Finding an open-source enterprise solution that centralizes collaboration, open-source instant messaging, file sharing, and email management remains a priority for many organizations seeking to move away from proprietary solutions. In this comparison, we analyze Twake Workplace, a comprehensive open-source alternative, and Box, a well-known solution primarily focused on storage and sharing. This detailed comparison will help you understand their strengths, weaknesses, and which one best meets modern requirements for sovereignty and flexibility.

Comparative Table: Twake Workplace vs. Box
| Criteria | Twake Workplace | Box | 
|---|---|---|
| Instant Messaging | Includes open-source instant messaging based on the Matrix protocol | Limited chat features; requires external integrations | 
| File Sharing | Native and collaborative file sharing | Cloud-focused storage and sharing  | 
| Professional Email | Supports open-source email via JMAP protocol | No integrated email solution | 
| Openness and Flexibility | Open-source enterprise solution; deployable on-premise or in the cloud | Proprietary cloud-only solution | 
| Real-Time Collaboration | Native integration with open-source office tools | Limited collaborative editing features | 
| Data Sovereignty | Controllable hosting; complies with digital sovereignty requirements | Hosted on proprietary infrastructure  | 
| APIs and Integrations | Open and extensible APIs | APIs available but focused on the Box ecosystem | 
| Support and Community | Active open-source community and professional support | Commercial support only | 
| Customization | High, thanks to open-source nature | Limited by proprietary model | 
Why Choose Twake Workplace?
Twake Workplace stands out as an open-source enterprise solution, offering an all-in-one collaborative approach. Its open-source instant messaging, based on the Matrix protocol, ensures secure, encrypted, and interoperable exchanges with other compatible platforms. This allows businesses to avoid vendor lock-in imposed by closed solutions and better control their data flow.
One of its main advantages lies in its integrated file sharing, enabling real-time collaboration on documents with precise access control. Unlike Box, Twake Workplace is not limited to storage: it provides comprehensive collaborative management, including scheduling, communication channels, and even native support for open-source email via the JMAP protocol, which facilitates fast and secure message synchronization.
From a sovereignty perspective, Twake Workplace can be deployed on-premise, in a private cloud, or hosted in SaaS mode. This flexibility meets the compliance requirements of European and international organizations, particularly those subject to GDPR regulations. Additionally, its open-source model promotes customization and transparency—two key elements for organizations seeking to maintain control over their infrastructure.
Finally, Twake Workplace naturally integrates with free office tools and offers an open API for custom developments. Its active community and technical support provided by Linagora ensure longevity and high-quality assistance.
Why Use Box?
Box is historically recognized for its expertise in online file storage and sharing. Its intuitive interface and international reputation make it a widely adopted solution, particularly for businesses that prioritize the simplicity of a fully cloud-based service.
However, Box has limitations when it comes to comprehensive collaboration. Instant messaging is not natively integrated and requires third-party tools. Similarly, the lack of support for open-source email and the inability to install it on-premise restrict its use in environments with heightened sovereignty or confidentiality requirements.
Its proprietary model also limits customization and ecosystem openness. While it offers APIs for developing integrations, these remain largely focused on services within the Box ecosystem.
Conclusion
Both solutions address different needs. Box remains a simple option for businesses seeking only file sharing in a centralized cloud environment. On the other hand, Twake Workplace emerges as a more complete alternative, respecting sovereignty, integrating open-source instant messaging, open-source email via the JMAP protocol, and offering deployment flexibility (private cloud or on-premise).
For organizations looking to centralize collaboration, control their data, and adopt an open-source enterprise solution, Twake Workplace is currently the best option to consider.