Blue Prism Cloud vs IBM Robotic Process Automation (RPA) comparison

SS&C Blue Prism and IBM are both solutions in the Robotic Process Automation (RPA) category. SS&C Blue Prism is ranked #6 with an average rating of 8.4, while IBM is ranked #10 with an average rating of 7.8. SS&C Blue Prism holds a 1.3% mindshare in RPA, compared to IBM’s 2.8% mindshare. Additionally, 97% of SS&C Blue Prism users are willing to recommend the solution, compared to 88% of IBM users who would recommend it.

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Executive SummaryUpdated on Dec 4, 2024

IBM Robotic Process Automation and Blue Prism Cloud are leading competitors in the robotic automation solutions sector. IBM RPA seems to have an edge due to its user-friendly interface and integration flexibility.

Features: IBM RPA offers a simple interface for non-technical users, integration with AI components like IBM Watson, and a flexible suite with drag-and-drop functionalities. Blue Prism Cloud focuses on stability and security, allowing easy customization and excels in backend office automation, appealing especially to financial and banking sectors.

Room for Improvement: IBM RPA could enhance cognitive capabilities and AI integration, improve extensibility, and support more languages. Blue Prism Cloud would benefit from better user-friendliness, integration with emerging technologies like ML and AI, and a less restrictive licensing model to attract smaller enterprises.

Ease of Deployment and Customer Service: IBM RPA provides deployment flexibility and generally satisfactory support, though it's noted for slower response times. Blue Prism Cloud is praised for its deployment ease and robust support, but there are issues with its newer environment support.

Pricing and ROI: IBM RPA's pricing is flexible but considered expensive and shows strong ROI within a year, while Blue Prism Cloud, despite being high-priced with a restrictive model, also provides solid ROI within the same timeframe.

To learn more, read our detailed Blue Prism Cloud vs. IBM Robotic Process Automation (RPA) Report (Updated: April 2025).

Buyer's Guide

Blue Prism Cloud vs. IBM Robotic Process Automation (RPA)

April 2025

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Review summaries and opinions

We asked business professionals to review the solutions they use. Here are some excerpts of what they said:

Categories and Ranking

Automate

Mindshare comparison

As of May 2025, in the Robotic Process Automation (RPA) category, the mindshare of Automate is 1.6%, up from 1.0% compared to the previous year. The mindshare of Blue Prism Cloud is 1.3%, up from 1.1% compared to the previous year. The mindshare of IBM Robotic Process Automation (RPA) is 2.8%, up from 2.4% compared to the previous year. It is calculated based on PeerSpot user engagement data.

Robotic Process Automation (RPA)

Featured Reviews

Anabel Marco

Account Director at a tech services company with 11-50 employees

Automates processes efficiently with cost-effective scaling and robust customer support

Web scraping is quite good since it offers a lot of possibilities. Another important feature for me is its compatibility with MBI, the Power that is ISEQUADO Centers. I appreciate the ability to scale and increase the number of bots or studios without additional expense. Automate's non-reliance on additional orchestrators makes it quite cost-effective.

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Keith Mcdowell

Chief Executive Officer at Keith F Kube and Associates

It helps us save on staff costs

I rate Blue Prism Cloud eight out of 10 for ease of setup. It's a cloud-based solution, so it isn't hard to set up. The deployment time is hard to quantify because I work for the government, and we need to go through all these internal reviews, but the technical part takes three to four weeks. The biggest challenge is security because we need to integrate it with Active Directory and set up VPN tunnels, security profiles, etc. We deployed Blue Prism in-house and used three people to set it up. One solution engineer is enough to maintain it.

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GeorgeTzifas

Chief Operating Officer at Anyrobotics RPA Experts

Provides smart AI tools and easy to use

I would like to have more flexibility in connecting the platform with third-party systems. It is easy to connect IBM RPA with other IBM products, but it is complicated when connecting to non-IBM systems. So, I would like IBM RPA to be even more flexible in connecting to third-party systems.

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Quotes from Members

We asked business professionals to review the solutions they use. Here are some excerpts of what they said:

Pros

"The solution is continuously adding more integrations to help with workflows and bot and task creation."

"The most valuable features for my client are timing and scheduling."

"Fortra's Automate performs the job effectively and has the capability to alert us of any issues."

"The interface is simple, user-friendly, and very intuitive."

"We are still in the process of rolling it to production and tweaking it (our AD groups are a mess), but the improvements are priceless. Having users ID's created the same way every time without human error is the best part. We don't need to worry about why groups were not added, user rights not set to folders or missing a private folder being created, typos or just even knowing when things are done and logged."

"We have tried other RPA solutions like UiPath or Automation Anywhere. They are fantastic products but complex, and it's hard to understand everything. It would be best if you had a skilled developer or several. Automate is easy to implement, administer, and use. It's appropriate for us because our cases are simple and easy to automate. We don't need complicated tools with many features; We prefer to get a significant ROI quickly."

"This tool has machine learning and voice recognition and computer vision, which are both quite useful aspects. These aren't available in other tools. It's a good addition to this tool and it gives the solution an edge on the market."

"We have found the pricing to be very reasonable."

More Automate pros

"The most valuable feature is the ability to write custom code."

"It is secure and supports unattended mode of operations."

"The primary focus lies in integrating the three major cloud platforms with Blue Prism Cloud: Microsoft Azure, Amazon AWS, and GCP. This integration goes beyond security measures for the primary template policies. It also includes addressing compliance requirements. For instance, I can incorporate specific compliance templates and policies generated in Blue Prism and integrate them with local templates for ISO 27001 and GDPR, particularly concerning software tools and headsets. This integration eliminates the need for auditing and reviewing technical details individually. Instead, I can simply examine the container report. This approach proves beneficial when clients heavily rely on container environments."

"The user performance is the most valuable feature."

"Blue Prism is well known for being used in banking and security organizations. Its security is superior compared to UiPath and other RPA tools."

"There is no latency in the product."

"The platform is user-friendly and easy to learn in a low-code environment."

"The reusability of the solution is excellent. It's a superior feature - far superior to any other tool on the market."

More Blue Prism Cloud pros

"It's user-friendly; even non-technical people can program bots using drag-and-drop functionalities."

"It's integrated with all the other products within the Salesforce ecosystem."

"If you have a business process, and once you have automated that process, you have a readily available workflow in place."

"We can connect with different database types, and they have included a different package for a terminal connection to, for example, AS400. When it comes to UI development, it's not using the drivers or anything. It's not a selector-based development like UiPath."

"One of the most impactful features of IBM Robotic Process Automation (RPA) has been its one-time setup capability."

"The most valuable feature is the ability to automate mundane tasks. This improves efficiency, reliability, etc. You can form critical operations which can be highly automated."

"IBM Robotic Process Automation is very easy to use."

"I think simplicity is key. One of the things that we've noticed is how our developers have been able to quickly adopt the platform; but not only the developers or the techy people, also the business."

More IBM Robotic Process Automation (RPA) pros

Cons

"I would like the updates to be easier to deploy. Integration with Amazon S3 is somewhat lacking."

"The documentation for errors needs improvement as many of the error messages we receive are very vague."

"The solution has a very weak knowledge base."

"The documentation is not that great."

"I believe we need to test various OCR tools that assist in evaluating, let's say, six different customer resyncs. We analyze their spending patterns and documentations, but current OCR support has limitations, requiring highly standardized documents, which isn't always the case. With a more advanced OCR system, we could improve processes related to credit risk management and legal matters. We're exploring how to integrate Fortra's Automate with our CRM platform, taking cues from instances where Salesforce seamlessly merged with Automate. However, we use a different CRM, Insight for New Enterprise, and we're seeking ways to connect the automation process within our CRM. We aim for the automation to continue smoothly, even in instances where traditional automation methods might face hurdles."

"I find that most important features are strong, however, there is a lack of good development for artificial intelligence, such as machine learning."

"It's possible that they could use a stronger community for seeking guidance and help."

"They do not encrypt passwords, so this is an issue with HIPAA compliance."

More Automate cons

"The product’s licensing cost is expensive compared to other tools in the market."

"Blue Prism could be more efficient in its resource use. Having one LPR agent per virtual machine wastes resources. If we could execute many applications at the same time, it would improve and optimize the resource used."

"Blue Prism is slightly difficult for the non-technical user."

"Blue Prism Cloud needs to improve support, though documentation is available online. It is not detailed, which does not help."

"Pricing for Blue Prism Cloud is a pain as it's a little higher."

"It takes a while to get up and running."

"Selecting the right business processes that are stable enough to automate can be challenging."

"The pricing was a bit high, from what I understand. That might have played a role in the decision to migrate to another solution."

More Blue Prism Cloud cons

"Capturing GUI operations is very easy, but capturing IBM Logistics automation is hard. It does not always work with browsers or automotive applications like SAP."

"IBM Robotic Process Automation should be more stable."

"I would like to have more flexibility in connecting the platform with third-party systems."

"We're based in Thailand, but the documentation is not in Thai, which makes it difficult for us. If they could translate all of their documentation into our language, we'd be very grateful."

"The time it takes for approvals, and risk analysis could be faster."

"The product must be promoted more."

"There are certain limitations in the solution for screen reading."

"Extensibility is the key, especially in terms of the Recorders feature that we have. That should be browser independent. Enhance it because some people have Chrome, some have Internet Explorer, etc. Also, integration with PDFs: Not just the ability to read information from PDFs but the ability to write information from PDFs, make it secure, sign it, etc. Finally, if they can allow a token exchange inside the tool itself, that would help."

More IBM Robotic Process Automation (RPA) cons

Pricing and Cost Advice

"The cost is a bit high for a small business like ours, but we manage with Fortra's Automate."

"From a distributor's perspective, one of the biggest selling points of Automate is its price point."

"I'm only involved in running the product and maintaining the systems, so I can't speak to the cost."

"From a distributor's side, one of the biggest selling points is its price point. Without going into any numbers, compared to UiPath, Automation Anywhere, and Blue Prism, we're significantly cheaper. The main difference is that other competitors usually charge you per process. However, in Automate's case, it's priced per bot. So, a bot can run multiple processes at the same time, but you are only priced for a single bot."

"I believe the price falls within a reasonable range, which significantly influenced our decision regarding the product. This aspect is crucial for any technological solution, especially in our country where enterprises might be hesitant to invest heavily in something untested or uncertain about its practicality and potential returns."

"I like the way this solution is priced because you can buy a license, or you can buy the software outright."

"Once you buy the software, you just pay for the support for backend help."

"The pricing is quite reasonable. We can run the process with one bot. The limitation is at the server level because they have some resources, and sometimes that is enough. It isn't too expensive, so you can get a good return off of one, and you can also have a pack of five bots that is quite competitive."

More Automate pricing and cost advice

"I am not sure how we are set up today, but I recall we had an annual License."

"Annual licensing costs were somewhere between $5,000 - $10,000 for the development tool. For the control tower, I think fees were about $50,000 annually."

"The licensing structure is complex and the minimum contract length is three years."

"Blue Prism Cloud’s pricing is fine for commercial usage."

"The licensing of the solution is on a subscription-based model and costs around 4,999 for one bot's license. If someone wants to increase the number of bots you want from Blue Prism, then they provide a discount."

"Blue Prism comes at a higher price point compared to other solutions on the market."

"When compared with UiPath, I believe it will be difficult for Blue Prism to maintain its market share."

"I would rate the pricing a five out of ten, with one being cheap and ten being expensive."

More Blue Prism Cloud pricing and cost advice

"The pricing is reasonable."

"The license is paid annually."

"IBM licensing is annual and based on Virtual Processor Cores (VPC). This provides flexibility as part of the containerization environment."

"The product is reasonably priced compared to other tools."

"IBM RPA is cheaper than other tools."

"The pricing is reasonable for this solution."

"There is a free trial for one month, so you can use it to run your payloads or proof of concept. After that, you can pay for the license on a monthly or annual basis."

"The product has a yearly licensing fee."

More IBM Robotic Process Automation (RPA) pricing and cost advice

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Top Industries

By visitors reading reviews

Financial Services Firm

15%

Computer Software Company

12%

Manufacturing Company

Healthcare Company

Computer Software Company

17%

Financial Services Firm

17%

Educational Organization

10%

Manufacturing Company

Financial Services Firm

17%

Computer Software Company

16%

Educational Organization

Insurance Company

Company Size

By reviewers

Large Enterprise

Midsize Enterprise

Small Business

Questions from the Community

What do you like most about HelpSystems AutoMate?

We use it for specific cases, mainly secure file transfers, which are vital for us. And it works for us.

See all answers

What is your primary use case for HelpSystems AutoMate?

I am a consultant and I am making a lot of processes in human resources, payroll, certifications, trainings, web scra...

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What is your experience regarding pricing and costs for Fortra Automate?

The pricing is quite good compared to its competitors. Competitors are often more expensive than Automate. I would ra...

See all answers

What do you like most about Blue Prism Cloud?

It's easy to use, the interface, the the the the queries is which we use. It's user friendly.

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What is your experience regarding pricing and costs for Blue Prism Cloud?

If we utilize Blue Prism's full capabilities, then it is cost-effective. Otherwise, the pricing can seem high. It req...

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What needs improvement with Blue Prism Cloud?

Decipher, one of their solutions, is a waste of time. Other than that, there's nothing specific I can think of.

See all answers

What do you like most about IBM Robotic Process Automation (RPA)?

Integrating the tool with SAP, EBS, or other ERPs is easy.

See all answers

What needs improvement with IBM Robotic Process Automation (RPA)?

The product must be promoted more. There are no promotions.

See all answers

What is your primary use case for IBM Robotic Process Automation (RPA)?

We're working with different clients from the manufacturing environment. We have implemented end-to-end solutions. We...

See all answers

Comparisons

Microsoft Power Automate vs Automate

Compared 38% of the time

UiPath Platform vs Automate

Compared 35% of the time

Automation Anywhere vs Automate

Compared 8% of the time

Blue Prism vs Automate

Compared 7% of the time

VisualCron vs Automate

Compared 7% of the time

More Automate Competitors

UiPath Platform vs Blue Prism Cloud

Compared 19% of the time

Microsoft Power Automate vs Blue Prism Cloud

Compared 16% of the time

Blue Prism vs Blue Prism Cloud

Compared 15% of the time

SAP Intelligent RPA vs Blue Prism Cloud

Compared 15% of the time

Robocorp vs Blue Prism Cloud

Compared 13% of the time

More Blue Prism Cloud Competitors

Microsoft Power Automate vs IBM Robotic Process Automation (RPA)

Compared 70% of the time

Automation Anywhere vs IBM Robotic Process Automation (RPA)

Compared 11% of the time

UiPath Platform vs IBM Robotic Process Automation (RPA)

Compared 10% of the time

Blue Prism vs IBM Robotic Process Automation (RPA)

Compared 7% of the time

Nintex RPA vs IBM Robotic Process Automation (RPA)

Compared 3% of the time

More IBM Robotic Process Automation (RPA) Competitors

Product Reports

Buyer's Guide

Automate

May 2025

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Buyer's Guide

Blue Prism Cloud

May 2025

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Buyer's Guide

IBM Robotic Process Automation (RPA)

April 2025

IBM Robotic Process Automation (RPA) report

Download IBM Robotic Process Automation (RPA) product report

Also Known As

HelpSystems Automate, Automate

Blue Prism Thoughtonomy Virtual Workforce, Blue Prism Virtual Workforce, Thoughtonomy Virtual Workforce

IBM RPA

Overview

Automate offers a user-friendly solution with a drag-and-drop interface for efficient task automation and integration with major platforms like SAP and Azure, making it ideal for quick deployment with minimal coding and training.

Automate provides powerful features for businesses seeking efficient automation, offering compatibility with databases, email integration, and cloud platforms. Its simple interface supports both beginners and experienced users, simplifying tasks like invoice processing, HR automation, and data transformation. Cost-effective pricing and flexible licensing enhance its appeal while integration capabilities and scheduling tools ensure smooth workflow automation.

What are Automate's Key Features?

Drag-and-Drop Interface: Simplifies automation with intuitive design.
Integration Capabilities: Connects with platforms like SAP and Azure for seamless data flow.
Database and FTP Triggers: Enhances automation potential through direct data interaction.
Efficient Scheduling: Automates tasks with precise timing and control.
Web Scraping: Automates data extraction for quick analysis and reporting.

What Benefits and ROI Should Users Expect?

Rapid Deployment: Minimizes coding efforts for quick implementation.
Cost-Effectiveness: Offers flexible pricing models to suit budget constraints.
Operational Efficiency: Reduces manual workloads and enhances productivity.
Comprehensive Integration: Facilitates improved data management across systems.
Scalability: Adapts to growing business needs with ease.

In industries such as healthcare, banking, and logistics, Automate is used for tasks like invoice payment automation, data transformation, and task automation. This leads to streamlined processes and reduced manual workload, illustrating its value in enhancing operational efficiency through diversified workflows.

Fortra

The Thoughtonomy Virtual Workforce is a highly flexible intelligent automation platform. It uses software to replicate the way people work in existing applications and systems, the processes they follow, and the decisions they make, to deliver automation without disruption.

SS&C Blue Prism

IBM Robotic Process Automation (RPA) is a technology that encompasses the use of smart robots in any process requiring efficiency, consistency and speed, with no risk of mistakes. In a nutshell, RPA simulates a human user working.

Today, it is possible to automate processes through the use of digital robots, or bots, which execute pre-programed, repetitive tasks in a safe and mistake free manner. There are literally thousands of opportunities for Robotic Process Automation to make an impact on your organization today, including: automatic invoice emission, system integration, information reconciliation, report generation, intelligent email management to lead generation, and many others.

IBM

Sample Customers

Aldergrove Financial Group, Preferred Health Professionals, Mindbeam Technologies, First Credit Union in British Columbia, Vestcom International, Prime Liberty Benefits, University of Tampa, CNLBancshares, World Precision Instruments, BJ's Restaurants, Globe Pequot Press, Accudata Technologies, Norton Healthcare, Pacific Toxicology Laboratories

Cabot Credit Management, Hovis, Utilita

The Hanover Insurance Group

Buyer's Guide

Blue Prism Cloud vs. IBM Robotic Process Automation (RPA)

April 2025

Free Report: Blue Prism Cloud vs. IBM Robotic Process Automation (RPA)

Find out what your peers are saying about Blue Prism Cloud vs. IBM Robotic Process Automation (RPA) and other solutions. Updated: April 2025.

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