
- Everything in AP + PO
- Payment Automation Module
Limitations: Requires custom quote, Transaction fees may apply for payments
AP + PO + Payments + Expenses
Contact Vendor
- Full Suite including Expense Management Module
Limitations: Requires custom quote
Pros
- + User-friendly interface
- + Strong core AP automation features
- + Good integration with popular accounting systems
- + Responsive customer support often cited
Cons
- - Pricing isn't publicly listed
- - Payment options might be less extensive than some global payment specialists
- - Can get expensive as modules are added
Verdict
"A strong contender, particularly for mid-market companies valuing ease of use, solid AP/PO features, and good customer support."
#7
Netsuite AP Automation
By Oracle
Built-in AP automation features within the Oracle NetSuite ERP platform, enhanced by add-on modules or partners.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web
Best For: Integrated AP within NetSuite, Invoice Processing, Payment Processing (SuitePayments), PO Matching
Key Features
- ✓Native Integration: AP functions are inherently part of the NetSuite ERP. (Seamless Data Flow)
- ✓Vendor Bill Capture: Automated capture and entry of vendor bills (often via add-on/partner). (Efficiency)
- ✓Workflow & Approvals: Utilizes NetSuite's SuiteFlow engine for custom approval routing. (Customizable)
- ✓Payment Automation: Integrated payment processing capabilities via SuitePayments or partners. (End-to-End)
Scorecard (Overall: 7.6 / 10.0)
Pricing
NetSuite License Dependent
Contact Vendor
- Core AP Ledgers
- Basic Approvals
- Standard Reporting
Limitations: Requires existing NetSuite license, Advanced OCR/Automation often requires add-on modules (e.g., Bill Capture, AP Automation) or partner solutions which have separate costs.
Pros
- + Perfect integration for existing NetSuite users
- + Leverages the full power of the NetSuite platform (reporting, workflow)
- + Single vendor relationship (potentially)
- + Highly scalable as part of the ERP
Cons
- - Only relevant for NetSuite customers
- - Advanced automation features often require extra cost (add-ons/partners)
- - Can be complex to configure
- - User interface may not be as modern as standalone tools
Verdict
"The default choice for organizations heavily invested in NetSuite, offering seamless integration but potentially requiring add-ons for full automation."
#6
AvidXchange
By AvidXchange, Inc.
AP automation and payment solution provider focusing on mid-market businesses, offering software and payment services.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web
Best For: Invoice Automation, Bill Payment, Purchase Order Automation, Supplier Network Payments
Key Features
- ✓Multiple Invoice Capture Options: Supports paper, email, and EDI invoice submission. (Vendor Flexibility)
- ✓Payment Services: Offers various electronic payment methods through the AvidPay Network. (Streamlined Payments)
- ✓Integration Focus: Specializes in integration with mid-market accounting systems. (Targeted Connectivity)
- ✓Purchase Order Application: Automates PO creation and matching. (Procure-to-Pay)
Scorecard (Overall: 7.4 / 10.0)
Pricing
Custom
Contact Vendor
- Invoice Automation Module
- Payment Automation Module
- PO Automation Module
- Utility Bill Management
- ERP/Accounting Integration
- Supplier Network Access
Limitations: Pricing is modular and based on volume/features, Requires custom quote
Pros
- + Strong focus on the mid-market
- + Extensive supplier network for e-payments
- + Dedicated integration support for various accounting systems
- + Offers full invoice-to-pay cycle automation
Cons
- - User interface could be modernized
- - Pricing can be complex and not transparent
- - Some users report delays in payment processing occasionally
- - Less focused on global payments than some competitors
Verdict
"Solid choice for mid-market companies looking for an integrated AP automation and payment execution solution with good accounting system connectivity."
#5
SAP Concur Invoice
By SAP
Enterprise-grade invoice management solution, part of the broader SAP Concur suite for travel, expense, and invoice.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, iOS, Android
Best For: Enterprise AP Automation, Global Invoice Management, Compliance & Audit Trail, Integration with SAP ERP
Key Features
- ✓Invoice Capture: Multiple methods including OCR, email, network. (Flexible Input)
- ✓Workflow Automation: Configurable workflows for complex approval chains. (Enterprise Scale)
- ✓Integration: Deep integration with SAP ERP systems (S/4HANA, ECC) and other finance systems. (SAP Ecosystem)
- ✓Reporting & Analytics: Visibility into AP processes, spend, and accruals. (Data Driven)
Scorecard (Overall: 7.4 / 10.0)
Pricing
Concur Invoice Standard
Contact Vendor
- Core Invoice Automation
- Mobile App
- Standard Reporting
- Basic Integration
Limitations: Requires custom quote, pricing often based on transaction volume
Concur Invoice Professional
Contact Vendor
- Everything in Standard
- Advanced Workflow Configuration
- Purchase Order Matching
- Enhanced Integration
- Intelligence/Analytics
Limitations: Higher cost, Requires custom quote
Pros
- + Powerful features for large enterprises
- + Seamless integration with SAP ecosystem
- + Strong compliance and audit capabilities
- + Handles global complexity
Cons
- - Can be complex and expensive to implement and maintain
- - User interface often considered dated or less intuitive
- - Less agile than some newer platforms
- - Support quality can vary
Verdict
"A robust solution for large enterprises, especially those already invested in the SAP ecosystem, needing comprehensive, global invoice management."
#4
Airbase
By Airbase Inc.
Comprehensive spend management platform combining AP automation, corporate cards, and expense reimbursements.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, iOS, Android
Best For: Invoice Processing, Bill Payments, Corporate Card Management, Employee Expense Reimbursements, Procurement
Key Features
- ✓Unified Platform: Manages bills, card spend, and reimbursements in one place. (Single Source of Truth)
- ✓Guided Procurement: Built-in purchase order system and intake. (Controlled Spending)
- ✓Real-time Reporting: Consolidated view of all company non-payroll spend. (Visibility)
- ✓Advanced Approvals: Multi-level, conditional approval workflows across all spend types. (Granular Control)
Scorecard (Overall: 8.0 / 10.0)
Pricing
Standard
Contact Vendor
- AP Automation
- Expense Reimbursements
- Basic Corporate Cards
- Standard Integrations
Limitations: Suited for smaller orgs or those new to spend management, Requires custom quote
Premium
Contact Vendor
- Everything in Standard
- Advanced Corporate Card Controls
- Purchase Order Management
- Advanced Integrations
Limitations: For mid-market companies, Requires custom quote
Enterprise
Contact Vendor
- Everything in Premium
- Multi-entity Support
- Advanced Subsidiaries Management
- Custom Reporting
- SSO
Limitations: For larger, complex organizations, Requires custom quote
Pros
- + All-in-one spend management solution
- + Strong controls over spending
- + Real-time visibility
- + Good user experience
Cons
- - Can be more expensive than standalone AP tools
- - Implementation might be more involved
- - Pricing not transparent
Verdict
"Excellent for companies seeking a unified platform to manage all non-payroll spend, including AP, cards, and expenses."
#3
Stampli
By Stampli, Inc.
AP automation focused on communication and collaboration around invoices, integrating deeply with accounting systems.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, iOS, Android
Best For: Invoice Processing & Approvals, AP Communication, PO Matching, Vendor Management
Key Features
- ✓Invoice-Centric Collaboration: Communications (questions, clarifications) happen directly on top of the invoice. (Contextual Communication)
- ✓Billy the Bot (AI): AI assistant for coding, approvals, duplicate detection, and fraud prevention. (Automation & Control)
- ✓Flexible Approvals: Supports complex, multi-step approval workflows. (Adaptable)
- ✓Deep ERP Integration: Strong focus on seamless integration with systems like NetSuite, Sage Intacct, QuickBooks. (Real-time Sync)
Scorecard (Overall: 8.2 / 10.0)
Pricing
Custom
Contact Vendor
- Core AP Automation
- Unlimited Users
- Unlimited Entities
- AI Features
- ERP Integration
- Implementation & Support
Limitations: Pricing based on invoice volume and specific needs, Requires custom quote
Pros
- + Excellent collaboration features streamline approvals
- + Intuitive interface for both AP teams and approvers
- + Fast implementation times reported
- + Strong customer support reputation
- + Deep integration capabilities
Cons
- - Pricing is not transparent and can be higher than some competitors
- - Payment processing features might be less extensive than dedicated payment platforms
- - Primarily focused on AP, less so on AR or broader spend management
Verdict
"Ideal for companies prioritizing communication and collaboration within the AP process, especially those using mid-market ERPs."
#2
Tipalti
By Tipalti, Inc.
Comprehensive, end-to-end global payables automation platform designed for high-growth and mid-market companies.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web
Best For: Global Mass Payments, Invoice Management, Tax Compliance (W-9/W-8), Supplier Onboarding, Multi-Entity AP
Key Features
- ✓Supplier Management: Self-service supplier onboarding portal with tax form collection. (Reduces AP workload)
- ✓Global Payments: Supports payments in 196 countries and 120+ currencies. (Extensive Reach)
- ✓Tax Compliance: Automated collection and validation of W-9/W-8 forms, 1099/1042-S preparation. (Built-in)
- ✓OCR & Invoice Processing: AI-powered data capture and multi-way invoice matching. (Touchless Processing)
- ✓Multi-Entity Support: Manages AP across multiple subsidiaries or business units. (Centralized Control)
Scorecard (Overall: 8.0 / 10.0)
Pricing
Platform Fee
$149.00 / Monthly
- Core AP Platform Access
- Invoice Management
- Supplier Portal
- Basic Approval Workflows
- Standard Integrations
Limitations: Base fee, additional costs per module/feature often apply, Minimum monthly fee likely applies, Transaction fees usually apply
Custom
Contact Vendor
- All features available based on selection
- Advanced Modules (Multi-entity, Tax, FX, PO Matching)
- Premium Integrations
- Dedicated Support
Limitations: Requires custom quote based on modules and volume
Pros
- + Handles complex global payments and tax compliance effectively
- + Robust supplier onboarding and management features
- + Scalable for high transaction volumes and multi-entity businesses
- + Strong integration with ERPs like NetSuite, Sage Intacct
Cons
- - Can be complex to implement and configure
- - Pricing structure can be opaque and expensive
- - User interface less intuitive than some competitors
- - Primarily focused on larger companies
Verdict
"Top-tier solution for mid-market and enterprise companies with complex global payment needs and high invoice volumes."
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#1
Bill
By Bill Holdings, Inc.
Popular AP/AR automation platform primarily for small to medium-sized businesses, offering invoice processing and payment solutions.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, iOS, Android
Best For: Invoice Management, Approval Workflows, Domestic & International Payments, SMB AP/AR Automation
Key Features
- ✓AI Data Entry: Automated invoice data capture using AI. (High Accuracy)
- ✓Approval Workflows: Customizable rules for invoice review and approval. (Flexible)
- ✓Payment Options: Supports ACH, check, virtual card, and international wires. (Multiple Methods)
- ✓Accounting Sync: Integrates with QuickBooks, Xero, NetSuite, etc. (Bi-directional Sync)
Scorecard (Overall: 8.0 / 10.0)
Pricing
Essentials
$45.00 / Monthly per user
- AP Automation
- Standard Approval Policies
- Basic Roles
- Accounting Software Sync
Limitations: Limited users, Basic integrations
Team
$55.00 / Monthly per user
- Everything in Essentials
- Custom User Roles
- Basic API Access
Limitations: Higher cost per user
Corporate
$79.00 / Monthly per user
- Everything in Team
- Multi-entity/Multi-location workflows
- Faster ACH & Check Payments
Enterprise
Contact Vendor
- Everything in Corporate
- API Access
- ERP Integration (NetSuite, Sage Intacct)
- Single Sign-On (SSO)
Limitations: Requires custom quote
Pros
- + User-friendly interface
- + Strong core AP automation features
- + Wide range of payment options
- + Good integration with major accounting software
Cons
- - Per-user pricing can become expensive
- - Customer support can be slow at times
- - Advanced features limited to higher tiers
Verdict
"Excellent choice for SMBs seeking straightforward AP and AR automation with strong accounting software integration."
Final Thoughts
The AP automation market offers diverse solutions catering to different business sizes and needs. Leading platforms provide robust invoice processing, approval workflows, payment execution, and ERP integration. Key differentiators include the depth of global payment capabilities, the user experience, integration strength, approach to spend management (unified vs. standalone), and pricing models.