RIAs rely on a growing set of specialized tools to manage client relationships, portfolios, compliance, and communication. The challenge isn’t finding software; it’s understanding what each platform does and how they fit together into a cohesive tech stack. This guide breaks down the most commonly used RIA client management platforms and how firms use them
CRM platforms commonly used by RIAs
CRM systems serve as the operational foundation of most advisory firms. They centralize client data, track interactions, manage workflows, and support compliance documentation.
Redtail Technology
Redtail Technology is built specifically for financial advisors. It focuses on contact management, task workflows, and communication tracking.
Independent RIAs widely adopt Redtail due to its advisor-centric design, affordability, and broad integration ecosystem across custodians and portfolio systems.
Wealthbox
Wealthbox is known for its intuitive interface and collaborative, activity-driven design.
Firms often choose Wealthbox for its simplicity and ease of onboarding, making it popular among small to mid-sized RIAs that prioritize team visibility and streamlined client engagement.
Salesforce Financial Services Cloud
Salesforce Financial Services Cloud provides enterprise-level customization and scalability.
Larger advisory firms and rapidly growing RIAs use Salesforce for advanced data modeling, complex automation workflows, and deep reporting capabilities. It offers flexibility but typically requires more implementation effort than advisor-specific CRMs.
Portfolio accounting and performance reporting platforms
While CRM manages client relationships, portfolio accounting and reporting platforms manage investment data and performance calculations.
Addepar
Addepar specializes in complex portfolio aggregation and advanced analytics.
It is commonly used by firms serving high-net-worth and ultra-high-net-worth clients, particularly those with alternative investments or multi-entity ownership structures.
Orion Advisor Tech
Orion Advisor Tech combines portfolio accounting, performance reporting, billing, and advisor dashboards.
Many independent RIAs use Orion as a central operational system that connects reporting with client billing and internal workflows.
Black Diamond Wealth Platform
Black Diamond focuses heavily on performance visualization and client-facing reporting experiences.
Firms often select Black Diamond for its polished reporting interface and strong client portal capabilities.
Custodian platforms RIAs integrate with
Custodians serve as the infrastructure layer of the advisory business. They hold assets, execute trades, and provide critical data feeds that power reporting and billing systems.
Charles Schwab Advisor Services
Charles Schwab Advisor Services is one of the largest custodians serving independent RIAs.
It provides custody, trading, and operational support that anchor many advisory tech stacks.
Fidelity Institutional Wealth Services
Fidelity Institutional Wealth Services offers custody, clearing, and integrated technology partnerships for RIAs of various sizes.
Many firms leverage Fidelity’s data integrations to support reporting and CRM synchronization.
Pershing Advisor Solutions
Pershing Advisor Solutions supports RIAs with custody, trading, and enterprise-grade operational services.
It is often used by firms with more complex or institutional requirements.
Financial planning software for advisors
Financial planning tools extend beyond portfolio performance and focus on holistic client outcomes.
eMoney Advisor
eMoney Advisor connects planning, cash flow modeling, and client portals into a comprehensive planning experience.
It is widely used by RIAs that emphasize in-depth financial planning and client collaboration.
RightCapital
RightCapital is a goal-based planning solution designed for interactive client conversations.
Firms appreciate its visual tools and streamlined user experience.
MoneyGuidePro
MoneyGuidePro is one of the most established planning tools in the RIA market.
It focuses on probability-based analysis, retirement modeling, and structured client engagement.
Compliance and risk management tools
Compliance platforms help RIAs meet regulatory obligations and maintain oversight.
Comply
Comply (formerly known as RIA in a Box) provides compliance technology and regulatory support services tailored specifically to registered investment adviser firms.
It is commonly used by small to mid-sized RIAs that need structured compliance workflows, regulatory calendars, and documentation tracking to meet SEC and state requirements without building an in-house compliance department.
MyComplianceOffice
MyComplianceOffice delivers enterprise-grade compliance monitoring, reporting, and surveillance capabilities.
It is typically used by larger advisory firms or those with more complex regulatory exposure.
Document management and internal communication tools
Operational coordination and secure document handling are critical components of client management.
DocuSign
DocuSign enables secure electronic signatures for account opening, agreements, and compliance documentation.
It plays a central role in onboarding and document workflows.
Microsoft Teams
Microsoft Teams is widely used for internal communication, collaboration, and operational coordination across advisory teams.
Box
Box provides secure document storage, sharing, and permission management for sensitive client data.
How RIAs connect their client management platforms with CloudQix
CloudQix serves as the integration and automation layer connecting CRM, portfolio accounting, custodians, financial planning tools, compliance systems, and document platforms.
Rather than replacing any of these systems, CloudQix ensures they work together automatically.
With CloudQix, RIAs can:
- Sync client data between CRM and custodians
- Trigger onboarding workflows across portfolio and compliance systems
- Eliminate manual CSV exports between planning and reporting tools
- Prevent duplicate data entry across platforms
- Automate data validation and reconciliation processes
As advisory firms grow, the challenge is rarely choosing software — it’s managing how data moves between systems. Automation reduces operational risk, minimizes spreadsheet dependency, and ensures consistency across the firm.
Start connecting and automating your RIA client management platforms with CloudQix.
