If you're exploring cloud-based HR solutions, two platforms dominate the conversation: Workday and SAP SuccessFactors. Both are leading Human Capital Management (HCM) systems used by global organisations, but they approach workforce management in very different ways.
So which one is best for your business? Let’s explore the key differences and how to make the right hire to support your implementation.
What is SAP SuccessFactors?
SAP SuccessFactors is SAP’s cloud-based HCM suite designed to support the entire employee lifecycle, from recruiting and onboarding to performance, learning, and succession planning.
It’s built to integrate with both SAP S/4HANA (for organisations running SAP as their core ERP) and non-SAP systems. SuccessFactors is known for its strong global capabilities, localisation support, and depth in enterprise HR processes.
What is Workday?
Workday is an all-in-one cloud ERP platform, best known for its intuitive Human Capital Management and Financial Management capabilities. It was designed from the ground up for usability, flexibility, and continuous innovation.
Workday's strengths lie in workforce planning, talent management, employee self-service, and analytics, especially for fast-growing companies looking for a clean user experience and quicker time-to-value.
Key Differences Between Workday and SuccessFactors
1. User Experience
- Workday has a reputation for its sleek and intuitive UI.
- SuccessFactors has improved its interface in recent years, especially with the introduction of SAP’s Fiori design system, but some users still find it more complex.
2. Global Support
- SuccessFactors excels in localisation, compliance, and support for global enterprises.
- Workday has solid international features but is often seen as more U.S.-centric.
3. Core HR Capabilities
- SuccessFactors offers strong process depth and enterprise-grade HR modules.
- Workday delivers a unified experience with more fluid cross-module integration, particularly between HCM and Finance.
4. Integration
- SuccessFactors integrates natively with the SAP ecosystem (S/4HANA, Ariba, Concur, etc.).
- Workday is known for ease of configuration and integrations with modern tools, but may require third-party connectors for SAP systems.
Why Companies Choose SAP SuccessFactors
- Deep functionality across all HR processes
- Strong support for global and complex organisations
- Seamless integration with other SAP solutions
- AI-driven insights and continuous improvement in talent modules
SuccessFactors is often the choice for large enterprises, especially those already using SAP, who need robust compliance, localisation, and control over HR processes.
Why Companies Choose Workday
- Excellent user experience for HR teams and employees
- Fast implementation and intuitive configuration
- Strong talent and workforce planning tools
- Unified data across HCM and Finance
Workday is especially popular with mid-sized to large companies that value agility, usability, and clean workflows.
Need SAP HCM Experts for Your Project?
At Inoltra, we don’t select ERP systems, but we do provide the SAP experts who make implementations successful.
Whether you're adopting SAP SuccessFactors, integrating with S/4HANA, or migrating from Workday, we connect you with skilled consultants and functional experts who scope, configure, and support your HR transformation through go-live and beyond.
Get in touch with us.
Exclusive: Bruno Moreno on Why SuccessFactors Stands Out
In a recent interview with SAP SuccessFactors consultant Bruno Moreno, we explored how AI is reshaping HR and why SuccessFactors continues to compete strongly against Workday and Oracle.
Bruno shared:
- How AI is transforming HR processes
- What sets SuccessFactors apart from Workday & Oracle
- Tips for starting your implementation the smart way
Watch the full video HERE
Workday and SAP SuccessFactors are both market leaders, but the right choice depends on your size, geography, growth goals, and existing tech stack. Whichever you choose, your project will only succeed with the right team behind it. Let us help you find them.