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Pilot vs GreatLab

Considering an alternative to GreatLab? Here are the top three reasons why dental labs are choosing Pilot LMS over GreatLab.

Overview​

GreatLab is a UK-based web application launched in 2021 that has built an impressive feature set for dental lab management. As a modern platform, GreatLab shares many capabilities with contemporary lab management systems.

Pilot LMS represents a focused approach to lab management software, prioritizing core functionality excellence and user experience over feature breadth.

Top 3 Reasons Labs Choose Pilot​

1. Pilot is Simpler​

While GreatLab offers many features, Pilot excels at the three core functions that matter most:

Case Tracking & Management:

  • Pilot: Intuitive entry flow designed for efficiency

  • GreatLab: Unconventional entry flow that can slow down operations

  • Pilot: Fast, responsive 3D viewer with additional tools

  • GreatLab: Slower 3D viewer performance

  • Pilot: Advanced filter views for sophisticated case management

  • GreatLab: No filter views available

Client Management:

  • Pilot: Clear separation between billing accounts, client portal accounts, doctors, and offices
  • GreatLab: Billing and client portal accounts are not properly separated from doctors and offices, creating confusion

Product Management:

  • Pilot: Extensive product behavior customization options
  • GreatLab: Limited product behavior configuration

Regional Considerations:

  • Pilot: Built specifically for American lab workflows and terminology
  • GreatLab: EU-based platform with foreign vocabulary that may be less intuitive for US labs

2. Pilot is Transparent About Pricing and Features​

GreatLab's Approach:

  • Keeps demos and pricing behind closed doors
  • Requires sales conversations to understand capabilities
  • Limited public information about features and costs

Pilot's Approach:

  • Complete transparency about features and pricing
  • Open access to feature documentation
  • Public pricing without hidden costs
  • We're not afraid of competitors seeing our features - it pushes the entire industry forward

Explore Pilot's Features | View Transparent Pricing

3. Pilot is Much Easier (and Cheaper) to Onboard​

Comprehensive Onboarding Support:

  • Free onboarding for Starter, Essentials, and Business plans
  • Complete data migration from your existing system
  • Team training for all users
  • Hands-on support for as long as needed
  • One-week timeline to full operational readiness

Simplified Interface Benefits:

  • Intuitive design reduces training time
  • Natural workflow patterns
  • Minimal learning curve for new users
  • Quick user adoption across your team

Feature Comparison​

FeaturePilot LMSGreatLab
Database✅ Available❌
API✅ Full API❌
Scanner Portals Sync✅✅
"Workbench"✅✅
3D Viewer✅ Fast & Responsive✅ Available (Slower)
Doctor Messaging✅✅
Case Entry Automation✅✅
Batch Tools✅✅
Imports/Exports✅✅
Shipping Integrations
UPS✅✅
USPS✅✅
FedEx✅✅
Local Courier✅✅
Accounting Integrations
QuickBooks Online✅✅
Core Differentiators
RBAC (Role-Based Access)✅ Advanced❌ Not Available
Advanced Filter Views✅ Sophisticated❌ Not Available
Customer Support Module✅ Built-in❌ Not Available
Custom Development✅ Available⚠️ Limited
User Experience
Intuitive Case Entry✅ Streamlined⚠️ Unconventional
Client Account Separation✅ Clear Structure⚠️ Basic
Product Behavior Options✅ Extensive⚠️ Limited
American Lab Terminology✅ Native⚠️ EU-based

The Core Philosophy Difference​

GreatLab: Feature Breadth​

  • Extensive feature set covering many use cases
  • Complex workflows accommodating various needs
  • EU-centric design and terminology

Pilot: Core Excellence​

  • Focused on perfecting essential lab management functions
  • Streamlined workflows optimized for efficiency
  • American lab-focused design and language

When to Choose Each Platform​

Choose GreatLab if:​

  • You need extensive accounting integrations (Xero, NetSuite, Sage)
  • EU-based terminology and workflows align with your operations

Choose Pilot LMS if:​

  • You prioritize ease of use and quick adoption
  • You want transparent pricing and feature information
  • You value efficient core functionality over nice-to-have secondary features
  • You prefer American lab terminology and workflows
  • You want free comprehensive onboarding support

Migration & Implementation​

From GreatLab to Pilot LMS​

  • Free data migration for qualifying plans
  • One-week implementation timeline
  • Comprehensive team training
  • Ongoing support until full adoption
  • No setup fees for most plans

Ready to Experience the Difference?​

See why labs choose focused excellence over feature complexity. Experience the simplicity and efficiency of purpose-built American lab management software.

Schedule Demo or Contact Sales

The information on this page is provided for general informational purposes only and is based on publicly available sources. We make no representations or warranties as to the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information contained herein. Under no circumstances shall we be liable for any loss or damage incurred as a result of the use of this information.