Environment & Sustainability

ESG Software: A Beginner’s Guide to the Benefits

Ever wondered what ESG software is or how it could benefit your business? Our guide explores the advantages of using an effective ESG program. 

5 minutes02/24/2025

Whether you're just starting out with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) reporting or have had an ESG program in place for years, managing ESG data collection can be a significant challenge. 

ESG reporting requires gathering data from multiple sources, which often leads to spreadsheet fatigue. Anyone who has tried compiling utilities data from suppliers across a supply chain knows how difficult it can be to sort through the numbers and make regular updates. 

Many companies today turn to software solutions to streamline ESG data collection and simplify management. With investors demanding comprehensive and transparent ESG reporting, it’s essential to select the ESG software that best suits your needs and simplifies your reporting efforts. 

Here’s what you need to know to determine what features your ESG software should have.

What is ESG Software?

ESG software is a tool designed to streamline your ESG data collection, automate emissions calculations, and support reporting using established standards and frameworks. Key features often include: 

  • Cloud-based access, allowing data to be entered by staff across different departments and locations. 
  • Integration with IoT (Internet-of-Things) devices to collect data and reduce redundancies. 
  • Emissions calculations using verified emission factors. 
  • Modules that align with internationally recognized ESG standards and frameworks. 
  • Customizable reporting templates that fit your operations. 
  • Real-time data updates to track company progress. 

Who Uses ESG Software?

Organizations of all sizes and across various sectors use ESG software to track and manage their ESG data, including: 

  • Agriculture and food production 
  • Automotive manufacturing 
  • Cybersecurity 
  • Engineering and construction 
  • Finance and investment 
  • Government 
  • Hospitality 
  • Oil and gas 
  • Post-secondary institutions 
  • Transportation and shipping 

How Can ESG Software Help Your Business?

While each ESG platform offers different functionalities, a comprehensive solution like the AMCS ESG Solution, should provide the following benefits: 

1. Prepare Emissions Calculations 

For those starting out with sustainability reporting, compiling annual carbon emissions can be time-consuming and labor-intensive. Reporting on Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions across your operations and supply chain involves gathering data from various sources, each potentially using different units of measurement. 

With the right ESG software, you can streamline this process by automatically collecting data, standardizing units, and applying emission factors to calculate your carbon footprint. Plus, once data is entered, calculations are easily updated regularly. 

2. Manage Philanthropy Data 

Community engagement and charitable giving are essential components of many CSR and ESG programs. However, tracking the scope of your organization’s philanthropic efforts can be challenging, especially with multiple offices or regions managing their own budgets. 

With the AMCS ESG Solution, you can centralize and consolidate philanthropy data, linking it to your broader ESG strategy and corporate goals. This makes reporting more straightforward and ensures your charitable initiatives are aligned with your overall objectives. 

3. Quantify Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion (DEI) 

Many companies have made strides in formalizing their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. However, while public statements about workplace equity may generate positive PR, investors now expect measurable proof of progress. 

The AMCS ESG Solution helps map your DEI strategy using interactive tools and visualizations. By tracking key metrics, companies can better communicate their progress towards building a diverse and inclusive workplace. 

What Types of ESG Software Are Available?

Not all ESG platforms are the same. Many offerings that promise a complete ESG snapshot are, in fact, focused on climate accounting or other specific areas. When assessing which software solution is right for your business, ensure you understand what each tool offers — and doesn’t offer. 

For instance: 

  • Sustainability software may focus primarily on carbon accounting, or it could also include waste management and water stewardship metrics. 
  • CSR software often centers on the social aspects of ESG, like charitable giving or DEI, rather than community impact. 
  • ESG reporting tools might collect data but lack the capability to analyze that data and support strategic decision-making. 

A comprehensive software system like the AMCS ESG Solution (formerly Quentic) offers tools for analysis across all ESG pillars, including environmental, social, and governance reporting. 

To learn more about how AMCS can help streamline your ESG reporting and create a more effective program, speak with one of our experts today! 

---

Quentic is now part of the AMCS Group. Learn more here

X