The modern challenger meets the enterprise incumbent. Different eras, different architectures, both capable of serious planning.
The short version
Pigment represents the new generation of planning platforms. Cloud-native, intuitive interface, fast implementation, native AI. Designed for finance teams who want modern tools that don't require IT involvement. Strong with SaaS companies and growth businesses.
IBM Planning Analytics (powered by TM1) has three decades of enterprise refinement. Exceptional calculation speed, deep Excel integration, deployment flexibility, and the ability to handle complexity that pushes younger platforms to their limits.
This comparison often comes down to trade-offs: modern UX and speed vs. proven depth and flexibility. We've seen both deliver excellent outcomes - in different contexts.
Feature comparison
| Pigment | IBM Planning Analytics | |
|---|---|---|
| Platform age | Founded 2019 | TM1 since 1990s |
| Deployment | Cloud only | Cloud, on-premise, hybrid |
| User interface | Modern, intuitive | PAW or Excel |
| Implementation time | 6-12 weeks typical | 3-9 months typical |
| Excel integration | Export/import | Deep, native PAx |
| Complex modelling | Strong, improving | Exceptional depth |
| Enterprise scale | Growing references | Decades proven |
| AI capabilities | Native agentic AI | IBM watsonx integration |
AI capabilities
Both platforms are investing in AI, though from different starting points.
Native AI designed for the platform from the start. Natural language queries generate insights instantly. Auto-detection of significant changes. Full explainability. Feels like AI was built into the product, not bolted on.
AI-powered forecasting integrated into the TM1 engine. Scenario modelling with predictive insights. Leverages IBM's broader watsonx AI portfolio. Natural language querying available in Planning Analytics Workspace.
Pigment's AI feels more conversational and integrated into daily workflows. IBM's leverages their enterprise AI heritage. Both continue developing rapidly. Base selection on core planning needs, not AI alone.
When to choose
If you've seen planning tools fail because people wouldn't use them, Pigment's interface changes the dynamic. Finance teams genuinely enjoy using it - not something you hear often about EPM platforms.
8-12 week implementations are realistic with Pigment. If you're under time pressure - PE deadline, board requirements, budget cycle - speed matters.
No infrastructure decisions, no upgrade projects, no IT involvement. If your strategy is cloud-first and you want finance to own their tools, Pigment fits.
SaaS company, growth business, or traditional enterprise modernising finance. 30+ integrations, real-time collaboration, mobile access. Contemporary architecture for contemporary teams.
When to choose
On-premise for data sovereignty, cloud for convenience, or hybrid for transition. Some industries and geographies require options that cloud-only platforms can't provide.
Planning Analytics for Excel (PAx) provides deep, native Excel integration. Users work in familiar spreadsheets with live TM1 data. For Excel-centric teams, this isn't a limitation - it's the point.
Multi-step allocations, complex transfer pricing, sophisticated profitability analysis. TM1's rules engine handles scenarios that would require workarounds elsewhere. The platform has three decades of edge case handling.
Large data volumes, thousands of users, mission-critical processes. IBM has decades of enterprise references. For risk-averse procurement decisions, track record matters.
The honest truth
Growing fast with customers like Unilever, Figma, and Gong - but fewer years of enterprise deployments than IBM. Risk-averse enterprises may find this relevant.
The TM1 talent pool is smaller than it once was. Deep TM1 skills take years to develop. Plan for how you'll resource ongoing maintenance - internal team or managed service.
Pigment projects tend to be shorter and more iterative. IBM implementations often involve more upfront design. Different project management styles suit different organisations.
Pigment's faster implementation often means lower total project cost. IBM's licensing can be more flexible for organisations with enterprise agreements. Compare total cost of ownership, not just license fees.
On pricing
Neither vendor publishes pricing, and both vary significantly based on scope and negotiation.
Pigment's faster implementation typically means lower professional services spend. IBM's enterprise licensing agreements can provide significant discounts for existing IBM customers.
The total cost comparison depends heavily on implementation complexity, existing vendor relationships, and ongoing support requirements. Get specific quotes for your situation rather than relying on market positioning.
Alternative paths
Sometimes the answer is neither Pigment nor IBM Planning Analytics.
You need connected enterprise planning. Anaplan might be the better choice for organisations needing deep integration across finance, sales, supply chain, and workforce - with a larger implementation ecosystem.
Your primary need is consolidation. Planful or Oracle EPM might be more appropriate if financial close and statutory consolidation dominate your requirements.
Your requirements are straightforward. Well-structured Excel, or simpler tools, might be sufficient for smaller teams without complex planning needs.
How to decide
Cloud-only acceptable? Data sovereignty requirements? This often narrows the choice immediately. If on-premise is required, Pigment isn't an option.
Excel power users who want to stay in Excel? Modern finance team wanting contemporary tools? User preferences should factor into the decision.
Both platforms handle simple budgeting easily. Bring your complex allocation rules, your edge cases, your messiest data. That's where differences emerge.
How will you maintain and enhance the platform long-term? Internal team, managed service provider, or implementation partner? The answer affects both platforms differently.
Questions
We've worked with both platforms and can provide objective guidance. Whether you're evaluating a new implementation or considering a migration, let's discuss your specific situation.