10 Best Open Source Document Management Software in 2024
Are you looking for the best and open source and self hosted document management software options for 2024?
We will explore 10 open source solutions, which are obviously free document management for students, professionals, and small business owners. Let's find the perfect fit for your needs.
Quick Recap of Open Source Document Management Software
1. Papermark: Open Source documents sharing, analytics and self-hosted data room creation
2. Nextcloud: Combines file storage, chat, and office tools for collaborative work, with strong data security measures
3. OpenDocMan: A PHP-based system that emphasizes compliance with ISO standards, offering web-based access and file control
4. Kinto: Provides a generic JSON document store with capabilities for sharing and synchronization, suitable for backend development simplification
5. Uwazi: A web-based tool for organizing and sharing diverse document collections, supporting multiple languages and data types
6. Documenso: Offers an open-source document signing platform
7. kimios: A system that supports document storage, version management, and API integration, requiring Java and a relational database
8. Papermerge: Focuses on managing digital archives of scanned documents with OCR technology for text extraction and full-text search capabilities
9. SeedDMS: Acts as an OAI-PMH repository and supports LDAP authentication, focusing on document sharing and metadata management
10. Mayan EDMS: A robust system with features like OCR, document versioning, and role-based access control, suitable for detailed document management
Types of open source and self hosted document management software and use cases
1. Document Sharing and Analytics Platforms: Software like Papermark falls into this category, offering secure document sharing, built-in page analytics, and data room creation for a streamlined document management experience. These platforms are designed to facilitate secure document exchange and provide insights into document engagement.
2. Document Management Systems for Digital Archives: Tools such as Papermerge and Mayan EDMS are tailored for managing digital archives, particularly scanned documents. They incorporate OCR technology for text extraction and full-text search capabilities, making them ideal for long-term storage and retrieval of digital archives.
3. Collaboration and Productivity Suites: Nextcloud represents this type, combining file storage, chat, and office tools to enhance team collaboration. These suites are designed to support data security, access control, and integration with existing infrastructure, catering to a wide range of collaborative work environments.
4. Document Signing Platforms: Documenso is an example of open-source software providing a secure infrastructure for document signing. These platforms are self-hosted and offer complete visibility into operations, catering to needs for legal document processing and secure electronic signatures.
5. Comprehensive Document Management Systems: kimios and LogicalDOC are examples of systems offering extensive document management capabilities, including storage, version management, security, and workflow integration. These systems are suitable for enterprises requiring robust document management solutions.
6. Web-Based Document Collection Builders: Uwazi is designed for building and sharing document collections online, supporting multiple languages and data types. This type is ideal for organizations looking to organize and share diverse document collections in an accessible manner.
6. Organizing and Sharing Document Collections: Uwazi is designed for non-profits, research institutions, and human rights organizations looking to build and share document collections in a collaborative and accessible manner.
Papermark
Website: papermark.io
Papermark is a modern document sharing infrastructure that allows users to securely share documents with clients, investors and create secure data rooms for fundraising and m&a
To begin with Papermark Open Source, users require Node.js, a PostgreSQL database, blob storage such as AWS S3 or Vercel Blob, and Resend for email sending. By cloning the repository, installing dependencies, and configuring environment variables, users can access the app locally. Setting up the Tinybird database includes handling Python dependencies, installing the Tinybird CLI, and configuring datasources and endpoints.
Contributions to the project are welcome through forked repositories and pull requests, making Papermark a collaborative tool for document sharing among professionals.
Papermark Features
- Open Source and Self-hosted
- Unlimited documents
- Unlimited folders
- Built-in page by page analytics on each document
- Full customisation and white labelling
- Secure document sharing
- Unlimited space
- Custom domains
- Watermarking
Papermark Pricing
- Free plan available
- $29 for document sharing (3 seats included)
- $59 for secure data room
- $149 for unlimited data rooms
- Available fully self hosted version
Papermark on GitHub
⭐️ 3500+ stars
🧑💻 30+ contributors
🔗 450+ forks
To GitHub: https://github.com/mfts/papermark
Nextcloud
Website: nextcloud.com
Nextcloud is a collaboration platform with a focus on data security, combining modules like Files, Talk, Groupware, and Office. Featuring access control, group chat, web conferencing, and data protection, Nextcloud offers a comprehensive solution. Nextcloud Files enables file storage and sync, Talk allows private conferencing, and Groupware merges Calendar, Contacts, Mail, and productivity tools. Nextcloud Office offers online editing.
The platform enhances productivity, data management, and community support for sectors like public, enterprise, service providers, and education. Interested organizations can explore Nextcloud's benefits to meet their specific needs.
Nextcloud Features
- On-premises or cloud
- Customizable and scalable
- No data leaks to third parties
- Access control
- Infrastructure integration
Nextcloud Limitations
- May require technical expertise to set up and maintain
- Self-hosted solutions may come with security risks if not properly configured
- Limited customer support options compared to other cloud services
Nextcloud Pricing
- Basic: 37.49€/user/year
- Standard: 67.89€/user/year
- Premium: 99.99€/user/year
- Ultimate: 195€/user/year
Nextcloud Ratings and Reviews
- G2: 4.3/5 (116+ reviews)
- Capterra: 4.7/5 (436+ reviews)
- Trustpilot: 3.5/5 (27+ reviews)
Nextcloud on GitHub
⭐️ 25k+ stars
🧑💻 200+ contributors
🔗 2000+ forks
To GitHub:https://github.com/nextcloud
Documenso
Website: documenso.com
Documenso is an open-source document signing platform.
Documenso is self-hosted and creates open trust infrastructure by allowing users to review its operations under the hood.
Built with TypeScript, Next.js, Prisma, and Tailwind CSS, Documenso offers a flexible tech stack for document signing.
Documenso Features
- Open-source signing infrastructure
- Self-hosting option
- Complete visibility into inner workings
- Custom templates with smart rules
- Connections and automations with Zapier
Documenso Pricing for subscription
- Enterprise Plan: $1188 per seat/year
- Singleplayer Plan: Pricing not available
Documenso on GitHub
⭐️ 6100 stars
🧑💻 90 contributors
🔗 600 forks
To Github: https://github.com/documenso/documenso
kimios
Website: kimios.com
Kimios is an open Document Management System that offers document storage, version management, security, permissions, indexing, metadata, notifications, workflow integration, APIs, SSO integration, web interface, and document preview. It has customization options and requires Java 1.8 and a database like PostgreSQL, MariaDB, or MySQL. Kimios is continuously updated under GNU Affero GPL and supported by Apache CXF, Spring Framework, Apache Tomcat, Apache Karaf, and Apache Solr.
kimios Features
- Customizable document metadatas
- Notifications
- Workflow integration
- REST API
- SSO Integration
- Web interface
- Document preview
- Open Source Document Management System
kimios Limitations
- Lack of information on system requirements
- No mention of technical support options
- Limited information on integration with other systems
kimios on GitHub
⭐️ 130 stars
🧑💻 3 contributors
🔗 70 forks
To Github: https://github.com/kimios/kimios
OpenDocMan Self Hosted Document Management
Website: opendocman.com
OpenDocMan is a free, web-based document management system that adheres to ISO 17025 and OIE standards. It offers features like web-based access, file access control, and automated installation and upgrades. Overall, OpenDocMan provides secure access control and easy installation options, making it a valuable tool for businesses seeking to streamline document management processes and comply with industry standards.
OpenDocMan Features
- Centralized Document Storage
- Limited Access
- Tracking Changes
- Add any file type to the system
- Meta data fields for each file
- Automated document review process
- Quick-browse search by author, department, or category
- Secure URL feature to obfuscate URL parameters
OpenDocMan Limitations
- Lack of information on system compatibility with different operating systems
- Limited customization options for user interface
- Potential learning curve for IT staff to fully utilize all features
OpenDocMan Ratings and Reviews
- Capterra: 4.6/5 (91+ reviews)
OpenDocMan on GitHub
⭐️ 215 stars
🧑💻 7 contributors
🔗 129 forks
To Github: https://github.com/opendocman
Papermerge
Website: papermerge.com
Papermerge is a free document management software with open code that allows users to access and modify it. It offers multiple user permission levels and text extraction from documents. The tool includes an API for added functions and is ideal for word searches, version control, and document storage. Papermerge's modern interface, page management, and scanning capabilities are beneficial to businesses.
It focuses on scanned documents, supports multiple users, and offers document versioning. OCR technology enables full text search, and documents can be saved in various formats. The software also provides granular permissions, document retrieval features, and tools for correcting scanned document problems.
Papermerge Features
- Open Source
- OCR
- REST API
- Full Text Search
- Long Term Storage of Digital Archives
- Intuitive User Interface
Papermerge Limitations
- May lack some advanced features compared to more established document management systems
- Relatively young software may have bugs or stability issues
- Limited to working with scanned documents only, not all file formats
Papermerge on GitHub
⭐️ 2300 stars
🧑💻 50 contributors
🔗 250 forks
To Github: https://github.com/ciur/papermerge
Papermerge Pricing for SaaS
- Free trial credit: $20 with 3-day validity
- Credits system: Charged on an hourly basis for resources used
- Support plans: 3 different support plans available
- Bring your own VM feature
- Bring your own AWS account feature
Kinto Open Source Storage
Website: kinto-storage.org
Kinto is a JSON document storage tool designed to simplify backend development for apps, allowing frontend developers to focus on user experience while seamlessly handling data storage challenges.
Kinto offers a web admin interface, SDKs for JavaScript and Python, and plugins for attachments, notifications, and encryption. It simplifies data management, providing developers with a smooth user experience to streamline backend processes and prioritize data security.
Kinto Storage Features
- Generic JSON document store
- Sharing and synchronization capabilities
- Web, Native, Server platform agnostic
- Quick app prototyping
- Offline-first applications
- Build collaborative applications
- Encrypted data storage
- Pluggable design with existing plugins
Kinto Storage Limitations
- Requires expertise to set up a new server for every project
- Limited control over storage location
- Potential conflicts across different devices
Kinto Storage Ratings and Reviews
- Trustpilot: 4.8/5 (3237+ reviews)
Kinto on GitHub
⭐️ 4300 stars
🧑💻 123 contributors
🔗 417 forks
To Github: https://github.com/Kinto/kinto
Uwazi
Website: uwazi.io
Uwazi is a handy online tool that helps you keep everything organized and easy to find. It can store all kinds of files like text, PDFs, pictures, videos, and audio. You can adjust privacy settings, making your data public, private, or a mix of both.
Uwazi promotes collaborative work among team members, offering an open-source and self hosted document management, secure, and free installation. It also provides resources for setting up and hosting the tool, accessing demos, and reporting bugs. Funding for Uwazi comes from diverse sources, making it available for non-human rights organizations as well. Links to essential resources are included for further assistance and information.
Uwazi Features
- Organize information precisely
- Find information quickly
- Take information with you
- Work across multiple languages
- Visualize information
- Collaborate effectively
- Keep information safe
- Upload various types of information
Uwazi Limitations
- Limited compatibility with certain file types
- May require technical expertise to fully utilize all features
- Potential privacy concerns with storing sensitive information
Uwazi Pricing
- Free 30-day trial
- Hosting packages scaled to the data volume used in your collection after the trial period
- Uwazi: Free to install on own server
- Customized support by HURIDOCS available for human rights groups
Uwazi on GitHub
⭐️ 200 stars
🧑💻 36 contributors
🔗 74 forks
To Github: https://github.com/huridocs/uwazi
SeedDMS
Website: seeddms.org
SeedDMS is a flexible tool that acts as an OAI-PMH repository. This allows users to easily share metadata of their stored documents. It can also be used as a virtual printer, making it simple to save copies directly into SeedDMS. The tool also supports LDAP Authentication, which makes it easier for users to access directory information on a network.
SeedDMS is a PHP-based Open Source Document Management System that facilitates easy document upload and download, ensuring global accessibility. It offers a user-friendly interface and operates on multiple operating systems, making it ideal for small and medium-sized enterprises.
SeedDMS Features
- Using SeedDMS as an OAI-PMH repository
- LDAP Authentication
- All about check in and out
- Running scheduled tasks in SeedDMS
- Using Paperless-ngx Apps to access SeedDMS
- Ways to upload documents into and download from SeedDMS
- Explaining the folder structure of a SeedDMS installation
- History association VEKD uses SeedDMS
SeedDMS Limitations
- Difficult to set up LDAP authentication
- No native Android App for SeedDMS access
- No support for editing documents within SeedDMS
SeedDMS Pricing
- SeedDMS License: €500 per installation/year
- LDAP Authentication Setup: $200 one-time fee
- Scheduled Tasks Add-On: $99 per year
- Paperless-ngx Extension: $50 one-time fee
- Document Upload/Download Support: $20 per month
Mayan EDMS
Website: mayan-edms.com
Mayan-EDMS is a Free Open Source Document Management System that allows users to store, categorize, and manage files while preserving important contextual and business information. It offers features such as OCR, preview, labeling, signing, and sending/receiving files, as well as a workflow system, role-based access control, and a REST API.
If you want to set up Mayan-EDMS, you can easily do so by using the official Docker image. Just make sure you have at least 2 GB of RAM (1 GB if you're not using OCR) and a multicore CPU. You can find detailed installation guides and other helpful resources on the Mayan-EDMS website, documentation, forum, and other provided links. Stay in the loop with new updates and features by subscribing to the Mayan-EDMS newsletter.
Mayan EDMS Features
- Advanced search, tagging, and categorization capabilities
- Workflows for business process automation
- Role-based access control for document security
- Cross-platform web-based system
- Integrates with existing hardware
- Document versioning
- Fine-grained permissions system
- Retention policies
Mayan EDMS Limitations
- Limited information on system requirements
- Steep learning curve for beginners
- Reliance on stable internet connection for web-based access
Mayan EDMS Pricing
- $9.99 USD/month
- $59 USD/month (with yearly plan)
- $99 USD/month (with yearly plan)
- $599 USD/month (with yearly plan)
- $1,099 USD/month (with yearly plan)
Open source available to self host for free.
Mayan EDMS Ratings and Reviews
- G2: 4.8/5 (49+ reviews)
Mayan EDMS on GitHub
⭐️ 562 stars
🧑💻 63contributors
🔗 400 forks
To Github: https://github.com/mayan-edms/Mayan-EDMS
LogicalDOC
Website: logicaldoc.com
LogicalDOC is a document management software that enables efficient collaboration, regulatory compliance, and paperless processes. It allows teams to work on documents from anywhere and automate records retention.
The software eliminates the need for physical paperwork by offering online forms and electronic signature tools. It also includes a workflow engine that automates tasks, streamlining processes and saving time.
Accessible from multiple devices, LogicalDOC offers transparent and fixed costs, making it an ideal solution for businesses of all sizes. Integrated security systems help businesses organize, control, and access their documents efficiently.
This tool/service is an Electronic Document Management System (EDMS) that helps businesses create, manage, and store information in digital forms. It centralizes digital documents, offering features like document creation, search, data security, collaboration, and sharing.
The EDMS allows users to store both digital and paper documents in a standardized format. Deployment options include stand-alone, shared server, and cloud-based solutions. Transitioning to electronic systems is crucial for larger enterprises to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance information security.
Overall, the EDMS provides management solutions by standardizing information access, improving data flow, and automating document maintenance within organizations. It is a vital tool for modern businesses to thrive in a digital era.
LogicalDOC Features
- Collaborate anywhere, everywhere
- Efficient document management software
- Better regulatory compliance
- Eliminate paper from the beginning
- High portability
- Cost-effective
- Unlimited support
- Cross-platform
LogicalDOC Limitations
- Some users may prefer physical record-keeping for certain documents
- Electronic storage may present security risks if not properly managed
- Availability of customer support may vary based on individual needs or issues
LogicalDOC Ratings and Reviews
- G2: 4.4/5 (18+ reviews)
- Capterra: 4.6/5 (91+ reviews)
- Trustpilot: 3.8/5 (2+ reviews)
LogicalDOC on GitHub
⭐️ 85 stars
🧑💻 2 contributors
🔗 38 forks
To Github: https://github.com/logicaldoc/community
Conclusion: Open Source Document Management Software
In 2024, the world of open-source document management software has something for everyone. Whether you're a enterprise company, student, professional, or small business owner, there are solutions designed to cater to your specific needs. Platforms like Papermark and Mayan EDMS offer a variety of tools to help you share and manage documents effectively. These unique features are meant to make your work easier, boost productivity, and simplify the way you handle documents.
There are plenty of options out there for organizations and individuals when it comes to digital archives, collaboration, and secure document sharing. By using these open-source platforms, you can have more control over your data and take advantage of community support. Document management systems are key to making sure everything runs smoothly, securely, and in compliance with the rules. Using the right open-source software can really help support and improve your business operations.