SS&C Intralinks Data Rooms Review

What is Intralinks virtual data room

Did you know that over 10,000 M&A deals are facilitated through SS&C Intralinks’ data room each year? Yes, SS&C Intralinks has built a legacy in the virtual data market since the platform comes with highly advanced features and protocols that not only speed up the deal cycle but also handle complex business transactions.

With over 100 offices in 35 countries, SS&C Intralinks is known for its innovation and reliability. The platform not only enhances the value and of the dealmaking process but also ensures the confidentiality of confidential documents.

Here’s everything you need to know about the SS&C Intralinks data rooms to make an informed decision prior to committing to the platform.

Intralinks security features

Data sharing

Security is arguably one of the most vital factors that businesses prioritize when evaluating virtual data room providers. SS&C Intralinks VDR has built its reputation by providing enterprise-level protection that adheres to international regulatory requirements.

Hence, the platform comes with the following security features that protect high-stakes business transactions:

·   Dynamic watermarking. With SS&C Intralinks online data room software, businesses can apply customizable watermarks on confidential files each time they are viewed, downloaded, or printed. This helps in deterring data leaks.

·   End-to-end encryption. In order to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive content, Intralinks online data room software utilizes a 256-bit encryption protocol. This ensures data protection in both transit and at rest.

·   Granular permission access. The solution allows administrators to assign detailed user rights, enabling only authorized users to access information relevant to their role only.

·   Audit trail and reporting. Intralinks online data room comes with reporting analytic tools that allow the board to track every action happening within the platform, including views, edits, and shares. Reporting not only ensures accountability but also helps build trust among stakeholders.

·       AI redaction. One of the best features that makes it stand out among other providers of data rooms is its ability of employing AI redaction technology that allows users to share and retract access to documents with a mere click, even after files have been downloaded.

·       User ID dissemination. Intralinks electronic data room comes with ID dissemination, making sure that access to confidential information is not only properly managed but also tracked.

All-in-all, SS&C Intralinks is one of the premium tools that come with a suite of essential tools, making it the best fit for organizations handling sensitive information, including legal, real estate, etc.

Compliance certifications

Intralinks data room software is trusted by 99% of Fortune 1000 companies as the platform adheres to the highest industry standards in terms of level of security, risk management, and confidentiality. Following is the list of some of the certificates that SS&C Intralinks VDR comes with:

·   SOC 1,2, and 3. Service Organization Control 1 focuses on financial statements and reporting controls, ensuring that the provider’s systems are reliable for financial processes. SOC 2 is for tech and cloud companies that focus on data security, confidentiality, and processing integrity. SOC 3 is similar to SOC 2 but less detailed; it is intended for public sharing to demonstrate security and compliance without disclosing specifics.

·   ISO 9001. It is a quality management system framework that ensures companies’ products and services meet customer and regulatory requirements.

·   SOC 2 Type 2. It’s a report that verifies a company’s privacy and security control over an extended period of time (6-12 months), ensuring operational efficiency.

·   ISO 27701. Its main function is to assist organizations in establishing, implementing, improving, and maintaining PIMS (Privacy Information Management System)

What’s more, multiple data centers across the US, Japan, Australia, Germany, and the UK for secure storage of data to meet the regional data sovereignty requirements.

Intralinks data room pricing

SS&C Intralinks VDR software has not listed its pricing structure model, unlike other file-sharing platforms. That is because Intralinks data room pricing is customized to meet the specific needs of each user.

Different projects, including M&A deals, capital raising, and due diligence, come with their own unique needs; thus, Intralinks’ cost differs based on the following factors:

• Number of users. The larger the organization with multiple stakeholders, the higher the cost
• Data volume. The more data is uploaded, the higher the price will be
• Duration of the project. Long-term projects are a little on the higher price end.
• Number of desired features. The more enhanced the suite of features, the higher the cost.

Intralinks digital data room solution makes sure businesses pay only for the capabilities that fit their business models. Also, you can get in touch with the sales team of SS&C Intralinks to get the quote that goes with your business goals.

Hidden costs

Although the platform has not listed its pricing model exclusively, it’s essential to consider the possible additional expenses beyond the base price when evaluating different VDR providers.

• Usage fees. If you are adding more members that exceed the included limit, additional charges may apply.
• Storage overage. Extra charges will apply if the allocated data storage limit is exceeded.
• Optional services. Access to premium tools, including added security layers, AI functionality, and scanning, requires additional payment.
• Extension fees. If you fail to close or delete the virtual data room, the provider will charge you extra for keeping it active longer than the agreed time.

Unique features

What sets Intralinks VDR apart from other virtual data room vendors is its advanced and unique features that not only enhance the deal lifecycle but also assist in making informed decisions.

Here is a list of some of the unique features offered by the solution:

·       Video support. The platform seamlessly integrates Zoom, allowing the board to conduct meetings with access to an essential set of tools, including meeting agendas, polling, and templates. With this feature, the board can explain complex ideas, demonstrate concepts in a simple and interactive way, making communication engaging and dynamic.

·       Mobile accessibility. With the SS&C Intralinks online data room mobile app, compatible with both iOS and Android, companies can sync information and access confidential files anywhere in the world.

·       Advanced Q&A functionality. Intralinks virtual data room comes with an advanced Q&A tool that enhances overall collaboration and speed of the deal. The feature allows users to manage bulk question imports, access control rights, and assign priority levels with ease.

·       DealCentre AI. It is a smart tool that enables organizations to manage every step of the deal lifecycle from conducting due diligence to marketing and then closing the deal. Additionally, the tool helps automate time-consuming tasks, including categorization of the documents, translation, and redaction.

·       Real-time insights. SS&C Intralinks electronic data room provides the board with visibility into both document interaction and user engagement. They can see who has accessed the files, how long they have spent in each, and the actions taken by them. This helps the board identify any unusual activity happening within the platform and potential investors, making the deal process faster and efficient.

·       Distributed content nodes technology. Physical data center security measures, including biometric scanners, video surveillance, and proximity card readers, are used to prevent unauthorized access.

Customer support

Did you know that SS&C Intralinks’ VDR average response time is only 6 seconds, and customer case experts speak almost 140 languages in 15 countries? Yes, the platform with dedicated customer support and in-depth industry knowledge accelerates the deal process.

Thus, SS&C Intralinks data room provides the following services:

·       Multilingual support. Users have 24/7/365 assistance in multiple languages, hence making help available at all times and anywhere.

·       Dedicated managers. Each customer is provided with a customer service manager who understands the specific needs of each user and provides them with suitable deal solutions.

·       Tailored service option. Customers can choose the level of security they need, whether they want a self-service, a fully integrated support team, or on-demand assistance.

·       Client assist team. Intralinks’ specialists do all the work from setting up a data room to closing the deal and whatnot, allowing users to focus on their business goals.

Thus, a good customer support network makes SS&C Intralinks a reliable provider of data room services.

Document management & user experience

SS&C Intralinks online data room is a cloud-based solution that provides both a user-friendly interface and document management features, which not only make the workflows faster but also efficient.

Document management

The following are the key document management features offered by the platform:

• Permission management. The board can give users different levels of access across 16 roles depending on their responsibilities. For example, some users can only view the files, while some can even download or print them.
• Bulk uploads. The platform allows administrators to upload a bulk of files instead of uploading the files one by one. This helps them save time, especially when working with large and complex documents.
• Automatic indexing. The system enables users to organize and store the data in a structured format.
• File sync tools. Whenever a new file is uploaded to the system, it syncs across all other devices, ensuring everyone is working on the latest version.
• Integration with CMS. SS&C Intralinks online data room seamlessly integrates with the already existing content management system. This not only makes the whole deal process more efficient but also helps avoid duplication of already done work.
• Advanced search. Advanced search functionality enables users to quickly find the desired file, enhancing the overall productivity of the team.

Advanced integration capabilities

Intralinks VDR comes with advanced integration features beyond the basic document management features that help businesses in the following:

a)  Connect the platform with external systems

b)  Automate workflows

Here is a list of some of the integration features:

·   Intralinks integration adapter. The integration adapter facilitates the communication between the data room and external systems via XML messaging and a .NET application. This allows you to set up automated integrations without having to make any changes to the existing system.

·   API library. The platform comes with a rich suite of API tools that enable organizations to access sessions, content, users, and admin features programmatically. Hence, businesses can connect Intralinks online data rooms with custom applications.

User experience

The platform is designed to combine high-grade protection as well as an intuitive interface. Here are the key aspects of the user experience:

• User-friendliness. Intralinks virtual data room comes with a clean and easy to use dashboard. Thus, organizing, storing, and sharing the files is straightforward, which in turn reduces the learning curve.
• Customizable dashboards. The platform allows users to customize dashboards, highlighting the latest and relevant information, including deal progress and activity updates.
• Enhanced collaboration. Collaboration features such as version control, activity monitoring, commenting, and annotations enable multiple team members to collaborate efficiently. This ensures that everyone is on the same page.
• Onboarding. Intralinks digital data room is known for its high usability and easy onboarding process. That is because the platform provides step-by-step guides and tutorials that even users with no technical skills can get started easily.
• Plug-in free. The platform is plug-in free, implying users can view and work with documents without needing to install any extensions. Hence, this not only improves overall user experience but also eliminates technical barriers, including installation delays or IT permissions.  

What’s more, Intralinks VDR’s clean & clear dashboard and quick adoption by users give it a competitive edge compared to other virtual data room providers.

Pros and cons

Based on the following Intralinks reviews, here is a list of some of the advantages and drawbacks of the platform:

Pros

Key highlights include:

·   Easy integration

·   Strong customer support 24/7/365

·   Video conferencing tool such as Zoom

·   Clean and simple interface

·   Hassle-free document management

·   Deal-focused virtual data room workspace

·   Flexible permission management

·       AI-based document redaction

Cons

The platform comes with some drawbacks, including:

·   Hidden costs

·   Suitable for large enterprises

·   The interface may not be that intuitive for beginners

Clientele and case studies

SS&C Intralinks is a premium data room provider that has built trust among leading companies worldwide by offering a secure and reliable platform.

Major clients

The platforms serve a diverse range of clientele across different industries, catering to their specific needs. The following highlights some key clients of the Intralinks online data room:

1.  Fortune 500 corporations.

The most influential and largest companies in the US economy use Intralinks data room for conducting due diligence and accelerating the deal process.

2.  Global banks.

Large financial services firms, such as National Australia Bank, used the SS&C Intralinks VDR solution to manage complex Asia-Pacific loan syndications. The platform not only streamlined collaboration among multiple stakeholders but also ensured the protection of legal and other critical documents.

3.  Mergers and acquisitions.

Clayton Williams Energy was acquired by Nobel Energy in 2017 for $2.7 billion. SS&C Intralinks virtual data room added more value to the purchase as it provided the organization with a cloud-based solution that not only assisted a secure exchange of sensitive information but also accelerated the due diligence process.

4.  Healthcare.

Sectoral asset management that focuses on venture capital investments and private equity in the life sciences industry utilizes the SS&C Intralinks platform for fundraising and handling sensitive information.

Client feedback

·   Clients consistently praise the platform for its enhanced communication with partners and potential investors while reducing the friction during the due diligence process.

·   Many industrial professionals appreciate the platform for its simple and easy to use interface that seamlessly integrates into the already existing  workflows.

Case studies

The following are some of the case studies that show how Intralinks online data room software can be a game-changer for businesses seeking a secure online repository for handling complex business transactions.

1.     How a leading Japanese Bank optimized a CRE deal using VDRPro

A prominent Japan-based bank facilitating commercial real estate transactions faced several issues, including both operational and technological problems.

CRE transactions are usually large and complex, involving multiple stakeholders and the exchange of legal, operational, and other documents.

With previous online sharing tools, brokers experienced login issues, difficulty in navigating the system, and spent hours on aligning document access permissions.

Hence, to address these concerns the Japanese bank opted for SS&C Intralinks VDRPro for a secure and better collaboration with multiple stakeholders.

Intralinks VDRPro provided the firm and its clients with a comprehensive suite of essential tools which helped them in the following areas:

a)  Automate the redaction of lengthy files

b)  Manage a complex real estate auction involving numerous bidders

c)  Facilitating fast-paced negotiations.

d)  Tracking what’s happening within the platform

e)  Stronger advisory relationships

2.     MA asset management and Intralinks FundCentre

MA asset management is a subsidiary of MA Financial Group that functions as a private credit manager focusing on asset-backed lending.

The company wanted to launch the interval fund in North America, for which they needed to organize, share, market, raise funds, and conduct due diligence.

The prior file-sharing tool was causing friction in the fundraising process, and investors found it difficult to locate the vital due diligence documents. Also, the solution lacked enhanced security protocols that MA asset management usually requires for protecting its confidential files.

Since Alan Alsheimer Jr, who is the head of U.S. marketing & distribution, had a good past experience using Intralinks VDR. The organization opted for FundCentre fundraising, which is an exclusive platform for fundraising services that provides detailed audit trails, customizable landing pages, and granular permission controls.

With Intralinks FundCentre, MA asset management manages all essential due diligence materials in a single platform. The process is seamless and frictionless, as they can simply drop new content into the platform and alert potential investors.

3.     Mazzone & Associates streamlined M&A using Intralinks DealCentre AI

Mazzone & Associates is a middle-market investment bank that represents private equity groups and business owners. The bank handles transactions from the initial stage to the final negotiations.

Earlier deal preparation wasn’t that efficient since the bank relied on multiple solutions to share the files. Moreover, the organization relied on Excel spreadsheets for handling large auctions with numerous buyers and tracking their response. This not only raises the possibility of error but is also time-consuming.

That’s where DealCentre AI came into play. With Intralinks DealCentre AI, the organization automated outreach, AI-powered redaction of sensitive files, and self-launched data rooms directly to the platform without using any external tools.

Alternatives to consider

Although SS&C Intralinks has earned a name in the virtual data market, here is a list of some of the VDR providers that will help you choose the best fit.

Don’t know what goes into the quest of choosing the best solution? Here’s a comprehensive guide on the best data room providers that will help you choose the right platform.

FAQs

What is Intralinks data room software?

Intralinks digital data room is a US based SaaS solution that provides a secure online repository for organizing, storing, and sharing confidential data during high-stakes business transactions.

What is SS&C Intralinks online data room used for?

Intralinks is a premium tool that helps businesses to securely share and manage sensitive data. Here’s a list of some of the areas where Intralinks provides assistance to businesses:

a)  Regulatory compliance and audit trails

b)  Fundraising and IPOs to share the financial data with potential investors and regulators

c)  Mergers and acquisitions as the platform assist in conducting due diligence and deal execution

d)  Loan syndications

Is Intralinks VDR cloud-based?

Yes, the Intralinks platform is a cloud-based solution, eliminating the need for complicated installations or local servers.