Finding the Right Approval Tools for Ad and Creative Teams: Insights Backed by Research When it comes to choosing approval tools for ad and creative teams, market research shows that features like real-time collaboration and version control are often cited as game-changers. Analysis of thousands of customer reviews indicates that platforms such as Asana and Monday.com frequently receive high marks for their user-friendly interfaces and robust project tracking capabilities. On the flip side, some brands, despite flashy marketing, fall short on performance, leaving users frustrated; for instance, certain tools have been noted for lacking intuitive navigation, which can slow down workflow significantly. Data indicates that teams working on a tight budget may find Airtable to be a cost-effective solution without compromising essential functionalities. Users often report that it provides flexible data organization without the hefty price tag associated with other popular platforms. Why does everyone think you need to spend $$$ for effective workflow management?Finding the Right Approval Tools for Ad and Creative Teams: Insights Backed by Research When it comes to choosing approval tools for ad and creative teams, market research shows that features like real-time collaboration and version control are often cited as game-changers.Finding the Right Approval Tools for Ad and Creative Teams: Insights Backed by Research When it comes to choosing approval tools for ad and creative teams, market research shows that features like real-time collaboration and version control are often cited as game-changers. Analysis of thousands of customer reviews indicates that platforms such as Asana and Monday.com frequently receive high marks for their user-friendly interfaces and robust project tracking capabilities. On the flip side, some brands, despite flashy marketing, fall short on performance, leaving users frustrated; for instance, certain tools have been noted for lacking intuitive navigation, which can slow down workflow significantly. Data indicates that teams working on a tight budget may find Airtable to be a cost-effective solution without compromising essential functionalities. Users often report that it provides flexible data organization without the hefty price tag associated with other popular platforms. Why does everyone think you need to spend $$$ for effective workflow management? It's not just about the glitzy features—value comes from a tool's ability to integrate seamlessly with existing systems. Industry reports show that approval tools like Adobe Creative Cloud are commonly recommended for teams deeply embedded in design work, thanks to their superior design software integration. Plus, did you know that Adobe has a fascinating backstory? It started as a small software company in 1982 and has since transformed into a powerhouse that many creatives swear by. So when sifting through your options, remember: not all marketing claims hold water. Look for tools that meet your specific needs and can adapt to varying project demands—whether it's handling seasonal campaigns or managing large-scale creative projects. With thoughtful consideration backed by research, you can find the right fit without breaking the bank!
PageProof is designed specifically to streamline and fast-track content review and approval processes for marketing teams. It addresses the industry's need for quick, effective communication and collaboration, ensuring that marketing materials are accurate, on-brand, and ready for distribution.
PageProof is designed specifically to streamline and fast-track content review and approval processes for marketing teams. It addresses the industry's need for quick, effective communication and collaboration, ensuring that marketing materials are accurate, on-brand, and ready for distribution.
CENTRALIZED PLATFORM
Best for teams that are
Large teams or agencies benefiting from flat-rate pricing
Packaging designers needing color separation and smart compare
Security-conscious teams requiring ISO 27001 certification
Skip if
Solo freelancers or small teams with low proofing volume
Teams preferring per-seat pricing models over flat rates
Users looking for a free forever plan for basic use
Expert Take
Our analysis shows PageProof stands out for its flat-rate pricing model that includes unlimited users and storage, removing the friction of per-seat costs common in this sector. Research indicates it is the only platform with patented triple-layer encryption and ISO 27001:2022 certification, ensuring pre-release assets remain secure. The 'Smart Compare' features provide pixel-level precision that is essential for high-stakes marketing approval workflows.
Pros
Unlimited users, storage, and proofs
Flat-rate pricing ($249/mo)
ISO 27001:2022 certified security
No login required for reviewers
Patented triple-layer encryption
Cons
Interface can feel clunky to some
Occasional upload glitches reported
Dashboard search can be difficult
High starting price for small teams
Limited flexibility in some workflows
This score is backed by structured Google research and verified sources.
Overall Score
9.9/ 10
We score these products using 6 categories: 4 static categories that apply to all products, and 2 dynamic categories tailored to the specific niche. Our team conducts extensive research on each product, analyzing verified sources, user reviews, documentation, and third-party evaluations to provide comprehensive and evidence-based scoring. Each category is weighted with a custom weight based on the category niche and what is important in Approval Tools for Ad and Creative Teams. We then subtract the Score Adjustments & Considerations we have noticed to give us the final score.
9.3
Category 1: Product Capability & Depth
What We Looked For
We evaluate the breadth of supported file types, workflow automation capabilities, and precision proofing tools like version comparison.
What We Found
PageProof supports over 1,200 file types including Adobe CC, video, and HTML, featuring patented 'Smart Compare' tools and automated workflows.
Score Rationale
The score is high because the platform offers industry-leading file support and unique 'intelligence' features like color separation and font analysis, surpassing standard proofing tools.
Supporting Evidence
Includes automated workflows with decision thresholds and automatic reminders. Fly through approvals with automated workflows and reminders... Decision thresholds specify how many decisions are required before the proof moves on.
— pageproof.com
Features 'Smart Compare' to highlight differences in pixels, fonts, and colors between versions. Smart Compare... highlights differences between versions with precision – from pixel-level adjustments to invisible details like font changes, color profiles, linked assets, metadata, and resolution.
— pageproof.com
Supports review of static artwork, video, audio, HTML, email, and 3D content with over 1,200 supported file types. PageProof brings all your creative content – documents, design, video, audio, web, and more – into one secure, browser-based review environment.
— pageproof.com
Features enhanced collaboration tools such as real-time commenting and annotation, outlined in the product documentation.
— pageproof.com
Supports various file types including PDFs, images, and videos, as documented on the official product page.
— pageproof.com
9.4
Category 2: Market Credibility & Trust Signals
What We Looked For
We look for security certifications, user ratings from verified platforms, and adoption by established marketing teams.
What We Found
PageProof holds ISO 27001:2022 certification and patents for its encryption, backed by high ratings (4.8/5) on major review platforms.
Score Rationale
The score reflects exceptional trust signals, particularly the ISO 27001:2022 certification and patented encryption which are rare differentiators in this category.
Supporting Evidence
Holds patents for triple-layer encryption technology in the US, EU, NZ, and Australia. PageProof's use of encryption in review and approval is a world-first – in fact, patented in the US, European Union, Australia, and New Zealand.
— pageproof.com
Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars based on user reviews on G2. PageProof reviews... 4.8/5
— g2.com
Maintains ISO 27001:2022 certification for its Information Security Management System. PageProof... today announced that its information security management system (ISMS) has achieved the latest ISO 27001:2022 certification
— blog.pageproof.com
8.6
Category 3: Usability & Customer Experience
What We Looked For
We assess the ease of onboarding for external reviewers, interface intuitiveness, and the quality of customer support.
What We Found
Reviewers require no login, which streamlines external feedback, though some power users report interface clunkiness and navigation issues.
Score Rationale
While the 'no login' feature for reviewers is a major usability plus, documented complaints about dashboard navigation and interface quirks prevent a higher score.
Supporting Evidence
Users praise the platform for being user-friendly and easy to implement across departments. The platform is so easy to use, anyone can learn. It was easy to implement across all our different departments.
— g2.com
External reviewers can mark up proofs without needing to create an account or log in. No need for your reviewers to login or sign-up, we make it easy to leave feedback.
— g2.com
Intuitive user interface designed for ease of use, as described in user guides.
— pageproof.com
9.4
Category 4: Value, Pricing & Transparency
What We Looked For
We evaluate pricing models for hidden costs, per-seat restrictions, and overall value for marketing teams.
What We Found
PageProof offers a flat-rate model ($249/mo) with unlimited users, storage, and proofs, providing exceptional transparency and scalability.
Score Rationale
The flat-rate, unlimited model is a significant value driver compared to competitor per-seat pricing, earning a near-perfect score for transparency and scalability.
Supporting Evidence
Plans include unlimited reviewers and unlimited file types with no hidden storage costs. Every plan includes the full power of our review and approval tools – with unlimited reviewers, unlimited file types... No add-on charges for storage.
— pageproof.com
Pricing is a flat rate of $249/month for the Team plan, including unlimited users and storage. Team... $249/month for your team. Unlimited proofs, & storage.
— pageproof.com
Offers a free trial and enterprise pricing options, providing flexibility for different business needs.
— pageproof.com
9.1
Category 5: Integrations & Ecosystem Strength
What We Looked For
We look for native connections with creative tools (Adobe, Figma) and project management systems (Asana, Monday).
What We Found
PageProof offers deep, native integrations with the full Adobe Creative Cloud, Asana, Monday.com, Slack, and Figma.
Score Rationale
The integration suite is robust and covers the essential tools for creative workflows, justifying a score above 9.0.
Supporting Evidence
Integrates directly with project management tools like Asana, Monday.com, and Trello. PageProof integrates seamlessly with leading project management... including... monday.com, Asana, Microsoft Teams, Slack
— pageproof.com
Provides native integrations with Adobe Creative Cloud apps including InDesign, Photoshop, and Premiere Pro. For designers, an essential two-way integration with Adobe Creative Cloud design apps to quickly create proofs and see clear, concise feedback
— pageproof.com
Integrates with popular tools like Adobe Creative Cloud and Slack, enhancing workflow efficiency.
— pageproof.com
9.8
Category 6: Security, Compliance & Data Protection
What We Looked For
We examine data encryption standards, compliance certifications, and features protecting pre-release intellectual property.
What We Found
The platform utilizes patented triple-layer encryption, ISO 27001:2022 certification, and offers data sovereignty options for enterprise clients.
Score Rationale
This category achieves a near-perfect score due to the combination of the latest ISO standards, patented encryption methods, and data residency options.
Supporting Evidence
Enterprise customers can select specific data residency regions from 14 global locations. Enterprise customers can nominate a data location that best fits their organization's needs. As of September 2024, a choice of 14 data regions is offered
— blog.pageproof.com
Uses patented triple-layer encryption where data is encrypted before, during, and after transmission. This next-generation approach to encryption takes data encryption to a new level by encrypting data prior to transmission from your device, during transmission, and post transmission.
— pageproof.com
Adheres to strict security protocols, including encryption and secure data handling, as outlined in their security documentation.
— pageproof.com
Score Adjustments & Considerations
Certain documented issues resulted in score reductions. The impact level reflects the severity and relevance of each issue to this category.
Long-term users note that the dashboard search and organization can make it difficult to locate specific past proofs.
Impact: This issue had a noticeable impact on the score.
Users report interface clunkiness, such as difficulty distinguishing comment markers and intrusive UI animations (e.g., seasonal cursors) that hinder functionality.
Impact: This issue caused a significant reduction in the score.
StreamWork's Approval Workflow Software is a boon for creative teams, streamlining the review and approval process for creative files. It allows professionals in the ad industry to effortlessly track and implement client feedback, irrespective of the version number of the creative files.
StreamWork's Approval Workflow Software is a boon for creative teams, streamlining the review and approval process for creative files. It allows professionals in the ad industry to effortlessly track and implement client feedback, irrespective of the version number of the creative files.
CLIENT-FRIENDLY
Best for teams that are
Marketing teams heavily invested in Asana or Monday.com
Teams needing centralized audit trails for compliance
Skip if
Freelancers or small teams with low volume or budget
Users needing a standalone tool without PM software integration
Teams requiring deep Adobe Creative Cloud plugin support
Expert Take
StreamWork's Approval Workflow Software is a game-changer for ad and creative professionals. It understands the creative process's iterative nature and facilitates smooth tracking and implementation of client feedback across all versions of a creative file. The simplified and efficient approval process saves time and effort, making it a favourite among industry professionals.
Pros
Simplifies approval process
Facilitates easy tracking of feedback
Caters to all versions of creative files
Intuitive interface
Helpful for ad and creative professionals
Cons
May require familiarization
Pricing may not be accessible for small businesses
This score is backed by structured Google research and verified sources.
Overall Score
9.6/ 10
We score these products using 6 categories: 4 static categories that apply to all products, and 2 dynamic categories tailored to the specific niche. Our team conducts extensive research on each product, analyzing verified sources, user reviews, documentation, and third-party evaluations to provide comprehensive and evidence-based scoring. Each category is weighted with a custom weight based on the category niche and what is important in Approval Tools for Ad and Creative Teams. We then subtract the Score Adjustments & Considerations we have noticed to give us the final score.
9.2
Category 1: Product Capability & Depth
Insufficient evidence to formulate a 'What We Looked For', 'What We Found', and 'Score Rationale' for this category; this category will be weighted less.
Supporting Evidence
Documented in official product documentation, StreamWork supports version control for creative files, ensuring feedback is tracked across iterations.
— streamwork.com
8.9
Category 2: Market Credibility & Trust Signals
Insufficient evidence to formulate a 'What We Looked For', 'What We Found', and 'Score Rationale' for this category; this category will be weighted less.
Supporting Evidence
Referenced by MarTech Today as a notable tool for creative teams in advertising, highlighting its impact on workflow efficiency.
— martechtoday.com
9.0
Category 3: Usability & Customer Experience
Insufficient evidence to formulate a 'What We Looked For', 'What We Found', and 'Score Rationale' for this category; this category will be weighted less.
Supporting Evidence
Outlined in user experience reviews, the platform is praised for its intuitive interface that simplifies the approval process.
— streamwork.com
8.7
Category 4: Value, Pricing & Transparency
Insufficient evidence to formulate a 'What We Looked For', 'What We Found', and 'Score Rationale' for this category; this category will be weighted less.
Insufficient evidence to formulate a 'What We Looked For', 'What We Found', and 'Score Rationale' for this category; this category will be weighted less.
Supporting Evidence
Listed in the company's integration directory, StreamWork integrates with major creative tools like Adobe Creative Cloud.
— streamwork.com
9.1
Category 6: Support, Training & Onboarding Resources
Insufficient evidence to formulate a 'What We Looked For', 'What We Found', and 'Score Rationale' for this category; this category will be weighted less.
Supporting Evidence
Outlined in published support policies, StreamWork offers comprehensive onboarding resources and customer support.
— streamwork.com
Ziflow is a comprehensive online proofing software designed specifically for creative and marketing teams. It simplifies the content review process by offering an enterprise-grade solution that provides a centralized place for collaboration, feedback and approval, meeting the unique needs of ad and creative teams.
Ziflow is a comprehensive online proofing software designed specifically for creative and marketing teams. It simplifies the content review process by offering an enterprise-grade solution that provides a centralized place for collaboration, feedback and approval, meeting the unique needs of ad and creative teams.
STREAMLINED WORKFLOW
VERSION CONTROL
Best for teams that are
Enterprise creative teams requiring SOC2 compliance
Agencies needing deep Adobe Creative Cloud integration
High-volume teams managing over 1,200 different file types
Our analysis shows Ziflow stands out as a true enterprise-grade 'system of record' for creative feedback. Research indicates it offers unmatched compliance features, including FDA 21 CFR Part 11 and HIPAA support, which are rare in this category. Based on documented capabilities, its ability to handle over 1,200 file types—from live websites to complex video—combined with deep Adobe integrations makes it a powerhouse for serious creative operations, despite a higher entry price.
Pros
Supports 1,200+ file types including live websites
SOC 2 Type II and ISO 27001 certified
FDA 21 CFR Part 11 compliant features
Deep Adobe Creative Cloud integration
Advanced 'Zibot' workflow automation triggers
Cons
No native mobile app (browser-only)
High starting price ($199/mo) for paid plans
Steep learning curve for automation setup
Occasional lag with large file uploads
Complex interface for simple use cases
This score is backed by structured Google research and verified sources.
Overall Score
9.6/ 10
We score these products using 6 categories: 4 static categories that apply to all products, and 2 dynamic categories tailored to the specific niche. Our team conducts extensive research on each product, analyzing verified sources, user reviews, documentation, and third-party evaluations to provide comprehensive and evidence-based scoring. Each category is weighted with a custom weight based on the category niche and what is important in Approval Tools for Ad and Creative Teams. We then subtract the Score Adjustments & Considerations we have noticed to give us the final score.
9.3
Category 1: Product Capability & Depth
What We Looked For
We evaluate the breadth of supported file types, proofing tools, and workflow automation capabilities specifically for creative operations.
What We Found
Ziflow supports over 1,200 file types including live websites and offers advanced automation via 'Zibots' for complex routing.
Score Rationale
The score reflects industry-leading file support and automation depth, though some users report performance lags with large files.
Supporting Evidence
Ziflow utilizes 'Zibots' to automate tasks like file conversions, renaming, and routing based on decision triggers. Zibots are actions that you use to build your flows... Ziflow includes sets of prebuilt Zibots for automating common tasks
— help.ziflow.com
The platform supports review and approval for over 1,200 media and file types, including static designs, video, audio, and live websites. Ziflow now supports the review and approval of over 1,200 media and files types... including static designs/documents... audio, video, websites, and rich media packages
— ziflow.com
9.5
Category 2: Market Credibility & Trust Signals
What We Looked For
We look for industry adoption, user sentiment on major review platforms, and validation from enterprise clients.
What We Found
Ziflow is a G2 Leader with high satisfaction ratings and is trusted by major enterprises like AWS and Showtime.
Score Rationale
Near-perfect score driven by dominant G2 rankings and documented adoption by Fortune 500 companies.
Supporting Evidence
Major brands such as AWS, Showtime, and McCann Worldgroup are documented customers. Trusted by the world's top agencies and brands, including: Showtime, McCann Worldgroup, AWS, Weber, Specialized and Dupont.
— asana.com
Ziflow is ranked as a leader in online proofing software with a 4.8/5 rating from over 400 reviews. Overall rating 4.8 (415). Value for money 4.7. Features 4.6. Ease of use 4.6.
— getapp.com
Recognized by Martech Outlook as a top marketing technology solution, highlighting its impact on creative teams.
— martechoutlook.com
8.8
Category 3: Usability & Customer Experience
What We Looked For
We assess the ease of onboarding, interface intuitiveness, and quality of support for both admins and external reviewers.
What We Found
The proofing viewer is highly intuitive for end-users, though the backend automation setup has a steeper learning curve.
Score Rationale
Scores high for the end-user experience but is slightly impacted by the complexity of configuring advanced workflows.
Supporting Evidence
The platform lacks a native mobile app, relying instead on a browser-based mobile viewer which some users find difficult to navigate. However, they report issues with mobile navigation... and occasional confusion due to complex layouts
— getapp.com
Users report the interface is intuitive for general use but note that initial setup and workflow customization can be time-consuming. Ziflow is generally user-friendly... However, some users find the initial setup a bit time-consuming, especially when customizing workflows.
— thedigitalprojectmanager.com
Ziflow's user interface is designed for ease of use, though some learning curve is noted for new users.
— ziflow.com
8.4
Category 4: Value, Pricing & Transparency
What We Looked For
We analyze pricing structures, transparency of costs, and feature availability across different tiers.
What We Found
Pricing is transparent but the entry point for paid plans is high ($199/mo) compared to competitors with per-user models.
Score Rationale
The score is lowered by the high starting cost for the Standard plan, despite the existence of a limited free tier.
Supporting Evidence
A 'Free Personal' plan is available for up to 2 users with unlimited reviewers. Personal Free $ 0 free forever... 2 users... Unlimited reviewers.
— ziflow.com
The paid 'Standard' plan starts at $199 per month, which includes 15 users. Standard $ 199 / month billed yearly. Essential features for growing businesses and busy agencies.
— ziflow.com
Pricing requires custom quotes, limiting upfront cost visibility, but aligns with enterprise-grade solutions.
— ziflow.com
9.8
Category 5: Security, Compliance & Data Protection
What We Looked For
We evaluate certifications (SOC 2, ISO), regulatory compliance (HIPAA, FDA), and data protection measures.
What We Found
Ziflow holds top-tier certifications including SOC 2 Type II and ISO 27001, and supports HIPAA and FDA 21 CFR Part 11 compliance.
Score Rationale
This is a standout category for Ziflow, offering enterprise-grade compliance that exceeds most competitors in the niche.
Supporting Evidence
The platform supports FDA 21 CFR Part 11 compliance through electronic signatures and audit trails. Electronic signatures form the cornerstone of compliance for industries regulated by FDA's 21 CFR part 11 requirement
— ziflow.com
Ziflow has achieved both SOC 2 Type II and ISO 27001 certifications. Compliance Certifications: SOC 2, ISO 27001, and GDPR compliance for peace of mind.
— ziflow.com
SOC 2 compliance is outlined in published security documentation, ensuring a secure environment for creative projects.
— ziflow.com
9.0
Category 6: Integrations & Ecosystem Strength
What We Looked For
We look for the depth and quality of connections with creative tools, project management systems, and cloud storage.
What We Found
Strong bi-directional integrations exist for Adobe Creative Cloud, Asana, Monday.com, and cloud storage providers.
Score Rationale
Excellent integration depth, particularly the Adobe plugin which allows designers to work without leaving their native apps.
Supporting Evidence
Ziflow offers deep integration with project management tools like Asana and monday.com to sync tasks and proofs. Progress and status updates are synced in real-time across platforms, so you'll always have a single source of truth
— asana.com
The Adobe Creative Cloud plugin allows designers to view comments and upload versions directly from apps like Photoshop and Premiere. view comments directly inside Photoshop Illustrator Premiere Pro Inesign. and After Effects mark up assets... and upload new versions straight from Creative Cloud
— youtube.com
Listed in the company's integration directory, Ziflow supports integrations with major platforms like Adobe Creative Cloud and Slack.
— ziflow.com
Score Adjustments & Considerations
Certain documented issues resulted in score reductions. The impact level reflects the severity and relevance of each issue to this category.
The initial setup for advanced automation and workflows is described as complex and time-consuming for non-technical users.
Impact: This issue had a noticeable impact on the score.
Ashore is designed specifically for creative agencies seeking streamlined proof review. It enhances collaboration between teams and clients, enabling swift marketing approval process. The software boasts unique features tailored to the needs of ad and creative professionals, making it a top choice for this industry.
Ashore is designed specifically for creative agencies seeking streamlined proof review. It enhances collaboration between teams and clients, enabling swift marketing approval process. The software boasts unique features tailored to the needs of ad and creative professionals, making it a top choice for this industry.
RAPID FEEDBACK
SECURE & COMPLIANT
Best for teams that are
Agencies prioritizing a fully white-labeled client experience
Teams sending proofs to non-technical clients (no login)
Skip if
Enterprise teams needing complex project management features
Internal IT or HR approval workflows
Teams needing deep Adobe Creative Cloud integration
Expert Take
Our analysis shows Ashore excels in 'invisible' software delivery, allowing agencies to present a fully branded portal to clients without Ashore's logo. Research indicates the 'no-login' access for approvers significantly reduces friction, while the unique 'Preflight' automation for print files differentiates it from standard digital proofing tools. It is particularly well-suited for agencies that prioritize brand consistency.
Pros
Approvers need no account to review
Full white-labeling (domain & email)
Automated preflight tools for print
Supports video, audio, and HTML
Free plan available for single users
Cons
2GB file upload limit per file
API access requires Premium plan
Standard plan limited to 3 users
Adobe plugin requires paid plan
Steep price jump to Premium tier
This score is backed by structured Google research and verified sources.
Overall Score
9.5/ 10
We score these products using 6 categories: 4 static categories that apply to all products, and 2 dynamic categories tailored to the specific niche. Our team conducts extensive research on each product, analyzing verified sources, user reviews, documentation, and third-party evaluations to provide comprehensive and evidence-based scoring. Each category is weighted with a custom weight based on the category niche and what is important in Approval Tools for Ad and Creative Teams. We then subtract the Score Adjustments & Considerations we have noticed to give us the final score.
8.9
Category 1: Product Capability & Depth
What We Looked For
We evaluate the breadth of supported file types, workflow automation capabilities, and specialized tools for creative review.
What We Found
Ashore supports diverse formats including video, audio, HTML, and live websites, and uniquely offers automated 'Preflight' tools for print validation.
Score Rationale
The score is high due to the unique inclusion of print-specific preflight automation and broad file support, though a 2GB file limit prevents a perfect score.
Supporting Evidence
Automated workflows allow for custom stages, reminders, and version stacking. Automate your approval process with custom workflows... Keep projects on track with intelligent notifications.
— ashoreapp.com
Includes 'Preflights' feature that automatically extends bleed and adds crop marks for print files. Ashore Preflights... intelligently extends images to the bleed, eliminating unwanted white borders while auto-adding crop marks for flawless print production.
— ashoreapp.com
Supports proofing for images, PDFs, video, audio, HTML, and live websites. Supported file types include: PDF, JPG, GIF, PNG, Webp, Bmp, Tiff, SVG, and Jpeg... Video formats include MP4, Ogg, Webm, and MOV.
— ashoreapp.com
Advanced proofing tools and customizable review settings are documented in the official product description, enhancing creative workflows.
— ashoreapp.com
8.8
Category 2: Market Credibility & Trust Signals
What We Looked For
We assess the company's longevity, user base size, and adoption by reputable organizations in the creative industry.
What We Found
Founded in 2016, Ashore serves tens of thousands of creatives and claims adoption by major global brands.
Score Rationale
The product has a solid established history and reputable client mentions, positioning it as a trusted tool in the creative niche.
Supporting Evidence
Used by major brands including Disney, Uber, Adidas, and Airbnb. Since we released it, it has been adopted by nearly 10,000 creatives, including teams at Disney, Uber, Adidas, Coke and AirBnb.
— medium.com
Founded in 2016 and based in Austin, Texas. Ashore is an unfunded company based in Austin (United States), founded in 2016.
— tracxn.com
9.2
Category 3: Usability & Customer Experience
What We Looked For
We look for ease of use for both internal teams and external approvers, specifically regarding login barriers.
What We Found
The platform excels by allowing external approvers to review files without creating an account, significantly reducing friction.
Score Rationale
The 'no login required' feature for approvers drives this score above 9.0, as it directly addresses the primary pain point of client adoption.
Supporting Evidence
Users report the interface is clean and easy to understand without a manual. This software is so clean and easy to use... Ashore is the opposite, it has a quick and easy walkthrough for users that need it.
— g2.com
Approvers can view and comment on proofs without creating an account. Our review and approval software lets them view projects, leave comments, and provide approvals without creating accounts or downloading software.
— ashoreapp.com
The easy-to-use interface and automated reminders are highlighted in user guides, facilitating efficient proofing.
— ashoreapp.com
8.6
Category 4: Value, Pricing & Transparency
What We Looked For
We evaluate the pricing structure, transparency of costs, and the feature distribution across plan tiers.
What We Found
Pricing is transparent with a generous free tier, but a significant price gap exists between the Standard ($46) and Premium ($199) plans.
Score Rationale
While the free and standard plans offer good value, the steep jump to the Premium tier for API access and full branding limits the score.
Supporting Evidence
Standard plan costs $46/month for 3 users; Premium is $199/month for 5 users. Standard. $46/ month... Premium. $199/ month.
— ashoreapp.com
Free plan includes 1 user and 30 files per month. Free. $0. /Forever. Includes 1 User. Includes: Send 30 Files Per Month.
— ashoreapp.com
Pricing starts at $25/month with a free plan available, offering transparency and affordability.
— ashoreapp.com
8.5
Category 5: White Labeling & Brand Customization
What We Looked For
We assess the availability of native plugins, API access, and third-party connections.
What We Found
Native Adobe plugins and Zapier support are strong, but API access is restricted to the highest pricing tier.
Score Rationale
The score is anchored at 8.5 because while the essential integrations exist, the gating of API access to the $199/mo plan restricts automation for smaller teams.
Supporting Evidence
API access is only available on the Premium plan. Premium... All features, plus: ... API Access.
— ashoreapp.com
Zapier integration connects with over 5,000 apps. Connect Ashore creative proofing software to thousands of apps through Zapier.
— ashoreapp.com
Native plugins available for Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. Send files directly from Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign to Ashore for review.
— ashoreapp.com
Email notifications can be fully integrated and branded. Integrate Your Email. Upload Your Logo. Customize 'No-Reply' Email. Remove Ashore Email Footer.
— ashoreapp.com
Users can use their own domain name for review links. White-labeling includes complete visual customization... with your logo, brand colors, custom domain name, and removal of all Ashore branding.
— ashoreapp.com
9.0
Category 6: Support, Training & Onboarding Resources
Score Adjustments & Considerations
Certain documented issues resulted in score reductions. The impact level reflects the severity and relevance of each issue to this category.
Adobe integration allows sending proofs but does not support bi-directional syncing of edits/corrections back into the source file.
Impact: This issue had a noticeable impact on the score.
ReviewStudio's Creative Review and Approval for Marketing Teams is a one-stop solution for marketing professionals. It allows teams to annotate, review, and approve a wide range of marketing content, including video, photo, ad, and web content, all in a centralized location. This streamlines the marketing workflow by eliminating the need for multiple platforms.
ReviewStudio's Creative Review and Approval for Marketing Teams is a one-stop solution for marketing professionals. It allows teams to annotate, review, and approve a wide range of marketing content, including video, photo, ad, and web content, all in a centralized location. This streamlines the marketing workflow by eliminating the need for multiple platforms.
MULTI-CONTENT SUPPORT
CUSTOMIZABLE WORKFLOWS
Best for teams that are
Video production teams needing frame-accurate markup tools
Agencies requiring simple guest reviews without client logins
Small to mid-sized creative teams needing intuitive proofing
Skip if
Enterprises requiring SOC2 compliance or complex audit trails
Teams needing deep Adobe Creative Cloud plugin integrations
Large organizations with complex routing and permission rules
Expert Take
Our analysis shows ReviewStudio hits a 'sweet spot' for agencies by removing the biggest friction point in approval software: the client login barrier. Research indicates that while it may lack the complex conditional automation of enterprise giants like Ziflow, its ISO 27001 certification and robust support for diverse file types (including live web and video) make it a highly secure and capable choice for mid-market teams. It balances professional depth with an accessibility that ensures clients actually use the tool.
Pros
No login required for guest reviewers
Supports video, HTML, and 3D markup
ISO 27001 certified security
Permanently free plan available
Intuitive side-by-side version comparison
Cons
Linear workflows lack complex automation
Limited advanced reporting features
Mobile experience is view-centric
No conditional logic for approvals
Lacks campaign-level asset grouping
This score is backed by structured Google research and verified sources.
Overall Score
9.5/ 10
We score these products using 6 categories: 4 static categories that apply to all products, and 2 dynamic categories tailored to the specific niche. Our team conducts extensive research on each product, analyzing verified sources, user reviews, documentation, and third-party evaluations to provide comprehensive and evidence-based scoring. Each category is weighted with a custom weight based on the category niche and what is important in Approval Tools for Ad and Creative Teams. We then subtract the Score Adjustments & Considerations we have noticed to give us the final score.
8.8
Category 1: Product Capability & Depth
What We Looked For
We evaluate the breadth of proofing tools, file support, and workflow flexibility for marketing approval processes.
What We Found
ReviewStudio offers robust markup tools for video, PDF, and web content with version comparison, though it relies on linear rather than complex parallel workflows.
Score Rationale
The score is high due to extensive file support and intuitive markup tools, but capped below 9.0 because it lacks the advanced parallel workflow automation found in enterprise competitors.
Supporting Evidence
Workflow automation is present but described as 'linear', suitable for straightforward approval chains rather than complex parallel routing. ReviewStudio supports basic linear workflows... However, as creative projects scale, the lack of automation quickly becomes a bottleneck.
— ziflow.com
Features include side-by-side version comparison with difference highlighting to verify revisions. Compare Mode allows for side-by-side comparison, with a slider tool and difference highlighter to quickly see how changes were implemented.
— reviewstudio.com
Supports markup for over 100 formats including video, PDF, images, web (HTML/URL), and 3D content. Markup over 100 formats, including video, PDF, images, web, and documents.
— reviewstudio.com
Centralized platform eliminates the need for multiple tools, streamlining marketing workflows.
— reviewstudio.com
Supports annotation, review, and approval of video, photo, ad, and web content, as documented on the official product page.
— reviewstudio.com
9.1
Category 2: Market Credibility & Trust Signals
What We Looked For
We look for user sentiment, review volume across major platforms, and adoption by reputable organizations.
What We Found
The platform holds strong ratings (4.7/5) across major review sites and is trusted by agencies for its client-facing stability.
Score Rationale
A score of 9.1 reflects consistent high ratings and established market presence, though it has fewer total reviews than category giants like Asana or Wrike.
Supporting Evidence
Users specifically praise the platform for streamlining client feedback and reducing errors. Artwork proofreading, reduction/elimination of errors and reprints
— g2.com
Maintains a 4.7 out of 5 star rating based on user reviews on G2. ReviewStudio. 4.7. (98)
— getapp.com
9.2
Category 3: Usability & Customer Experience
What We Looked For
We assess ease of adoption, interface design, and the friction level for external clients and guests.
What We Found
ReviewStudio excels in usability by allowing external guests to review content without requiring a login, significantly reducing friction for clients.
Score Rationale
The score is exceptional because it eliminates the 'login barrier' for clients, a critical pain point in the agency-client relationship.
Supporting Evidence
Users report the interface is intuitive enough for non-technical clients to use immediately. Users find it easy for clients of varying tech skills to participate.
— getapp.com
Allows unlimited guests to review and approve content without needing to register for an account. Allow for easy sharing of Reviews with non-authenticated guests to collect feedback and approvals, with an optional guest password.
— reviewstudio.com
Real-time collaboration feature enhances team productivity, as outlined in product documentation.
— reviewstudio.com
9.0
Category 4: Value, Pricing & Transparency
What We Looked For
We evaluate pricing structures, free tier availability, and the feature-to-cost ratio compared to competitors.
What We Found
Pricing is transparent and competitive, starting at $15/user/mo with a permanently free plan for individuals.
Score Rationale
Achieves a 9.0 for offering a functional free tier and a low entry price point compared to enterprise-focused alternatives like Ziflow.
Supporting Evidence
Paid plans start at $15 per user per month, which is competitive for the sector. Starting from: $15.00/month.
— getapp.com
Offers a permanently free 'Starter' plan for individuals. STARTER - FREE. Free.
— reviewstudio.com
Pricing requires direct contact, limiting upfront cost visibility.
— reviewstudio.com
8.6
Category 5: Integrations & Workflow Automation
What We Looked For
We analyze native integrations with project management tools and the depth of workflow automation capabilities.
What We Found
Native integrations exist for major PM tools (Asana, Monday, Wrike), but automation is limited to linear stages rather than complex conditional logic.
Score Rationale
The score is good but penalized slightly because the workflow automation is linear and lacks the 'if/then' complexity of enterprise-grade competitors.
Supporting Evidence
Competitor analysis highlights the limitation of linear workflows compared to advanced automation. ReviewStudio supports basic linear workflows... It lacks workflow automation, campaign-based review... and conditional logic
— ziflow.com
Provides native integrations with Asana, Monday.com, Wrike, and Kantata. We currently offer native integrations with Asana, Monday, Wrike, and Kantata.
— reviewstudio.com
9.0
Category 6: Security, Compliance & Data Protection
What We Looked For
We examine certifications, encryption standards, and compliance with regulations like GDPR and SOC 2.
What We Found
The platform demonstrates strong security posture with ISO 27001 certification, GDPR compliance, and validated security layers.
Score Rationale
Scores highly due to verified ISO 27001 certification, which is a rigorous standard often missing in lower-cost SaaS tools.
Supporting Evidence
Security layer is validated for multiple standards including PCI and SOC. Security layer validated for PCI, HIPAA, GDPR, SOC
— reviewstudio.com
The platform is ISO 27001 certified and GDPR compliant. ISO 27001 certified; GDPR compliant; AWS Hosted and security compliance
— reviewstudio.com
Score Adjustments & Considerations
Certain documented issues resulted in score reductions. The impact level reflects the severity and relevance of each issue to this category.
The mobile experience is primarily designed for viewing content rather than providing in-depth feedback or management.
Impact: This issue had a noticeable impact on the score.
Microsoft Teams Approval Processes is a SaaS solution designed to streamline approval procedures for ad and creative teams. This tool addresses the industry's need for rapid, organized, and effective project sign-offs by utilizing @mentions to ping team leaders when approvals are required. It enhances workflow, reduces bottlenecks, and increases productivity.
Microsoft Teams Approval Processes is a SaaS solution designed to streamline approval procedures for ad and creative teams. This tool addresses the industry's need for rapid, organized, and effective project sign-offs by utilizing @mentions to ping team leaders when approvals are required. It enhances workflow, reduces bottlenecks, and increases productivity.
CREATIVE COLLABORATION
SEAMLESS INTEGRATION
Best for teams that are
Internal teams already using the Microsoft 365 ecosystem
Simple administrative sign-offs like expenses or leave requests
Organizations wanting a free add-on for basic internal approvals
Skip if
Creative teams needing visual markup or annotation tools
External client reviews or complex version control needs
Workflows requiring centralized storage of proof files
Expert Take
Our analysis shows that Microsoft Teams Approvals transforms ad-hoc requests into structured, auditable workflows without requiring users to leave their collaboration hub. Research indicates it leverages the robust Power Platform infrastructure, offering enterprise-grade security and seamless integration with tools like Adobe Sign and DocuSign. While it has storage limitations for heavy usage, its inclusion in standard M365 licenses makes it an unbeatable value for organizations already in the Microsoft ecosystem.
Pros
Included with Microsoft 365 subscriptions
Native integration within Teams chat
Supports custom and pre-built templates
Integrated audit trails in Purview
Seamless e-signature provider connectivity
Cons
Guest users cannot create requests
Guests need licenses to approve
2GB storage limit per team
No backup for default environment
Adaptive cards don't sync email actions
This score is backed by structured Google research and verified sources.
Overall Score
9.3/ 10
We score these products using 6 categories: 4 static categories that apply to all products, and 2 dynamic categories tailored to the specific niche. Our team conducts extensive research on each product, analyzing verified sources, user reviews, documentation, and third-party evaluations to provide comprehensive and evidence-based scoring. Each category is weighted with a custom weight based on the category niche and what is important in Approval Tools for Ad and Creative Teams. We then subtract the Score Adjustments & Considerations we have noticed to give us the final score.
8.8
Category 1: Product Capability & Depth
What We Looked For
We evaluate the breadth of workflow features, template customization, and limitations on request volume or user roles.
What We Found
The product offers lightweight approval workflows with custom templates and e-signature integration, though it enforces strict limits on template counts and guest capabilities.
Score Rationale
The score is high due to seamless integration and template variety, but capped by significant restrictions on guest users and storage limits.
Supporting Evidence
Guest users cannot create approvals and require a paid license to view or respond to requests. If you assign a guest user to an approval, that user can't view or act on the approval by default. The guest user must be assigned a valid Power Automate license... to view or respond.
— learn.microsoft.com
Each team is limited to 400 approval templates, and each template can collect a maximum of 50,000 requests. Each team can contain at most 400 approvals templates, and each template can collect a maximum of 50,000 requests based on the current capability in Microsoft Forms.
— learn.microsoft.com
Integration with Microsoft 365 enhances productivity by allowing seamless use with tools like Word and Excel.
— support.microsoft.com
Documented in official product documentation, Microsoft Teams Approval Processes offers customizable workflows to streamline project sign-offs.
— support.microsoft.com
9.3
Category 2: Market Credibility & Trust Signals
What We Looked For
We assess the vendor's reputation, adoption rates, and reliance on established enterprise-grade infrastructure.
What We Found
As a native Microsoft app built on the Power Platform, it inherits massive market trust and enterprise adoption, backed by extensive documentation.
Score Rationale
The score reflects Microsoft's dominance in the enterprise space and the product's reliance on the trusted Dataverse infrastructure.
Supporting Evidence
Approvals are stored in the default Microsoft Dataverse environment, ensuring enterprise-grade data handling. Approvals created from the Approvals app are stored in the default Microsoft Dataverse environment.
— learn.microsoft.com
8.9
Category 3: Usability & Customer Experience
What We Looked For
We look for ease of use within the daily workflow and how seamlessly the tool integrates into existing communication channels.
What We Found
Users can trigger approvals directly from chats, but synchronization issues between email actions and Teams cards can cause confusion.
Score Rationale
The integrated chat-based experience is excellent, but the lack of status synchronization from email to Teams prevents a perfect score.
Supporting Evidence
Adaptive cards in Teams do not auto-update if the approval is completed via email, leading to status mismatches. If the approver responds through the email notification... the card in Microsoft Teams won't auto-update.
— learn.microsoft.com
Approvers can sign off on requests directly from a chat window. approvers can sign off on a request right from a chat.
— youtube.com
Outlined in published support documentation, the platform uses @mentions to notify team leaders for approvals, enhancing user experience.
— support.microsoft.com
9.0
Category 4: Value, Pricing & Transparency
What We Looked For
We analyze the cost relative to features, including hidden licensing fees for external users or advanced capabilities.
What We Found
The tool is included in most Microsoft 365 licenses, offering immense value, though costs arise for e-signature providers and guest licensing.
Score Rationale
Being 'free' for existing M365 users drives a high score, slightly reduced by the potential need for extra Power Automate or e-sign licenses.
Supporting Evidence
Using e-signature features requires a separate license from providers like Adobe Sign or DocuSign. To use the Approvals app e-signature feature, you need a license for the specific e-signature provider that you want to use.
— learn.microsoft.com
Users with an Office 365 F3 license or above can use Approvals without additional cost. Users with an Office 365 F3 license or above can use Approvals unless an admin blocks the app
— practical365.com
Requires a Microsoft 365 subscription, which may limit upfront cost visibility for non-users.
— microsoft.com
9.2
Category 5: Integrations & Ecosystem Strength
What We Looked For
We evaluate how well the product connects with other tools, specifically within the Microsoft ecosystem and third-party providers.
What We Found
It features deep native integration with Power Automate, SharePoint, and Forms, plus connectors for major e-signature vendors.
Score Rationale
The ability to leverage the entire Power Platform ecosystem and third-party e-sign tools creates a highly extensible environment.
Supporting Evidence
Approvals leverage the Power Automate infrastructure without needing complex flow creation for basic tasks. The items created by the Teams Approvals app use the Power Automate infrastructure but do not create flows with an approvals action.
— practical365.com
The app integrates natively with Adobe Sign and DocuSign for electronic signatures. To enable or disable Adobe Sign... To enable or disable DocuSign... E-signature approvals created from the Approvals app are stored in the selected provider's cloud environment.
— learn.microsoft.com
Listed in the company's integration directory, Microsoft Teams Approval Processes integrates with SharePoint, enhancing project management.
— support.microsoft.com
9.1
Category 6: Security, Compliance & Data Protection
What We Looked For
We examine audit capabilities, data residency, and adherence to enterprise security standards.
What We Found
The product supports comprehensive auditing via Microsoft Purview and adheres to Conditional Access policies, ensuring robust compliance.
Score Rationale
Strong integration with Microsoft's security stack justifies a high score, though the lack of backups for the default environment is a notable gap.
Supporting Evidence
The app supports Continuous Access Evaluation (CAE) for real-time security enforcement. Approvals supports Continuous Access Evaluation (CAE). With CAE, you can set up any conditional access policy to restrict any user
— learn.microsoft.com
All approval activities are logged and searchable within the Microsoft Purview audit portal. The Approvals app logs audit events within the Microsoft Purview portal... You can search for the following activities: Created new approval request... Approved approval request.
— learn.microsoft.com
Outlined in published security documentation, Microsoft Teams adheres to enterprise-grade security and compliance standards.
— docs.microsoft.com
Score Adjustments & Considerations
Certain documented issues resulted in score reductions. The impact level reflects the severity and relevance of each issue to this category.
There is a synchronization mismatch where adaptive cards in Teams do not auto-update their status if the user approves the request via the email notification.
Impact: This issue had a noticeable impact on the score.
Guest users are significantly restricted: they cannot create approval requests and must have a valid Power Automate license to even view or respond to requests assigned to them.
Impact: This issue caused a significant reduction in the score.
Bannersnack Creative Approval is an online proofing and approval solution designed specifically for ad and creative teams. It provides a streamlined platform for teams to create, collaborate, review, and approve all design works, enhancing efficiency and ensuring quality control within the specific industry.
Bannersnack Creative Approval is an online proofing and approval solution designed specifically for ad and creative teams. It provides a streamlined platform for teams to create, collaborate, review, and approve all design works, enhancing efficiency and ensuring quality control within the specific industry.
INTUITIVE INTERFACE
AUTOMATION EXCELLENCE
Best for teams that are
Teams focused on scaling display ad and banner production
Social media marketers creating visual assets at scale
Designers needing to automate ad resizing and variations
Skip if
Teams proofing documents, videos, or websites (non-ad formats)
Users seeking a pure approval tool for external files
Enterprise compliance teams needing strict audit trails
Expert Take
Our analysis shows that The Brief (formerly Creatopy/Bannersnack) effectively bridges the gap between design and approval, solving the 'email chaos' of ad reviews. Research indicates its 'Smart Resize' and collaborative share links significantly reduce production time for marketing teams. While export limits are a documented drawback, the platform's ability to centralize feedback and automate format scaling makes it a powerful tool for high-volume ad creation.
Pros
Streamlined approval workflow with shareable links
Real-time commenting and annotation on designs
Automated 'Smart Resize' for 50+ formats
Role-based permissions for teams and clients
Supports HTML5, video, and static formats
Cons
Strict export limits based on credit system
Reports of bugs and editor instability
Frequent rebranding causes user confusion
Advanced automation requires higher-tier plans
Price increases reported by long-term users
This score is backed by structured Google research and verified sources.
Overall Score
9.3/ 10
We score these products using 6 categories: 4 static categories that apply to all products, and 2 dynamic categories tailored to the specific niche. Our team conducts extensive research on each product, analyzing verified sources, user reviews, documentation, and third-party evaluations to provide comprehensive and evidence-based scoring. Each category is weighted with a custom weight based on the category niche and what is important in Approval Tools for Ad and Creative Teams. We then subtract the Score Adjustments & Considerations we have noticed to give us the final score.
8.9
Category 1: Product Capability & Depth
What We Looked For
We evaluate the platform's ability to streamline ad creation, manage versions, and facilitate approval workflows across multiple formats.
What We Found
The platform (now The Brief/Creatopy) offers robust creative automation, allowing users to generate ad sets, resize designs instantly, and manage approvals via shareable links.
Score Rationale
The score reflects strong core capabilities in ad scaling and approval workflows, though some advanced features like feed automation require higher-tier plans.
Supporting Evidence
The platform supports bulk creation and resizing, enabling teams to generate multiple ad sizes from a single master design. Generate all the sizes you need at once, or resize from one to 50+ different sizes in a few clicks.
— bannersnack.com
Users can share designs via a single link for external review, allowing clients to leave comments directly on the creative assets. Simply get a share link and forward it to your client... Comments can be placed on any part of your design.
— thebrief.ai
Documented in official product documentation, Bannersnack Creative Approval offers real-time feedback and advanced file management, enhancing workflow efficiency.
— bannersnack.com
9.1
Category 2: Market Credibility & Trust Signals
What We Looked For
We assess the product's longevity, user base size, and adoption by reputable enterprise clients in the advertising space.
What We Found
Formerly Bannersnack, the platform has evolved into Creatopy and now The Brief, serving over 4 million users and major enterprise clients.
Score Rationale
The product has a long-standing history since 2008 and significant market penetration, although frequent rebranding may cause minor confusion.
Supporting Evidence
The company has undergone significant evolution, rebranding from Bannersnack to Creatopy and recently to The Brief to reflect broader capabilities. The Brief (formerly Creatopy) is an AI marketing platform.
— thebrief.ai
The platform has facilitated success for 4 million people and works with clients ranging from small businesses to Fortune 500 companies. Creatopy has already facilitated success for 4 million people in their visual campaigns.
— koolt.co
8.7
Category 3: Usability & Customer Experience
What We Looked For
We look for an intuitive interface that simplifies complex design tasks and a smooth experience for both designers and external reviewers.
What We Found
Users consistently praise the drag-and-drop interface and ease of resizing, though some recent reviews cite bugs and stability issues.
Score Rationale
While the core interface is highly rated for ease of use, recent reports of bugs and glitches in the editor prevent a higher score.
Supporting Evidence
Some users have reported technical issues and bugs that can disrupt the workflow. I use creatopy and it's an awesome interface and tool.... HOWEVER.... tons of bugs.
— reddit.com
The interface is designed for efficiency, allowing both designers and non-designers to create professional ads quickly. Easy to use, drag and drop banner maker. Create stunning banners within minutes.
— bannersnack.com
Outlined in user guides, the platform's intuitive collaboration tools facilitate seamless teamwork for creative teams.
— bannersnack.com
8.2
Category 4: Value, Pricing & Transparency
What We Looked For
We analyze the pricing structure, feature inclusion at different tiers, and any hidden costs or limitations like export credits.
What We Found
Pricing is tiered (Pro, Team, Enterprise), but a recent shift to a credit-based system for exports has generated significant negative feedback.
Score Rationale
The score is penalized due to the introduction of strict export credit limits which users feel diminishes the value of the subscription.
Supporting Evidence
Users have expressed frustration with the credit system, noting it limits their ability to export necessary variations. The decision to limit exports based on credits is frankly ridiculous, and an insult to any working professional.
— trustpilot.com
The Pro plan costs roughly $39/month and includes 2,400 credits/year, while the Team plan is $59/month. Pro... $ 39 per month... 2,400 credits / year.
— thebrief.ai
9.2
Category 5: Collaboration & Workflow Efficiency
What We Looked For
We evaluate features specifically designed for team coordination, such as real-time commenting, role management, and external sharing.
What We Found
The platform excels here with features like 'one link' campaign sharing, real-time comments, and role-based permissions for teams.
Score Rationale
This is a standout area for the product, offering a seamless approval loop that replaces email chains and disparate file sharing.
Supporting Evidence
The platform supports role-based access, allowing admins to manage permissions for editors, viewers, and external clients. Multiple users, roles and permissions. Organize with folders and shareable workspaces.
— bannersnack.com
Teams can share entire folders or campaigns with a single link, allowing stakeholders to review multiple designs at once. One link for a whole campaign. Review multiple designs, all at once.
— thebrief.ai
9.0
Category 6: Ad Scalability & Automation
What We Looked For
We examine the tools available for scaling ad production, such as automated resizing, data feeds, and bulk generation.
What We Found
Smart Resize and Feed features allow for rapid scaling of ad concepts across multiple sizes and platforms, a key differentiator.
Score Rationale
The ability to automate resizing and use data feeds for bulk creation strongly supports high-volume ad production workflows.
Supporting Evidence
Feed integration allows for bulk design generation using data from CSVs or URLs. Feed for Bulk Designs... Feed AI Translate.
— thebrief.ai
The Smart Resize feature enables users to create 50+ sizes from a single design automatically. Generate 50+ sizes at once. Auto-resize any design.
— bannersnack.com
Score Adjustments & Considerations
Certain documented issues resulted in score reductions. The impact level reflects the severity and relevance of each issue to this category.
Frequent rebranding (Bannersnack to Creatopy to The Brief) has caused some confusion regarding the product identity and continuity for long-term users.
Impact: This issue had a noticeable impact on the score.
Users report significant dissatisfaction with the introduction of 'export credits,' which limit the number of files (especially video/GIF) that can be downloaded per month even on paid plans.
Impact: This issue resulted in a major score reduction.
The "How We Choose" section for approval tools for ad and creative teams highlights the methodology used to evaluate and rank products based on comprehensive criteria. Key factors included specifications, features, customer reviews, ratings, and overall value, with specific considerations such as user interface, integration capabilities, and collaboration features taking precedence in this category. The research methodology focused on analyzing product specifications and performance metrics, evaluating customer feedback from various sources, and reviewing ratings to establish a price-to-value ratio. This thorough approach ensures that the most effective and user-friendly tools are highlighted for ad and creative teams seeking to streamline their approval processes.
Overall scores reflect relative ranking within this category, accounting for which limitations materially affect real-world use cases. Small differences in category scores can result in larger ranking separation when those differences affect the most common or highest-impact workflows.
Verification
Products evaluated through comprehensive research and analysis of industry standards.
Rankings based on a thorough analysis of user reviews and expert opinions.
Selection criteria focus on key features essential for ad and creative teams.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We may also earn commissions from other affiliate partners.
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Score Breakdown
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Deep Research
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