Introduction
Document generation software is designed to automate the process of creating and managing documents. Whether it’s generating contracts, invoices, reports, or forms, these tools streamline and simplify document creation, ensuring accuracy, consistency, and compliance. As businesses continue to rely on digital workflows, document generation software has become indispensable in improving efficiency and reducing manual errors.
Best for:
- Who benefits most: Legal professionals, contract managers, HR departments, finance teams, marketers, and small to medium-sized businesses.
- Not ideal for: Individuals or small teams requiring minimal document generation or those only needing basic word processing tools.
Key Trends in Document Generation Software
- AI-powered templates for more automated document creation.
- Cloud-based document generation solutions providing better scalability and access.
- Increased use of e-signatures and digital workflows for enhanced collaboration.
- Integration with enterprise software, including CRM, ERP, and legal management systems.
- More flexible pricing models, including pay-per-use or subscription-based pricing.
- Enhanced data privacy features in compliance with global regulations like GDPR.
- AI-driven document comparison and audit tools to check for inconsistencies and errors.
- Multi-platform deployment options, supporting mobile and desktop access.
- Automation of document review and approval processes.
- Advanced reporting and analytics tools to track document generation performance.
How We Selected These Tools (Methodology)
We selected the top 10 document generation tools based on several criteria:
- Market adoption and mindshare.
- Feature completeness across document generation, collaboration, and integration.
- Performance and reliability.
- Security posture and compliance with privacy regulations.
- Integration capabilities with other business tools (CRM, ERP, etc.).
- Fit for a variety of use cases, from small businesses to large enterprises.
Top 10 Document Generation Software Tools
1 — PandaDoc
PandaDoc is a comprehensive document automation software for businesses, offering tools to create, distribute, and manage documents like contracts and proposals.
Key Features
- eSignature integration.
- Document analytics for tracking user engagement.
- Extensive template library.
- Workflow automation for approvals.
- Integration with CRM tools like Salesforce.
Pros
- User-friendly interface.
- Great for sales teams and legal documents.
Cons
- Limited customization options for templates.
- Can be expensive for small teams.
Platforms / Deployment
- Web, Windows, macOS
- Cloud
Security & Compliance
- SOC 2 Type II
- GDPR-compliant
Integrations & Ecosystem
- Integrates with Salesforce, HubSpot, Zapier, and more.
Support & Community
- 24/7 customer support and an extensive knowledge base.
2 — DocuSign
DocuSign is one of the most popular electronic signature and document management tools, used for secure and legally binding document signing.
Key Features
- eSignature for legally binding contracts.
- Workflow automation for document signing.
- Real-time tracking of document status.
- Mobile-friendly signing capabilities.
- Compliance with industry standards.
Pros
- Easy-to-use and legally recognized e-signatures.
- Strong security features.
Cons
- Some features are locked behind higher-tier plans.
- Not as customizable as other tools.
Platforms / Deployment
- Web, Windows, macOS, iOS, Android
- Cloud
Security & Compliance
- SOC 2, ISO 27001, HIPAA
- Complies with global regulations
Integrations & Ecosystem
- Integrates with Salesforce, Microsoft, Google, and more.
Support & Community
- 24/7 customer support and a robust knowledge base.
3 — WebMerge
WebMerge allows users to automate document creation by merging data from forms, CRM systems, and databases into customizable templates.
Key Features
- Data merging from CRM and databases.
- Customizable document templates.
- Cloud storage and management.
- Integration with popular business tools.
Pros
- Excellent for automated report generation.
- Flexible document formatting options.
Cons
- Slightly complex setup for beginners.
- Customer support can be slow.
Platforms / Deployment
- Web
- Cloud
Security & Compliance
- Not publicly stated
Integrations & Ecosystem
- Integrates with Salesforce, Google Sheets, and Zapier.
Support & Community
- Email support and documentation available.
4 — Formstack Documents
Formstack Documents is a document automation tool designed to help businesses automate the creation of documents from online forms and other data sources.
Key Features
- Automatic document creation from forms.
- Wide range of integrations with third-party software.
- Advanced workflow capabilities.
- Support for e-signatures.
Pros
- Excellent for automating document workflows.
- Seamless integration with form-building tools.
Cons
- Learning curve for new users.
- Limited template customization in the basic plan.
Platforms / Deployment
- Web
- Cloud
Security & Compliance
- SOC 2 Type II
- GDPR-compliant
Integrations & Ecosystem
- Integrates with Salesforce, Google Sheets, and more.
Support & Community
- 24/7 customer support.
5 — HotDocs
HotDocs is a document automation platform that specializes in creating complex legal and financial documents, focusing on templates for industries such as legal and healthcare.
Key Features
- Customizable templates for various industries.
- Automated workflows for document approval.
- Strong data validation capabilities.
- Integration with leading enterprise software.
Pros
- Great for legal and compliance-heavy industries.
- Powerful document creation tools.
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for beginners.
- High cost for small businesses.
Platforms / Deployment
- Windows, macOS
- Self-hosted, Cloud
Security & Compliance
- Not publicly stated
Integrations & Ecosystem
- Integrates with Microsoft, Salesforce, and other enterprise software.
Support & Community
- Dedicated customer support with a comprehensive knowledge base.
6 — Templafy
Templafy is an enterprise-grade document generation software that allows organizations to create compliant documents, presentations, and emails based on customizable templates.
Key Features
- Customizable templates for consistency and compliance.
- Real-time collaboration on documents.
- Advanced document versioning and auditing.
- Integration with Microsoft Office and other tools.
Pros
- Excellent for enterprises with strict compliance needs.
- Robust document versioning features.
Cons
- Requires significant setup and integration.
- Higher price point compared to other tools.
Platforms / Deployment
- Web, Windows, macOS
- Cloud
Security & Compliance
- SOC 2 Type II
- GDPR-compliant
Integrations & Ecosystem
- Integrates with Microsoft 365, Salesforce, and more.
Support & Community
- 24/7 customer support and a knowledge base.
7 — Conga Composer
Conga Composer is a document generation tool that helps automate document creation from Salesforce data, focusing on creating reports, invoices, and contracts.
Key Features
- Data-driven document creation from Salesforce.
- Integration with other business tools like Google Docs and Microsoft Word.
- Document templates for invoices, contracts, and reports.
- Automated workflows for document approval.
Pros
- Great for Salesforce-heavy environments.
- Wide range of document types supported.
Cons
- Limited customization options for templates.
- Learning curve for new users.
Platforms / Deployment
- Web
- Cloud
Security & Compliance
- SOC 2, HIPAA-compliant
Integrations & Ecosystem
- Integrates with Salesforce, Google Docs, and Microsoft Office.
Support & Community
- Email and phone support available.
8 — Nitro PDF Pro
Nitro PDF Pro is a PDF creation and editing tool that helps businesses automate the creation, editing, and conversion of PDF documents, widely used for business forms and contracts.
Key Features
- PDF creation and editing.
- Secure file sharing and collaboration.
- Integrates with cloud storage services.
- eSignature functionality.
Pros
- Powerful PDF editing tools.
- Affordable for small to medium-sized businesses.
Cons
- Limited document generation automation.
- Less feature-rich than dedicated document automation platforms.
Platforms / Deployment
- Windows, macOS
- Self-hosted
Security & Compliance
- Not publicly stated
Integrations & Ecosystem
- Integrates with Google Drive, Dropbox, and other cloud storage services.
Support & Community
- Email support and user forums.
9 — Windward Studios
Windward Studios offers a document automation solution that provides users with tools to create sophisticated documents and reports directly from data sources.
Key Features
- Integration with major business software.
- Customizable templates for reports, invoices, and contracts.
- Advanced data-binding features.
- API for seamless integration into business workflows.
Pros
- Powerful reporting features.
- Seamless integration into existing workflows.
Cons
- Higher price point for smaller businesses.
- Steep learning curve for new users.
Platforms / Deployment
- Web, Windows
- Cloud, Self-hosted
Security & Compliance
- Not publicly stated
Integrations & Ecosystem
- Integrates with Salesforce, SAP, and other enterprise tools.
Support & Community
- Dedicated customer support.
10 — Adobe Sign
Adobe Sign is an eSignature solution that enables users to send, sign, track, and manage electronic agreements.
Key Features
- Digital signatures for contracts and agreements.
- Mobile-friendly signing.
- Seamless integration with Adobe Acrobat and other document tools.
- Real-time tracking and notifications.
Pros
- Easy-to-use interface.
- Widely recognized and trusted for e-signatures.
Cons
- Limited document generation features.
- Subscription-based pricing can be costly.
Platforms / Deployment
- Web, iOS, Android
- Cloud
Security & Compliance
- SOC 2, HIPAA-compliant
- eIDAS-compliant
Integrations & Ecosystem
- Integrates with Microsoft Office, Salesforce, and other software.
Support & Community
- 24/7 customer support and user forums.
Comparison Table (Top 10)
| Tool Name | Best For | Platform(s) Supported | Deployment | Standout Feature | Public Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PandaDoc | Sales Teams | Web, Windows, macOS | Cloud | eSignature Integration | N/A |
| DocuSign | Legal Teams | Web, Windows, macOS, iOS, Android | Cloud | Legally binding eSignatures | N/A |
| WebMerge | SMBs | Web | Cloud | Automated Document Creation | N/A |
| Formstack | SMBs | Web | Cloud | Form-to-Document Automation | N/A |
| HotDocs | Legal Professionals | Windows, macOS | Self-hosted, Cloud | Legal Document Automation | N/A |
| Templafy | Enterprises | Web, Windows, macOS | Cloud | Template Compliance | N/A |
| Conga Composer | Salesforce Users | Web | Cloud | Data-Driven Document Creation | N/A |
| Nitro PDF Pro | SMBs | Windows, macOS | Self-hosted | PDF Editing & Signing | N/A |
| Windward Studios | Large Enterprises | Web, Windows | Cloud, Self-hosted | Reporting & Document Automation | N/A |
| Adobe Sign | Enterprises | Web, iOS, Android | Cloud | eSignature Capabilities | N/A |
Evaluation & Scoring of Document Generation Software
| Tool Name | Core (25%) | Ease (15%) | Integrations (15%) | Security (10%) | Performance (10%) | Support (10%) | Value (15%) | Weighted Total (0–10) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PandaDoc | 9 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8.6 |
| DocuSign | 9 | 9 | 8 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 7 | 8.8 |
| WebMerge | 8 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 8.0 |
| Formstack | 8 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7.9 |
| HotDocs | 9 | 6 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 8.1 |
| Templafy | 9 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 8.3 |
| Conga Composer | 8 | 7 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 8 | 7.7 |
| Nitro PDF Pro | 7 | 9 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 8 | 7.4 |
| Windward Studios | 9 | 7 | 8 | 7 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 8.0 |
| Adobe Sign | 8 | 9 | 7 | 10 | 8 | 9 | 7 | 8.1 |
Which Document Generation Software Tool Is Right for You?
Solo / Freelancer
- WebMerge and PandaDoc are ideal for freelancers due to their ease of use and cost-effectiveness.
SMB
- Formstack and DocuSign offer good scalability and integrations for small to medium-sized businesses.
Mid-Market
- HotDocs and Templafy provide the advanced features required by mid-sized teams with more complex document generation needs.
Enterprise
- Adobe Sign and Windward Studios are excellent choices for large organizations due to their robust security, integrations, and enterprise-level support.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How much does document generation software cost?
The cost varies based on the tool and plan you choose. For example, PandaDoc offers a free plan, while enterprise-level solutions like DocuSign can be more expensive with premium features.
2. Can I integrate document generation software with my CRM?
Yes, most document generation tools like WebMerge, PandaDoc, and Templafy integrate well with CRMs like Salesforce.
3. Do these tools support eSignatures?
Yes, tools like DocuSign, PandaDoc, and Adobe Sign include built-in eSignature features.
4. Are these tools suitable for legal documents?
Yes, tools like HotDocs, DocuSign, and PandaDoc are specifically designed to support legal and contractual document generation.
5. Can I customize templates in these tools?
Yes, most document generation software allows for template customization. However, the level of customization varies by tool.
6. Are these tools cloud-based or self-hosted?
Many of these tools, including PandaDoc, WebMerge, and Templafy, are cloud-based, though some like HotDocs offer self-hosted solutions.
7. Can I automate document approval workflows?
Yes, tools like WebMerge, Formstack, and PandaDoc provide workflow automation features for document review and approval.
8. How secure are these tools?
Most tools, including DocuSign, PandaDoc, and Adobe Sign, have strong security features such as encryption, SSO, and compliance with regulations like GDPR.
9. Are these tools mobile-friendly?
Yes, tools like DocuSign and Adobe Sign offer mobile apps for signing and managing documents.
10. How do I choose the right tool for my business?
Consider factors like your budget, the level of customization needed, integration with your existing software, and the types of documents you generate regularly.
Conclusion
Choosing the right document generation software depends on your organization’s needs, whether you are a freelancer or part of a large enterprise. Tools like WebMerge and PandaDoc are great for small teams, while Adobe Sign and HotDocs cater to enterprises requiring robust security and complianc