ShareFile is a cloud-based file sharing and storage service built for business. The product was acquired by Citrix Systems in 2011.
$10
per month per user, per month, minimum of 3 users
Suralink
Score 10.0 out of 10
N/A
CPAs can use Suralink to manage PBC request lists, securely transfer documents, and improve the client experience. The Suralink platform combines a dynamic PBC list, assignment workflow, and secure file hosting with the goal of delivering a more efficient and organized engagement.
Sometimes we just need to send a single large file, and compressing it is easier than using ShareFile. But generally, we use ShareFile to exchange or send anything over 20 MB. A problem that we have not had [yet], but wonder about is this: Are ShareFile and its e-mailed links safe for transmission to/from U.S. Government computers? All of our public-sector clients are state and locality-based. We haven't had any interacton with U.S. entities. U.S. entities, especially DOD, are rather particular about these type of file-sharing sites and links embedded inside e-mails.
SuraLink makes perfect sense for a CPA firm that works with a number of clients. It provides easy access, and well-presented display of each client and the corresponding files provided. The security of the files is also imperative for sensitive client information. The format of the portal also allows for ease of understanding which files coordinate to what requests. This is in contrast to a something like a "drop-box" in which it is simply a list of files. This may not be the proper product for a smaller operation that only seeks secure file transfers on a non-regular basis. Additionally, for the smaller organizations, the cost may be prohibitive for little to sparing use. In those situations, a more simple secure file transfer options may be more advantageous.
Authenticated electronic document signatures--self-signing, and sending out for signatures. This is a robust feature that also allows for additional information to be added to documents being sent for signatures, such as dates, notes, and items omitted but needed.
Encrypted emails through ShareFile, Citrix apps for Outlook, Gmail, and Mac email systems. Encrypted email messages cannot be cut/pasted, nor forwarded without encryption. If only the attachments need to be encrypted, the email message can be unencrypted. Also, two options for securely opening an encrypted email (one with less credentials, one with more).
There seems to be a number of situation in which the site is down or experiencing difficulties. This makes it difficult to work with clients and obtain documentation.
When uploading a large volume of workpapers, there are occasions in which some or all of the files will not upload properly. This creates additional back and forth and frustration with the client for re-requests or follow-ups.
The email notification alerts could be stronger in how they are displayed and how the changes/updates are utilized.
The cost is fair and the program does what it has promised to do. Customer service is attentive. I'm not aware of any better-sounding file sharing systems out there that would tempt us to discontinue ShareFile.
ShareFile is so easy to use I was able to download all of my projects files and have them set up to sync before my supervisor could even come over to explain the process to me. It is a neatly organized and intuitive software that allows even the less tech-savvy to become power users.
Easy to use, easy to integrate with Outlook. I only gave it a 9 because I have found that sometimes it does not play nicely with Outlook and can slow it down. But, when that happens (not frequent), I restart Outlook and all is well again
Typically the support is very knowledgeable and interested in following an issue until it is fully resolved. I have not had any issues working with their staff as they are all polite and easy to communicate with. If the first or second level tech does not fix the concern then it is escalated until we get to someone who can close the case.
Good documentation for the API. With a little help from RS tech staff, any competent programmer should be able to integrate RightSignature with an existing system in a week or three. That help is easy to get as well
ShareFile is easier and does what you need. I have moved a few organizations from SharePoint to ShareFile. Just easier. You can setup different areas for different departments, setup their permissions and it is easy enough for them to do what they want in their zones. The mobile app works great as well. So you can all the features you really use from SP, but just easier to setup and use.
It's been huge in allowing our freelancers to upload a doc or email comp into the system and initiate a workflow so that those inside the organization can provide feedback without the need of staying on top of emails/messages. It's all located in one place.
The time suck from the previously-mentioned annotations issue has caused me to lose some productivity as I have to 'wait my turn' to drop in an annotation, then have it removed, and re-attempt multiple times. Not a huge impact on ROI, but it does affect productivity.
From the product side, it is helpful for me to reference what the content will be on our website before the page goes up, as well as the copy we send to our retailers who resell our products. Our marketing lingo stays even across all touch-points because of ShareFile.