In a world where business travel is essential yet often chaotic, finding the right tool can mean the difference between streamlined productivity and endless frustration. Two of the industry’s top contenders—SAP Concur® and TravelPerk—promise to simplify expense management and travel booking, but which truly delivers?
Having navigated the ins and outs of SAP Concur® and TravelPerk, we’re here to provide an in-depth, side-by-side comparison to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding the Platforms
SAP Concur® Overview
Established in 1993, SAP Concur® has long been a heavyweight in travel and expense management. After integrating into the SAP ecosystem, it offers a robust, enterprise-level solution that automates and streamlines business travel, expenses, and invoicing.
TravelPerk Overview
Launched in 2015, TravelPerk entered the scene with a mission to simplify business travel. It’s a cloud-based platform that prides itself on user-friendliness and flexibility, catering mainly to small and medium-sized enterprises.
Feature-by-Feature Comparison
Here’s a side-by-side comparison of SAP Concur® and TravelPerk across key features to give you a clear picture.
Expense Management
SAP Concur®
- Automated Expense Reports: Automatically captures receipts and matches them with expenses.
- Policy Compliance: Flags non-compliant expenses in real-time.
- Analytics and Reporting: Offers in-depth analytics for better financial insights.
TravelPerk
- Basic Expense Tracking: Allows manual input of expenses with receipt uploads.
- Third-Party Integrations: Supports integrations with tools like Expensify for advanced expense management.
- Limited Analytics: Basic reporting features focused on travel spend.
Comparison Table: Expense Management
| Feature | SAP Concur® | TravelPerk |
| Automated Reporting | ✅ Yes | ⚠️ Limited |
| Policy Compliance | ✅ Yes | ⚠️ Limited |
| Advanced Analytics | ✅ Yes | ⚠️ Limited |
| Third-Party Integration | ✅ Extensive | ✅ Yes |
Booking Options
SAP Concur®
- Global Inventory Access: Extensive options for flights, hotels, and car rentals worldwide.
- Corporate Rates: Supports negotiated corporate rates and discounts.
- Policy Enforcement: Integrates travel policies into the booking process.
TravelPerk
- Modern Booking Interface: User-friendly with real-time availability.
- FlexiPerk Feature: Offers flexible bookings with easy cancellations.
- Alternative Accommodations: Includes options like Airbnb.
Comparison Table: Booking Options
| Feature | SAP Concur® | TravelPerk |
| Global Inventory | ✅ Extensive | ✅ Extensive |
| Flexible Booking | ⚠️ Standard | ✅ FlexiPerk |
| Alternative Accommodations | ⚠️ Limited | ✅ Yes |
| Policy Enforcement | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
Integration Capabilities
SAP Concur®
- SAP Ecosystem: Seamless integration with SAP products.
- APIs for Custom Integration: Allows for extensive customization.
- Third-Party Apps: Integrates with various accounting and HR systems.
TravelPerk
- Popular Tools Integration: Connects with Slack, Expensify, and Google Calendar.
- API Access: Limited compared to SAP Concur®.
- Focus on Simplicity: Prioritizes easy setup over extensive integrations.
User Experience
Having personally used both platforms, here’s my take:
SAP Concur®
- Learning Curve: This takes time to master due to its comprehensive features.
- Mobile App: Robust functionality but can feel cluttered.
- Customization: Highly customizable dashboards and workflows.
TravelPerk
- Intuitive Design: Clean, modern interface that’s easy to navigate.
- Quick Onboarding: Employees can start booking with minimal training.
- Mobile Experience: Streamlined app focused on essential features.
Customer Support
SAP Concur®
- 24/7 Support: Available via phone and email.
- Dedicated Account Managers: For enterprise clients.
- Training Resources: Extensive libraries and webinars.
TravelPerk
- Business Hours Support: Extended support for premium plans.
- Live Chat and Email: Responsive but limited after-hours.
- Help Center: Offers guides and FAQs.
Pricing Structures
Understanding the cost implications is crucial. Here’s how they compare:
SAP Concur®
- Customized Quotes: Pricing is tailored based on company size and needs.
- Additional Fees: Possible setup and integration fees.
- Scalable Plans: Suitable for growing businesses.
TravelPerk
- Transparent Pricing: Offers a free tier and clear pricing for premium plans.
- Per-Booking Fees: Charges added on top of travel costs.
- No Hidden Costs: Easy to predict expenses.
Comparison Table: Pricing
| Aspect | SAP Concur® | TravelPerk |
| Pricing Model | Customized | Tiered Plans |
| Setup Fees | ⚠️ Possible | ❌ None |
| Per-Booking Fees | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Free Tier | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
Pros and Cons Table:
| SAP Concur® | TravelPerk |
| Pros | Pros |
| Advanced expense automation | Simple, fast setup |
| Customizable policies | User-friendly interface |
| Seamless ERP integrations | Affordable pricing tiers |
| Global scalability | Excellent customer support |
| Cons | Cons |
| Higher learning curve | Limited features for large businesses |
| Costlier for small teams | Standardized policy controls |
Which Platform Suits Your Business Best?
For Large Enterprises or Those Needing Comprehensive Solutions
If your business requires an all-encompassing platform that can handle complex travel policies and detailed expense reporting and integrates with various enterprise systems, SAP Concur® is the optimal choice. Its robust features are designed to meet the demands of larger organizations.
For Small to Medium Businesses or Those Prioritizing Simplicity
If you’re looking for a straightforward, user-friendly platform that allows for quick bookings and basic expense tracking without the need for deep integrations, TravelPerk might be more suitable.
At Worldgo, we’ve harnessed the power of SAP Concur® to deliver unparalleled travel management services to our clients. Its comprehensive features align perfectly with our commitment to efficiency and excellence.
Frequently Asked Questions about SAP Concur® vs TravelPerk:
What key factors should influence my choice between SAP Concur® and TravelPerk?
Consider your company’s size, complexity of travel policies, need for integrations, and budget. SAP Concur® is ideal for comprehensive needs, while TravelPerk suits simpler requirements.
Can I integrate SAP Concur® with non-SAP systems?
Absolutely. SAP Concur® offers extensive APIs and connectors to integrate with various third-party applications, not just SAP systems.
Does TravelPerk support international travel bookings?
Yes, TravelPerk provides access to many global travel options, including flights, hotels, and trains.
How do the mobile apps compare between the two platforms?
SAP Concur®’s mobile app is feature-rich but may require effective training. TravelPerk’s app is more straightforward, focusing on ease of booking and itinerary management.
Are there any hidden costs with either platform?
SAP Concur® may have additional setup or customization fees. TravelPerk charges per booking fee, but these are transparently listed in their pricing structure.
Can SAP Concur® and TravelPerk integrate with ERP systems?
SAP Concur® integrates seamlessly with ERP systems, while TravelPerk provides basic integration options and focuses more on travel-related functionalities.