Why 6clicks is outpacing legacy GRC platforms like Archer, ServiceNow and Diligent

For years, Archer, ServiceNow, and Diligent were the go-to names in GRC software. Archer’s rich functionality made it a leader, while ServiceNow’s IT service management roots made it a natural choice for IT leaders. Both platforms drove service revenue for advisory firms, largely due to the extensive customization and implementation work required.

But things are changing. Customers no longer want lengthy, complex, IT projects or being wedded to professional services capability to get the basics in place. What once made platforms like Archer, ServiceNow, and Diligent essential, is now seen as an obstacle, driving a shift toward more intuitive, flexible, and powerful solutions. Let's explore the implications of this trend and how innovative solutions like 6clicks are setting a new standard for modern GRC software.

Market feedback

We’ve spoken with dozens of CISOs, CROs, advisors, and cyber risk and compliance professionals to gather feedback on the effectiveness of the solutions they currently employ. We were able to obtain the following insights:

• High total cost of ownership: "At a minimum with the likes of Archer and ServiceNow, you need a hefty consulting engagement, which just adds to the TCO. We don’t have the appetite for that anymore."

• Outdated licensing models: "Their licensing models are ‘old school,’ and that’s just the start of the fees."

• Complexity and time-to-value: "The BBQ test prevails—people find these legacy tools hard work and take ages to get up and running."

• Engagement style: "Canned, stiff demos, complex price lists, long-winded proposals, and bureaucratic sales processes. This all speaks to what you can expect more of down the track - no thanks."

The 6clicks approach

In contrast, what makes 6clicks stand out over these legacy tools lies in its capability to provide an off-the-shelf SaaS solution with turnkey content and configurations. With 6clicks, users can leverage practical tools alongside advanced features, delivering an unparalleled user experience.

1. AI leadership: The Hailey AI engine drives task automation and AI-powered insights, making risk and compliance management smarter and faster. Check out our Gartner Cool Vendor recognition.

2. Integrated content and templates: Control sets and templates are built-in, removing the need for heavy customization and manual data entry from the start. Check out our Content Library here.

3. Inside-out and outside-in capabilities: 6clicks brings external data like configuration compliance scans and vulnerabilities directly into the platform, alongside internal manual reviews and related data.

4. Full-stack GRC capability: 6clicks offers a complete GRC solution—from compliance audits and assessments to risk management, unified control frameworks, evidence collection, and third-party (vendor or supply-chain) risk management. View the 6clicks platform overview here.

5. Transparent and simple pricing: 6clicks' unique pricing model includes unlimited users, content, GRC modules, and support, ensuring predictability and no hidden fees as usage of the platform grows. Learn more about what's included in a 6clicks license.
6. Instant deployment: 6clicks is built for cyber GRC out-of-the-box and doesn't require hundreds of hours or costly services to get up and running, with onboarding and support included. Learn more about 6clicks' all-included support here.

If you’re an advisor or managed service provider (MSP), check out this article on how to align GRC technology with your end-to-end service delivery model.

What all this means

In a world where agility, speed, and simplicity are paramount, the era of clunky, high-maintenance GRC platforms is coming to a close. The market has made it clear: organizations are tired of being bogged down by complex implementations and outdated pricing models. They want nimble, AI-powered solutions that deliver immediate value, without the need for excessive customization or lengthy consulting engagements.

For advisors, MSPs, and enterprises alike, the message is clear—simpler, smarter, and more scalable GRC solutions like 6clicks are the future. As businesses move away from legacy systems, those who adopt these modern tools will gain a competitive edge, ensuring they can keep up with the demands of today’s fast-paced, evolving landscape.