Side by side
OpenConf vs SimplyConf
Both stand on event abstract management software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan Self-hostedWeb
OpenConf covers submission collection through review decisions, proceedings, and program scheduling. Choose between self-hosting and the hosted service, and account for the technical requirements and Community Edition support limits.
Visit OpenConf
Free plan Self-hostedWeb
SimplyConf covers core conference workflows for free, with separate add-ons and bundles for review, payments, email, schedules, and exports. Organizers choosing self-hosting should check the stated server requirements and HTTPS recommendation.
Visit SimplyConfThe facts
| OpenConf | SimplyConf | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Self-hosted, Web | Self-hosted, Web |
| Lowest paid plan | OpenConf Hosting Service: $600 a year | Professional Bundle: $139 a year |
| Plans published | 6 | 10 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | openconf.com | simplyconf.com |
| On event abstract management software | #9 of 29 | #13 of 29 |
OpenConf: what it does well
- Supports manual and topic- or bid-based review assignment.
- Accepted submissions can appear in web or print programs.
- Offers self-hosting or maker-administered hosting.
- Professional Edition lists copyright and reviewer-credit features.
What to know first
- Community Edition is limited to three or fewer annual events and journals.
- Community Edition users do not receive support.
- OpenConf 8 requires PHP 7.3 or later and MySQL 8.0.4 or later.
SimplyConf: what it does well
- Free core plugin supports unlimited events and submissions.
- Includes a frontend submission portal.
- Add-ons support blind review and conflict detection.
- Schedule tools publish interactive multi-track programs.
- Self-hosted data stays in the user's WordPress database.
What to know first
- Self-hosting requires WordPress 6.0 or higher.
- Self-hosting requires PHP 7.4 or higher.
- Self-hosting requires MySQL 5.7+ or MariaDB 10.3+.
- Premium add-on licenses are annual and per-site.
Alternatives to OpenConf Alternatives to SimplyConf The whole list