Automation is no longer a luxury reserved for large enterprises. In today’s data-driven economy, businesses of all sizes are turning to automation to manage growing volumes of documents, improve accuracy, and reduce operational delays. A key area of innovation is Intelligent Document Processing (IDP) — a field focused on turning unstructured and semi-structured documents into usable data.
IDP platforms use technologies such as Optical Character Recognition (OCR), Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and Natural Language Processing (NLP) to read, classify, and extract information from various types of documents. These documents can range from invoices and contracts to identity forms, financial statements, and shipping records.
Yet not all IDP platforms are built the same. Each provider approaches automation differently, often shaped by its product focus, target industry, and underlying technology stack. This article explores how different IDP platforms handle document automation and why organizations are looking beyond the usual names in search of better-fit solutions. We’ll also highlight what to look for when considering competitors to UiPath, one of the most well-known platforms in this space.
At its core, Intelligent Document Processing involves converting documents into structured data that can be used by systems like ERPs, CRMs, or analytics tools. Traditional document automation focused on basic OCR and template matching. But modern IDP goes further by introducing learning models that adapt to new layouts and formats, reducing the need for hard-coded templates.
Modern IDP platforms offer:
These capabilities help businesses improve data accuracy, lower processing time, and reduce manual effort.
UiPath is a recognized leader in robotic process automation (RPA) and offers document processing capabilities through its Document Understanding module. UiPath combines OCR with AI to extract data from documents, integrating tightly with its RPA bots.
Strengths of UiPath’s approach:
However, UiPath’s platform is broad and can be complex to configure. Smaller businesses or teams without in-house technical expertise may find the initial setup and maintenance challenging. These limitations are among the reasons some teams are evaluating competitors to UiPath that offer simpler, more targeted IDP capabilities.
Docsumo positions itself as a fast, flexible solution for document-heavy sectors such as finance, logistics, and insurance. It offers intelligent data extraction with a user-friendly interface and low-code setup.
How Docsumo handles automation:
Docsumo’s approach is well suited for companies that need quick deployment and high data accuracy without relying heavily on IT teams. It is increasingly mentioned among competitors to UiPath for businesses focused on document workflows rather than full-scale process automation.
Rossum uses a “cognitive” approach to document processing, aiming to minimize template training. It focuses on layout-free extraction, where the platform learns from document samples without requiring rigid templates.
Notable automation features:
Rossum appeals to mid-sized enterprises looking for balance between automation and human oversight. While flexible, some users may still need to invest time in model tuning for non-standard documents.
ABBYY is known for its OCR heritage and strong focus on data capture. FlexiCapture is its enterprise IDP solution that supports a wide range of document types with powerful configuration options.
Key features:
FlexiCapture is ideal for large organizations with specific compliance or data requirements. However, its steep learning curve and higher implementation cost may be a barrier for small teams.
Hyperscience applies deep learning to document data capture, especially in government and financial services where forms are common.
Automation highlights:
Hyperscience stands out where accuracy and regulation are critical, but it may require more extensive onboarding compared to lighter platforms.
Kofax offers an integrated platform that combines document processing with business process automation. It includes tools for scanning, data capture, workflow management, and analytics.
Automation strengths:
Kofax is often chosen by enterprises with broader digital initiatives, but its wide feature set can lead to higher costs and complexity.
Not every organization needs a full RPA suite, nor does every business benefit from a one-size-fits-all solution. When assessing IDP platforms, it helps to consider:
1. Use Case Fit
Choose a platform that aligns with your primary use cases. If you're processing invoices, identity documents, or claims daily, opt for a tool with pre-trained models for those formats.
2. Ease of Setup
Platforms that offer no-code or low-code setup make it easier for business teams to take control without depending entirely on IT.
3. Accuracy and Adaptability
Check whether the tool offers learning models that improve over time and allow human feedback to fine-tune results.
4. Integration Options
A good IDP solution should integrate with your existing ERP, CRM, cloud storage, and workflow tools.
5. Security and Compliance
For industries dealing with sensitive data, ensure the platform meets relevant compliance standards like GDPR, HIPAA, or SOC 2.
6. Scalability
Evaluate how well the platform handles increasing document volume and whether performance remains consistent under load.
UiPath remains a strong contender in the automation space. However, as automation needs become more specialized, companies are re-evaluating their tools to find better fits for specific workflows.
Many businesses are now seeking competitors to UiPath that:
This shift highlights the growing preference for purpose-built IDP tools that prioritize speed, ease of use, and document-specific intelligence.
As automation becomes a core part of operational efficiency, Intelligent Document Processing will continue to gain traction. From AI-powered data extraction to customizable workflows, IDP platforms are shaping how businesses handle information at scale.
While UiPath has led much of the discussion around automation, it’s no longer the only choice. Companies are now actively exploring competitors to UiPath that offer targeted capabilities, faster setup, and more flexible deployment options.
By evaluating your specific document needs and comparing features across platforms like Docsumo, Rossum, ABBYY, and others, you can choose a solution that not only supports your current goals but grows with your business.
