Like, Lidl faced in August 2023 when it had to recall its Paw Patrol kid’s snacks. 

It came to this because Lidl did not review the contents of its packaging correctly. According to Lidl’s public statement, the link on its packaging took the customers to an explicit website “unsuitable for children.” 

To control this matter, the company immediately took the item down from sale. They even recalled the product back in stores.

The possibility of such mistakes is scary. So, even the slightest change, like an address or website change, requires multiple rounds of reviews before approval.

To complete the approval process in a short time without any errors, it is always wise to create a checklist. This will help you keep the process organized and prevent any mistakes possible.

But what points should you cover, and which milestones should you focus on? Don’t worry. We’ve created this guide to help you make an artwork approval checklist for yourself.

But Wait! What is Artwork Approval?

Let’s be precise. Artwork approval is the process of reviewing and approving designs, graphics, packaging layouts, or any other creative material before they are finalized and released for production or publication.

The artwork approval process typically involves multiple stakeholders, like

• designers, 
• brand managers, 
• marketing teams, 
• legal departments, 
• regulatory compliance specialists, 
• and sometimes external agencies or clients. 

Each team member reviews the artwork to ensure accuracy and compliance with the branding guidelines. This process can give you a lot of feedback and revisions until all parties are satisfied with the final design.

Importance of Artwork Approval in CPG

Artwork approval is like double-checking your work before showing it to others. But how does it help a company?

1. Designers Get a Clear Idea 

A good design brief has a structured framework with all the required information like brand guidelines, target audience demographics, key messaging, specific objectives of the project, etc. The checklist can guide their creative minds toward brand expectations by listing exactly what the brand needs. Clarity over this can make sure that the final packaging designs meet both aesthetic and functional requirements. 

With a structured checklist or approval agenda, the brief can also act as a reference point for designers and managers. They can get back to it and always make sure that the design matches all the requirements of the brand.

2. Reduced Chance of Overlooking Errors

Regulatory compliances vary from industry to industry. With a proper artwork approval system, brand managers can pre-define what artwork elements they need to verify first. There is artwork proofing software like GoVisually available that can help you ease the process. They already have a foolproof framework set for you to be more structured regarding artwork approval. A framework of this kind helps to cover all bases at once, which can eliminate any chance of overlooked errors. 

3. Less Confusion, More Productivity

When each team member has their own area to overlook, they won’t offer feedback on other areas. A design checklist will help to organise each stakeholder and team member’s roles effectively. Providing clear guidelines ensures each member knows what to focus on, speeding up the workflow and reducing revisions. 

There will also be fewer chances of overlapping suggestions. Not only does this reduce unwanted confusion, but it also helps clarify what is needed and when.

Plus, a system using good artwork approval software will reduce the revisions needed to approve an artwork. Hence, this improves the overall productivity of the team.

Tips to Create Your Own Artwork Approval Checklist

Having a checklist on hand for your artwork approval will not only make things easy but will also save you a lot of time. Here are a few tips for you to create your own checklist:

1. Define Your Timelines

When you have a goal ahead of you, the most important thing is to achieve it on time. 

Here are some things you can consider when you are defining your approval timeline and workflow:

• Identify stakeholders for review and approval:

Find out who needs to review and approve the artwork. This could involve stakeholders from different departments. Consider taking their input to make sure that the workflow is comprehensive and nothing is missed. 

• Gather input from all relevant departments:

Ensure that all stakeholders are included in the process. A typical approval process involves stakeholders from:

• Marketing
• Legal and Compliance
• Product development
• Quality assurance
• Manufacturing or production
• Designing

• Accessibility of Information and Guidelines:

Make sure that all necessary information and design guidelines are readily available to everyone on the team. This helps to avoid any delays in the approval process.

Additional suggestion:

If you have hired a freelancer for design, always ask for the original file before you start the process. If changes are needed later on, you can easily access the layers to make minor adjustments yourself. This can save a lot of time and money compared to hiring them for minor modifications.

2. Review Drafts and Mockups

Reviewing the mockups makes sure that there are no errors from the first draft itself. 

Here are some for reviewing packaging artwork briefs and mockups:

• Competitive comparison of design:

Try comparing your artwork to that of your competitors’ packaging designs. This should help you identify the areas where you can improve and stand out in the market.

• Check the alignment with brand guidelines:

Look for design elements like colour, typography, imagery, visuals, etc. Make sure these align with your brand’s message and guidelines, messaging, and any prior artwork already in the market. 

Also, make sure that all packaging elements are consistent across all product variants, sizes, and packaging types.

• Conduct empathy testing for perception:

You can try empathy testing of the design. Put yourself in the consumer’s shoes and try to make sense of the artwork. This will help you understand how they perceive the packaging and which areas you can improve.

• Verify the representation of visuals

Verify that all images used in the packaging artwork are of high resolution and that they convey the intended message properly. Make sure that the visuals used have the correct representation. Many visuals or icons could have a double meaning, one of which could be popular slang. So, make sure that the graphics are correctly used.

Additional Suggestion:

The most important aspect of this step is open communication among all the collaborators of the team. This means involving not just the design team but also marketing, legal, regulatory, and anyone else with a stake in the final product. With clear communication, you can make sure that there will be less confusion and, thus, fewer delays.

3. Proofread Packaging Text and Information

Once the packaging’s design is checked, it is time to review the finer details thoroughly. Now, you have to proofread each and every word written on the artwork. It is one of the most essential steps of the entire approval process.

Here’s what you should look out for in the contents of the packaging:

• Check if the design is aligned with compliance requirements:

Verify that all text and information on the packaging follow the compliance requirements. The review should include the checking of the following:

• All the legal compliances
• Technical and colloquial meaning of all texts
• Branding requirements set by the brand
• Industry standards.

• Check for spelling and grammatical errors:

Any spelling and grammatical errors look bad on the company’s part. So make sure that the packaging doesn’t have any of those.

• Check the accuracy of the information on the design:

Check if all information on the packaging artwork is accurate and up-to-date. Check the product descriptions, ingredients or materials, claims, and benefits for this. It could lead to serious legal complications if customers get hurt using your product when the packaging’s text is wrong or outdated.

• Ensure cultural appropriateness in multilingual text:

If your company sells the product in many countries, you might have product information in different languages. Make sure all text on its packaging is not only translated correctly but also culturally appropriate. Remember that specific phrases or concepts might mean something else entirely in a different region. So we suggest you get it checked by a local vendor to ensure nothing hurtful is mentioned for any community. 

• Make sure that the text is readable:

Ensure that all text is legible and easy to read for your target audience. The readability should especially be consistent with the important information like allergens or warning signs. Check that the colour contrast between the text and background is sufficient to avoid making the text difficult to read.

4. Check That Artwork is in Line with Brand and Legal Guidelines

The artwork is often good, has the right information, and is also up to industry standards. But yet, it looks way different from all other products of the same brand. An inconsistent design like this makes it challenging to be recognized on shelves.

That’s why this step is vital to maintain brand consistency. At the end of it, you should also be able to verify whether your artwork effectively communicates the message to your target audience. 

Here are some things you can look for when reviewing the packaging artwork:

• Verify the packaging for adherence to brand guidelines:

To verify that the packaging artwork is in line with the brand, check for logo placement, font usage, colour scheme, etc., among other design elements.

• Ensure adherence to labelling regulations

Make sure that the packaging artwork meets all relevant legal requirements, including:

• Labeling regulations, 
• Ingredient lists,
• Health warnings
• Licenses
• Any and all claims. 

The legal regulations may vary from region to region. So, it’s essential to pay extra attention and ensure compliance accordingly.

• Clarity of brand’s message:

Check that the messaging and theme of the packaging artwork clearly convey your brand’s message to the target audience. You can check it by reviewing the tone, language, visual elements, etc., used in the design. 

5. Verify the Barcodes, Links, and QR Codes

Designers often overlook details like barcodes, QR codes, and links in the design. Retailers use bar codes to manage stock and inventory. On the other hand, customers often use QR codes and links to get more information about the product or promotions. However, these fine details are crucial for the packaging and brand image.

So, please double-check all the details and codes mentioned here.

Here are a few questions you can ask to verify the Barcodes, links, and QR codes mentioned in the packaging:

• Is the barcode, links, or QR code correct?
• Are the barcodes and QR codes printed correctly?
• Are the codes visible on the artwork?
• Does the barcode or QR code scan correctly?
• Is the information associated with the barcode, links, or QR code up-to-date?

How Artwork Approval Software Like GoVisually Can Help

Creating an artwork approval checklist from scratch can be really difficult. The complexity of requirements from each department can make it tricky for the the manager to make sure that nothing is omitted.  Without a standardized checklist, there is a higher risk of errors and inconsistencies. These mistakes could cause a lot of delays, revisions, or legal issues. 

That’s why it’s important to have an artwork approval software that does half the work for you by having a standardised checklist on the board. The software can improve efficiency with the following:

• faster project turnaround time, 
• reduces error with precise annotation tools, 
• and also provides cost savings with reduced shipping and printing costs.

That’s why we suggest you use GoVisually, a packaging artwork management software. It has an inbuilt checklist feature that will cater for most of your approval agenda needs with a standardised approach. You can customise this list with your brand guidelines for best results.

Key Takeaways

Artwork approval is tiring as it involves getting comments from so many different people. The whole process can get quickly chaotic and messy if not managed well.

So always make sure that:

• You create an artwork approval checklist that helps you organize your needs and regulations.
• The checklist is extremely comprehensive and clearly defines the roles of all the different team members.
• The checklist also mentions the timelines and workflow system in detail so as not to leave any space for ambiguity.
• Lastly, verify all the areas that need to be reviewed are mentioned in the checklist. Nothing should be overlooked.

Considering the weight and pressure the approval process carries, it’s essential to be highly meticulous here. That’s why you should use a good artwork proofing software like GoVisually. It can help you centralize the whole process in one system and reduce any possible confusion.

The post Artwork Approval Management Checklist for the CPG Industry appeared first on GoVisually.

As the name suggests, this blog is about ditching the cumbersome process of approving artwork and packaging files over endless email threads. We’ve all been there—countless back-and-forth emails, confusion over the latest file version, feedback getting lost in the clutter, miscommunication galore. It’s tiring, chaotic, and a real productivity drain.

Making matters worse, critical details can slip through the cracks during this messy review process. A slight color discrepancy, a misaligned logo, or a teensy text error on packaging can have enormous implications for brand reputation and legal compliance once printed at scale.

There has to be a better way, right? We believe, GoVisually’s customers show that using dedicated online proofing software streamlined their artwork approval process by up to 60%. 

No more interminable email threads – feedback and approvals happen in one centralized space. Time spent on endless back-and-forth? It slashed by over huge numbers for most teams.

But the benefits go far beyond just saving time. With an online proofing system:

• Artwork versions are tracked automatically.
• Feedback is anchored directly to specific areas on the proof.
• Legal/regulatory checkpoints are enforceable.
• Approvals follow structured workflows & approval paths.
• Complete audit trails capture every decision.

What Is Artwork Approval Software?

Artwork approval software is a unique online proofing platform designed to facilitate the review and approval process of creative assets such as packaging labels, branding files, marketing collateral, etc. 

Do you know how to get started with design proofing? If not, check out this video, which will help you learn the best 10 steps to get started on GoVisually for design proofing.

Especially for CPG brands, it acts as a centralized hub where stakeholders can witness, comment on, and sign off on the art of packaging and labeling before it goes into production.

The online proofing software market is undoubtedly on the rise. But what is it like?

That size was already worth an impressive USD 1.1 Billion by 2023. However, that’s just the beginning. The theories show that:

• This market is expected to continue its growth trajectory and, in fact, reach the US. a staggering $1.62 trillion by 2030.

• As a result, we can expect a positive compound annual growth rate between 2024 and 2030 of 5.65%.

• These statistics highlight online proofing solutions gaining widespread adoption among businesses and organizations of all sizes.

• There is no doubt that organizations are beginning to recognize the enormous value of these specialized tools.

Key features 

First, these solutions offer several key features:

• Markup tool: Provide factual information by directly referring to the evidence. This feature allows you to see the details accurately and clearly.

• Business approval: Customise your approval processes and configure usage-based permissions to simplify them. This will require the right people to take the proper steps, which will increase productivity.

• Version control: This feature allows you to monitor your business’s progress and make informed choices by easily comparing all versions.

• Compliance investigations: Automatically process the collection of legal and regulatory warrants for peace of mind. This ensures that your work meets all necessary standards with ease of hand testing.

• Discussion & Collaboration: Share and discuss the project progress through insightful dashboards. This enhances progress visibility, teamwork and enables real-time collaboration, making projects more dynamic and engaging.

• Quality gateways: Establish configurable checklists and quality control centers to maintain high standards. These gates ensure that your business meets quality requirements at every step.

Challenges overcome

Currently, the traditional method of reviewing packshot PDFs and art files via email is fraught with inefficiencies and risks, namely:

• Version crashes: Without control, the response often ends with an older file version. This can lead to confusion and delays in the research process.
• Lost feedback: Valuable information can easily get lost in never-ending email threads. This makes monitoring critical investments difficult and can hinder growth.
• Unstructured assessment: If a standardized assessment or review process is not used, conclusions can be inconsistent and unclear, leading to inefficiency and misunderstanding.
• No accountability: The inability to trace consents and decisions creates confusion and accountability issues. Have a clear record of who agreed to what is necessary for successful operations.
• Barriers to compliance: Gathering the necessary upfront approvals can present significant challenges. Overcoming these barriers is essential to effectively meeting regulatory standards and deadlines.

Artwork proofing software addresses these pain points by providing an online platform dedicated to proofing cycles. Specifically, the reviews are directly based on actual evidence with full references. Similarly, the business approval process is implemented based on pre-defined business rules. Finally, a comprehensive audit trail captures any comments and approvals for future reference.

Who Needs Artwork Approval Software?

Artwork approval software is essential for any brand or organization that needs to review and approve creative files like packaging artwork, labels, branding assets, marketing collateral, etc. Specifically, it’s precious for CPG brands with frequent packaging & label changeovers and multiple stakeholders involved.

Key groups that can benefit significantly from online testimonials include:

1. CPG brand managers: Thus, as custodians of brand integrity, brand managers have the critical task of ensuring that packaging and labels properly adhere to brand guidelines, down to the smallest detail. As a result, review cycles involve internal teams and external organizations/suppliers, where there is a concerted effort to achieve equity.
2. Regulatory/legal teams: Compliance checkpoints now play an essential role before art files get the green light for production. So, these teams need a user-friendly way to navigate their review and approval process smoothly, ensuring all legal boxes are ticked before moving forward.
3. Packaging engineers: Now, even minor manufacturing flaws, such as discoloration or mismatched text, can be significant issues when the press hits the scales. Engineers rely on diagnostic tools to capture this information quickly, preventing costly mistakes.
4. Creative/agency teams: Creative and agency teams tasked with bringing creativity to life rely on artwork approval software to seamlessly incorporate input from multiple stakeholders. This software lets them quickly update their artifact files, reducing the need for lengthy analysis and ensuring efficient and consistent workflow.
5. Project managers: Because effective project management is essential, project managers require identification of project status, approval processes, and the ability to push stagnant reviews based on priorities. This visibility empowers them to keep projects moving, address challenges quickly, and maintain momentum for successful project completion.

Essentially, artwork approval software provides value for everyone who invests in the packaging artwork supply chain – from creators to regulators to business teams. It provides a dedicated online platform for collaborative approval throughout this process.

How Can Artwork Approval Software Help?

Label and artwork management software is intended to streamline the proofing approval workflow for packaging artwork, labels, branding assets, and other creative files. It solves all the major pain points that plague traditional email-based review cycles. Let’s explore the key features and capabilities that make it such a game-changer:

1. Enable seamless collaboration across internal teams, external agencies/suppliers, compliance reviewers, and other stakeholders: All eligible people are placed in a centralized online proofing environment. Feedback won’t get lost in separate email channels.
2. Robust version control capabilities: Make sure everyone is always working on the latest file changes. You can easily compare changes to see what changes have been made. 
3. Audit trail: Document any actions, comments, and decisions related to approvals made during the process. This advanced diagnostic capability makes it easier to identify problems, prove compliance, and understand why certain decisions were made.
4. File downloading and viewing permissions: User activity is restricted correctly based on workflow steps. This protects your digital assets from unintended sharing or premature leaks.
5. Insightful dashboards: Provide visualization of project status, approval processes, cycle times, and more. There are no more opaque “black boxes” surrounding artistic development.
6. Private commenting channels: Allow your internal team to talk “backward” without disrupting the main research thread. This is perfect for quick alignment before giving a summary.
7. Native plugins/extensions: Make installing apps like Adobe Photoshop foolproof, and start viewing and installing new versions directly from your creative tools.
8. Rich visual annotation & commenting capabilities: The administrator can directly add details, suggestions, and symbols to relevant areas of the evidence. There are no more ambiguities that need further clarification.
9. Attach reference files: Include their notes to provide meaningful design context. Throwing packaging dye-line into the mix makes alignment checks much more manageable.
10. Checklist features: To confirm mandatory pre-approval checks, you must meet branding guidelines, legal/regulatory compliance, and publishing issues.

So by using these top 10 artwork approval features, you can cut down revisions by 50% and significantly increase the project turnaround period.  

Kick Off Your Artwork Approval Process with GoVisually’s Software Today

In summary, relying on email for packaging review and approval solves chaos. Let’s face it: the constant back and forth, lack of context, loss of feedback, and lack of accountability add up quickly. Not to mention the high risk of falling into creating artistic flaws.

So, what is the solution? The answer lies in specialized design approval software that provides a centralized online proofing environment explicitly designed for creative content such as packaging files, branding, and assets.

With powerful features like visual presentation tools, automated version control, comprehensive audit trails, and enforceable approval workflows, this solution transforms an otherwise messy, opaque process into a transparent and creative collaboration that works well.

Now, what’s next? If streamlining stressful approval cycles by catching packaging mishaps before they’re done sounds appealing, it’s time to explore artwork approval software options. Tools like GoVisually streamline CPG for frequent packaging changes in many internal and external stakeholders. They are precisely tailored to meet the specific needs of the products.

By ditching those endless email threads in favor of a purpose-built online proofing system, your teams can save significant time while de-risking your entire artwork supply chain. Less rework, more accountability, smoother collaboration – these are some tangible benefits you can realize.

In conclusion, take a closer look at artwork approval software and see how it can transform a persistent organizational headache into a finely tuned process for your brand. Painless packaging approvals are undoubtedly well within reach with the right tool in place. 

Why not get started today with Label Artwork Approvals by GoVisually?

The post Emails Are Painful. Explore How Artwork Approval Software Can Transform Your Packaging Approval Process. appeared first on GoVisually.

Understand that effective collaboration and streamlined workflows are crucial for businesses to succeed in today’s fast-paced digital world. And to do that, you need to have a seamless review and approval process for creative projects like design, marketing campaigns, or content creation.

GoVisually, the #1 online proofing tool, has recently introduced a game-changing feature: approval checklists.

So in this article, I’ll be covering the following:

• Top challenges with a traditional review process
• Benefits of using checklists for review and approval
• GoVisually’s approval checklist feature and its winning advantages

I’ll also discuss how checklists can revolutionize your review process, enhance collaboration, improve efficiency, and boost productivity.

Let’s dive in!

3 challenges of the traditional review process

Let’s first understand the common challenges faced during the traditional review process. These can help you understand how checklists help eliminate all these anomalies.

The top challenges include: 

1. Version control nightmares

Keeping track of multiple versions of a project can be a daunting task. In a traditional review process, it becomes more of a hassle as there is no automation to track and control version history.

So, without a streamlined system, it’s easy for feedback to get lost or for team members to work on outdated versions.

2. Communication gaps

Ineffective communication leads to delays, misinterpretations, and a lack of clarity in feedback. Communication gaps are likely to occur without a centralized and automated review process. This can hinder the progress of a project and impact the final quality.

3. Tedious and disorganized feedback

Providing feedback through long email threads or scattered comments can be confusing and time-consuming. This inefficiency hampers the overall review and approval process.

Introducing GoVisually Approval Checklists!

At GoVisually, we work with a simple motto, do what great looks like!

We recognized the need for a more efficient review process and have responded with a powerful new feature: approval checklists.

With our approval checklists, teams can enhance collaboration and streamline their workflow by creating custom, task-specific checklists that stakeholders must review and mark before approving. 

Let’s explore how this feature addresses the challenges faced in the traditional review process.

1. Version control made easy

Using checklists, GoVisually simplifies version control by allowing users to organize and track revisions easily.

Each checklist item corresponds to a specific change or revision, ensuring that feedback is clear, concise, and actionable. This eliminates confusion and ensures everyone works on the project’s latest version.

Imagine you’re a graphic designer working on a website redesign project. With GoVisually’s checklists, you can create checklist items for each element that needs revision, such as the logo, color scheme, and navigation menu. This allows the stakeholders to provide feedback on each item, ensuring the revisions are implemented accurately.

2. Enhanced collaboration and communication

GoVisually’s checklists enable seamless communication among team members, eliminating the need for lengthy email threads or confusing comment chains.

With checklists, stakeholders can provide feedback directly on specific checklist items, ensuring that all feedback is consolidated in one place. This real-time collaboration fosters clear communication and accelerates the review process.

The approval checklist feature can significantly reduce errors across your marketing approval workflow.

Let’s say you’re a marketing manager reviewing a social media campaign proposal. With GoVisually’s checklists, you can provide feedback on each checklist item, such as the campaign objective, target audience, and messaging. The creative team can address each item individually, ensuring that all feedback is addressed systematically.

3. Streamlined feedback and approval

Checklists make the feedback process more organized and efficient.

With the ability to break down feedback into individual items, reviewers can provide specific, granular feedback that is easier for the creative team to implement. As items get checked off the checklist, it visually represents progress and completion, making the approval process more streamlined and transparent.

Consider a content creation project where multiple stakeholders must review and approve blog posts. GoVisually’s checklists allow reviewers to provide feedback on each paragraph, heading, or image within the blog post. This granularity enables the content creators to address each item systematically, resulting in faster approvals and a smoother workflow.

4. Customizations and personalizations

Our approval checklists make the feedback process more customized and personalized to your brand needs.

Using the feature, you can create personalized to-do lists tailored to the unique requirements of each project. This helps you define the tasks and items stakeholders must review for your creative work.

5. Multiple checklists for rocket fast review

Although this is a pro plan feature, it’s the one I love the most!

The need for this stems from the difference in each approval process. We understand that different groups of stakeholders may have distinct approval criteria. That’s why our feature allows you to display specific checklists to other sections of people.

With multiple checklists, you can ensure fewer mistakes and increased efficiency.

3 instant benefits of using approval checklists for your review process

Let’s explore the 3 key benefits this feature brings to your workflow:

1. Increased productivity and efficiency

According to McKinsey, improving collaboration and streamlining workflows can increase productivity by up to 25%.

And using checklists can save valuable time by eliminating back-and-forth communication and reducing the number of revisions. This efficiency boost allows your team to focus on delivering high-quality work within shorter timeframes.

2. Improved accuracy and quality

With checklists, reviewers can provide specific and detailed feedback, ensuring that revisions are precise and accurate.

This helps your creative and approval team understand the required changes by addressing each checklist item, resulting in a higher-quality output. And it effectively reduces the chances of misinterpretations and rework, ultimately saving time and resources.

3. Enhanced transparency and accountability

Checklists provide a transparent view of the review process, enabling stakeholders to track progress and identify any bottlenecks.

The visual representation of completed checklist items gives a sense of accomplishment and motivates team members to meet deadlines. Additionally, the accountability factor ensures that everyone stays on track and takes ownership of their assigned tasks.

Embrace the power of checklists with GoVisually!

Convinced yet?

Our approval checklists feature is a winner; you must try it today.

By leveraging the feature, you can unlock a new level of collaboration, quality, and success in your creative projects. So, embrace the future of review and approval processes with GoVisually’s approval checklists.

Sign up for GoVisually today and experience the power of approval checklists in streamlining your review and approval process.

The post How to use checklists for a fast review and approval process? appeared first on GoVisually.

Utilizing these tools as a creative team member can significantly enhance your design presentations, gather valuable feedback, and facilitate seamless communication, regardless of your team’s location.

In this article, we’ll explore the following tangents:

• Who needs a screen sharing software?
• 6 top features to look for in a great screen sharing tool
• 6 best screen sharing tools (with winning features)
• Integrating GoVisually to 10x your workflow productivity

Let’s begin!

Who needs screen-sharing software?

Whether you’re a remote worker, a team member, a client, a content creator, or an IT support professional, screen sharing tools can significantly enhance your ability to connect, review and collaborate.

Remote workers and telecommuters

The rise of remote work and telecommuting has transformed the way we work. For individuals working from the comfort of their homes or coffee shops, screen sharing software becomes an indispensable companion. 

Best screen sharing tools allow remote workers to collaborate in real-time, share presentations, brainstorm ideas, and even deliver training sessions. With screen sharing, you can virtually recreate the experience of being in the same room, fostering teamwork and productivity.

Team members and colleagues

Even within traditional office settings, screen-sharing software proves invaluable. It enables colleagues to hold effective virtual meetings where everyone can simultaneously view the same documents, spreadsheets, or presentations. 

By providing a visual context, screen sharing eliminates misunderstandings and streamlines decision-making. No more emailing files back and forth or struggling to explain complex ideas over the phone; just seamless collaboration at your fingertips. 

Clients and external stakeholders

In the business world, impressing clients and stakeholders is crucial.

Screen sharing software lets you easily showcase your products, services, or project progress. Whether you’re giving a sales presentation, conducting a product demo, or seeking feedback, screen sharing enhances the client experience and builds trust.

Clients can actively participate, ask questions, and provide input, fostering a sense of involvement and collaboration beyond mere words.

IT support professionals

Imagine you’re an IT support professional faced with solving a technical issue for a remote worker. Screen-sharing software becomes your solution! 

Instead of relying on vague descriptions or lengthy phone conversations, you can visually see the problem in real time. With remote access and control features, you can even troubleshoot the issue directly on the user’s computer, saving time and minimizing frustration. 

Screen sharing empowers IT professionals to provide efficient and practical support, regardless of physical distance.

Educators and trainers

In education and training, screen-sharing software unlocks a world of possibilities. 

Teachers and trainers can conduct interactive online classes, share educational resources, and provide real-time feedback to students.

Whether explaining complex concepts, showcasing multimedia content, or facilitating group discussions, screen sharing makes distance learning engaging and immersive. It opens doors to remote training sessions, webinars, and workshops, reaching learners across the globe.

6 features to look for in a screen-sharing software

To help you navigate through the options, here are six key features to look for in screen sharing software that will enhance your online interactions.

Intuitive user interface

When selecting screen sharing software, opt for an intuitive user interface solution. Look for easy-to-set up and navigate software, ensuring a seamless experience for hosts and participants.

With a user-friendly interface, you can save time and avoid frustration by focusing on your content instead of struggling with complex controls.

High-quality screen and audio sharing

Effective communication relies on clear visuals and crisp audio.

Prioritize screen sharing software that delivers high-quality screen sharing capabilities, enabling participants to see your content clearly. Additionally, ensure the software offers reliable audio transmission so your voice comes through without interruptions or distortions.

A seamless visual and audio experience enhances engagement and understanding during virtual meetings and presentations.

Interactive collaboration tools

Collaboration is critical in today’s digital landscape.

Look for screen sharing software that provides interactive collaboration tools to foster engagement and teamwork. Features such as annotation tools, whiteboarding, and document sharing allow participants to contribute and provide real-time feedback actively. 

These tools promote effective brainstorming, problem-solving, and idea sharing, making virtual interactions more dynamic and productive.

Cross-platform compatibility

Compatibility across different platforms and devices is crucial in our diverse tech ecosystem. Ensure that the screen sharing program you use is compatible with Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android.

This flexibility ensures that participants can join your screen sharing sessions regardless of their devices. Cross-platform compatibility promotes inclusivity and encourages collaboration across teams with diverse technology preferences.

Security and privacy measures

Protecting your sensitive information is paramount in the digital age. Look for screen sharing software that prioritizes security and privacy. 

End-to-end encryption, password-protected sessions, and user authentication give further layers of security to your shared content.

Strong security measures instill confidence in participants, ensuring your discussions and data remain confidential and secure.

Recording and playback capabilities

Recording your screen-sharing sessions can be invaluable for future reference or sharing with absent participants. Consider screen-sharing software that offers recording and playback options.

This feature allows you to capture essential discussions, save them for later review, or share them with team members who couldn’t attend the live session.

The ability to record and playback sessions promote knowledge retention and facilitate effective collaboration, even across different time zones.

Plus, this makes the information more accessible to people.

Top 6 screen sharing tools for creative teams and online collaboration

And with that, the wait is over.

Here are the top 6 screen sharing tools for seamless online creative review and collaboration.

1. Loom

Loom is a cloud-based screen recording and screen sharing app that is sleek and simple to use. Creative teams worldwide use it to review changes in a document or design and share it with their teams. 

Here are the key features of using Loom:

Chrome extension

It comes with a chrome extension – you can click on that and instantly start your screen-recording.

Yes, that’s all you need to do to be able to record yourself, the screen, or both simultaneously and instantly! 

Easy sharing options with a link

Loom also allows you to edit your video and share it. The app gives you a unique URL to share your video with others for access.

This is incredibly convenient, as it removes the focus from uploading, downloading, and sending content and instead places it on a more straightforward, lighter way of communication. 

User-friendly interface

There are no complicated controls when it comes to Loom; everything is quite simple to get a grasp on. The user-friendly interface allows you to learn to record and share your screen efficiently and quickly.

So, if you’re looking for an app that doesn’t frazzle your brains with complexities, Loom is your best friend!

No cost – it’s free

Yes, Loom offers all these terrific features and tools for free! Yes, no additional costs or fees are involved, and you can access all of the app’s features for free. 

So, if you prefer their apps to be simple, straightforward, easy to navigate, and free, consider Loom. 

2. Screencastify

Next on the list is another super simple app, Screencastify, enabling you to communicate easily with your peers. Like Loom, Screencastify has a Chrome extension, too, which makes it a great screen sharing tool.

Here are the features that make Screencastify one of the best screen sharing tools:

Annotation tools

Not only does Screencastify help you record videos at sonic speed, but it also allows you to edit them where necessary.

The app offers a powerful annotation tool to “capture and hold” your audience’s attention.

The tool includes a mouse spotlight, a drawing pen tool, and click highlighting – all of which help you create engaging content for your audience. 

Speedy and easy sharing

The app specifically focuses on making the sharing process as fast as possible. How does it achieve this? It does so by taking care of all the heavy lifting for you. 

Different pricing options

You can avail of two different options when it comes to Screencastify. One, you can invest a minimal amount and access their features soundlessly.

So, if you don’t mind spending a penny or two to have intelligent and efficient software, do all the work for you.

However, The second option allows you to use the app for free! Although certain restrictions are imposed if you choose to use Screencastify for free, it is still a great option if your work is not extensive. 

3. Snagit

Number three is Snagit, another swift tool that could make screen sharing more accessible and comfortable for you!

TechSmith offers this software with “built-in advanced image editing and screen recording, ” enabling it to be a go-to for all your screen-sharing needs. 

So, what makes Snagit so great? Let’s take a look at its key features.

Record meetings

What makes Snagit such a great option is that unlike some of the other apps we have discussed, it has to be installed onto your desktop. This allows it to capture your activity as it happens – including any Zoom/Skype meetings or Google Hangouts.

So, you can record your entire video conference without using any fancy equipment. 

Minimal cost

Snagit is a paid app, but it is pretty cheap compared to other software costing a limb and a leg.

For a one-off payment of $62.99, you get many features to make your life easier. You may have to pay for updates eventually, but even that cost is minimal so that you don’t end up unnecessarily straining your pockets.

Advanced editing

When it comes to editing, Snagit indeed offers way beyond others.

In addition to helpful annotation tools like highlighting and drawing, it offers a “simplify tool” that transforms standard screenshots into simple graphics, making your content even more engaging.

4. Recordit

Have you ever wanted to share your screen – but via a GIF?

Recordit is a GIF-based screen sharing software that is unique and quite productive, and effective at what it does.

Here’s a short list of what it offers:

Convenient sharing

The videos you record using RecordIt are not encoded; everything happens on the Web, so the videos are public.

What does this mean?

Well, it means you can conveniently share your content with anyone you like without downloading or uploading videos! 

Compatible with Mac and Windows

Recordit is optimized to work for both Mac and Windows – so whether you’re an Apple user or rely on your desktop computer, Recordit has you covered. 

Zero cost!

Yes, RecordIt is free! You can avail of all its features and record your screen for up to 5 minutes for free. Certain upgrade features are paid-only, but the free version will likely suffice for minimal work. 

5. Vidyard

The next one on the list is Vidyard.

With a tagline, “Video to Close Distance,” Vidyard aims to make screen sharing as fast and efficient as possible.

It is great for office work, as the software is targeted explicitly at segments such as Sales Teams, Corporate Comms, and Marketing Teams, which makes it the go-to option for the corporate environment. 

Here are some of the other features that make Vidyard an effective tool for screen sharing:

Add the human element to your content

Vidyard claims to add the “human element” to your communication and screen sharing experience.

What this essentially means is that you can fully control the recording and editing aspect of your videos! Vidyard ensures that the work you create does not look half-hearted or mass-produced.

Ad-free hosting and video management

With Vidyard, you don’t have to worry about ads. Your hosting process and video management will be as swift as possible, devoid of pesky ads. Vidyard promises high-quality video streaming wherever you are or whoever your audience is. 

Wide Range of Pricing Options

Vidyard offers different price options, so you can easily pick a package following your needs.

These packages range from $0 (yes, there is a free option!) to paid plans. Check their website for complete pricing options.

6. Zappy

Zappy by Zapier is one of the fastest ways to share screenshots, screen recordings, and gifs with your team members. You can even link them with other applications and share them with the team.

Let’s look at some of the other features that make Zappy stand out:

Free cloud hosting

If you have a big creative team that shares recordings frequently, then the free cloud hosting would greatly help you! You can upload all your gifs, screenshots, and screen recordings here.

However, this feature only comes with a paid subscription to Zappy.

Annotations for easy screen sharing

You can highlight the critical bit in the screenshot using annotations. They come in various colorful arrows or drawings that you can add. So make your screen sharing fun and interactive with Zappy annotations.

Integration with other applications

One of the best parts of using Zappy is that it can be easily integrated with other applications. These include Slack, Microsoft Team, Gsuite, and many more. It makes screen sharing easier and helps circulate screenshots easily among team members.

GoVisually – best tool to review and approve creative collateral faster.

Are you tired of the endless back-and-forth emails, confusing file versions, and missed deadlines often come with reviewing and approving creative collateral? 

GoVisually has revolutionized online creative collaboration, and it’s time for you to onboard!

Whether you’re sharing and reviewing images, videos, PDFs, or even pesky PSD files, GoVisually has your back. 

Here are some of our winning features that our million+ customers love!

Various annotation tools 

Let your creativity flow freely with the help of GoVisually’s wide range of annotation tools that facilitate the process.

GoVisually offers an array of annotation tools that make it easy to provide feedback. 

Want to highlight specific areas?

Add arrows and boxes!

Need to leave detailed comments?

Go ahead and type away! 

With its powerful features, you can effortlessly communicate your vision to your team, ensuring they understand your requirements accurately.

Seamless collaboration even on the go!

Collaboration is the key to success, and GoVisually knows it. 

Invite your team members, clients, or stakeholders to join the project and share their thoughts. One great thing about GoVisually is that you cannot limit the number of reviewers you can have.

Share the project’s review link; your collaborators can access the files and leave their comments without hassle. 

Plus, whether traveling, lounging at your favorite café, or prefer working from your mobile device, you can access your projects, review files, and leave comments conveniently anywhere.

Organized data and notifications

Gone are the days of sifting through endless email threads or searching for the latest file version. 

GoVisually keeps everything neatly organized in one place. All the comments, annotations, and versions of your creative collateral are correct at your fingertips.

This streamlined approach ensures that you never miss any valuable input, and you can keep track of the project’s progress with ease.

Effortless revisions and feedback collection

GoVisually’s revision management feature simplifies the entire process for you. No more confusion over file names or lost iterations!

Each revision is labeled and categorized, allowing you to compare and evaluate changes quickly. With GoVisually, managing revisions becomes easy, and you’ll stay on top of your project’s evolution.

Engage in collaborative conversations

Clear and effective communication is vital for successful collaboration. GoVisually makes engaging in meaningful discussions with your team and clients a breeze. 

You can address questions, provide clarifications, and have conversations directly within the platform. It’s like having a virtual meeting room where ideas flow freely.

Stay on track with GoVisually!

We know how crucial it is to meet those project deadlines. 

With GoVisually and a screen sharing tools power duo, you’ll never miss one.

So, what are you waiting for?

Sign up for a free trial of GoVisually today!

The post 6 top screen sharing tools for online review and collaboration appeared first on GoVisually.

But the problem is which review and approval apps to use to ensure efficient workflow. And you don’t end up signing up for incompatible software.

You can easily track changes and approvals on your team’s content projects with the right approval software. However, with the wrong one, you might struggle to keep up with numerous back-and-forth requests.

So in this article, I will let you in on the only 3 review and approval software you need for an easy and simple workflow.

Let’s begin!

But wait… why is a review and approval software important?

Let’s start with the basics.

Have you ever had to send a project or document to many people for their feedback? 

It can be challenging to track who has and hasn’t responded. That’s where review and approval software comes in! It’s a fantastic tool that lets you handle everything in one place.

Firstly, it saves you time and stress. With the right software, you no longer have to stress whether others have viewed your work. You can effortlessly send reminders and automatically track their progress, freeing up your time to focus on other tasks.

But there’s more.

Using review and approval tools can help you create better and improved work. This is because it allows you to receive feedback from multiple people. This can help you see various viewpoints and ideas you might not have considered. 

Plus, it’s essential to identify any errors or difficulties early on to correct them before they become more challenging to fix.

So, if you’re tired of the back-and-forth of sending your work out for approval, it’s time to switch. You’ll be surprised by the significant improvement in the efficiency and organization of your workflow.

4 features to look for in a review and approval software

Here are a few essential things to keep in mind if you are searching for the best review and approval software for your team’s workflow in 2023:

• Collaboration: Excellent review software should have collaboration features that make it easy for your team to add comments and suggest changes. This promotes effective teamwork and helps ensure that everyone’s ideas are heard.

• Security: Keeping your content safe and secure is paramount. Top-notch review and approval software should have robust security features to prevent unauthorized access to your data.

• Sharing: Depending on your project’s size and scope, you may need to grant different access levels to other team members. Good software should allow you to easily assign various permission levels, such as editing, commenting, or viewing.

• Version tracking: Keeping track of changes made by different team members is essential for ensuring project progress and avoiding lost work. Good review and approval software should allow you to keep track and revert to earlier versions if necessary.

The only 3 review and approval software you need in 2023

GoVisually – for creative review and approval

Looking for the best review and approval software? GoVisually is the perfect solution!

With GoVisually, you can streamline the review and approval process through online proofing software. This efficient tool allows seamless collaboration with your team, resulting in fast and productive outcomes.

The interface of GoVisually is highly user-friendly, enabling even those without technical expertise to utilize it efficiently. You can effortlessly upload proofs, invite team members for review and approval, and monitor real-time changes.

Top features

• Commenting and markup tools: Reviewers can leave comments and markup on the proofs, making it easy for you to see what changes need to be made
• Automatic version control: GoVisually keeps track of different versions of your proofs, so you can easily compare changes and see progress over time.
• Custom branding: You can add branding to your proofs, making them look professional and polished.
• Real–time notifications: You’ll receive notifications when a reviewer leaves feedback so that you can stay on top of everything in real-time.
• Adobe extension: With the GoVisually Adobe Extension, you can easily upload your designs from Adobe Creative Cloud and start the review and approval process directly from within the app.

These are just some of the fantastic features of GoVisually. It’s an investment that will save you time and energy and make your workflow more efficient. So, don’t forget to sign up for a free trial today!

Wrike – for project management

If you’re looking for a powerful and intuitive work management platform to boost collaboration, productivity, and workflow simplicity, Wrike should be on your list. Wrike is popular among 20,000 happy customers, including industry giants like Hootsuite and Tiffany & Co. 

Top features 

• Tasks: Create, assign, and prioritize duties with due dates, dependencies, and recurring options in a simple drag-and-drop interface.
• Projects: Plan your projects with a calendar view and custom views to match your needs.
• Project monitoring: Keep track of your projects with real-time updates, custom dashboards, and reports.
• Task management: Organize your tasks with folders, projects, and auto-assignment based on task statuses.
• Wrike for marketers: You can get a separate product with tailored templates, proofing tools, and an Adobe extension that integrates seamlessly with other popular tools such as Salesforce, Dropbox, Slack, and Adobe Creative Cloud.

Google Docs – for easy content review

Looking for a tool to streamline your document review and collaboration process? Google Docs is the perfect solution for you!

You’ll hardly find someone unaware of the powerful Google Docs. It’s a must-have for all the remote teams, and that too for all the good reasons! 

Top features

• Collaborative Editing: With Google Docs, multiple team members can edit a document simultaneously, even if the team is not in the same area. 
• Commenting: You can submit recommendations and comments for improvement, which the document owner can accept or reject. This enables quick team communication and input, keeping everyone on the same page.
• Templates: Google Docs includes templates for resumes, project reports, and other documents. This makes it easy to create professional-looking documents without starting from scratch.
• Integration: With Google Docs connected with other Google services, such as Google Sheets, and Google Slides, you can efficiently work or switch among them without losing your content. 
• Free: Google Docs is available for free to use. This makes it an affordable solution for small firms, freelancers, and individuals.

Final word

Finding the best review and approval software for your team’s workflow in 2023 is critical to success.

And hopefully, with the 3 software, you can streamline your review and approval workflow process, save time, and achieve better results.

While you set things up, sign up for GoVisually’s free trial to unlock your full work potential.

The post The only 3 review and approval software you need in 2023 for simple workflow appeared first on GoVisually.

If you are – you’re not alone.

Optimizing the review and approval process to get feedback and finalize assets is getting crazier by the day. Primarily because there are too many stakeholders involved internally and externally.

On top of that, not practicing the right methods to get this done can create problems too.

The right review and approval processes or feedback loops can make a huge difference in your work. They can help you avoid frequently making the same mistakes and build better relationships with your customers or employees.

So, in this article, we’ll explore the ins and outs of the feedback loops and discuss the best review and approval practices to help you approve creative collateral in minutes – not days!

Why do you need a review and approval process?

Have you ever worked on a project and felt like getting feedback and approvals was never-ending?

That’s where the review and approval process comes in. It’s the system of gathering input, revising, and finalizing a project or content.

Imagine you’re a graphic designer working on a new ad campaign.

You’ll likely create initial designs and send them to your team or client for review. They’ll provide feedback, and you’ll make changes accordingly. This process can repeat several times until everyone is satisfied. 

The review and approval process is essential because it ensures that everyone involved is on the same page and that the final product meets the necessary standards. It also helps reduce the risk of errors or mistakes going unnoticed, saving time and resources in the long run.

That is why having a well-defined process feedback loop is crucial to continually evaluate and improve the work.

What is the feedback loop?

The feedback loop is a way of gathering information about something you did, analyzing it, and then using it to improve your performance next time.

For instance, you made a digital design that didn’t turn out right. Getting feedback from other team members allows you to determine what went wrong and make specific adjustments.

Why do you need feedback loops?

Feedback loops are an absolute must if you’re a business owner, a team leader, or just someone who wants to keep improving. And the good news is, with feedback loop software, you can make the whole process much easier and more efficient.

So, if you still need to start using feedback loops, it’s finally time to start!

Feedback loop examples for an easier review and approval process

Feedback loops are an essential aspect of our daily life. They’re immensely helpful to business owners, team leaders, and freelancers looking to receive, analyze, and improve their work.

There are six examples of feedback loops. 

1. Employee performance feedback loop. 

In this feedback loop, employees receive regular feedback from their managers or peers on their performance, which they can use to improve and continue to grow. This feedback can be through one-on-one meetings, performance reviews, or ongoing coaching and development.

Receiving feedback is essential for personal growth and development, and it also helps ensure that everyone is aligned with the company’s goals and objectives.

One of the significant advantages of implementing an employee performance feedback loop is its impact on employee engagement and satisfaction. When team members feel their contributions are valued and recognized, they are more likely to be motivated and committed to their work. 

Additionally, ongoing feedback can help employees build stronger relationships with their managers or colleagues, fostering a culture of open communication and trust.

2. Customer feedback loop 

The customer feedback loop is one of the feedback loop examples. This loop involves businesses collecting customer feedback on their experiences with products or services and using that feedback to improve and better meet customer needs. This feedback can come through surveys, reviews, or other feedback mechanisms.

Regular customer feedback can help businesses gain valuable insights into customer needs and expectations. This helps them make informed decisions about their products or services and improves customer satisfaction and loyalty. This can eventually lead to more sales. 

Implementing a feedback loop also shows your customers that you value their opinions and are committed to meeting their needs. This can increase customer loyalty and advocacy, as happy customers are likelier to recommend your business to others.

3. Learning feedback loop 

This is the type of feedback where learners receive feedback on their progress and performance and then use it to adjust their learning strategies and improve their outcomes. This feedback can come from teachers, tutors, or even automated systems that track progress and provide personalized feedback.

Through the learning feedback loop, individuals can set goals, receive feedback on their progress, and make adjustments as needed to continue moving forward. This can help them to develop their strengths, overcome their weaknesses, and achieve their goals.

The learning feedback loop also promotes a growth mindset. This mindset allows individuals to face challenges and view them as opportunities to learn and grow rather than obstacles that must be avoided.

4. Personalized feedback loops

This type of feedback loop is also quite common. This involves designers and engineers gathering user feedback on product prototypes and then using that feedback to improve and create a better end product. This feedback can come from focus groups, user testing, or other feedback mechanisms.

An effective personalized feedback loop is about understanding individual needs and goals. You can provide them with helpful, practical, and constructive feedback. This kind of feedback analyzes the problem and provides clear guidance on what needs improvement and how individuals can achieve their goals.

Personalized feedback loops are incredibly important because they allow individuals to grow and develop. This kind of feedback can be a huge motivator, as individuals can see how their efforts impact their progress and growth.

5. Sales feedback loops 

This feedback loop involves sales teams receiving feedback on their performance and using that feedback to adjust their sales strategies and improve their results. This feedback can come in sales reports, customer feedback, or coaching from sales managers.

A sales feedback loop typically involves gathering customer feedback, analyzing it, and using it to adjust the sales strategy. This process involves tracking customer preferences and observing purchasing behaviors. This way, sales teams can understand what techniques are working well and what can be improved.

Implementing a sales feedback loop can help businesses gain valuable insights into customer needs and preferences. It can also help identify sales trends so businesses can adjust their strategies accordingly. When businesses are better equipped to meet the needs of their customers., it can lead to increased sales revenue and customer satisfaction.

6. Quality control feedback loops 

This type of feedback loop involves organizations collecting feedback on an organization or service quality and then using that feedback to improve their processes and ensure better quality in the future. This feedback can come from quality control teams, customer complaints, or other mechanisms.

Top 10 best practices for optimizing the review and approval process

1. Clearly define roles and responsibilities

It is important to set clear roles and responsibilities for each team member to ensure a smooth review and approval process. Everyone should know their job, who they should report to, and how the workflow should be carried out.

Having clearly defined roles and responsibilities helps create an efficient review process by ensuring everyone is on the same page. It also ensures that all tasks are completed promptly and that time is not wasted. For example, if one team member is responsible for proofreading content before it goes out to the client, they know exactly what needs to be done and when it needs to be done.

Clearly defining roles and responsibilities for each team member in the review process can ensure that everyone knows their job and can work together efficiently towards a common goal. This will help ensure the review process runs smoothly with minimal delays or mistakes.

2. Establish deadlines and follow them

Establishing deadlines is a great way to ensure your review and approval process runs smoothly and efficiently. Setting clear expectations around when tasks must be completed ensures that all stakeholders are on the same page and working towards the same goal.

Setting deadlines also helps to create a sense of urgency, which motivates team members to stay focused on their tasks. It also encourages collaboration by ensuring that everyone is aware of what needs to be done and when it needs to be done.

For example, if you need an illustration for your blog, you could set a deadline of two weeks for the digital illustrator to complete it. This gives them enough time to brainstorm ideas, create and share the design for feedback with you without feeling overwhelmed or rushed. Once the design is completed, you could set another deadline for when it should be reviewed and approved by other stakeholders for it to go live on your website or blog.

3. Create a review and approval workflow for the team

Let’s say you’re working on a project with a team of people, and it can be overwhelming to keep track of what’s been reviewed and approved. That’s where a review and approval workflow can help!

Imagine you’re creating a new product for your company. Here’s an example of a simple review and approval workflow for the product:

First, the product team creates a prototype and sends it to the design team for feedback. Then the product team revises the prototype based on the feedback and sends it back to the design team for final approval. Once the design team approves the final prototype, it goes to the marketing team for review and approval to launch.

This workflow lets everyone know what they need to do and when. This helps ensure the product is reviewed and approved efficiently, without confusion or delays.

4. Use feedback loop software

When optimizing the review and approval process, it’s important to establish feedback loops. A feedback loop is a system that allows for comments, suggestions, and criticism to be given at various stages of the process. This helps ensure that issues are addressed early on and everyone is on the same page.

Imagine you’re working on a design project with a remote team. Using collaborative software, you can work together in real-time, making changes and providing feedback on a shared document. This can help speed up the review and approval process, even if team members are in different parts of the world.

Looking for the best feedback loop software to optimize the review and approval process?

We got you!

GoVisually 

GoVisually is an excellent online proofing and feedback loop software that makes the creative review and approval process easier for designers, marketers, and creatives. It provides a platform where users can upload design files, share feedback, and track revisions all in one place.

So, you can eliminate the endless email chains and gather feedback on a single platform!

Features

GoVisually allows users to collaborate in real time, making it easy for teams to work together and stay on track.

Here are some of its prominent features:

• File Sharing: Users can upload design files in a variety of formats, such as PDF, JPG, PNG, and PSD.
• Real–Time Collaboration: Team members can collaborate and provide real-time feedback, reducing the time and effort required for the review process.
• Version Control: GoVisually automatically saves previous versions of designs, making it easy to track changes and revert to previous versions if needed.
• Annotations and Markup: Users can add comments and annotations directly on the design file, making communicating specific changes or suggestions easy.
• Customizable Workflow: GoVisually allows users to customize their workflow to fit their needs. This ensures that the review process is streamlined and efficient.

Pricing

GoVisually offers different pricing plans to fit the needs of different users. They offer a 14-day free trial with all features included. Here are the pricing plans:

• Basic: This plan costs $20 per monthly seat and includes 50 projects and 50 GB of storage.
• Professional: This plan costs $25 per monthly seat and includes 300 projects and 150 GB of storage.
• GoVisually also offers a custom plan. You can contact their teams for the pricing.

5. Identify the reviewers and approvers

Another important factor in optimizing the review and approval process is identifying who will review and approve each content or project. This helps ensure that everyone is on the same page. When everyone is keenly aware of their role, the process moves smoothly and efficiently.

For example, let’s say you’re working on a new software product for your company. While creating the product, you should ensure the key stakeholders who need to review and approve the product. This includes the product manager, development team, and quality assurance teams. Identifying these reviewers and approvers can ensure that everyone is involved in the process and that the product meets the requirements.

Once you’ve identified the reviewers and approvers, it’s important to communicate with them effectively. This might involve setting up regular meetings, providing updates on the project, and sharing relevant information. This way, you can ensure the review and approval process runs smoothly and efficiently.

6. Start numbering the versions

Optimizing the review and approval process involves linking comments to content versioning and aligning version numbering around review rounds. This means that each version of the content should be labeled according to the review round it’s in, and comments should be linked to specific versions.

By linking comments to content versioning and aligning version numbering, it’s easier to keep track of changes and ensure that everyone is working on the most up-to-date version. This also helps to ensure clarity and a timely review process.

For example, let’s say you’re working on a new proposal with your team. You create the first version of the proposal, and your team provides feedback through comments. You make the necessary changes and create a second version of the proposal.

And finally, you label this version “Round 1.” Your team provides more feedback; you can label the next version as “Round 2” and so on. This helps keep track of all the previous comments and changes.

7. Set clear expectations from the review process

Having clear expectations for the review and approval process is critical for success. This means communicating with your team members about their roles, responsibilities, and timelines regarding a project. 

Let’s say you’re working on a marketing campaign that involves different teams, such as creative, legal, and marketing. Team members need clarification about their roles and responsibilities or what’s expected of them so that it can lead to clarity, mistakes, and delays. This can delay the process of review and approval. 

Therefore, clear expectations ensure everyone understands what is required and follows the same review and approval process. This can streamline the workflow efficiently. It also helps to reduce revisions and back-and-forth communication between teams. 

When team members clearly understand the project’s end goal and expectations, they are more likely to produce high-quality work that meets the desired outcome.

8. Invest in creating automated workflows

Automated workflows are like having a personal assistant that helps you stay on track with the review and approval process. They take the repetitive tasks off your plate so that you can focus on the important stuff.

For example, let’s say you’re part of a team creating a new marketing campaign. You can set up an automated workflow that automatically sends the draft to the creative team for feedback, the legal team for approval, and the marketing team for final approval before it goes live.

Automated workflows help ensure everyone is on the same page, nothing falls through the cracks, and the process is completed quickly and efficiently. Plus, it frees up your time to focus on other tasks. This way, you can improve productivity and reduce stress.

9. Eliminate redundancies

Have you ever gone through the same steps multiple times during the review and approval process? It can be frustrating and time-consuming. That’s why it’s essential to identify redundancies in your workflows to optimize the review and approval process.

One way to do this is to examine your review stages and identify unnecessary work. Sometimes using the same review process for subsequent revisions can result in wasted effort. It’s important to consider how much time you can save if you don’t repeat the same steps throughout the review and approval process.

Another way to eliminate redundancies is to determine which teams need to collaborate and when they should do so. Doing this can streamline the review process and reduce the required steps.

For example, suppose you’re working on a marketing campaign with a team of designers, copywriters, and project managers. In that case, you can identify the stages where each team needs to provide input and collaborate, such as content creation, design, and final approval. Doing so can reduce the time and effort spent on the review and approval process.

10. Analyze results to keep making improvements

Lastly, continuous improvement is vital to optimizing the review and approval process. It involves consistently looking for ways to enhance the process to make it more efficient and effective. This way, teams can continually identify and address improvement areas in the review and approval process.

Collecting feedback after each review and approval stage establishes a feedback loop. This feedback loop allows teams to identify areas of improvement and make necessary adjustments to the process. This lead to continuous improvement. 

Teams can also track metrics such as the time to complete each review stage and the number of revisions required before final approval to identify opportunities to streamline the process.

The importance of continuously improving the review and approval process cannot be overstated. By continuously evaluating and enhancing the process, teams can reduce errors, save time, and improve the quality of their output. 

Also, the review and approval process becomes more efficient and streamlined, resulting in faster delivery times, increased productivity, and greater customer satisfaction.

Final word

Collecting employee, customer, and stakeholder feedback is crucial to understanding how to improve your products, services, and overall business strategy.

We hope that you liked our top 10 tips to help improve your review and approval process.

Share feedback with us?

And if you implement any of these practices, we’d love to hear how it went for you!

The post 10 best practices for optimizing the review and approval process appeared first on GoVisually.

But don’t worry – there are alternatives out there that can help you streamline your workflow and get more done. 

In this post, we’ll explore the top 8 Filestage alternatives that promise to boost your productivity and leave those frustrating delays behind. Whether you’re a creative professional, project manager, or part of a bustling marketing team, these tools might just be the upgrade you’ve been looking for.

3 top reasons to look for an alternative to Filestage

Here are some reasons why you should use Filestage alternatives:

1. Notification issues

Unreliable or “buggy” notifications can detour your entire project. Unfortunately, some users have faced this issue while managing their workflow with Filestage. The need for updates and lost information is also a problem often faced by Filestage users. 

2. Limitations with Google Docs integration

Some users have also reported difficulty striking or highlighting text which limits Google Docs integration. This hinders the Filestage review and approval process and wastes time. 

 3. Restrictions in the reviewer selection process

Sometimes, the person who submits the document cannot be the reviewer disrupting the smooth workflow. This creates barriers and slows down the approval process. 

4. User Interface Issues:

Some users find the interface to be unintuitive and lacking in modern design elements. They mention that navigation can be cumbersome, which affects the overall user experience.

Top Filestage alternatives for you to switch to in 2024

1. GoVisually – the #1 Filestage alternative

GoVisually is your best-fit solution if you need a collaborative cloud-based platform to create, share and manage your design assets. The client management software for creatives combines ease of communication with powerful reporting and data analysis, streamlining the design process.

Its user-friendly and appealing interface effectively communicates complex information, making it our top choice in Filestage alternatives. 

Here’s why GoVisually is a better alternative to Filestage.

1. Allows batch upload and easy sections: You can upload review collateral in batches and easily sort them into sections or different folders. This way, you reduce the risk of misplacing an important asset. And it saves time by allowing team members to access files easily.

 2. More clarity with markup tools and annotations: Lack of clarity and confusion can derail the project and cause serious implications. With GoVisually’s advanced markup tools, you can highlight and annotate changes directly onto the image, video, or PDF.

 3. Watermark feature for asset protection: Creative ownership is a huge responsibility, and GoVisually takes that seriously! With its watermark feature, you can protect your work until its ready to be delivered.

 4. Global settings for easy reviewing: GoVisually has global settings that apply to all projects and design reviews. This way, you don’t have to change or add a setting every time you upload new material to be reviewed.

 5. Proof from anywhere in the world: An online proofing system can make your life easier if you work with a remote team.  And with GoVisually, you can do just that. We help teams become borderless and allow you to leave feedback for your team from anywhere in the world.

 6. Integrations with Adobe CC and 3000+ other apps: GoVisually makes your entire content creation and review process easy and simple with 3000+ integrations and other productive apps and software. You can even integrate it directly with Adobe CC to create and review designs in one go.

Pricing 

• Solo: GoVisually’s Solo plan begins at $9/month, making it a cost-effective choice. This option is tailored for individual users and small teams with modest project needs, keeping things budget-friendly.
• Lite: This plan costs $49/month and is ideal for small teams with limited projects. Under this plan, you can add 3 team members with 50 active projects and 50 GB of storage.
• Pro: This plan begins at $99/month and is ideal for teams who need pro features. It also allows 3 team members but with more projects and more storage. 
• Enterprise: This plan costs about $999/month with advanced features like custom project size, unlimited reviewers, a dedicated account manager, and more. Contact the team to find the specifics for yourself. 

Note: The pricing of the tool is flexible, so refer to the pricing page here for the updated figure. 

Verdict: GoVisually has an intuitive and user-friendly interface that effectively  communicates complex information. On the contrary, Filestage can be clunky, making it hard to switch from one review lane to the next without dragging and dropping. Additionally, GoVisually takes lesser time to upload large files, whereas Filestage consumes a lot of time, comparatively.

2. Ziflow

Ziflow is an AI-powered annotation software that automates the workflow by providing streamlined review and approval processes. This annotation tool streamlines creative approvals and reviews by aggregating feedback from multiple stakeholders, prioritizing suggestions, and supporting team discussions.

Key Features:

• Offers automated review workflows and notifications
• Ziflow’s custom views feature allows users to locate and organize proofs
• Offers version management to maintain multiple versions of the file in a single place
• Automated workflow, which proves to be very useful in saving time.
• Offers seamless integrations with design and project management software

 Pricing:

• Free: $.0 Ideal for creatives and freelancers. Ideal for small-scale projects and individual workflows.
• Standard: $199/month (billed yearly). Suitable for growing businesses and busy agencies. 
• Pro: $329/month (billed yearly). Tailored for scaled teams requiring advanced collaboration. 
• Enterprise: Custom pricing. Suitable for large organizations with complex workflows. 

 Verdict: ZiFlow can be a better alternative in two ways. It can be operated through a  mobile app, giving it a distinct and beloved advantage over Filestage. Secondly, their free plan is also a deal breaker for small-scale businesses or individual professionals.

3. Wrike 

Wrike is a collaborative platform for work management. Applauded for its customizability, Wrike gives your team complete freedom to modify it according to their marketing and project management needs.

Key Features:

• Data is secured and backed up.
• It manages tasks and organizes feedback.
• Helps in the creative process as well as the approval process.
• Supports multiple file formats including images, documents, videos, and web pages
• Offers easy external feedbacks through guest reviews
• Facilitates deadline-sensitive planning
• Offers seamless integration with commonly used apps including Adobe Creative Cloud, XD, MediaValet, Experience Suite, and DAM

Pricing:

• Free Version: Offers free version with limited seating
• Team: The program for smaller teams costs $9.80/month per user
• Business: Full business features cost $24.80/month per user
• Enterprise: Custom plan and pricing for larger teams
• Pinnacle: For teams with complex needs

Verdict: Wrike offers a free and affordable version for growing teams, which makes it cheaper than Filestage while providing the essential features. 

 4. PageProof:

PageProof is a proofing software that helps businesses increase the efficiency of their workflow while keeping track of feedback and approval. This software is best suited for creative and marketing teams. 

Features:

• Lets you annotate, comment and reply to other proofreaders’ comments.
• Offers detailed reviewing of a variety of video and audio formats.
• Enhanced zoom and other image scrutiny tools
• Automated workflow makes it easier to keep track of all the collaborative work
• Compatible with creative workspaces like Adobe

Pricing:

• Team Plan: This plan costs $199/month for unlimited users
• Team Plus: It costs $329/month with additional features

Verdict:PageProof allows better integration, extensive video and photo editing features, and good review and commenting systems, making it a desirable option for creative teams.

5. WebProof

WebProof is a user-friendly proofing platform that automates the process of collaboration and marketing for teams. It organizes all the projects in order so that they are easier to keep track of.

Key Features:

• Through WebProof, you can publish content on multiple platforms simultaneously.
• You can edit directly in Adobe InDesign.
• Instant notifications are sent through text messages.
• Live project updates are displayed in an overview panel.

 Pricing:

• Enterprise Plan: $9.8/user per month for the WebProof A 
• Platinum Plan: $12/user per month for the WebProof platinum plan

 Verdict: Undoubtedly an affordable option among review and approval tools, WebProof minimizes the hassle and boosts the flow rate for all your projects.

 6. WorkFront:

WorkFront is a project management software that helps plan and manage tasks. WorkFront aims to boost the productivity of your work by analyzing what is working in favor of the company’s goals and what is not, taking into account the feedback and reviews sent in by your stakeholders.

Key Features:

• Keeps track of daily tasks following the team’s goals.
• Enables the user to compare project plans to choose the more effective one.
• Every team member is kept updated through a dashboard that keeps track of the project-specific workflow at all times.
• The team and the client are all involved and working together, saving everyone’s time and energy.

Pricing: Adobe WorkFront’s pricing starts from $30/month and differs from customer to customer according to their desired plan and requirements. 

Verdict: Adobe WorkFront can be an ideal choice for large-scale businesses due to its highly organized workflow management system. Its ability to be operated through mobile phones gives it a benefit over Filestage, which does not provide this cross-platform accessibility.

7. QuickReviewer

QuickReviewer is the one proofing software where all creatives unite. Whether you are working on audio or visual content, QuickReviewer can help you through the proofing and approval process in minimal time and with minimal input.

Features:

• Provides a split screen feature to compare two versions side by side.
• Comments can be made and interacted with.
• Customizable Email notifications.
• You can customize statuses according to your workflow.
• It is available in multiple languages.
• You can also send audio comments in QuickReviewer.

 Pricing:

• A free version is available
• It costs $29/month for QuickReviewer Pro, and up to 10 members can use it
• It costs $84/month QuickReviewer Premium, and up to 20 members can use it

Verdict:QuickReviewer’s features are similar to those of Filestage, but its availability in multiple languages makes it appeal to a more diverse user base. It also provides a free version, unlike Filestage, which doubles as a good introduction for newbies to the software.

8. Frame.io

Frame.io is a collaborative video-sharing and reviewing platform. It is a product of Adobe and is widely used all over the world. It’s a cloud-based video collaboration platform that streamlines the post-production process. It offers real-time commenting, version control, and seamless integration with major editing software, enabling teams to review, approve, and deliver video projects efficiently. 

Key Features:

• Enables the user to share videos
• Tracks feedback
• Provides integration with a large number of apps
• Facilitates workflow management
• Provides a watermark ID feature that tightens security
• Enables the user to draw their edits on a frame
• Editors can see their notes corresponding to each frame in their timeline
• You can also use the app on Apple devices

 Pricing:

• A free version is available
• Frame.io costs $15/user per month for the pro plan
• The team plan costs $25/user per month for the team plan

 Verdict: Filmmakers and businesses that work with videos should consider Frame.io as one of their top options. It ensures high-quality video content and is one of the few review and approval software fully accepted by iOS. 

GoVisually is a fast, accurate, and affordable Filestage alternative! 

Faced with countless options for these online proofing apps, business owners usually have difficulty settling for one that fits snugly into their list of requirements and budget.

And while almost all Filestage alternatives offer a standard set of essential features, a select few provide additional functionality that gives them more edge over the others, such as GoVisually. 

With advanced and easy-to-use features, the design feedback tool ensures that feedback is accurate, quick, and easy for everyone.

So, unlock the power of seamless collaboration with GoVisually today.

The post 8 Filestage alternatives to switch to for increased productivity appeared first on GoVisually.

Organizations are embracing digital transformation more than ever today. The objective is to optimize their workflow process and augment performance.

And to do that, everyone is now looking for a cloud-based solution to automate task management and improve collaboration. One such solution is Ziflow which allows you to step up your collaboration game. 

However, like any other software, this one has its limitations or specific target areas that may not work for you – which is why you’re here!

So if you’re searching for Ziflow alternatives, read about the top 9 Ziflow alternatives and the features that make them stand out.

Why do you need a Ziflow alternative?

Ziflow is a remarkable design feedback tool for marketing teams that want to improve their review and approval process.

However, it may not be a right fit because of its functionality or pricing. Here are the top 3 reasons we’ve found that people make the switch for.

1. Slow loading times

Users consistently report frustrating delays when working with Ziflow, especially with larger files. These slow loading times create bottlenecks in the approval process and cause team-wide delays. As one G2 reviewer notes: “We experienced a few lags while using Ziflow, especially when working with larger files during peak usage times.”

When every minute counts in your creative workflow, waiting for files to load can significantly impact your team’s productivity and project timelines.

2. Limited notification features

Although the elaborate notification feature keeps the team updated on the project’s progress, it falls short compared to other leading alternatives in the market.

Remote teams work on the move and want software that keeps them on top of things on the go with a push notification on a mobile app or an in-app notification center. Unfortunately, Ziflow misses this front as it doesn’t offer such a feature. 

The constant flood of email notifications from Ziflow might get too overwhelming for the users. The software falls short in this area as it clutters users’ inboxes with email notifications. With inboxes being a big part of our daily lives, even the top document review and approval solutions need to respect them and keep them tidy.

3. Complex set up

Ziflow is not the most user-friendly option for less tech-savvy users. If you are working with clients or colleagues who aren’t that tech-smart, it might be worth exploring Ziflow alternatives for a user-friendlier option. 

Features to look for in Ziflow alternatives

Look for the following capabilities in Ziflow alternatives to accelerate the creative feedback and approval process: 

1. Various files types

You must choose an online proofing system that supports multiple file formats. It should let you proof everything from PDFs to videos, images, and Microsoft Office documents. Doing so will help you boost productivity by accommodating multiple workflows and projects. 

2. Customizable email notifications 

You can improve the overall efficiency of the review and approval process using customizable templates. You can use these templates to send out invitations, updates, and notifications to streamline communication between you and the reviewers. 

3. Shared workspace 

A shared workspace boosts productivity by allowing team members to collaborate easily on design projects. Choose a proofing system that lets you optimize the review process by allowing you to track changes on the stored files. 

4. Adobe CC Integration

Improve collaboration between designers and stakeholders by choosing software that easily integrates with Adobe Creative Cloud tools, including Photoshop and Illustrator. Ensuring efficient collaboration allows you to optimize workflow and improve performance. 

5. Version history and comparison 

Improve accuracy and save time by choosing an online proofing program that compares different document versions. Track changes in real time to shorten the approval process. 

6. Guest commenting and users capacity

You must choose an online proofing software that allows guest users. You can streamline the feedback and approval process by adding clients or external stakeholders to improve communication and collaboration. 

Choose an online proofing system that supports unlimited users. This helps you take on new projects and embrace growth as your business evolves and your team grows. This helps accommodate your business every step of the way. 

7. Dropbox or Google Drive integration 

Simplify accessing and uploading files with the right online proofing software. Choose a program that easily integrates with sharing and file storage tools such as Dropbox and Google Drive to increase efficiency. 

8. Pricing 

Get more bang for your buck with the right online proofing system by offering various pricing options. Choose the online proofing system that fits your budget like a glove. 

Top 9 ZiFlow alternatives to choose from.

Let’s analyse the top 9 Ziflow alternatives and understand why they are better than Ziflow.

1. GoVisually – the #1 Ziflow alternative

GoVisually is the ultimate collaboration and approval workflow booster for creative design and marketing teams.

The cloud-based platform offers various tools for collaboration, project management, version control, real-time feedback sharing, and more. It is designed for simplicity and efficiency in visual collaboration. It provides tools for marking up designs directly and collecting feedback in real-time, making it ideal for teams focused on quick iterations for design and creative content.

GoVisually also supports 3000+ integrations (with Zapier) to make your workflow straightforward and efficient.

So if you’re looking for a solution that resolves all the above mentioned Ziflow problems in one go, GoVisually is your tool. Now we may sound bias because its our tool, so we picked one random Capterra review that backs our claim.

Features

1. Real time collaboration

• Live updates & synchronization: Allows multiple team members to work simultaneously with instant sync of changes across all users.
• Interactive comments: Enables precise annotations and comments directly on designs for clear feedback.
• Revision tracking: Records all changes in real-time with a comprehensive version history.

2. User interface

• Customizable workspaces: Allows users to personalize their workspace layout and settings.
• Real time preview: Shows instant visualization of changes and feedback as they happen.
• Clean layout: Features well-organized menus and straightforward navigation.

3. Integration capabilities

• Project management tools: Connects seamlessly with popular project management platforms.
• File compatibility: Supports wide range of design and creative software file formats.

4. File support

• Multiple format support: Handles PNG, PSD, PDF, MP4, MOV, GIF, and JPG files.
• Design software integration: Works smoothly with major design software while maintaining file integrity.
• Preview functionality: Offers convenient file uploads with instant previews.

Additional features

• Mobile access: Available on web, iPhone, and Android platforms.
• Version control: Maintains clear audit trails of design iterations.
• Storage: Provides up to 150 GB storage (Pro plan).
• Project management: Supports up to 250 active projects (Pro plan).
• Deadline management: Allows setting due dates and deadlines.
• Team collaboration: Enables unlimited reviewers (Enterprise plan).

Pricing 

• Free: No free plans, but offers free trail
• Lite ($49/month): For small teams and limited projects.
• Pro ($99/month): Teams who need more projects and storage space.
• Enterprises ($999/month): Team who need complexity and scale.

Note: The pricing keeps changing, so you can refer to the official pricing page for an up-to-date pricing plan.

2. Filestage 

Filestage software is a cloud-based solution that allows companies to share, review and approve files on a common platform accessible to multiple users simultaneously. 

Features:

1. Workflow automation

• Intelligent automation: Streamlines repetitive tasks and organizes review processes automatically.
• Customizable approval flows: Enables teams to tailor workflows according to their specific needs.

2. Real time collaboration

• Annotation tools: Provides pinpoint accuracy in feedback with intuitive annotation capabilities.
• Instant notifications: Keeps team members informed with immediate updates about changes and feedback.

3. Interface design

• Simplified navigation: Features an intuitive layout that minimizes complexity and distractions.
• Collaborative dashboard: Offers centralized overview of project statuses, deadlines, and updates.

Pricing:

• Free, starts with 0$ with limited projects.
• Basic Plan: $49/month
• Professional: $249/month

3. Frame.io

Frame.io offers an online review and approval platform for files in video format. It is considered the world’s most popular collaborative platform, and hundreds of thousands of filmmakers use it worldwide. 

Features

• Real time collaboration: Enables pinpoint feedback with time-stamped discussions and frame-accurate commenting for precise team communication.
• High precision review tools: Delivers professional-grade playback with frame-by-frame navigation and customizable viewing settings for detailed reviews.
• Workflow management: Streamlines organization through customizable metadata fields and comprehensive project tracking capabilities.
• File handling & support: Supports multiple file formats while maintaining high-quality preview capabilities throughout the review process.
• Adobe ecosystem integration: Offers seamless integration with Adobe applications through direct plugins for Premiere Pro, Lightroom, and Final Cut Pro.
• Version control: Provides automated version tracking with side-by-side comparison tools for efficient iteration reviews.

Pricing:

• Free: 0$
• Pro: $15/month/member
• Team: $25/month/member
• Enterprise: Custom

4. Wrike 

Wrike is a collaborative project management platform that offers customized solutions to businesses to increase their output, manage workload and put their best work out. 

Features:

• Real-time collaboration: Offers task assignment and tagging features for seamless communication, enabling in-context collaboration directly on tasks. Notifications keep teams aligned on updates.
• High-precision tools: Features interactive Gantt charts for visualizing timelines and milestones with real-time updates to minimize miscommunication.
• Workflow management: Allows automation of recurring tasks through customizable workflows to boost efficiency and save time on administrative work.
• File handling & support: Provides proofing and approval tools for digital assets, enabling centralized, actionable feedback without cluttered email threads.
• Integration capabilities: Integrates with over 400 tools, including Salesforce, Slack, and Microsoft Teams, for a connected ecosystem.
• Version control: Tracks changes and approvals with automated notifications, ensuring stakeholders stay updated with every iteration

Pricing:

• Free: 0$
• Team: $10/month/member
• Business: $24.80/month/member
• Enterprise: Custom
• Pinnacle: Custom

5. PageProof 

PageProof is an online platform that facilitates creative project review and approval. It aims to reduce time and cost and increase the output for companies. It is designed for marketing, design, and creative teams, it supports a wide range of file types, including videos, static images, PDFs, and Microsoft Office documents. 

Features:

• Centralized proofing: Simplifies collaboration with a single platform for reviews and approvals across various formats like PDFs, images, videos, and web links.
• Advanced security: Offers triple-layer encryption and ISO 27001 certification for data security and compliance.
• Extensive integrations: Seamlessly connects with tools like Adobe Creative Cloud, Monday.com, Trello, and cloud storage providers (Google Drive, Dropbox).
• Comment syncing: Directly integrates feedback back into Adobe apps, streamlining revision workflows.
• Audit history: Maintains a comprehensive audit trail for all proofing activities to ensure accountability and transparency.

Pricing:

• Team: $249/month
• Team Plus: $399/month
• Enterprise: Custom

6. QuickReviewer 

QuickReviewer offers a single platform to all creative staff working with audio, video, or audiovisual content. The user can provide access to the whole team to go through the review and approval process faster, with no software installation required. 

• Real-time collaboration: Enables live annotation and real-time comments on documents, videos, and web links, reducing review cycles.
• Custom branding: Allows custom branding of review portals, making it ideal for agencies and design teams.
• Multi-file proofing: Supports simultaneous review of multiple files, including videos, HTML content, and PDFs.
• Version comparison: Highlights changes between document versions, making it easy to track edits.
• Easy sharing: Simplified sharing via a link, no sign-up required for collaborators.

Pricing:

• Free: $0
• Pro: $35/month
• Premium $100/month
• Enterprise: Custom

7. Hightail 

Hightail is a file-sharing and creative collaboration platform designed to facilitate secure file transfers and streamline team communication. It supports file sharing across various formats, enabling users to upload, preview, and send files with ease. CThe platform is especially popular in creative industries like advertising and design, where large file transfers and real-time collaboration are essential.

Features:

• File sharing and feedback: Combines file sharing with an easy-to-use feedback system for media assets like images and videos.
• Approval workflows: Simplifies project approvals with visual markers for progress tracking and final approvals.
• Media-friendly: Supports high-resolution media previews and annotations for video and image-heavy projects.
• Collaborator access control: Offers granular control over permissions for team members and clients.
• Mobile accessibility: Provides mobile-friendly interfaces for reviews on the go.

Pricing:

• Lite: 0$
• Pro: $12/month/user
• Teams: $24/month/user
• Business: $36/month/user

8. ReviewStudio

ReviewStudio is a comprehensive online proofing and collaboration platform designed to streamline creative workflows. It is widely used by marketing teams, video production studios, and creative agencies to gather feedback, manage revisions, and facilitate approvals across various types of content, including videos, artwork, and promotional materials.

Features:

• Multi-format proofing: Reviews and proofing for video, web, images, and PDFs within one interface.
• Side-by-side comparison: Easily compare versions to track creative changes.
• In-app markup tools: Comprehensive markup tools for precise annotations, including drawing and text comments.
• Streamlined workflows: Automates review workflows with tasks and deadlines to keep projects on track.
• Detailed reporting: Generates reports on feedback and approvals for project management insights.

Pricing:

• Starter 0$
• Pro: $12/month/user
• Advanced: $20/month/user
• Enterprise: Custom

9. Wipster 

Wipster is a remote project management software for creative agencies with a worldwide team. It offers a seamless way of reviewing videos and creative content from anywhere and keeps all stakeholders updated in real time.

Features:

• Frame-accurate video review: Ideal for video projects, enabling frame-specific comments for precise feedback.
• Automated feedback tracking: Integrates feedback into tools like Adobe Premiere for real-time updates.
• Cloud storage integrations: Connects with Dropbox, Google Drive, and other platforms for seamless file management.
• Approval layers: Allows tiered approvals, accommodating complex workflows.
• User-friendly interface: Intuitive design that ensures rapid adoption by creative teams.

Pricing:

• Light: $9.95/month
• Team: $19.95/month
• Multi-team: $39.95/month
• Enterprise: Custom

Upgrade your review and approval process with GoVisually – the best Ziflow alternative!

If you are looking for an all-in-one client management software for creatives, check out GoVisually. It has everything from efficient project management to seamless collaboration and top-notch security.

So, what are you waiting for?

Boost your team collaboration and productivity with GoVisually today!

The post 9 Ziflow alternatives to use for enhanced workflow in 2025 appeared first on GoVisually.

It might be a great PDF annotation tool, but you’ll face roadblocks if you can’t run it on your Android phone, iPad, or other similar devices. This is especially true if you’re working on a PDF with other team members. 

It would be best if you had a tool that allows everyone to review, leave feedback, and approve on the go.

If you’re facing issues finding cross-platform PDF annotation tools that solve all of these problems, I have a solution for you!

This article will discuss the 5 best cross-platform PDF annotation tools.

Let’s start!

1. GoVisually – the #1 cross-platform PDF annotation tool

OS support: Windows, macOS, iOS & Android 

Device support: Web, mobile, & tablet

GoVisually is the #1 PDF annotation tool optimized for all devices. Even better, we have an Android and iOS app, which comes in handy when working on PDFs and needs a user-friendly interface on the go!

You can annotate PDF files from any device and highlight specific parts, making it easier to leave feedback on parts of a PDF page.

You can even annotate videos with GoVisually with exact time frame comments.

Features

• Revision tracking: You can resolve comments and coherently track revisions easily.
• Effective collaboration: GoVisually is optimized for cross-collaboration. So if multiple people or teams work on the same PDF, GoVisually’s advanced collaboration features will prove worthwhile. 
• Advanced permission controls: Advanced permission controls allow you to restrict file downloads and views. You can control who gets to view certain comments or download files. 
• Manage remote teams: GoVisually is built keeping remote teams in mind. The tool has features such as allowing everyone working on a PDF to chat within the tool and manage all feedback within one place. 
• Shareable review links: You can review a PDF, create a shareable link, and send it out. The link makes it easier for the person on the other end to refer to the comment made at a specific part of a PDF file. 
• Integrations: GoVisually integrates with thousands of different apps, including Slack, Gmail, Google Sheets, Trello, Asana, etc. You can link GoVisually as a PDF annotation tool with other tools to increase productivity. 

2. Foxit

OS support: Windows, macOS, iOS & Android 

Device support: Web, mobile, & tablet

Foxit is used by Fortune 500 companies, including Google, Amazon, Microsoft, and Intel. The renowned PDF annotation tool is optimized for all major devices and can integrate with any custom apps you’re developing.

It’s built for individual users, small businesses, and even large enterprises that require advanced capabilities. 

While individual users might be happy with basic functionalities, you can also use some advanced editing features with the Foxit Advanced PDF editor. 

Features

Some additional features that come up with Foxit include:

• Drawing tools: Foxit allows users to use drawing tools such as arrows, lines, clouds, rectangles, etc., as well as pencils and erasers to edit PDF documents. 
• Modify PDF: Foxit Advanced PDF editor has additional capabilities such as modifying images, converting text to path, changing image colors, etc. 

3. Xodo Pro

OS support: Windows, macOS, iOS & Android 

Device support: Web, mobile, & tablet

Xodo is an all-in-one PDF solution with two versions: Xodo and Xodo Pro. 

While the basic free software does not have cross-platform annotation capabilities, the paid pro version does. The tool is also available on Google Workspace with a different name, ‘PDF.online.’ 

Features

In addition to PDF annotation, Xodo Pro is intended to be a complete PDF solution with several added capabilities. These include:

• Converting documents: You can convert multiple documents into word, excel, PNG, JPG, etc. 
• Edit PDFs: You can compress, flatten, crop, fill PDF forms, and much more with editing capabilities in Xodo Pro. 
• Security: You can redact specific information on a PDF page.
• Compare text: You can compare the text in two PDF files and generate reports to find overlays or differences. 

4. Adobe Acrobat Reader

OS support: Windows, macOS, iOS & Android 

Device support: Web, mobile, & tablet

Adobe Acrobat provides software applications and web services to create, edit, and manage PDF files. The software also has PDF annotation capabilities to mark up, review, and collaborate on PDF files with support across all major platforms. 

Optimized for almost all major platforms, you can work on a PDF document by switching between devices and updating the file in real time. The tool is also great for team collaboration, enabling multiple users to work on a single PDF document simultaneously. 

Features

The tool comes with a lot of handy features like:

• Collect signatures: You can send signature requests and let people sign off on documents to mark them for approval. 
• Add a stamp: You can add a digital stamp to a document, similar to a stamp of approval on physical documents. 
• Import/export comments: You can import or export comments from one PDF document to another. 
• Shareable review links: You can create shareable links to your reviews and send them out to anyone to ask them to review a relevant comment in a PDF. 
• OCR: The OCR features allow you to convert PDF documents into text format. But beyond that, Adobe Acrobat can even enhance document photos to correct for inconsistencies such as lighting, the area outside boundaries, shadows, etc. 

5. Wondershare PDF element

OS support: Windows, macOS, iOS & Android 

Device support: Web, mobile, & tablet

A product by Wondershare, PDF element is a PDF annotation tool optimized for all major platforms. 

You can also use other products like Document Cloud to annotate PDFs on a cloud platform. However, there are certain limitations with annotating PDFs on the cloud. You can’t create, edit, or convert PDF to other formats with Document Cloud. 

Features

Besides having all basic features such as editing, converting, and signing PDFs, the tool has several additional features. 

• OCR: PDFelement’s OCR features allow you to scan PDFs and images to make them editable and searchable. 
• Convert: You can convert the document into other formats such as Word, Excel, PN, JPG, etc. 
• Fillable forms: PDFelement can recognize fields where data such as text and images can be entered. The tool can convert such fields into fillable forms. 
• Security: You can add an e-signature to your documents, protect PDFs using passwords, or even redact certain information within the PDF.

Work from any device, anywhere, anytime with GoVisually!

If you want the best experience across all devices and platforms, you should opt for the tool that allows you to do that.

Luckily for you, GoVisually is built for that purpose. Our vision is to become an essential tool in every creative review process, which is why we have features that aim to do that.

You can highlight, add notes, tag people in comments, sign off on comments, attach files to comments, add guest reviewers, and the list goes on!

Start a free trial today to step into advanced cross-platform PDF annotation.

The post 5 cross platform PDF annotation tools to use in 2025 appeared first on GoVisually.

If you’re a professional designer or illustrator, presenting your work to clients in the best possible quality is critical. However, to achieve that, you’ve to manage artwork, track tasks, and review designs while juggling other day-to-day tasks, which can be frustrating. 

Often, when you submit artwork for approval, you’ve to wait for days to get feedback, and chasing the client or even the internal team to approve feedback is another hassle altogether. This is why important to make artwork proofing easier and simpler. You need the right software to ensure your artwork can be reviewed and finalized within hours, not days!

This article will cover selecting the best artwork workflow management software for your creative business. Let’s start!

What is artwork proofing?

Artwork proofing is reviewing and approving a design before it goes live. This step is important to ensure that the final product meets your project’s requirements.

The proofing process usually begins with a digital proof, a low-resolution version of the design. However, if you’re using a good artwork proofing software like GoVisually, you’ll have the option to upload designs in high-res too. This allows you to get an idea of the overall look and feel of the piece. Once you have approved the digital proof, a high-resolution version is created and sent to you for review.

At this stage, the reviewing team should closely examine the artwork to check for any errors or changes that need to be made. Once satisfied with the design, you can sign off on the proof and send it to be published. 

Why use a content approval platform?

If you’re in the creative industry, you must know how important it is to get your proofs right. Not only do you need to ensure that the colors are accurate, but the composition is perfect. This ensures that the overall design is cohesive.

This is where artwork proofing software can help. It’s designed for creatives who need to prove their work before sending it to clients or printing it out. By using artwork proofing software, you can be confident your proofs will be accurate and your clients will be happy. You’ll find both paid and free proofing software on the market. Consider price, features, and compatibility factors when selecting artwork proofing software. 

When do you need to use artwork proofing software?

With artwork proofing software, you can be confident that your artwork looks great in every format before publishing. It lets you see how your artwork looks on various materials, including paper, canvas, and the web.

There are a few different types of artwork proofing software available on the market, so do some research and find the one that will work best for your needs. 

Features to look for while evaluating creative review software 

Choosing the right design approval software can take time and effort. But there are a few key features you should look for to ensure you’re getting the best possible product for your needs. 

Here are nine of the most important features to consider:

1. White label

A white-label online proofing solution will allow you to brand the software with your logo and colors, giving your business a professional look and feel.

2. Customizable email template

It is important to customize the email template sent to clients when they receive their proof. This way, you can include your branding and message, ensuring that every client interaction reflects your company in the best light possible.

3. Live website review

A live website review allows you to see how your proposed changes will look on your website before you make them live. This can be extremely useful for ensuring everything looks perfect before going live with your changes.

4. Shared workspace

A shared workspace gives all team members involved in the proofing process a place to collaborate on the changes. This can be extremely helpful in ensuring everyone is on the same page and avoiding confusion during the proofing process.

5. Files of every type

The main thing you should look for in online proofing software is the ability to support many file types. This way, you can be sure that the software can handle the files you need to work with, no matter what format they’re in.

6. Adobe cc integration

Your online artwork approval system must integrate Adobe Creative Cloud if you use its products for your design work. This way, you can easily share files between applications and ensure that everyone works with the most up-to-date versions.

7. Slow-motion video review

Some online proofing software includes reviewing video footage in slow motion, which can be extremely helpful when spotting small details or errors. If this feature would be useful, ensure that the software you’re considering includes it.

8. Versioning & comparison

Another important feature is the ability to keep track of different file versions and compare two versions side-by-side. This can be extremely helpful when trying to spot changes or track down errors.

9. Guest commenting

If you need to collaborate with people who don’t have access to the proofing software, then guest commenting is an essential feature. This allows people without accounts to leave comments on files, which can be invaluable for getting client feedback. 

10 best online artwork proofing software

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1. GoVisually – the #1 artwork proofing software for creative teams

GoVisually is a design and art approval software that helps creatives get feedback and approvals from clients quickly and easily. With GoVisually, you can upload your designs and artwork, add comments and notes, and invite clients to view and comment on your work. 

You can also track who has viewed your work and when, so you can follow up with clients who have yet to receive feedback. GoVisually makes it easy to get the feedback you need to make your designs and artwork the best they can be.

Pricing:

For solo entrepreneurs, our Solo plan is $20 per user per month. FYou can get the Team plan for $50, including unlimited users. For each additional user, you pay an extra $10.

Features:

• Annotate and review videos, images, PDF PSD Images, PSD, PDF, and GIFs
• Manage project revision
• Compare proof versions
• Add watermarks for protection
• Apply global settings to all projects and avoid the hassle of specifying settings again and again
• Rotate the proofs to annotate and leave the feedback from all sides
• Project dashboard to control everything
• Integrates with 1000+ apps using Zapier
• Integrates directly with Adobe CC

2. Workfront

Workfront is a project management platform built by Adobe. It offers many useful features that boost productivity, improve collaboration, and increase workflow efficiency.

The platform has a wide range of tools designed to help with project management, collaboration, and resource management. Another of Workfront’s great features is the ability to customize approval workflows.

Pricing:

Workfront offers three pricing models: the Enterprise Business and the pro plan. But the actual price for each plan will be made available on request. 

Features:

• Proof images, videos, audio, GIFs, and other content types 
• Updates on project workflow are sent through notifications.
• Compare versions side-by-side

3. Miro 

Miro is an online collaborative whiteboard app that can be used in real-time and asynchronously. With Miro, you’ll always have infinite virtual canvases to work with.

This platform enables you to gather feedback for iterations and reiterations of your design project in one place. You can post your design project and solicit feedback from stakeholders in different departments to ensure you’re heading in the right direction.

Pricing:

Miro offers three pricing models, including the team ($8 per member per month), Business ($16 per member per month), and Enterprise plans (price shared upon request) to its customers. 

Features:

• Documents, spreadsheets, images, and PDF file proofing
• Project templates
• Sticky notes

4. Filestage 

Whether freelancing or working at a design agency, Filestage will help simplify the approval process for your creative deliverables.

Filestage is very user-friendly, which makes it a great tool for facilitating remote collaboration. It allows for effective remote brainstorming and increased transparency regarding workflows.

Pricing:  

Filestage pricing starts at €10 per month and goes up to €270.

Features: 

• Proof images, videos, documents, text, and audio files
• Track project version
• Track the project’s progress 

5. Ziflow 

The Ziflow platform offers customers multiple tools to optimize their approval workflow. It streamlines the review process while providing collaboration opportunities to allow you more time for other tasks.

Pricing:

Ziflow offers four pricing options, namely, the Personal (free for one user, allows 30 proofs and 1GB/month), Starter ($20/month), Business ($40/month), and Enterprise (Price shared on request). 

Features :

• Ideal for proofing documents, images, audio, video, PSD, and websites
• Version Comparison available
• Track project status 

6. Markup Hero

MarkupHero is a collaborative tool that simplifies the artwork approval process by allowing you to add comments and communicate with your design team. A robust commenting system makes it easy to stay on top of all the changes.

In addition to being a great tool for creative teams, Markup Hero is an excellent choice for most design organizations. 

Pricing:

Markup Hero has three plans – two free ones and one paid version. One of the free plans is time-limited, meaning you can only edit markups for one day before they’re locked. The only paid plan offered by Markup Hero is the Superhero plan, which starts at $4 per user per month.

Features:

• Proof websites, PDFs, and images 
• Manage Artwork 
• Shareable links for collaboration 

7. GoProof

GoProof is an online artwork proofing tool that allows designers to collaborate with clients on projects using Adobe Creative Cloud. Not only does GoProof make it easy for developers to review designs, but design feedback is also made convenient by enabling users to get it with the Adobe tool.

Features: 

• Access to markup tools 
• Track project version 
• Automatically proof workflows 

8. PageProof

PageProof is a powerful online tool that lets you review and approve work quickly and efficiently, helping your team become more productive.

Pricing:

PageProof offers two plans – The Team Plan at $199 per month and the Enterprise plan prices are available only upon request.

Features:

• Proof PDF, Photoshop, Illustrator, DOC, PPT, JPEG, and video files.
• Create custom workflow 
• Proof Version Smart Review

9. ConceptShare 

ConceptShare is a cloud-based application that offers digital solutions for project teams and business operations of any size. Deltek created it, and it offers a variety of solutions through the web interface and mobile application.

The quick and relatively inexpensive ConceptShare proofing system is designed to improve production speed and lower the cost of your content management.

Pricing: 

The Core plan is designed for small businesses and agencies, including proofing and artwork review management features. The Enterprise plan offers enterprise-grade security and integrations with various platforms, giving your business extra storage space.

Get a 30-day free trial before you request a price quote.

Features:

• Proof images, documents, videos, and audio files
• Track artwork approval status
• Compare versions side-by-side
• Receive automated review notifications

10. QuickReviewer

QuickReviewer promises to help you make your go-to-market process for your campaign 400% faster.

What makes this product different from other artwork management systems? In addition to uploading different media types, you’ll be able to share with your team members, and everyone can provide feedback on each piece.

Pricing:

• The Essentials plan allows 5 users for $8 per month.
• The Pro plan allows10 users for $20 per month.
• The Pro+ plan allows 15 users for $35 per month.
• The Premium plan allows 20 users for $50 per month.

Features:

• Proof images live websites, videos, and audio files
• White labeling
• Control project version 

Get instant visual feedback with GoVisually – the best artwork proofing software!

Good artwork proofing software can save you time and money by helping you produce high-quality prints quickly and easily. With so many different options on the market, it can take time to figure out which one is right for you. With GoVisually, you can upload your images quickly and get instant feedback on quality, color, size, and composition.

Submit your work for review, then get instant feedback from the entire team with our leading artwork & design approval software.

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