Smartly vs. Drata: Why Companies Are Switching from Drata to Smartly
Drata is a well-known compliance automation platform, but for teams focused on achieving ISO 27001 certification quickly and confidently, Drata's broad approach can bring extra complexity, hidden costs, and limited personalized support.
Smartly takes a different approach. It offers a focused, transparent, and regionally attuned solution built specifically for ISO 27001, helping companies, especially across the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region, to get certified faster, with expert human guidance at every step.
Here's a detailed comparison between Smartly and Drata, and why Smartly gives your company a sharper edge in your ISO 27001 journey.
1. Drata Reviews: Common Frustrations
While Drata is respected for its automation and integrations, many verified users report recurring issues that can slow down teams or increase operational costs. Here are some of the most common pain points:
Limited vendor integrations
Some essential tools like Background Check or MDM solutions are not supported, forcing users to rely on manual uploads or custom workarounds.
UI limitations
Users often mention frustration with having to reset filters or sorting preferences every time they open a module, which slows down daily workflows.
Complex onboarding
The initial setup can feel overwhelming, with multiple configurations and integrations requiring additional manual effort to get fully functional.
Hidden costs
Certain advanced features and integrations are available only as paid add-ons, which can raise overall project costs unexpectedly.
Limited support hours
Drata's customer support operates mainly during U.S. business hours, which creates delays for APAC-based companies.
Overly broad focus
Drata supports many frameworks at once, which can dilute the depth of its ISO 27001-specific features and guidance.
While Drata's automation capabilities are strong, these limitations often make it challenging for smaller teams and startups that need faster, more guided ISO certification.
2. Full Focus on ISO 27001
Drata supports multiple frameworks such as SOC 2, HIPAA, GDPR, and ISO 27001, but Smartly is dedicated exclusively to ISO 27001. This narrow focus allows for precision and speed, not generalization.
With Smartly, you get:
Clause-by-clause gap analyses tailored to every ISO 27001 control
Purpose-built templates and checklists designed specifically for ISO audits
Specialized expertise from professionals who focus only on ISO 27001 projects
Smartly is not a one-size-fits-all compliance platform. It is a purpose-built system that goes deep into every ISO 27001 clause and requirement.
3. Certification in 15–30 Days
Smartly clients typically reach audit readiness in 15 to 30 days, compared with the 3 to 6 months often required with Drata.
This speed comes from Smartly's practical, guided process:
Expert-backed walkthroughs for every control
Instant gap analyses, mock audit scoring, and ready-to-export reports
Automated evidence collection and ownership tracking
By focusing on efficiency and removing unnecessary steps, Smartly helps teams move from kickoff to certification in record time.
4. Designed for APAC Businesses
Drata's operations are primarily U.S.-based, which can create timezone and communication barriers for international clients. Smartly, by contrast, is headquartered in Southeast Asia and built specifically for companies in the APAC region.
Local Support
Live demos and support during local business hours
Regional Compliance
Audit-ready documentation aligned with regional auditor expectations
Local Partnerships
Partnerships with accredited local certification bodies
For APAC-based companies, this means more relevant guidance, fewer delays, and a certification process that fits local business rhythms.
5. Transparent, All-Inclusive Plans
Unlike Drata's subscription model with tiered add-ons, Smartly offers two all-inclusive ISO 27001 certification plans that cover everything needed for successful certification—no hidden costs, no surprises.
Smartly Core
For teams starting their ISO journey, designed to achieve certification within about 30 days.
Certification fee (covered)
Internal audit fee (covered)
Expert guidance from initial assessment to final audit
Access to Smartly Core software and automation tools
Smartly Autopilot
For teams that want an even faster and more supported experience.
Everything in Smartly Core, plus:
Personalized 1:1 account management and VIP support
Guaranteed responses within half a working day
Three weekly 30-minute check-in calls to stay on track
Access to Smartly Autopilot platform features
100% All-Inclusive Guarantee
Both plans come with Smartly's 100% All-Inclusive Guarantee. That means no hidden fees and full coverage of all costs for achieving ISO 27001 certification. Every certification is conducted by Smartly's partnered auditors and internationally accredited auditing firms.
6. Real Human Guidance, Not Just Software
Drata focuses heavily on automation, which can be powerful for large teams but often leaves smaller organizations navigating the platform on their own. Smartly combines automation with personal, expert guidance at every stage.
Smartly's approach includes:
Direct access to ISO compliance specialists
Personalized onboarding and progress tracking
Hands-on support for addressing gaps or technical issues
Continuous guidance until certification is complete
This hybrid model of automation plus human support ensures you are not just compliant but confident.
7. Feature Comparison: Smartly vs. Drata
| Feature | Smartly | Drata |
|---|---|---|
| Framework Focus | ISO 27001 only, purpose-built | Multiple frameworks (SOC 2, HIPAA, GDPR) |
| Gap Analysis | Clause-by-clause, ISO-specific | Generic assessments |
| Evidence Collection | Upload or link files, 40+ auto-fill templates, track ownership | Automated evidence collection |
| Audit Preparation | Mock audit scoring, ISO-focused checklists and exports | Automated compliance monitoring |
| Trust Center | Public-facing with selective sharing controls | Available |
| Live Support | Real-time answers in APAC business hours | Limited outside U.S. time zones |
| Pricing Model | All-inclusive, pay after certification | Subscription with paid add-ons |
| Certification Time | 15-30 days | 3-6 months |
The Bottom Line
Drata is a powerful platform for organizations managing several compliance frameworks at once. But if your primary goal is ISO 27001 certification, and you want to achieve it faster, with local expertise, transparent pricing, and real human guidance, Smartly is the better choice.
Smartly is purpose-built for ISO 27001 and designed to deliver measurable results: quick readiness, zero hidden fees, and ongoing expert support until you are certified.