Best ESG Software Shortlist
Here’s my pick of the 10 best software from the 16 tools reviewed.
Our one-on-one guidance will help you find the perfect fit.
ESG software helps companies collect, manage, and report environmental, social, and governance data in line with frameworks like GRI, SASB, and TCFD. For CFOs, it connects ESG metrics to financial outcomes, ensuring transparency, auditability, and compliance with evolving mandates.
As a digital software expert with a background in financial management, I help finance professionals navigate the overwhelming landscape of enterprise tools. Between evolving regulations like the SEC climate rule and CSRD, and rising investor expectations, ESG reporting has become a strategic function. But finding software that’s both audit-ready and easy to integrate into your financial systems isn’t simple.
To make your selection process easier, I’ve spent hours researching user feedback, testing platforms, and comparing how leading ESG software supports finance-driven reporting. This list highlights the tools best equipped to drive both compliance and strategic value.
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Best ESG Software Summary
This comparison chart summarizes pricing details for my top ESG software selections to help you find the best one for your budget and business needs.
Tool | Best For | Trial Info | Price | ||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Best for real-time collaboration | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
2 | Best for financial consolidation | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
3 | Best for visual analytics | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
4 | Best for data management | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
5 | Best for large enterprises | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
6 | Best for data integration | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
7 | Best for risk management | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
8 | Best for carbon tracking | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
9 | Best for small enterprises | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
10 | Best for compliance tracking | Free trial + free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website |
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LiveFlow
This is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.9 -
Float Financial
Visit Website -
Vena
This is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.5
Best ESG Software Review
Below are my detailed summaries of the best ESG software that made it onto my shortlist. My reviews offer an in-depth look at the key features, pros & cons, integrations, and ideal use cases of each tool to help you find the best one for you.
Workiva is a cloud-based platform focused on collaborative ESG reporting, primarily serving finance teams in various industries. It helps users manage data, compliance, and financial reporting with accuracy.
Why I picked Workiva: Workiva has an easy-to-use interface and real-time collaboration features that help your team work together efficiently. It also tracks sustainability metrics, like energy use and emissions, supporting your team's ability to collaborate in real-time.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include real-time monitoring that keeps your team updated instantly, incident management tools for quick response to issues, and risk analysis for proactive decision-making.
Integrations include Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Word, SAP, NetSuite, Salesforce, Google Sheets, Workday, Tableau, and Anaplan.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Industry-specific compliance tools
- Role-based access control
- Real-time data updates
Cons:
- Limited offline access
- May require initial setup time
OneStream is a corporate performance management platform designed for finance teams seeking to integrate ESG reporting with financial planning through an all-in-one option. It helps organizations consolidate financial data and streamline reporting processes.
Why I picked OneStream: OneStream is built for financial consolidation and lets your team manage ESG and financial data in one place. It automates financial reporting and consolidation for standard accounting processes and ESG data, cutting down on manual work across companies. The software’s built-in analytics tools also help you make quick, informed decisions based on your sustainability initiatives.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include support for complex corporate hierarchies, guided workflows for compliance and audit readiness, and strong data integration capabilities across ERP, CRM, and ESG systems.
Integrations include SAP, Microsoft Dynamics 365, Salesforce, Workday, NetSuite, IBM Cognos, Tableau, Power BI, and Google Workspace.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Built-in analytics tools
- Automated financial reporting
- Unified data management
Cons:
- Limited offline functionality
- Complex initial setup
FigBytes is a sustainability platform built for teams that need to manage and visualize ESG data. It helps you use data to guide your environmental strategies.
Why I picked FigBytes: FigBytes helps your team make sense of ESG data with dynamic dashboards and visual tools. You can track the metrics and KPIs that matter to you and build reports around them. This makes it useful if your team wants to focus on visualizing data and putting plans into action more effectively.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include automated data ingestion from diverse sources, audit-ready reporting capabilities, and built-in alignment with global ESG frameworks like GRI, SASB, and TCFD.
Integrations include Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, SAP, Oracle, Salesforce, Tableau, Power BI, IBM Maximo, Esri ArcGIS, and Workday.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Easy integration with existing systems
- Supports various ESG frameworks
- Customizable sustainability metrics
Cons:
- May need ongoing support
- Higher learning curve
Ultrus is an ESG data management platform designed for organizations focused on collecting and analyzing sustainability data. It serves teams that need a reliable solution for managing ESG metrics and compliance.
Why I picked Ultrus: Ultrus helps your team manage ESG data with tools for collecting and organizing information. It includes automated data checks and real-time analytics, so you always have accurate, up-to-date numbers. These features make it a good pick if your team needs reliable data for decision-making.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include customizable dashboards that adapt to diverse stakeholder needs, flexible data import options to streamline integration with external systems, and support for audit-ready documentation to simplify compliance processes.
Integrations include SAP, Oracle, Salesforce, Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, IBM Maximo, Tableau, Power BI, Esri ArcGIS, and Workday.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Supports complex data sets
- Real-time analytics
- Automated data validation
Cons:
- Requires technical expertise
- Complex initial setup
SAP Sustainability Management is an advanced ESG reporting and management platform aimed at large enterprises. It helps organizations integrate sustainability into their core business processes and track ESG metrics effectively.
Why I picked SAP Sustainability Management: SAP Sustainability Management is built for large teams that need strong data and reporting tools. It ties ESG metrics to your business operations, giving you a full view of your sustainability performance. The software’s analytics tools also help your team dig into the data and make smart decisions.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include customizable dashboards to monitor sustainability KPIs, automated data collection from various operational systems, and built-in compliance tracking tools to help meet regulatory requirements.
Integrations include SAP S/4HANA, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Power BI, Salesforce, Oracle, Workday, Tableau, Esri ArcGIS, IBM Maximo, and Google Workspace.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Advanced analytics tools
- Integrated ESG with business operations
- Extensive data management capabilities
Cons:
- Ongoing support may be needed
- Limited offline functionality
IBM Envizi is a sustainability software platform built for large enterprises that need to manage ESG data. It mainly helps teams analyze and report on sustainability metrics.
Why I picked IBM Envizi: IBM Envizi makes it easier for your team to pull ESG data from different sources. It uses automated data capture and normalization, so you don’t have to enter everything manually. Additionally, the software’s analytics tools help you understand how you're doing on sustainability goals and make better decisions.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include a flexible reporting framework that aligns with multiple ESG standards, role-based access controls for secure collaboration across departments, and scenario modeling to evaluate the long-term impact of sustainability strategies.
Integrations include Microsoft Excel, SAP, Oracle, Salesforce, IBM Maximo, Tableau, ArcGIS, Energy Star Portfolio Manager, Google Workspace, and Microsoft Power BI.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- In-depth sustainability insights
- Supports multiple data sources
- Automated data capture
Cons:
- May require ongoing support
- Complex initial setup
VelocityEHS is an ESG software solution tailored for risk management and compliance teams. It helps organizations identify, assess, and manage ESG risks effectively.
Why I picked VelocityEHS: VelocityEHS gives your team tools to track and manage ESG risks with less hassle. It includes real-time risk assessments to help you make quick, informed decisions. You’ll also get compliance tracking to stay on top of regulatory standards.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include customizable dashboards to visualize and interpret risk trends, task management to assign and monitor mitigation efforts, and automated alerts that flag potential ESG issues before they escalate.
Integrations include Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, SAP, Oracle, Salesforce, Power BI, Tableau, IBM Maximo, SharePoint, and Esri ArcGIS.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Supports various risk frameworks
- Strong compliance tracking
- Real-time risk assessments
Cons:
- Requires technical expertise
- Complex initial setup
Greenly is a sustainability platform designed for businesses aiming to track and reduce their carbon footprint. It primarily serves companies looking to engage in detailed environmental impact assessments.
Why I picked Greenly: Greenly focuses on carbon management and tracking by giving your team simple tools to measure and understand your emissions. It includes automated data collection and real-time updates on your carbon footprint. You’ll also get clear tips to help cut emissions and reach your sustainability goals.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include intuitive dashboards to visualize emission sources and trends over time, along with built-in collaboration tools that make it easy for teams to align on sustainability goals.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Xero, Google Sheets, Microsoft Excel, Salesforce, SAP, Oracle, Shopify, Stripe, and Slack.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Supports various industries
- Real-time carbon tracking
- Automated data collection
Cons:
- Requires initial setup time
- Limited advanced analytics
Key ESG is software built for small enterprises that need to manage ESG reporting and sustainability efforts. It focuses on simple tools to help you track and analyze ESG data.
Why I picked Key ESG: Key ESG works well for small teams thanks to its simple interface and basic ESG tracking tools. You can use customizable dashboards and set up automated reports to make things easier. It also comes with guided setup and tutorials, so even if your team isn’t tech-savvy, you’ll get up to speed quickly.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include automated reporting that reduces manual workload, benchmarking tools to help you monitor performance trends over time, and various data export options formatted to align with industry reporting standards.
Integrations include Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, SAP, Salesforce, QuickBooks, NetSuite, Microsoft Dynamics 365, Xero, and Workday.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Accessible user guides
- Customizable dashboards
- Easy setup process
Cons:
- Basic feature set
- Limited scalability options
Intelex offers ESG management software built for organizations that need to handle their environmental, social, and governance responsibilities. Compliance and safety teams mainly use it to track and manage audits and compliance processes.
Why I picked Intelex: Intelex makes compliance tracking easier with tools like audit management and mobile access for real-time updates. You can use built-in workflows and pre-made forms to cut down the time it takes to report. Its emissions calculation engine also supports different reporting frameworks, so your team can keep up with changing rules.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include granular user permissions, which allow teams to control access based on role or department, a drag-and-drop form builder to help you create custom forms without coding, and automated alerts.
Integrations include Microsoft Power BI, SAP, Salesforce, Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics 365, IBM Maximo, SharePoint, Tableau, JD Edwards, and Google Workspace.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Mobile accessibility Supports various reporting frameworks
- Mobile accessibility
- Pre-defined reporting forms
Cons:
- Customization can be time-consuming
- Requires training for full utilization
Other ESG Software
Here are some additional ESG software options that didn’t make it onto my shortlist, but are still worth checking out:
ESG Software Selection Criteria
When selecting the best ESG software to include in this list, I considered common buyer needs and pain points like data accuracy and regulatory compliance. I also used the following framework to keep my evaluation structured and fair:
Core Functionality (25% of total score)
To be considered for inclusion in this list, each solution had to fulfill these common use cases:
- Data collection and management
- Regulatory compliance tracking
- Sustainability reporting
- Risk assessment and management
- Performance analytics
Additional Standout Features (25% of total score)
To help further narrow down the competition, I also looked for unique features, such as:
- Real-time data integration
- Customizable dashboards
- Scenario planning tools
- Automated compliance alerts
- Carbon footprint tracking
Usability (10% of total score)
To get a sense of the usability of each system, I considered the following:
- Intuitive interface design
- Ease of navigation
- Customizable user settings
- Clear data visualization
- Minimal learning curve
Onboarding (10% of total score)
To evaluate the onboarding experience for each platform, I considered the following:
- Availability of training videos
- Interactive product tours
- Access to webinars
- Step-by-step setup guides
- Supportive chatbots
Customer Support (10% of total score)
To assess each software provider’s customer support services, I considered the following:
- 24/7 support availability
- Responsiveness to inquiries
- Availability of live chat
- Comprehensive help center
- Personalized support options
Value For Money (10% of total score)
To evaluate the value for money of each platform, I considered the following:
- Competitive pricing
- Flexible subscription plans
- Discounts for long-term commitments
- Inclusion of essential features
- Transparent pricing structure
Customer Reviews (10% of total score)
To get a sense of overall customer satisfaction, I considered the following when reading customer reviews:
- Positive feedback on functionality
- User satisfaction with support
- Reports on system reliability
- Ease of implementation experiences
- Overall value for price paid
How to Choose ESG Software
It’s easy to get bogged down in long feature lists and complex pricing structures. To help you stay focused as you work through your unique software selection process, here’s a checklist of factors to keep in mind:
Factor | What to Consider |
---|---|
Scalability | Can the software grow with your organization? Look for solutions that accommodate increased data volume and user numbers without a performance dip. |
Integrations | Does it connect seamlessly with you existing systems? Ensure compatibility with tools like ERP, CRM and HR platforms to streamline data flow. |
Customizability | Can you tailor the software to fit your specific needs? Check if you can modify workflows, dashboards, and reports to suit your business processes. |
Ease of Use | Is the interface intuitive for your team? A user-friendly design reduces training time and increases adoption rates. Test demos for firsthand experience. |
Implementation and Onboarding | How smooth is the transition to the new system? Consider the availability of resources like training videos, product tours, and customer support during setup. |
Cost | Does the pricing fit your budget? Compare costs against features offered, and watch for hidden fees or expensive add-ons. |
Security Safeguards | Are data protection measures strong? Ensure compliance with industry standards like GDPR and check for encryption and access controls. |
Compliance Requirements | Does the software support your regulatory needs? Verify that it aligns with local and international reporting standards relevant to your industry. |
What Is ESG Software?
ESG software is a tool that companies use to track, manage, and report their environmental, social, and governance data. It helps businesses stay compliant with ESG regulations, measure sustainability performance, and share progress with investors and stakeholders.
Organizations use ESG software to automate reporting, monitor carbon emissions, assess supply chain risks, and align with standards like GRI, SASB, or CSRD. It’s essential for companies looking to meet ESG goals, reduce risk, and enhance transparency in today’s sustainability-driven market.
Features of ESG Software
When selecting ESG software, keep an eye out for the following key features:
- Data Collection: Automates gathering of ESG data from various sources, reducing manual entry and errors.
- Compliance Tracking: Monitors adherence to regulatory standards, ensuring your organization meets all legal requirements.
- Reporting Capabilities: Generates thorough ESG reports, helping you communicate performance and improvements to stakeholders.
- Risk Management: Identifies and assesses ESG-related risks, supporting proactive decision-making.
- Analytics Tools: Provides actionable insights into ESG data, enabling informed strategic planning and performance evaluation.
- Customizable Dashboards: Allows users to tailor data visualization to their specific needs, enhancing clarity and focus.
- Integrations: Connects with existing systems like ERP and CRM, streamlining data flow across platforms.
- Scenario Planning: Helps evaluate potential future ESG scenarios, guiding strategic adjustments and risk mitigation.
- Security Safeguards: Protects sensitive data with encryption and access controls, ensuring compliance with data protection standards.
- Onboarding Resources: Offers training videos and product tours to facilitate quick and effective adoption of the software.
Benefits of ESG Software
Implementing ESG software provides several benefits for your team and your business. Here are a few you can look forward to:
- Improved Data Accuracy: Automated data collection reduces manual errors, ensuring reliable ESG metrics.
- Enhanced Compliance: Compliance tracking features help you meet regulatory standards and avoid penalties.
- Informed Decision-Making: Analytics tools provide insights that guide strategic planning and performance evaluation.
- Risk Mitigation: Risk management capabilities identify potential ESG risks, allowing proactive responses.
- Efficient Reporting: Reporting capabilities streamline the creation of comprehensive ESG reports for stakeholders.
- Customization Flexibility: Customizable dashboards let you tailor data views to fit your specific needs.
- Increased Transparency: Security safeguards and reporting features enhance accountability and trust with stakeholders.
Costs and Pricing of ESG Software
Selecting ESG software requires an understanding of the various pricing models and plans available. Costs vary based on features, team size, add-ons, and more. The table below summarizes common plans, their average prices, and typical features included in ESG software solutions:
Plan Comparison Table for ESG Software
Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
---|---|---|
Free Plan | $0 | Basic data collection, limited reporting, and basic compliance tracking. |
Personal Plan | $10-$30/user/month | Data collection, compliance tracking, basic analytics, and limited customizability. |
Business Plan | $50-$100/user/month | Advanced reporting, risk management, customizable dashboards, and integration capabilities. |
Enterprise Plan | $150-$300/user/month | Comprehensive analytics tools, advanced compliance features, full customizability, and dedicated support. |
ESG Software FAQs
Here are some answers to common questions about ESG software:
How does ESG software help with compliance?
Can ESG software integrate with existing systems?
What ESG reporting standards and frameworks do most ESG software platforms support?
What should CFOs look for to ensure ESG software is audit-ready?
How does ESG software support CSRD and EU/US ESG regulatory compliance?
Can ESG software help track Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions?
What trends are shaping the future of ESG software?
What’s Next:
If you're in the process of researching ESG software, connect with a SoftwareSelect advisor for free recommendations.
You fill out a form and have a quick chat where they get into the specifics of your needs. Then you'll get a shortlist of software to review. They'll even support you through the entire buying process, including price negotiations.