The shift to cloud-based software isn’t just a trend - it’s a necessity. By 2026, 75% of businesses will switch to cloud-based technology for their digital transformation.
Cloud-based software helps companies stay agile, competitive, and ready for the future, whether it’s CRM, finance, or HR. That's why businesses are ditching outdated systems for faster, scalable and effective solutions.
But with so many options, businesses face a dilemma when choosing the right software for their organization. Today, we'll talk about two of the most prominent names in the market: Workday vs Salesforce.
Let’s dive deep into both, explore their key differences, and help you make an informed decision.
Human Capital Management (HCM) refers to the practices and tools used to manage an organization’s workforce. It includes everything from hiring to training and managing employee benefits. Basically, HCM systems help streamline human resources (HR) tasks and boost employee satisfaction. A good HCM platform enables businesses to manage talent, payroll, benefits, performance, and compliance all in one place.
By using HCM software, businesses also automate many of the administrative tasks handled by HR departments. This not only saves time but also improves the accuracy of HR operations. Additionally, HCM software often comes with powerful analytics for data-driven workforce management decisions.
Although HCM and CRM (Customer Relationship Management) software share some similarities. The most common factor between the two is operational efficiencies. That's said, the core functionalities of both these types of software differ. HCM focuses on the people within your organization, while CRM manages customers.
So, HCM systems handle employee related tasks like recruitment, onboarding, and performance management. They enable HR departments to optimize human resources, increasing overall productivity and engagement.
On the other hand, CRM systems are aimed at managing interactions with customers. These platforms track leads, manage customer accounts, and maintain relationships. While both tools are essential for business operations, they serve different purposes.
Salesforce is widely recognized as the #1 Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software. Businesses use it to manage the sales pipeline, track customer interactions and automate processes. Salesforce’s cloud-based platform is highly scalable for businesses of all sizes.
In addition to its core CRM functionality, Salesforce also offers various solutions. It works for marketing, sales automation, customer service, and analytics. This flexibility allows organizations to tailor Salesforce to their specific needs. It also offers its own marketplace for integrations called the Salesforce’s AppExchange.
Today, Salesforce has grown far beyond its initial CRM function. Now it offers a full suite of enterprise solutions, including Employee Service solutions. The Employee Service solution in the Service Cloud features HCM capabilities. It also integrates Salesforce with AI powered support and third-party platforms like Workday.
Workday is a Human Capital Management (HCM) and enterprise resource planning (ERP) software provider. It has features for human resources management, payroll, recruiting, talent management, and more. Workday is known for its user-friendly interface and ability to automate complex processes.
Workday’s cloud-based software can manage all aspects of their workforce from anywhere. It also includes integrated features and real time analytics to streamline HR tasks and improve operations. Additionally, Workday offers strong integration to connect with other tools and systems.
Here is a quick overview of Workday vs Salesforce to understand the key differences between the two platforms.
Well, primarily Workday and Salesforce serve two distinct purposes. Salesforce is a CRM while Workday is an HCM. However, they're often compared because Salesforce can also be used as an HCM. This is where Workday lacks as it does not offer CRM capabilities. So, when debating Salesforce vs Workday, it’s essential to consider several factors.
Let’s break them down:
The first thing you should consider is if you need a Human Capital Management system or a CRM tool. If your focus is on managing your workforce—hiring, training, and payroll—then Workday is the better option. But if you need to streamline sales, customer service, and marketing efforts then pick Salesforce.
Salesforce has an ecosystem of third-party apps while Workday's integrations are HR-related software. If you need connectivity with other tools, you should consider which platform suits your existing software stack. Plus, the Workday and Salesforce integration is best for businesses looking to combine their HR and CRM data.
Both platforms are cloud-based and highly intuitive. However, the user experience depends on the department using the software. Workday is for HR teams and has a sleek interface for tasks like payroll and talent management. In contrast, Salesforce is designed for sales and marketing teams for campaign management.
Both platforms are scalable, but Salesforce’s ability to grow with your business is unmatched. For businesses that are expanding or looking for customization, Salesforce is a powerful solution. Workday also works for growing companies but only for HCM purposes.
Cost is always a consideration. Salesforce tends to have a higher initial investment, especially if you choose premium features or multiple apps. However, Workday can also be expensive, particularly for small businesses. A clear understanding of your budget and needs is essential before making a decision.
On July 24, 2024, Salesforce and Workday announced a strategic partnership to create an AI assistant. This partnership combines the strengths of both companies’ platforms and AI technologies. The result is an employee service that is more efficient, automated, and intuitive. This assistant is aimed to improve productivity, reduce costs and enhance employee services. It will automate tasks like onboarding, health benefits, and career development. [Source: Salesforce]
Key highlights of the partnership include:
In the Workday vs Salesforce face off, it’s clear that both platforms excel in their respective areas. However, if you’re looking for a solution that combines everything then Salesforce it is. It is not just the #1 CRM solution but also offers customer service, financial and marketing tools under one roof.
Plus, Salesforce and Workday integration is there for organizations that need both tools. This way you can get strong HR and customer relationship management tools.
Workday is the only platform that brings HR and finance together. This helps businesses stay on track and move forward. However, it doesn’t offer CRM features.
Salesforce, on the other hand, is a complete business solution. It’s a powerful CRM with tools for sales, marketing, and customer service. Plus, its Service Cloud includes employee-focused solutions. It even comes with a prebuilt integration for Workday to strengthen its AI-powered HCM capabilities. Thus, Salesforce is more suitable if you want a smart and future-ready platform.
At PixelConsulting, we specialize in helping businesses select and integrate the right solutions. Let us help you take your business to the next level with Salesforce. Reach out today to get the best Salesforce set up for your business needs!
Workday and Salesforce serve different purposes, so it depends on what you need. Workday specializes in HR, finance, and workforce management. However, Salesforce is a CRM and sales automation platform. Both are top-tier solutions, but they aren't direct competitors.
Yes, Workday and Salesforce can be integrated. You can sync employee data, payroll and financials with sales data. Many businesses use both together and use third-party tools to make integration smoother.
No, Workday is not a CRM. It’s built for human resources, finance, and business planning. If you need a CRM then Salesforce or another dedicated CRM platform would be a better choice.
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