# 4. How should we compare AuditBoard vs Workiva for SOX controls management?

First update the comparison: **AuditBoard announced its rebrand to Optro on 9 March 2026**. Search historical material under AuditBoard, but evaluate current proposals under the actual product and contracting names supplied to you. [Supplier-issued announcement](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/meet-optro-auditboard-unveils-new-identity-as-ai-transforms-grc-302707321.html). ([prnewswire.com](https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/meet-optro-auditboard-unveils-new-identity-as-ai-transforms-grc-302707321.html?utm_source=openai))

Optro markets Controls Management around planning, testing and reporting. Workiva offers SOX compliance software and announced an updated GRC proposition on 9 March 2026 connecting audit, risk and controls with its wider reporting platform. These are positioning statements, not proof that either will fit your SOX programme better. [Optro Controls Management](https://optro.ai/product/controls-management) · [Workiva SOX](https://www.workiva.com/solutions/sox-compliance) · [Workiva announcement](https://newsroom.workiva.com/press-releases/data-silos-executive-clarity-workiva-reimagines-grc-ai-powered-platform-audit-risk). ([optro.ai](https://optro.ai/product/controls-management))

Use one SOX scenario for both:

1. Document a process, related risk and key control.
2. Change the control owner during a testing period.
3. Request evidence and reject an incomplete submission.
4. Record a failed test and management’s remediation.
5. Retest without overwriting the original conclusion.
6. Produce a period-specific evidence package for the external auditor.
7. Change the control for the next period while preserving the earlier version.

For a Workiva-led proposal, test the specific connection to your reporting workflow. For an Optro-led proposal, test the specific connection between controls and broader audit or risk work. In both cases, assess contributor usability, auditor access, attachments, history, bulk export and the cost of retained systems.