Filestage set out to solve one of the most pressing issues for creative teams who are trying to get work edited and approved without cumbersome email chains. While it’s great for some creative teams, others may be looking for alternatives that are better suited to their specific needs.
That’s where we’re here to help. We’ll break down the issues that some creative teams face when working with Filestage and walk you through some alternative software solutions that may be a better fit for your team and workflow.
Shortcomings of Filestage
As with every program, Source Connect is not without its limitations. These include
- No workflow streaming for real-time edits: The SaaS tool is designed to allow for notes and approvals to happen at each collaborator’s convenience. It’s not designed to live collaborate during the editing phases as there is no way to stream editing software through the program.
- No video conferencing built-in: Filestage is not designed to support video conferencing or live discussion.
- Requires file uploads for review: For Filestage to work, users must upload each asset to the system for review and approval, which can result in long download times and storage challenges.
These drawbacks won't matter much to you if you're just looking for an approval and proofing platform. However, suppose you're looking to collaborate live while implementing the edits that your teammates are suggesting or want a workflow more tailored towards specific creative teams' needs (like video editors). In that case, Filestage might not be the perfect fit for you.
Thankfully, we’ve found some alternative platforms that offer different unique features that may suit your team’s needs.
The Best Alternatives to Filestage
Evercast
Evercast is a remote editing collaboration platform that allows creatives to collaborate in real-time on recording and editing sessions, all while video conferencing and utilizing built-in notation features to make notes and suggest changes.
Top features:
- Ultra-low latency streaming
- Ability to stream editing software workspace with other collaborators
- Timestamped note-taking and comments
- Video conferencing built-in
Use cases:
Evercast is not just an online proofing software; it's designed to replicate the feeling of being in a live editing session with all your co-collaborators. It is best used when you want to make edits as they’re suggested and review the results with everyone in real-time.
Why customers might prefer using Evercast over Filestage:
The two biggest advantages of using Evercast over Filestage are its ability to stream the full editing workspace and the built-in video collaboration features. Instead of just making notes on an asset and waiting to see the results, Evercast allows each person to actively participate in the editing process, all while meeting “face-to-face” in a live, low-latency video conference.
Pricing:
The flagship product for all your real-time collaboration needs starts at $849 per month for month-to-month plans, with discounted pricing starting at $549 per month for longer commitments. Special pricing packages are available for larger studios or teams.
Final word:
For creative teams that need more than just simple approvals and want to actively participate in the editing process, Evercast is a great option. Plus, the ability to stream live video conferencing within the program makes for a much more intimate and “live” feeling collaboration session. Learn more about Evercast here.
Create together remotely, in real time
Wipster
Wipster is a video review and proofing platform built on the needs of video producers who want a streamlined platform to send out drafts to internal collaborators and clients for review and approval.
Top features:
- Supports video files, audio files, PDF files, and image files
- Version tracking to easily review each stage of changes
- Feedback tools to make revision suggestions easy
Use cases:
Wipster is designed to make it easy for video editors and producers to send draft versions of their work out to all the people involved in review and approval.
Why customers might prefer using Wipster over Filestage:
Wipster is tailor-made for video producers, while Filestage is designed to appeal more broadly to all types of creative assets. Video producers might find the workflow of Wipster more intuitive and easier to use than Filestage.
Pricing:
Wipster has a free version that allows you access to basic features and 5GB of storage space. Paid plans start at $22.50 per user per month and include more storage space, advanced level features, and access to more support.
Final word:
If you’re looking for a review platform that is designed with video producers at the forefront, Wipster may be the perfect alternative to Filestage for your creative team.
GoProof
Designed with the needs of copy and content editors in mind, GoProof is a streamlined document and creative asset review and approval platform that works straight from your browser.
Top features:
- Adobe Creative Cloud integration
- Unlimited collaborators
- In-document co-editing
- Version and edit tracking
Use cases:
Geared towards copy and content writers, GoProof’s features are heavily weighted towards document revisions and approvals with co-editing features and edit tracking software.
Why customers might prefer using GoProof over Filestage:
For copy and content writers that want to work with their co-collaborators and editors to refine document drafts, GoProof may be a better fit than Filestage, thanks to the integrated document editing features.
Pricing:
GoProof offers a free two-week trial, with pricing starting around $1500 for an annual subscription after the free trial.
Final word:
While an expensive option, GoProof is a great solution for proofing and review for remote writing teams such as magazines, newspapers, and other print media. If you’re managing a large writing and editing team, the investment in GoProof may be well worth it.
QuickReviewer
Designed to make the workflow of creative agencies or in-house branding teams simple, QuickReviewer is a feature-packed review and approval platform that's designed to keep large creative teams on-task.
Top features:
- Feature-packed review window that allows reviewers full control over commenting, playback, and much more.
- Easy approve/reject buttons
- Organize creative projects by folder or campaign
- Controlled access
Use cases:
For any teams creating large volumes of digital assets that need to be proofed, reviewed, edited, and approved, QuickReviewer provides an all-in-one platform to keep things organized and on track.
Why customers might prefer using QuickReviewer over Filestage:
QuickReviewer offers greater control to reviewers to customize their review experience, from variable speed playback to comment searching.
Pricing:
QuickReviewer offers a “Forever Free” plan for users on a budget who don’t need access to some of the more advanced features such as Creative Cloud integration and custom branding. Paid subscriptions start at $8 per month.
Final word:
QuickReviewer is surprisingly feature-packed for such an affordable price and is ideal for creative teams organizing high volumes of digital assets.
GoVisually
If you’re looking for a proofing platform that’s simple, visually appealing, and intuitive, GoVisually is a great option.
Top features:
- Visual annotation of images, videos, and PDFs
- Slack integration
- Mobile-friendly interface
- No registration required for reviewers
Use cases:
For design teams that are more visually inclined, the simple and aesthetic user interface makes this an attractive option. Also, for teams that are constantly on the go, the mobile-friendly interface means that even the busiest team members can chime in without breaking their stride.
Why customers might prefer using GoVisually over Filestage:
GoVisually offers a very clean, minimalistic interface that may work better for teams that get overwhelmed by more technical programs like Filestage.
Pricing:
The “Solo” subscription is designed for solo freelancers and is priced at $20 per month. For larger teams with a larger number of reviewers and more projects, the “Pro” account is $50 per month and includes more advanced features tailored towards agencies.
Final word:
This aesthetically pleasing yet surprisingly powerful platform is perfect for visually motivated creators looking for a simple, organized proofing platform.
No matter your proofing needs, there are tons of options to fit your needs and budget. Whether you stick with Filestage or try one of these alternatives, it’s all about finding the platform that allows your creativity to flow without too many distracting technical issues.
