Full Comparison: Craft vs GoSprout

The U.S. skilled-labor crisis looms large: 10+ million unfilled jobs in manufacturing, healthcare, IT, and construction drain billions from the economy. This stems from fragmented education, training, and employer systems blocking pathways. As deans, program directors, and WDB leaders, you bridge these via registered apprenticeship programs (RAPs)—"earn-and-learn" blends of OJT and RTI, with rising wages, WIOA compliance, and credential paths boosting completions and funding.

Both Craft and GoSprout promise to revolutionize apprenticeship management, but only one delivers the comprehensive, compliance-first platform that transforms programs from administrative burdens into strategic workforce assets. After analyzing both platforms extensively, we've uncovered why decision-makers consistently choose Craft when program outcomes—not just program management—matter most.

Detailed Feature Comparison

Craft Education: The Free, Capable Platform

Craft connects systems to close the gap between applied learning programs, higher education, and workforce demands. Built specifically for educational institutions and workforce development boards, Craft's platform serves as future-ready infrastructure designed for degree-bearing programs that demand more than surface-level tracking.

Mission: Revolutionary partnership between state, industry, and academia through a platform that centers learners, not just checklists.

Key Evidence: Michigan's teacher apprenticeship programs using Craft achieved 95%+ completion rates, with 65% becoming teachers in year one and unlocking over $78M in state funding.

GoSprout: The Mobile-First Digitizer

GoSprout focuses on mobile-first apprenticeship management with gamified experiences modeled after apps like Duolingo. Their strength lies in digitizing large-scale programs and providing real-time sentiment analysis across the apprenticeship lifecycle.

Mission: End-to-end ecosystem management through mobile-first technology.

Key Evidence: GoSprout customers report retention rates up to 82% versus the national average of 30%, with successful implementations at enterprise clients like United Airlines and Volvo Trucks.

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Detailed Deep Dive

Pricing & Value

Craft eliminates entry barriers with its free platform for educational institutions and clear pricing. GoSprout's employer fees can quickly increase expenses for larger programs.

Program Creation & Onboarding

Both platforms offer distinct approaches to apprenticeship creation with their own strengths:

Craft's Superior Features:

• TurboTax-style workflow for new apprenticeship registration
• AI-assisted AutoReg add-on automates Appendix A and Form 671 creation
• Step-by-step wizard with AI-generated text and suggestions
• Live training calls with unlimited support in tailored setups
• Customized standards development via consulting services

GoSprout's Approach:

• Programs can create apprenticeships with or without templates
• Custom standards and requirements per program
• Application process configuration
• No mention of automated job description generation

Craft saves time with AutoReg and AI assistance for faster launches, while GoSprout offers straightforward templates. Choose Craft for complex compliance needs or GoSprout for simplicity.

Registration & Compliance Automation

GoSprout offers compliance reporting, but Craft fully automates government forms. At audit time, Craft users have ready PDFs while others manually prepare spreadsheets.

Program & Apprentice Management

Craft's Management Strengths:

• Rubric-based evaluation with progress milestones
• Two-way messaging between learners and mentors
• Self-reporting with verification and supporting documentation
• Custom reporting for funding, compliance, and audits
• Automated reminders and approval workflows

GoSprout's Management Approach:

• Mobile app for OJT hour tracking (gamified like Duolingo)
• Sentiment analysis captures dropout insights
• Automated workflows notify mentors of submissions
• Real-time review and feedback systems
• Consolidated dashboards for program sponsors

GoSprout offers a gamified mobile experience, while Craft provides comprehensive tracking and reporting for complex management needs. Each platform excels based on specific program priorities.

Mobile & Learner Experience

GoSprout offers a gamified mobile experience, while Craft provides robust functionality for both learners and administrators, catering to diverse organizational needs.

Multi-Employer & Partner Management

Both platforms excel in managing multiple employers. Craft is tailored for workforce development board solutions, while GoSprout offers robust tools for direct employer sponsorships.

User Roles & Permissions

Both platforms offer strong role management. Craft prioritizes regulatory compliance, while GoSprout focuses on partnership roles, effectively meeting different program needs.

Reporting & Outcomes: Where Results Matter Most

Craft's Proven Results:

• 95%+ completion rates in Michigan teacher apprenticeships
• 65% become teachers in year one
• $78M+ in state funding unlocked
• 10+ admin hours saved per apprentice via automation
• Custom reporting for funding, compliance, and audits

GoSprout's Results:

• 82% retention vs. 30% national average
• 500,000 records digitized for Volvo Trucks
• Real accountability and progress monitoring

Both platforms are effective. GoSprout stands out in mobile engagement and retention, while Craft excels in work-based learning, partnerships, and compliance, each leveraging their unique strengths.

Integrations & Expandability: Different Strengths

Craft connects with educational and government systems for compliance, while GoSprout integrates with business tools to streamline operations.

Support & Customer Experience: Craft's Unmatched Commitment

Craft provides comprehensive onboarding with personalized training for successful implementation, while GoSprout offers flexible support with robust self-service digital resources.

Who Is Each Platform For?

Craft: The Versatile Choice for Modern WBL Leaders

Craft has evolved beyond traditional education boundaries to become the premier platform for any Work-Based Learning (WBL) initiative. It's designed for organizations ready to scale compliant, impactful programs across diverse sectors. Here's who thrives with Craft:

• WDBs and Intermediaries: Perfect for managing multi-employer networks, tracking WIOA outcomes, and unlocking funding with seamless reporting—delivering 95%+ completion rates and millions in investments.
• Employers and Sponsors in Any Industry: Ideal for building customized OJT/RTI pathways in manufacturing, healthcare, IT, or beyond, with free access, AutoReg automation, and unlimited support to minimize admin burdens.
• State Agencies and Policy Makers: Essential for cross-system alignment, real-time analytics, and compliance that drives policy—empowering scalable WBL ecosystems without cost barriers.
• Training Providers Across WBL Models: Suited for apprenticeships, internships, clinical, or hybrid programs needing learner-centered tools, granular tracking, and expert guidance for sustainable growth.

With its no-cost foundation, AI-driven compliance, and proven ROI, Craft is the strategic partner for forward-thinking leaders transforming WBL into high-reward career engines.

GoSprout: Focused on Employer-Centric Mobile Management

GoSprout remains rooted in mobile-first digitization, best fitting specific enterprise needs. It serves:

• Large-Scale Employers: Great for companies like airlines or manufacturers needing quick mobile tracking and gamified retention in fast-paced environments.
• Sponsors Prioritizing Engagement: Suitable for those emphasizing sentiment analysis and mobile alerts over broad WBL integration.
• RTI-Focused Providers: Works for educators handling multi-partner logistics, though limited in free access and advanced compliance automation.

While solid for retention metrics in dynamic fields, GoSprout suits those comfortable with per-learner fees and less emphasis on educational or policy alignment.