BILL vs. Stampli - Which AP automation solution is best?
When it comes to accounts payable (AP) automation, BILL and Stampli are two popular solutions. BILL is often considered a better option for small businesses seeking basic payment processing capabilities, while Stampli is a solution for companies that require features like ERP integration, line-level PO matching, and vendor management.
In this post, we’ll cover both platforms in-depth, highlighting their key features, strengths, and weaknesses. Additionally, we’ll introduce Routable as an alternative to both BILL and Stampli, offering a unique set of capabilities that may better suit the needs of your business.
BILL and Stampli Overview
BILL
BILL (previously bill.com) is a cloud-based AP automation platform for small and growing businesses. It offers basic invoice processing and payment capabilities, allowing users to streamline their AP workflows. Here are some of BILL’s key features:
Stampli
Stampli is an automation platform that focuses on ERP integration and advanced features. It is often preferred by larger organizations with more complex AP requirements. Key features of Stampli include:
BILL and Stampli Feature Comparison
When choosing between BILL and Stampli for your accounts payable needs, understanding how each platform handles core functionality is crucial for making an informed decision. Both solutions offer distinct advantages and limitations across key areas that impact daily operations.
Invoice Processing Capabilities
BILL provides basic invoice processing capabilities that include data capture and approval workflows, making it a straightforward solution for companies with standard invoicing needs. However, organizations dealing with more complex invoices or unique scenarios may find BILL's processing capabilities somewhat limited.
Stampli takes a more advanced approach to invoice processing, featuring sophisticated line-level purchase order matching and cognitive AI technology for data extraction. This robust processing power allows Stampli to handle complex invoicing scenarios more effectively. The trade-off comes during implementation, as some users have reported challenges when integrating Stampli into their existing ERP systems.
Payment Processing Options
BILL supports multiple payment methods including ACH transfers, virtual cards, and traditional checks, providing convenient options that work well for small businesses. However, larger organizations with more complex payment requirements may find these options somewhat limiting for their needs.
Stampli offers a broader range of payment solutions, supporting both domestic and international payments along with specialized AP and expense cards. This comprehensive payment ecosystem makes it particularly attractive for organizations with diverse payment needs. Some users have noted that ACH payment processing times can be slower than expected, which may impact cash flow management.
ERP Integration Support
BILL integrates with popular accounting software platforms like QuickBooks and Xero, making it accessible for small to medium-sized businesses already using these systems. However, these integrations may have limited functionality, potentially causing issues with data synchronization and reconciliation processes.
Stampli distinguishes itself with native ERP integrations across major enterprise platforms including Microsoft Dynamics, SAP, Oracle, and others. This deep integration capability makes it particularly suitable for larger organizations with complex ERP environments. The complexity of these integrations can present challenges during implementation and ongoing maintenance, requiring dedicated resources to manage effectively.
Vendor Management Features
BILL offers basic vendor information management capabilities, handling essential vendor data and communication needs. However, it lacks more advanced vendor engagement tools and compliance features that larger organizations often require.
Stampli provides more comprehensive vendor management capabilities, including dedicated vendor portals and advanced vendor management features that facilitate better vendor relationships and compliance tracking. While these features are more robust, some users have reported that the vendor portal experience could be improved to enhance usability for both internal teams and vendors.
Reporting and Analytics Tools
BILL offers basic reporting and analytics capabilities that typically meet the needs of small businesses looking for straightforward financial insights. However, larger organizations requiring detailed analysis and customized reporting may find these capabilities too limited for their requirements.
Stampli delivers advanced reporting and analytics features, providing detailed insights into accounts payable performance and vendor-specific metrics. These comprehensive analytics tools help organizations make data-driven decisions about their AP processes. Some users have experienced challenges when trying to customize reports to meet their specific reporting requirements, which may require additional configuration or support.
Use Cases
BILL Use Cases
Stampli Use Cases
Pros Compared
BILL Pros
Stampli Pros
Cons Compared
BILL Cons
Stampli Cons
When To Use BILL or Stampli
Routable: A Better Alternative to BILL and Stampli
Why Routable is a Better Alternative to BILL and Stampli
Routable is a modern AP automation solution that combines the best of both worlds – it offers the simplicity of BILL while providing the advanced features and ERP integrations of Stampli. Here’s why Routable stands out as a better alternative:
How Routable Stands Apart
Comprehensive AP Automation
Routable offers a complete suite of AP automation capabilities, including AI-powered invoice capture, approval workflows, PO matching, payment reconciliation, and more, all under one roof.
Robust ERP Integrations
With real-time, two-way sync and pre-built integrations with leading ERP systems, Routable ensures seamless data flow and eliminates the need for manual data entry.
Flexible Payment Options
Routable supports a wide range of payment methods, including international payments, CSV payments, and more, catering to the diverse needs of businesses of all sizes.
Advanced Vendor Management
Routable’s vendor management features go beyond basic information management, offering custom-branded vendor onboarding, compliance checks, and vendor tax management capabilities.
Conclusion
While BILL and Stampli are both viable options for AP automation, Routable emerges as a compelling alternative, offering a comprehensive suite of features, robust ERP integrations, and intelligent vendor management capabilities. Whether you’re a small business or a large enterprise, Routable’s scalable and feature-rich solution may be the better choice for streamlining your AP processes and driving operational efficiency.