In today’s digital age, businesses around the world are increasingly adopting paperless operations. With the advent of document management systems (DMS), organizations have found an efficient and secure way to handle their business documents. These systems offer a wide range of benefits, including intelligent automation, enhanced security, cost savings, and improved productivity. As a result, the document management software market is expected to grow at a staggering rate, reaching USD 16.4 billion by 2029 with a CAGR of 16.8%1. In this article, we will explore the top considerations and features to look for when choosing a document management system provider.

What is a Document Management System?

A document management system is a software solution that streamlines the capture, organization, storage, retrieval, and disposal of various types of business documents, such as images, emails, word documents, PDFs, and more1. It covers the entire document lifecycle, from creation to disposal, and provides a centralized repository for easy access and management of documents.

Benefits of Document Management Systems

Implementing a document management system offers numerous advantages for businesses. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key benefits:

1. Intelligent Automation

Document management systems automate manual tasks, such as data entry and document processing, reducing the need for manual intervention and increasing overall efficiency. With features like workflow automation, organizations can streamline document processing, approvals, and verifications, saving valuable time and resources.

2. Enhanced Security

By storing documents in a secure digital repository, document management systems protect sensitive information from unauthorized access. Role-based access control ensures that only authorized individuals can view, edit, or delete documents, reducing the risk of data breaches and maintaining compliance with privacy regulations.

3. Cost Savings

Going paperless with a document management system eliminates the need for physical storage space, reducing costs associated with paper, printing, and document storage. Additionally, automation reduces manual labour, increasing productivity and saving valuable employee time.

4. Improved Collaboration and Accessibility

Document management systems enable seamless collaboration among team members, allowing them to access, edit, and share documents in real time. This fosters better communication and collaboration, regardless of geographical location or time zone.

5. Efficient Document Processing

Document management systems offer features like document indexing and full-text search, making it easier to find and retrieve specific documents quickly. Optical Character Recognition (OCR) technology enables the extraction of data from documents, improving searchability and data accuracy.

Features to Consider when Choosing a Document Management System Provider! 

When selecting a document management system provider, it’s crucial to consider various features that align with your specific business requirements. Here are some key features to look for:

1. Document Input

Ensure that the document management system allows for automatic capture of documents from multiple sources, such as emails, cloud storage platforms, or scanning devices. This feature simplifies the process of importing documents into the system, reducing manual effort.

2. Document Indexing

The ability to automatically sort and categorize documents based on predefined criteria is essential for efficient document management. Look for a system that offers robust document indexing capabilities to streamline document organization and retrieval.

3. Document Search

A powerful document search functionality is crucial for quickly locating specific documents within a vast repository. Look for systems that offer full-text search capabilities, allowing you to search for documents using keywords or phrases.

4. Document Processing

Optical Character Recognition (OCR) technology enables the extraction of data from documents, such as invoices or forms. This feature eliminates the need for manual data entry, saving time and reducing errors.

5. Workflow Automation

Workflow automation is a key feature that allows organizations to automate document processing tasks, such as approvals, verifications, and notifications. Look for a system that offers customizable workflows to align with your specific business processes.

6. Document Security

Ensure that the document management system provides robust security features, such as secure storage and role-based access control. This ensures that sensitive documents are protected from unauthorized access and maintains compliance with data privacy regulations.

7. Customization

Look for a system that offers customization options, allowing you to tailor workflows and processes to fit your specific business needs. This flexibility ensures that the system can adapt to your unique requirements and workflows.

8. Integrations

Consider whether the document management system integrates seamlessly with other tools and software that your organization uses. Integration with business tools like CRM systems, email platforms, or collaboration tools enhances productivity and streamlines document management processes.

9. Flexible Hosting Options

Choose a document management system that offers flexible hosting options, including both on-premise and cloud storage. This allows you to select the hosting option that best suits your organization’s needs and preferences.

Top Document Management System Providers in 2023! 

In this section, we will explore the top document management system providers in the market. These providers offer robust features and functionalities to optimize your document management processes. Please note that this list is not exhaustive, and there are many other providers available. It is essential to evaluate your specific requirements and conduct thorough research before making a decision.

1. Nanonets

Nanonets is an AI-based document management system provider that offers powerful OCR capabilities, no-code workflows, and secure storage. With Nanonets, businesses can automate document processes such as data capture, extraction, verification, search, and archiving. The platform supports role-based access control and offers flexible hosting options. Nanonets is known for its user-friendly interface, customizable templates, and easy integration with over 5000 apps via API and Zapier1.

  • Pricing: Free plans are available, pricing starts from $499/month.
  • Rating: 4.9 on Capterra.
  • Best for: Document processing and workflow automation.

2. Huddle

Huddle offers an online document management system that facilitates document collaboration, revision, approvals, and discussions on a secure platform. It provides features similar to online Google Drive storage, allowing seamless sharing and secure file access. Huddle offers various pricing plans with additional add-ons like mobile apps and video conferencing capabilities1.

  • Pricing: Available on request.
  • Rating: 4.4 on Capterra.
  • Best for: File management.

3. Alfresco One

Alfresco One is an enterprise content management system that can be deployed either as a cloud-based service or installed on-premise. It offers advanced features such as enterprise document search, secure storage, OCR document processing, and intelligent document analytics. Alfresco One is highly customizable and suitable for complex use cases1.

  • Pricing: Available on request.
  • Rating: 3.0 on Capterra.
  • Best for: File management and document versioning.

4. OpenKM

OpenKM is an all-in-one document management system that combines document management, collaboration, distribution, and storage in a single platform. It offers robust features such as document filing, search, and secure file storage. OpenKM is known for its ease of use and easy integrations with other systems1.

  • Pricing: Available on request.
  • Rating: 4.7 on Capterra.
  • Best for: Document filing and search.

5. eFileCabinet

eFileCabinet is an enterprise-grade, cloud-based document management software designed for small and medium-sized businesses. It offers features for managing various types of documents, including emails, invoices, contracts, and more. eFileCabinet provides templates for folder structure, a drag-and-drop workflow builder, and secure file storage1.

  • Pricing: Available on request.
  • Rating: 4.3 on Capterra.
  • Best for: Document management for small businesses.

Additional Document Management System Providers

In addition to the top five providers mentioned above, there are several other document management system providers worth considering. Here are a few honourable mentions:

6. Google Documents

Google Docs is a free document management software that allows users to create, edit, and collaborate on documents. It offers cloud-based storage and can be accessed from anywhere, making it an ideal choice for freelancers and small businesses. Google Docs also provides OCR capabilities, allowing users to convert images to editable text1.

7. Microsoft SharePoint

Microsoft SharePoint is a collaborative platform that enables organizations to share documents, connect people, and streamline document processes. It offers features similar to Google Drive, allowing employees to collaborate and maintain an internal list of documents for easy access. Integration with Microsoft Power Automate allows for automated document workflows1.

8. Viewpoint Team

Viewpoint Team is a powerful document management system designed specifically for construction professionals. It provides tools for case management, collaborative workflows with clients, secure document review and approval processes, and access rights control1.

9. Odoo

Odoo is an open-source ERP and CRM software that includes a free document management system module. It is particularly useful for finance professionals, as it enables the digitization of documents, automates document processes, and seamlessly integrates with other Odoo applications1.

10. Dokmee

Dokmee is another document management system that allows users to store, organize, and share documents, emails, and other important files.

Implementing a document management system is essential for businesses looking to streamline their operations, enhance security, and improve productivity. By automating document processes and providing a centralized repository for document storage and retrieval, document management systems offer numerous benefits. When choosing a document management system provider, consider features such as document input, indexing, search, processing, workflow automation, security, customization, integrations, and flexible hosting options.

While there are many document management system providers available, Nanonets stands out as a top choice. With its powerful OCR capabilities, no-code workflows, secure storage, and user-friendly interface, Nanonets offers a comprehensive solution for document processing and workflow automation. Evaluate your specific business requirements, compare providers, and select the document management system that best suits your organization’s needs and priorities.