Top 7 Things to Look Out for When Choosing Online Proofing Software

Key Points:

  • Seamless Adobe Creative Cloud integration allows designers to send proofs, receive feedback, and manage versions directly from their editing environment—eliminating file export errors and saving time.
  • Multi-stage approval workflows with role-based permissions streamline the review process by ensuring the right people see the right proofs at the right time—reducing delays and decision-making bottlenecks.
  • Centralized feedback, robust version control, and support for all media types help creative teams maintain quality, accountability, and clarity—leading to faster approvals and fewer revision cycles.

If your creative approvals are slowing down due to endless email chains, scattered feedback, or unclear versioning, you're not alone. Online proofing software is built to streamline collaboration, but not all platforms offer the features your team truly needs.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the 7 most important things to look out for when choosing online proofing software, so you can avoid buyer’s remorse and make the smartest investment for your creative workflow.


Deep Integration with Creative Tools (Like Adobe Creative Cloud)

Designers shouldn’t have to jump through hoops just to send a file for review. Look for software that integrates directly with Adobe Creative Cloud apps like InDesign, Photoshop, and Illustrator. This allows your creative team to send proofs, receive feedback, and upload new versions, all from within the Adobe interface they’re already using.

It not only boosts productivity but also reduces the chance of human error in exporting or uploading the wrong files.

Discover more about GoProof + Adobe CC integration →

Multi-Stage and Role-Based Approval Workflows

Not everyone involved in a project needs to review every proof, and when they do, they need the right level of involvement. A good proofing platform supports multi-stage approval workflows that route proofs through designated reviewers in sequence.

Role-based access (e.g., approver, commenter, viewer) ensures people only see what they need to and prevents decision-making bottlenecks. Bonus if the system lets you save workflow templates for recurring projects.

Strong Version Control with Side-by-Side Comparisons

If feedback is being made on the wrong version of a file, that's a major problem. A strong online proofing tool should keep a detailed history of every version of a proof, and allow stakeholders to easily compare current and previous versions side by side.

This visibility helps catch what’s been changed (or missed), makes revision rounds more efficient, and cuts down on unnecessary comments or confusion.

Centralized Feedback with Markup and Commenting Tools

When feedback lives across Slack threads, emails, and meetings, things get messy, fast. Look for online proofing software that consolidates all comments and markup in one place.

Essential features include:

  • Pinpoint markup (e.g., draw, highlight, add shapes)
  • Threaded comments
  • Mentions/tagging
  • Resolution tracking

This ensures accountability and avoids contradictory feedback from different reviewers.

Support for All Media Types

Creative campaigns often span multiple formats: static images, videos, interactive web content, and print assets. Choose a platform that handles them all in one place.

Key formats to look for include:

  • PDF, JPG, PNG (for print and digital)
  • MP4 or MOV (with frame-specific comments for video)
  • Live web URLs (for pre-launch testing)
  • HTML5 and interactive banner previews

Being able to manage all proofing in a single hub is a major time-saver for busy teams.

Confidential Proofing and Granular Security Settings

If you handle client work, embargoed content, or sensitive internal projects, your proofing tool needs robust security. Look for features like:

  • Private sharing links
  • Password protection
  • Reviewer-level access control
  • Expiry dates for links
  • Confidential proofing mode (where only select users can access the proof)

This gives you peace of mind and ensures compliance with internal protocols or client agreements.

Ease of Use for Internal and External Stakeholders

If your proofing tool isn’t intuitive, people won’t use it, and your process breaks down. Look for platforms designed for non-technical users, including clients, executives, and freelance reviewers.

The best systems offer:

  • No-login guest reviewing
  • One-click approval buttons
  • Clear notifications and progress tracking
  • Mobile-friendly feedback tools

A simple, clean interface keeps everyone engaged and ensures smooth adoption across your organization.

Smarter Proofing. Faster Approvals. GoProof.

FAQS - Frequently Asked Questions

What is online proofing software used for?

Online proofing software is used to streamline the review and approval process for creative content. It allows teams to share files, collect feedback, and manage approvals in a centralized platform, reducing email threads and accelerating project delivery.

How do I choose the best online proofing tool for my team?

Start by identifying your team’s needs, such as Adobe CC integration, role-based workflows, media support, and client access. Then compare platforms based on usability, security, and version tracking. Trials and demos can help validate your decision.

Does online proofing software support video and web content?

Leading online proofing platforms support multiple media types including video files (with frame-accurate commenting), live URLs, and interactive HTML5 assets. This is ideal for teams managing multi-format campaigns.

Online proofing software, creative review tools, proofing software for agencies, Adobe Creative Cloud integration, client approval software, confidential content review, GoProof

Try GoProof Free – Simplify your Creative Reviews

No credit card required.
Find GoProof on:
Accept
By clicking “Accept”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. View our Privacy Policy for more information. Update your Cookie Preferences.