M-Files
M-Files is a metadata-driven document management platform that organizes and secures your business information based on what it is rather than where it is stored across your organization.
ShareVault
ShareVault provides a secure document sharing platform and virtual data room designed to protect your sensitive information during high-stakes business transactions like M&A, audits, and clinical trials.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | M-Files | ShareVault |
|---|---|---|
| Website | m-files.com | sharevault.com |
| Pricing Model | Custom | Custom |
| Starting Price | Custom Pricing | Custom Pricing |
| FREE Trial | ✓ 30 days free trial | ✓ 7 days free trial |
| Free Plan | ✘ No free plan | ✘ No free plan |
| Product Demo | ✓ Request demo here | ✓ Request demo here |
| Deployment | ||
| Integrations | ||
| Target Users | ||
| Target Industries | ||
| Customer Count | 0 | 0 |
| Founded Year | 1987 | 2003 |
| Headquarters | Tampere, Finland | Los Gatos, USA |
Overview
M-Files
M-Files changes how you interact with company data by ditching traditional folder structures for a metadata-driven approach. Instead of hunting through nested folders, you find documents based on what they are—like a specific client name, project ID, or expiration date. This unique system connects to your existing storage, whether that is SharePoint, network folders, or local drives, giving you a single point of truth without moving all your files.
You can automate complex business processes like invoice approvals, contract lifecycles, and compliance audits with built-in workflow tools. The platform automatically applies security permissions and retention policies based on the document type, ensuring your sensitive data stays protected. It is particularly effective for regulated industries like manufacturing, professional services, and financial firms where document control and audit trails are non-negotiable requirements.
ShareVault
ShareVault gives you a secure environment to share your most sensitive documents with external parties. Whether you are managing a complex M&A deal, fundraising, or coordinating a life sciences clinical trial, you can control exactly who sees what and for how long. The platform eliminates the risks of standard file-sharing tools by adding bank-grade security and detailed activity tracking to every interaction.
You can organize thousands of documents quickly using automated indexing and powerful search tools. The interface stays simple for your guests, so they can review files without technical hurdles, while you get real-time alerts when someone views or downloads a document. It is built specifically for regulated industries that cannot afford a data leak or compliance failure.
Overview
M-Files Features
- Metadata-Driven Search Find any document instantly by searching for what it is—like a customer or date—instead of remembering where it was saved.
- Automated Workflows Streamline your business processes by automating document approvals, notifications, and task assignments to keep your team moving forward.
- External Repository Connectors Access and manage files stored in SharePoint, Google Drive, or network folders directly through one unified M-Files interface.
- Version Control Track every change made to a document and revert to previous versions easily, ensuring you always work on the latest draft.
- Dynamic Permissions Control access automatically based on metadata, so only the right people see sensitive documents without manual folder-level adjustments.
- Offline Access View and edit your critical documents even without an internet connection, with automatic syncing once you are back online.
ShareVault Features
- Granular Permissions. Control exactly who can view, print, or download documents with easy-to-manage user and group permissions.
- Remote Shredding. Revoke access to documents even after they have been downloaded to a user's device with one click.
- Dynamic Watermarking. Protect your files by automatically applying customized watermarks that include the viewer's name and IP address.
- Detailed Activity Tracking. Monitor exactly which pages your users are reading and for how long with comprehensive audit trails.
- Secure Print Control. Prevent unauthorized physical copies by disabling printing or limiting it to specific trusted users only.
- Instant Indexing. Organize your data room instantly with automated document numbering and a searchable folder structure.
Pricing Comparison
M-Files Pricing
ShareVault Pricing
Pros & Cons
M-Files
Pros
- Superior search capabilities compared to traditional folder systems
- Highly flexible metadata structure adapts to any business
- Excellent version history and audit trail for compliance
- Strong integration with Microsoft Office and Outlook
Cons
- Initial setup and configuration requires significant planning
- Steep learning curve for users used to folders
- Mobile app interface is less intuitive than desktop
- Pricing is high for very small businesses
ShareVault
Pros
- Intuitive interface makes it easy for outside parties to use
- Exceptional customer support available 24/7 for urgent deals
- Fast document uploading and automated indexing saves hours
- Granular security controls provide peace of mind during audits
Cons
- Pricing is higher than basic cloud storage options
- Mobile app experience is less robust than desktop
- Initial setup of complex permissions takes some time