Workiva vs Okta: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Workiva and Okta comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Workiva
Reporting and compliance
Best for you if:
- • You need compliance management features specifically
- • Cloud platform for regulatory compliance, financial reporting, and ESG management with audit-ready documentation.
- • Connects data across teams with collaborative workflows, automated controls, and real-time visibility.
Okta
Enterprise identity management
Best for you if:
- • You need identity & access features specifically
- • Okta is an enterprise identity platform for workforce and customer IAM
- • It provides SSO, MFA, lifecycle management, and API access management
| At a Glance |  Okta | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Paid |
Best For | Compliance Management | Identity & Access |
Rating | 85/100 | 85/100 |
| Feature | Workiva | Okta |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 85 | 85 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Compliance ManagementWorkflow Automation | Identity & AccessPassword Managers |
Understanding the Differences
Both Workiva and Okta solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.Workiva positions itself as "reporting and compliance" while Oktafocuses on "enterprise identity management". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose Workiva
Workiva makes sense if you're looking for a comprehensive paid solution.
When to Choose Okta
Okta is worth considering if you need a professional-grade tool.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
Neither is free, but both have their value. Test them both and see which clicks.
We'd pick: Okta
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. Okta is built for teams that are leveling up.
We'd pick: Okta
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. Workiva is built for organizations like yours.
We'd pick: Workiva
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Both are paid tools. If money isn't the issue, go with Workiva—it scored higher.
Do you care what other users think?
Both have similar review counts. Read a few before you commit.
Expert opinion or crowd wisdom?
Our team rated Workiva higher (85/100). But the community has upvoted Okta more (0 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Workiva Does Better
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider Okta If
- Its specific features better match your workflow
- You prefer its interface or design approach
The Bottom Line
If we had to pick one, we'd go with Workiva (85/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Workiva scores higher in our analysis, but Okta might be the right choice if its specific strengths align with what you need most. Take advantage of free trials to test both before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Workiva or Okta better?
Based on our analysis, Workiva scores higher with 85/100. Workiva ispaid while Okta is paid. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from Workiva to Okta easily?
Migration difficulty varies. Check if both tools support data export/import in compatible formats. Some tools offer migration assistance or have integration partners who can help with the transition.
Do Workiva and Okta offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. Workiva is paid with potential trial.Okta is paid with potential trial. Visit their websites for current trial offers.