Appian vs Salesforce - Which One Should You Choose

In this article, we highlight the features, use cases, and key differences of Appian vs Salesforce. It helps to assist you in making an informed decision.
Fatima
April 10, 2025

Have you ever felt that your business tools are dragging you down? With so many software, manual steps, and old systems can slow productivity. As a result, work may take longer than expected. Furthermore, the entire task may be slow. The systems may not integrate properly. In addition, there are too many tasks that need to be done manually.

Consequently, this can waste resources and drain money. Not only that, but it could also lead to employee discontent. Today's corporate requires intelligent systems that will facilitate precision and speed.

To address these challenges, both Appian and Salesforce automate processes to reduce manual labor. However, their approaches differ. Specifically, Appian helps to automate tasks making work easier. For managing customers, sales and support is best with Salesforce.

Now which of these solutions would be more effective? In this guide, you will explore Appian vs Salesforce. We will discuss the differences including Salesforce Lightning vs Appian. By the end, you’ll be able to select which works best for your business.

Ready? Let’s go!

Understanding Appian vs Salesforces

What is Appian?

Appian Features

Appian offers a low-code automation platform. Specifically, It helps businesses automate their work processes. In other words, it enables companies to create applications with minimal coding effort. As a result, this improves efficiency and speed. 

In addition, Appian has smart features like AI and RPA (Robotic Process Automation). For better organization, businesses can use case management which Appian offers. Moreover, Appian’s automation capabilities not only assist executives but also help to solve customer cases. Ultimately, this enhances overall business productivity.

What is Salesforce?

salesforce features

Salesforce is a cloud platform that effectively assists businesses in serving their clients better. It is mostly known today as CRM software because it greatly benefits the business in managing customer relationships. 

Salesforce has Sales Cloud and Service Cloud applications. Moreover, Salesforce Lightning allows corporations to customize easily and quickly. They can modify it with their unique requirements.

Appian vs Salesforce: The Feature Comparison Grid

appian vs salesforce

Here’s a quick feature comparison on Appian vs Salesforce

Feature Appian (Low-Code with BPM) Salesforce (CRM and Cloud Services)
Core Functionality Primarily, focuses on Business Process Management (BPM) & Workflow Automation. On the other hand, Salesforce provides systematized Customer Relationship Management (CRM)
Development Approach Mainly used for low code procedures to create an application or software through drag and drop bars Point-and-click customization with basic coding using Apex language
Best For Ideally suited for enterprise workflow automation, case management, and AI automation process integration In contrast, it assists in any data-driven needs related to sales, marketing, customer support, and CRM-related problems.
Customization Flexible customization geared towards building customized enterprise applications Declarative coding customization and Advanced customizable CRM through Apex and LWC.
Integration Multiple system integration through API and Appian products integration. Integrations with Salesforce through API and integration with clients using MuleSoft.
AI & Automation Process mining and RPA with intelligent automation/AI Uses of Einstein AI for sales forecasts, chatbots, and predictive analysis
Data Handling Administration of enterprise data from various sources through automation Meanwhile, it serves as centralized management of customers’ data for marketing and sales purposes
User Experience (UX/UI) Appian provides simple work based UI However, it offers a lightning interface with a customizable user interface dashboard.
Industries Mainly used for Insurance, government, healthcare, financial services On the other hand, Salesforce is widely used for sales, healthcare, finance, retail, and technology

Feature Showdown – Appian vs Salesforce

Selecting the ideal platform is ultimately determined by a business's requirements. To gain deeper insight let's take a look at Salesforce vs Appian . Additionally, we will explore which features stand out.

Low-Code Development: Which One is Easier?

Appian


Appian simplifies development. It offers drag and drop capabilities along with pre-made templates. Moreover, Appian concentrates on low-code development and workflow automation. It requires minimal programming effort. Additionally, its strong BPM attributes aid the construction of applications.

Salesforce: 

Similarly, Salesforce provides low-code enabling capabilities with its Lightning Platform and Flow Builder. These tools are specifically designed for CRM activities. However, customization is difficult for non-technical users. Thus this poses a challenge for anyone unfamiliar with the Salesforce system.

Automation & AI: Which One is Smarter?

Appian:

Appian effectively uses automation combined with artificial intelligence. As a result, it significantly enhances the efficiency of business processes. Furthermore, it also offers intelligent document processing (IDP). In addition, workflow automation boosts the effectiveness.

Salesforce:

Likewise Salesforce equips customers with Einstein AI for predictive analytics. Moreover, its automation assists in sales and service activities. Additionally, it is responsible for interfacing with customers through Einstein GPT. Thus, insights powered by AI make their use more effective.

CRM & Customer Engagement: Which One Wins?

Salesforce:

Salesforce is undoubtedly the leader in CRM due to its sales tools along with marketing and customer support. Moreover, users can monitor business interactions. This is followed by the generation of AI-powered insights during multi-channel services and engagement.

Appian:

On the other hand Appian permits customer workflows but does not offer sophisticated CRM services. Additionally, it is not primarily a CRM.

Integration Capabilities: Which One Plays Better with Other Tools?

Appian vs Salesforce Lightning both offer a strong integration system. However, Salesforce integration is more CRM centric. Appians is designed for enterprise level automation.

Appian: 

With Appian, integrations are relatively easy. The system links with enterprise software like SAP, Microsoft, and Salesforce. There are APIs. Integration is enhanced by RPA (Robotic Process Automation).

Salesforce: 

The appExchange marketplace boasts thousands of integrations. It means the Salesforce ecosystem is highly expansive. Additionally, with MuleSoft, connecting systems becomes even more effortless. As a result, businesses can merge many platforms without much difficulty.

User Experience & Learning Curve: Which One is Easier To Use?

Appian:

Appian offers an easy-to-use platform with a simple interface. Moreover, everything is automatic and approachable. As a result, development is a lot less hassle because of low-code tools. Additionally, business users only need some basic training.

Salesforce:  

On the other hand, it has a great number of advanced features. Therefore it is highly complex. However, functionality can be improved with Lightning Experience. Consequently, users new to the platform may find the interface complicated. Thus, training is aimed at getting people to know how the features work.

Security & Compliance: Which One is More Secure?

Appian: 

security offered by Appian is strong as it complies with major standards. For instance, SOC 2, GDPR, HIPAA, and FedRAMP are part of it.

Salesforce: 

Salesforce data is protected by encryption, and even better. Salesforce features zero-trust architecture which further enhances security. Additionally, the company also claims the use of ISO 27001, and HIPAA alongside GDPR for compliance. This in turn increases their level of security further.

Pricing Competition: Is Appian More Costly Than Salesforce?

In the case of Appian vs Salesforce, both companies offer a wide price range. It specifically depends on features and scope as well as the size of the business. Here’s an overview of their prices, returns, and risks regarding expenses in other areas.

Appian Pricing (As per 2024 report)

Appian primarily operates on a per-user or per-process pricing structure. Which is primarily designed for large enterprises looking for automation and workflow management. Additionally, it offers low-code solutions.

  • Standard: $75 User/Month
  • Enterprise: Feature rich and Scalability Custom Pricing
  • Application Licensing: From $ 5 per process execution for automation for very large scale enterprises

Moreover, Appain's structure is particularly ideal for complex workflows. It works best for a small number of users. Unlike most per-user pricing offered by competitors.

Salesforce Pricing (As per 2024 report)

Salesforce pricing varies significantly depending on the product being purchased (Marketing Cloud, Service Cloud, Sales Cloud, etc.). Here are the average prices for Sales and Service Cloud which is the most analogous with Appian.

  • Essentials (Small Businesses): $25 User/Month
  • Professional: $80 User/Month
  • Enterprise: $165 User/Month
  • Unlimited: $330 User/Month

Moreover, additional features are provided with Salesforce such as automated CRM, marketing, and AI powered. An analytic dashboard not only makes user pricing higher but also makes it more advantageous.

Pros and Cons of Appian vs Salesforce

Here’s a comparison table for Appian and Salesforce highlighting the pros and cons of each platform:

Feature Appian Salesforce
Pros Allows low-code development Excels in customer relationship management and customer engagement
Pros Offers amazing automation functionalities Provides great workflow and process automation management
Cons Does not perform well with CRM Requires higher costs for full functionality–greater cost for more features
Cons Focuses on automation but lacks Einstein powered AI Includes additional costs for advanced feature implementation.

Salesforce vs Appian – Which Platform Offers Better ROI?

Business Type Salesforce ROI Appian ROI
Small Businesses ROI is higher due to the affordable entry level plans and CRM efficiency. ROI is lower due to the high price per user, but better in terms of process automation
Medium Businesses Good ROI from scalable CRM and automation. Moderate ROI if repetitive processes are being automated.
Large Enterprises High ROI for large sales forces that need automation and AI. High ROI for large sales forces that need automation and AI. High ROI if there is a need for process driven automation.

Small businesses benefit from Salesforce's lower starting price. While enterprises that seek workflow automation may find Appian’s pricing more justifiable.

Appian vs Salesforce: Which One Is Right for You?

Your business requirements will determine whether you prefer Appian or Salesforce.

Choose Appian if you:

  • Need a low-code platform for automating complex workflows.
  • Plan on optimizing business processes beyond traditional CRM.
  • Need quick application development and systems integration.

Pick Salesforce if you:

  • Plan on using CRM for customer relations management.
  • Want sales, marketing, and customer service processes automated.
  • Need AI insights and a marketplace of integrations.

In short, process automation, it's Appian all the way. However, for full CRM features aimed at increasing sales and customer interaction, you can't go wrong with Salesforce. 

The Final Verdict on Appian vs Salesforce – Which Platform Should You Go For?

Salesforce is the strongest choice if you want a fully featured CRM. Not only is it great for sales, marketing, and automation, but also businesses can leverage AI to optimize performance. As a result, with so many features, the efficiency of operations is unparalleled.

On the other hand, select Appian if you are looking for workflow automation and BPM. More specifically, it helps to lower the cost of process enhancement and development. Therefore, it is perfect for large corporations looking for a low-code platform.

Need assistance? Get in touch with PixelConsulting today! We offer professional Appian and Salesforce services to help ensure business growth and enhanced operational efficiency.

Still Confused? Let’s Clear Things Up!

Which one is best for automation: Appian vs Salesforce?

Neither is necessarily better than the other, rather, it all depends on your needs. On one hand, Appian offers low-code automation and process management. On the other hand, Salesforce is better for CRM automation and customer-centered workflows.

Can Appian and Salesforce be used together?

Yes! In fact, Appian can be integrated with Salesforce quite easily. Appian is designed for low-code automation and CRM for a great experience.

Does Appian have CRM capabilities?

No, Appian is not a CRM system. However, it can integrate with Salesforce or other CRMs in order to enhance workflow automation.

Is Salesforce like Appian in that it has low code functionality?

Not quite. Although Salesforce is a CRM and customer engagement platform. First, it does offer some low-code application capabilities. Appian was specifically designed for low-code process automation which means it does this far more effectively than Salesforce.

Which services does PixelConsulting offer?

PixelConsulting services include Salesforce user adoption, automation, and AI solutions. Additionally, we offer Integration development to help businesses optimize their process.

How do I book a consultation with PixelConsulting?

Booking a consultation is quick and simple! Go to the Contact Us form or give us a call. As soon as you reach out, our PixelConsulting experts will guide you through this process. Additionally, they will also let you know when the next available session is.

Does PixelConsulting offer support even after the implementation is done?

Yes! Not only do we provide implementation services but we also go the extra mile. We offer post-implementation support to ensure continued success. This includes system maintenance and training. So that your staff can fully utilize the provided solution.

Next Steps: Get the Right Solution for Your Business

  • First of all, schedule a trial/demo of Appian or Salesforce at PixelConsulting
  • Next, discuss with a specialist which option best meets your business needs.
  • After that, take a look at other resources for further study.


Finally, the ball is in your court! So, go ahead and compare the Appian vs Salesforce side by side. Schedule a consultation, or if you prefer share your thoughts with us via email!

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Author Insights:
Fatima
Hi! I’m an SEO Content Writer and Brand Copywriter who turns complex ideas into engaging and easy-to-understand content. Lately, I’ve been simplifying Salesforce, helping businesses navigate their CRM systems with confidence. My goal? To make tech and marketing feel simple, clear, and impactful.
April 10, 2025

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