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Thursday, April 17, 2025

9 Finest Buyer Success Software program I might Choose to Cease Churn


Ever watched a high-potential buyer slip away with out warning? I’ve—and even from the surface trying in, it’s irritating. What’s worse is realizing it was most likely avoidable.

Churn hardly ever reveals up with flashing lights. It’s typically a gradual fade: a drop in utilization, unanswered emails, and quiet complaints. And from every little thing I’ve discovered researching this house, recognizing these indicators early is almost unimaginable with out the finest buyer success software program.

I don’t work in buyer success, nor do I ship quarterly enterprise assessment (QBR) decks or handle renewals. However I spend my days analyzing the instruments that assist SaaS firms develop. Buyer success software program constantly stands out as probably the most worthwhile investments a staff could make.

I’ve spoken to CS leaders, learn by way of numerous opinions, and analyzed how groups are utilizing software program to show these “at-risk” moments into retention wins. The extra I dig into this house, the clearer it turns into: nice buyer success software program isn’t only a “nice-to-have.” It’s a lifeline for retention, enlargement, and long-term buyer loyalty.

Nonetheless, with so many instruments claiming to unravel the identical issues, choosing the proper one isn’t simple. That’s why I’ve pulled collectively 9 finest buyer success software program value your consideration based mostly on consumer suggestions, key options, and the way effectively they really assist groups keep forward of churn. 

9 finest buyer success software program I like to recommend

From what I’ve seen, buyer success software program isn’t nearly stopping churn. It’s about delivering a greater buyer expertise, strengthening relationships, and driving long-term retention. It helps groups keep proactive, not reactive, and that shift alone could make an enormous distinction.

I’ve seen how the proper platform can provide CS groups the visibility they should scale customized assist, monitor product adoption, and uncover alternatives so as to add worth. These instruments make it a lot simpler to handle a rising checklist of accounts with out lacking a beat. You possibly can monitor utilization traits, automate check-ins, and spot crimson flags earlier than they turn into actual points. 

It’s not nearly reacting when issues go flawed; it’s about being one step forward and ensuring clients see success each step of the best way.

And should you’re in the midst of evaluating instruments, I understand how overwhelming it will possibly get. That’s why I put this checklist collectively—to highlight platforms that constantly stand out for his or her usability, retention-driven options, and the actual impression they’re making for buyer success groups.

How did I discover and consider one of the best buyer success software program? 

I began with a shortlist of top-rated buyer success instruments on G2 and dug into every platform’s options, pricing, and value. I centered on how effectively they dealt with key capabilities like onboarding, buyer well being scoring, playbooks, automation, account monitoring, and collaboration between CS and different groups.

 

To go deeper, I used AI to research G2 opinions and floor recurring themes, whether or not it was ache factors customers stored mentioning, options they couldn’t reside with out, or areas the place sure instruments constantly outperformed others.

 

Please notice: Whereas some platforms supply free trials, demos, or guided excursions, there have been a couple of I wasn’t in a position to attempt firsthand. In these instances, I related with professionals who’ve used the instruments instantly and in contrast their insights with verified G2 opinions and my very own impartial analysis. The screenshots on this article embrace a mixture of these captured throughout my analysis and testing, in addition to photographs sourced from the distributors’ G2 profiles.

What makes one of the best buyer success software program: My standards

After I got down to consider these instruments, I centered on what really helps CS groups do their jobs higher. Right here’s what I prioritized whereas reviewing every platform.

  • Ease of use: Even one of the best options don’t matter if the platform’s exhausting to make use of. I paid consideration to how intuitive the UI felt, how easy onboarding was, and whether or not customers would wish heavy coaching to get began.
  • Onboarding and lifecycle automation: I seemed for platforms that make it simple to construct and automate buyer journeys. Triggered emails, job flows, and success milestones matter when scaling.
  • Well being scoring and threat alerts: I paid shut consideration to how every instrument dealt with buyer well being—how versatile the scoring fashions had been, what knowledge they pulled from, and whether or not alerts really helped groups act earlier than points escalated.
  • Integrations with CRM and assist instruments: Buyer success doesn’t reside in a vacuum. I prioritized instruments that play properly with CRMs like Salesforce or HubSpot and assist platforms like Zendesk or Intercom so groups get a unified view of the client.
  • Playbooks and success planning: I seemed for built-in playbooks and templates that assist standardize processes like renewals, QBRs, or escalations. Bonus factors if the instrument lets groups customise and automate them based mostly on account kind or lifecycle stage.
  • Reporting and visibility for CS leaders: I wished to see how simply groups may report on churn, NRR, retention, or section efficiency. Government dashboards and exportable knowledge made an enormous distinction right here.

Utilizing these components, I in contrast over 20 instruments and narrowed them right down to 9 finest buyer success software program. Whereas they are not good, checking each single field in my guidelines, they every excel in key areas that make them value contemplating.

The checklist under accommodates real consumer opinions from G2’s buyer success software program class web page. To be included within the checklist, a instrument should:

  • Construct or establish buyer profiles.
  • Seize buyer knowledge, historical past, and suggestions, together with survey outcomes, renewals, invoicing, product utilization, sentiment, and staff interactions.
  • Facilitate engagement with clients all through the client lifecycle.
  • Present suggestions, buyer success scores, and success experiences based mostly on the evaluation of historic knowledge.
  • Automate workflow processes like communications, alerts, coordinating engagements, analyses, success planning, and reporting.
  • Predict future buyer development, crimson flags, and traits as dashboards or graphs utilizing knowledge associated to interactions, funds, inquiries, and extra.
  • Scale, in line with the dimensions of the corporate and technique of buyer adoption or engagement.

*This knowledge was pulled from G2 in 2025. Some opinions might have been edited for readability.

1. Salesforce Service Cloud

Salesforce is among the most well-known and broadly used CRM and buyer success platforms on the market. It’s just about the gold customary for giant enterprises and support-heavy groups that want deep case administration, omnichannel service, and cross-functional alignment at scale.

If I needed to describe Salesforce Service Cloud in a single sentence, it could be: extremely highly effective, however not with out its quirks. It leans extra in the direction of assist and customer support workflows. 

Salesforce service cloud

What stood out to me instantly was how sturdy the platform is for case administration. From what I’ve seen and what customers constantly point out, it handles assist at scale like a professional. The omnichannel capabilities, together with internet, chat, and e mail case routing, are an enormous win for assist groups juggling a number of channels.

Within the screenshots I captured throughout my trial (earlier than establishing the channels), you possibly can see simply how centralized and clear the case view is. You possibly can assign labels, change house owners, merge instances, and monitor every little thing with customizable filters. The whole lot, from establishing a brand new case and updating them to including data base articles, felt neat when you understood the circulation. 

Salesforce

The place Salesforce Service Cloud actually shines, in line with customers, is in customizability. You possibly can tailor workflows, automate actions, and construct dashboards that truly replicate your buyer lifecycle. Throughout my analysis, I noticed this talked about many times: it is a centralized system that makes collaboration simpler, not tougher.

One other factor that jumped out to me was the best way AI is subtly built-in all through the platform. From producing solutions to summarizing buyer conversations to utilizing Einstein AI for predicting traits, Salesforce appears to be taking a considerate method to automation.

That stated, there are a couple of trade-offs to remember. One factor that got here up in a number of opinions was the pricing, which may turn into a consideration for rising groups.

Just a few customers additionally talked about that whereas the platform is extremely customizable (which is a energy), profiting from that flexibility typically requires admin or developer assist. From my very own trial, I’d agree there’s a little bit of a studying curve. It’s not tough to get began, however configuring extra superior workflows or settings can take a while should you’re not already accustomed to the Salesforce ecosystem.

That stated, in case your staff has the sources to get it up and operating correctly, it will possibly completely turn into the spine of your buyer success operation, particularly if you have already got Salesforce in your stack for CRM. 

What I like about Salesforce Service Cloud:

  • The case administration expertise is genuinely highly effective—it’s simple to trace, assign, and arrange assist requests throughout a number of channels with out issues slipping by way of the cracks. 
  • I actually like how customizable the platform is. With the ability to tailor workflows, dashboards, and automation to suit totally different CS processes is a large plus.

What G2 customers like about Salesforce Service Cloud: 

Salesforce Service Cloud excels in Omni-Channel routing, AI-powered automation, and seamless integrations with instruments like Intercom and WhatsApp. Its case administration, data base, and real-time analytics improve effectivity, whereas customization and scalability make it ultimate for rising assist groups.”

 

Salesforce Service Cloud Overview, Ian H. 

What I dislike about Salesforce Service Cloud:
  • I spotted that some superior configurations require admin or developer assist, which may gradual issues down in case your staff doesn’t have in-house assist.
  • The pricing construction looks like one thing to look at carefully—particularly for rising groups the place  prices may stack up quick, based mostly on my analysis.
What G2 customers dislike about Salesforce Service Cloud:

“Salesforce Service Cloud is an excellent platform, however requires lots of add-ons for what I’d have thought of primary performance, corresponding to quote formatting. All of those add-ons are sometimes all priced per consumer, so prices shortly rise relying on the variety of customers that you’ve on the Salesforce Platform.” 

Salesforce Service Cloud Overview, Jon S.

2. Gainsight Buyer Success

Gainsight Buyer Success is precisely what its identify suggests in my view. It provides buyer success groups the perception they should drive actual features in retention, engagement, and development. Based mostly on what I’ve discovered until now, Gainsight’s a favourite amongst mature CS orgs with devoted ops or admin assist. 

Gainsight

I solely had entry to a demo of Gainsight, however even with out getting hands-on, I can see why so many CS groups swear by it. From what I gathered throughout my demo and confirmed by dozens of consumer opinions, it’s clearly constructed for groups that want full visibility into buyer well being, relationships, and outcomes.

What stood out to me first is what number of customers rave in regards to the Timeline and 360-degree views. It feels like Timeline has turn into the go-to spot for staying on high of each interplay, touchpoint, and replace tied to a buyer. Loads of CS professionals described it as their single supply of fact, particularly when juggling a big ebook of enterprise. That’s the type of construction I do know lots of groups want that they had—much less searching throughout instruments, extra time really serving to clients.

360 Overview - Gainsight Inc. 2023-03-02 at 11.38.24 AM

I additionally noticed a ton of affection for Gainsight’s dashboards and automation options. Customers point out how simple it’s to trace account well being, arrange alerts, and even forecast threat. The power to customise playbooks and set off workflows based mostly on conduct or product utilization looks like an enormous plus, particularly for CS groups making an attempt to scale with out shedding that non-public contact.

That stated, there are some things to remember. A few customers that the platform can really feel a bit click-heavy at occasions based mostly on what I heard. Accessing sure options typically takes extra steps than you’d count on, and that may add friction to your day should you’re working by way of a excessive quantity of accounts.

One other theme that I noticed typically was the complexity that got here with its feature-rich nature. Gainsight is extremely highly effective, however that energy comes with a studying curve. It’s not precisely plug-and-play. 

These aren’t dealbreakers, however extra like issues to plan for, in my view. In case your staff has the proper sources (or is keen to spend money on them), the long-term payoff appears to be there. 

Nonetheless, it’s clear that Gainsight isn’t simply one other CRM add-on—it’s a purpose-built buyer success platform with actual depth. Whether or not it’s surfacing product adoption traits or supporting interdepartmental collaboration, the instrument appears to ship worth throughout the board.

I could not have gotten to attempt it totally myself, but when I had been a part of a CS staff trying to stage up our operations, I’d completely need this on the shortlist.

What I like about Gainsight Buyer Success:

  • I like how Gainsight pulls every little thing into one place. Having a 360-degree view of accounts, timelines, well being scores, and playbooks makes it means simpler to remain proactive.
  • The dashboards and automation choices are spectacular. It looks like I can construct workflows that truly replicate how the CS staff works, not simply drive us right into a preset system.

What G2 customers like about Gainsight Buyer Success: 

Among the issues I like most about Gainsight is the breadth of performance. It helps us centralize our buyer knowledge for our Buyer Success Administration groups. As well as, there may be a capability to extremely customise the arrange of your atmosphere.

 

We will write guidelines based mostly on particular actions distinctive to our group; we are able to create related actions from guidelines to JO packages, to experiences and dashboards, and again once more. Much like many different organizations, our knowledge doesn’t simply reside in a single supply, so we make the most of its capacity to hook up with different sources, primarily by way of API calls however Amazon S3 and even CSV when wanted.”

 

Gainsight Buyer Success Overview, Carol Okay. 

What I dislike about Gainsight Buyer Success:
  • Based mostly on G2 opinions, what I discovered is that some components of the platform really feel a bit click-heavy. It takes a couple of further steps to get the place you wish to go, particularly while you’re managing lots of accounts.
  • From what I noticed, Gainsight has a studying curve and works finest when you may have an influence consumer or an admin to handle setup and ongoing customization.
What G2 customers dislike about Gainsight Buyer Success: 

Gainsight has come a good distance with their consumer interface however there are nonetheless some admin options which might be click on heavy and a few error messages that are not informative sufficient, requiring an admin to contact Gainsight assist.” 

Gainsight Buyer Success Overview, Dan A. 

3. ChurnZero

Conserving monitor of dozens of accounts, well being scores, and touchpoints isn’t simple. However from every little thing I’ve learn, ChurnZero helps make it manageable. Full disclosure: I didn’t get the possibility to demo or take a look at ChurnZero myself with a free trial, however after digging into current G2 opinions and doing a deep dive into what the platform affords, I can see why it’s gaining traction with buyer success groups. It’s particularly common with fast-growing mid-sized CS groups. 

ChurnZero

What stood out to me instantly, from each analysis and consumer suggestions, is how effectively ChurnZero brings every little thing collectively. It’s designed to be a real command heart for CS groups: account overviews, job monitoring, playbooks, well being scores, buyer journeys are multi functional place.

Many customers talked about how useful it’s to have visibility throughout the client lifecycle with out leaping between instruments, and that undoubtedly got here by way of in the best way folks described their each day workflows.

Customization additionally appears to be an enormous win. Customers constantly talked about how simple it’s to tailor dashboards, automate processes, and section accounts based mostly on no matter metrics matter most to them. It feels like ChurnZero provides groups lots of flexibility with out complexity. There’s additionally a powerful emphasis on proactivity. Issues like reminders, alerts, and playbooks appear to assist groups take motion earlier than issues snowball into churn.

That stated, it’s not with out its friction factors. One factor I seen in a number of opinions, and one thing I’d take into account if I had been evaluating ChurnZero for my staff, is that it takes a little bit time to get totally snug with the platform. There’s rather a lot beneath the hood, and whereas that depth is certainly a energy, it takes a while. 

I noticed a couple of reviewers additionally point out that the interface, whereas purposeful, may really feel a little bit dated or click-heavy in locations. It feels like when you’re accustomed to the system, the navigation turns into second nature, however there could also be a little bit of an adjustment interval upfront.

For many groups, these are manageable trade-offs. On the entire, ChurnZero is certainly a powerful contender within the buyer success house.

What I like about ChurnZero:

  • The whole lot’s centralized—duties, buyer knowledge, journeys, and notes all reside in a single place, which makes staying organized a lot simpler.
  • The automation and customization choices stood out. From what I’ve seen, it’s versatile sufficient to assist totally different CS fashions with out forcing a one-size-fits-all setup.

What G2 customers like about ChurnZero:

ChurnZero covers all points of Buyer Success and has the entire circle of the consumer journey coated. It’s particularly devoted to Buyer Success processes and that’s what makes it distinctive. It is rather simple to make use of and it is buyer assist can also be superb. I’ve reached out a few occasions they usually had been all the time useful.

 

ChurnZero is included in our each day duties and we use it fairly often, for essentially the most of our processes. I’ve managed to succesfully combine it with my Microsoft accounts (Calendar and Electronic mail) and I’m able to see all messages within the account profile and the conferences as effectively, which makes my day organised.

 

ChurnZero Overview, Ivana S.

What I dislike about ChurnZero:
  • From the opinions, it looks like the platform isn’t one thing you simply bounce into. It takes a little bit time to be taught, particularly in case your staff doesn’t have admin assist.
  • Just a few customers talked about that the interface can really feel a bit clunky or dated in spots and that some duties take extra clicks than they most likely ought to.
What G2 customers dislike about ChurnZero:

“The interface can really feel a little bit outdated – there could possibly be some enhancements made to the UX.”

ChurnZero Overview, Orla M. 

4. Vitally

From what I noticed within the product tour and backed by tons of G2 suggestions, Vitally feels prefer it’s constructed to offer buyer success groups their time again. The whole lot about it appears designed for readability, pace, and customization, particularly for groups that need knowledge entrance and heart with out drowning in it.

Vitally

The UI was one of many first issues that stood out to me. It appears to be like clear, trendy, and really pleasurable to navigate. A number of reviewers echoed that—it’s customizable, continually enhancing, and offers you management over the way you see buyer knowledge. You possibly can inform it’s designed with day-to-day usability in thoughts.

I additionally preferred how clearly duties and account renewals surfaced. Simply from the screenshot alone, it’s simple to think about a CSM leaping in every morning and realizing precisely what wants consideration.

What actually impressed me is how Vitally balances being highly effective with out being overwhelming. It pulls knowledge from a number of instruments like CRMs, assist techniques, product analytics and makes it usable, not simply seen. Customers appear to like how simple it’s to centralize insights and take motion.

One other bonus: the playbooks and automation workflows look genuinely helpful for repetitive duties like onboarding and lifecycle administration. They’re visible, editable, and don’t appear to require a technical background to tweak.

Vitally automations

In fact, no instrument is ideal. Based mostly on what I’ve seen within the opinions, getting Vitally totally arrange and ensuring all of your integrations are working the best way you need undoubtedly takes a while. It may be a little bit tough to create and put your playbooks in place as they require cautious consideration. 

Just a few customers additionally identified that whereas the UI is clear and trendy total, some components of it could possibly be a bit extra intuitive or sturdy, particularly with regards to accessing sure options. That stated, as soon as every little thing’s in place, most customers appear to agree that the pliability pays off.

General, Vitally appears to be like like one of many extra trendy, CS-first platforms on the market. It doesn’t simply assist you handle buyer knowledge, it helps you act on it. In case your staff needs one thing highly effective however nonetheless approachable, this one’s value a critical look. 

What I like about Vitally: 

  • I actually preferred how clear and customizable the UI felt—it’s simple to think about a CSM beginning their day and realizing precisely what to deal with.
  • From what I noticed and browse, the power to automate playbooks and centralize key knowledge from totally different instruments makes it a brilliant environment friendly hub for CS groups.

What G2 customers like about Vitally: 

“In case your integrations are arrange accurately, it’s the good instrument to deliver collectively all related infomation in your CS staff. We combine our product, amplitude, and Hubspot – which suggests I can consider any related cilent knowledge in as soon as place.

 

I additionally like that you need to use it as acommuncation instrument between groups/ indivduals the place issues are much less more likely to get buried like it could in one thing like Slack.

 

Vitally Overview, Patricia S. 

What I dislike about Vitally:
  • Some customers talked about (and I can see why) that getting every little thing arrange, particularly integrations and workflows, and getting snug with the instrument takes a little bit of upfront effort.
  • Just a few components of the interface, whereas typically trendy, could possibly be extra intuitive or versatile with regards to configuring alerts or visualizing knowledge.
What G2 customers dislike about Vitally: 

I do assume that studying Vitally takes a little bit of time and funding, since it’s so customizable. You actually need to have folks in your staff who’re invested in “determining” one of the best methods to make Vitally work in your firm and staff. As well as, it is exhausting for anyone who’s exterior of your processes and org to log in and immediately perceive the worth that the org is getting, since every Vitally view is so customizable to the individual utilizing it. It is not essentially “intuitive”, particularly if anyone new simply logs in with out the right arrange (or understanding that they should do a arrange).

Vitally Overview, Melissa S.  

5. Planhat

.From renewals and QBRs to portfolio well being and account insights, Planhat constructed to offer CS orgs the readability and construction they should keep on high of their pipeline and clients. It’s particularly common with mid-market and enterprise groups that want visibility into what’s taking place throughout segments with out shedding pace.

Planhat

After watching the platform demo and digging into current G2 opinions, it’s clear that Planhat places actual thought into the CS workflow. The dashboard design is sharp. It is easy, however filled with context.

You possibly can shortly see account well being, job standing, renewal threat, and open enlargement alternatives multi functional view. I discovered the best way it visualizes buyer portfolios genuinely useful. A number of reviewers known as out the time they save by having every little thing, from NPS scores to overdue QBRs. in a single place.

What stood out essentially the most was the steadiness of flexibility and construction. You’re not pressured right into a inflexible playbook, however you continue to have the instruments to maintain issues constant: playbooks, lifecycle monitoring, alerts, and integrations that truly plug into your day-to-day instruments.

That stated, it’s not a instrument you grasp in a single day. Some customers talked about the training curve, particularly when making an attempt to configure dashboards or navigate superior workflows. Others famous that whereas the interface appears to be like clear, it will possibly take a little bit of exploring to get snug with how every little thing matches collectively.

I additionally noticed few reviewers mentioning that integration choices could possibly be extra intensive or simpler to configure, particularly when making an attempt to attach instruments past the core ecosystem. 

However total, folks appear to genuinely take pleasure in working in Planhat—principally as a result of it helps them keep organized, align higher with inner groups, and prioritize the proper buyer actions with out guessing. So, I might say it is undoubtedly value making an attempt out. 

What I like about Planhat:

  • I actually like how customizable the dashboards are. It’s simple to tailor views round account well being, renewals, and buyer exercise with out feeling locked into inflexible templates.
  • The best way Planhat pulls in knowledge from totally different techniques and offers you a full image of your portfolio makes it really feel like a real operational hub for CS groups.

What G2 customers like about Planhat:

“The product is made for Buyer Success Groups, and it’s clear it has the folks behind the product with the identical mindset. Any lack of readability in a assist heart article is greater than resolved by reaching out to their superior stage Assist Group. Do I’ve questions? Chat. Needing to really feel impressed or have somebody to brainstorm with? Chat. It’s a level-up above anybody else within the business.

 

– Planhat Overview, Hannah D.

What I dislike about Planhat: 
  • From what I noticed in opinions, some components of the platform can take time to be taught, particularly should you’re making an attempt to construct out extra superior workflows or views.
  • Just a few customers talked about that integration choices could possibly be extra intensive or easier to configure, relying on what instruments you’re connecting.
What G2 customers dislike about Planhat: 

Tough to get the grasp of initially. Filtering may be tough on the info view, particulary saving your most well-liked view. The calendar/ job planning function will not be essentially the most intuitive.” 

Planhat Overview, Joash G.

6. Totango

Totango undoubtedly caught my consideration as a platform that tries to maintain issues easy with out stripping away performance. From the walkthrough I noticed, it feels prefer it’s constructed to assist CS groups that need visibility, construction, and suppleness—with out having to depend on a CS ops knowledgeable simply to get began.

Totango

The factor I seen most, and that reveals up typically in G2 opinions, is how useful Totango’s segmenting and filtering capabilities are. Customers actually appear to like how they will shortly slice their buyer base by key metrics, monitor lifecycle phases, and monitor conduct with customized views.

It provides you that high-level dashboard really feel whereas nonetheless letting you drill down into what issues. The visible dashboards, job group, and well being rating visibility stood out as large wins. You get at-a-glance readability on renewals, threat, and engagement, which makes it simpler for groups to remain on high of what wants consideration.

Loads of customers additionally point out that it’s fairly simple to be taught. For me, that was refreshing to see. The UI is clear and intuitive, and reviewers typically point out that the preliminary setup doesn’t really feel overwhelming, particularly in comparison with some heavier CS platforms.

That stated, a couple of issues got here up in opinions I analyzed which might be value calling out. Some customers talked about that sure components of the platform really feel restricted or inflexible, like job creation, and administration.

There have been additionally some feedback round integrations—not that they don’t exist, however that some could possibly be improved or really feel incomplete relying on the remainder of your tech stack.

General, Totango looks like a powerful selection for CS groups that wish to scale their processes, maintain duties organized, and get a unified view of their clients with out drowning in complexity.

What I like about Totango: 

  • I actually preferred how simple it appeared to section clients and monitor lifecycle phases. The dashboards felt clear and helped floor the proper data shortly.
  • Loads of customers talked about how approachable the platform is, and I can see why. It appears to be like like one thing a CS staff may rise up and operating with no need tons of technical setup.

What G2 customers like about Totango:

Totango does a incredible job of taking the info fed into the platform and utilizing it to create a Well being Rating based mostly on the parameters that I would like. By utilizing the info, campaigns and SuccessBlocs may be simply utilized permitting for loads of customization. The workflows are simple to arrange and implement throughout the entire staff. When I’ve wanted assist, the staff has been fast to reply with the proper answer.

 

Totango Overview, Christopher B

What I dislike about Totango:
  • Based mostly on the opinions, a couple of areas really feel extra inflexible than I’d count on—like job creation or account construction, which may restrict flexibility for advanced workflows.
  • I seen fairly a couple of mentions of integrations that could possibly be extra sturdy or simpler to work with. That is one thing to concentrate to should you work throughout a number of instruments.
What G2 customers dislike about Totango:

Must be built-in a bit higher to our inner techniques like SalesForce, there may be lots of inconsistency in staff buildings and account ownershipm, in addition to matching alternatives with accounts.” 

Totango Overview, Andrea C. 

7. Catalyst 

Although it is now formally a part of Totango, it’s clear Catalyst earned a powerful popularity by itself for being quick, clear, and refreshingly simple to make use of in comparison with a number of the extra bloated CS instruments.

What stood out to me instantly was what number of customers talked in regards to the interface. Almost everybody talked about that it’s intuitive, visually interesting, and simply is smart for a CSM’s each day workflow. It wasn’t making an attempt to be every little thing directly, which meant much less noise and extra precise work getting carried out. I noticed repeated mentions of how simple it was to trace buyer targets, monitor well being, handle duties, and see every little thing you want in a single place.

I may additionally see lots of love for the way non-technical groups may get worth from the platform with no need heavy admin assist. Customized views, centralized buyer knowledge, and a clear dashboard expertise made it ultimate for CS groups who need one thing highly effective however not overwhelming. For folk coping with buyer chaos throughout instruments or missing a single supply of fact, Catalyst appeared to supply much-needed readability.

That stated, a couple of themes got here up within the “could-be-better” division. I may see mentions of occasional bugs and minor UI confusion. Nothing main, however sufficient that folks famous it. And whereas Catalyst centered on simplicity, a few reviewers acknowledged that got here with fewer superior options in comparison with extra mature platforms like Gainsight.

However all in all, most customers appeared genuinely pleased with how Catalyst supported their workflow and made CS extra manageable. Should you’re a staff on the lookout for pace, readability, and a no-nonsense method to buyer success, Catalyst undoubtedly earned its rep.

What I like about Catalyst:

  • Loads of customers talked about how clear and intuitive the interface felt and I really feel that type of usability goes a good distance in CS work.
  • It’s nice that you simply don’t want a ton of admin or technical assist to get worth out of it. Based mostly on what I learn, every little thing simply feels accessible.

What G2 customers like about Catalyst:

“Catalyst pulls actual time triggers and knowledge for our gross sales org that enable us to usher in income each month. It saves us a bunch of time, streamlines our course of, and offers us ammo to make use of daily. I sit up for each catalyst job I get as a result of it means I’ve extra prospects to achieve out to, and probably extra income to usher in.”

 

 – Catalyst Overview, Tyler G. 

What I dislike about Catalyst:
  • There have been a couple of feedback about occasional bugs or UI quirks I noticed. There are not any large points, however there are issues that may interrupt your circulation while you’re in the midst of managing accounts.
  • From what I gathered, Catalyst might not have all of the superior options provided by larger CS platforms because it focuses extra on simplicity. This isn’t a significant downside, in my view, however one thing to maintain this in thoughts should you want heavy customization or advanced workflows.
What G2 customers dislike about Catalyst: 

“The platform is usually a bit buggy at occasions and I’ve had my integration with different instruments not sync correctly up to now.” 

Catalyst Overview, Lex H.

8. Staircase AI by Gainsight

Staircase AI stood out to me as one of many extra centered instruments within the buyer intelligence house. It’s constructed particularly to assist CS groups perceive engagement and sentiment throughout accounts, utilizing real-time communication alerts.

Staircase AI

From the product overview I noticed, I can inform it leans closely on automation and AI to floor insights which may in any other case get misplaced within the noise, like who’s slipping into threat, which stakeholders are going darkish, or the place sentiment is trending.

What stood out to me, and clearly to lots of customers, is how simple it’s to navigate. A number of reviewers praised the simplicity of the UI and the way intuitive the platform feels everyday. You don’t want an enormous studying curve to begin seeing worth. It actually helps groups spot early warning indicators in buyer relationships and flag areas for deeper engagement. 

Customers additionally appear to like the readability Staircase AI brings. Whether or not it’s surfacing sentiment alerts, flagging dangers, or exhibiting who’s engaged at what stage, the platform provides you a way more full image of every account.

Staircase AI from product overview

In fact, there are a couple of minor limitations value noting. I noticed a couple of customers declaring that the quantity of information can really feel like rather a lot at first however with the proper setup and studying, it turns into way more manageable. There have been additionally a couple of gentle mentions of integration gaps, principally from groups on the lookout for deeper or extra seamless connections with their current instruments. 

That stated, the suggestions is overwhelmingly optimistic. Most customers appear genuinely enthusiastic about how Staircase AI helps them act earlier, talk smarter, and handle accounts extra holistically. Now that it’s a part of Gainsight, I’m curious to see the way it evolves, however even by itself, it already looks like a stable instrument for groups who need deeper perception with out further busy work.

What I like about Staircase AI by Gainsight:

  • I actually preferred how the platform surfaces relationship alerts like engagement, sentiment, and responsiveness with out having to dig by way of calls or emails manually.
  • The interface seemed clear and straightforward to navigate, and reviewers appear to agree it’s intuitive sufficient to begin seeing worth shortly.

What G2 customers like about Staircase AI by Gainsight: 

“The AI options are nice. They lately launched assembly notes and it has saved me lots of time post-client calls. The experiences are fairly insightful as effectively and assist me shortly see when sure accounts want extra consideration. I like that we even have a CSM who helps us be taught extra in regards to the platform.” 

 

Staircase AI by Gainsight Overview, Amanda M. 

What I dislike about Staircase AI by Gainsight: 
  • Some customers talked about that the dashboards and filters could possibly be extra versatile. I can see how which may matter should you’re managing lots of accounts and want sharper views.
  • Just a few opinions additionally talked about wanting extra integration depth with instruments your CS instruments depend on robust knowledge sync throughout platforms.
What G2 customers dislike about Staircase AI by Gainsight:

It is not a dislike, extra of an ask. Staircase has many native integrations, however there’s all the time room for extra. Further Name Intelligence integrations and SFDC object syncing could be good additions.” 

Staircase AI by Gainsight Overview,  Stephanie H. 

9. ZapScale

ZapScale appears to be carving out a stable area of interest for itself within the B2B SaaS world, and from what individuals are saying, it’s simple to grasp the attraction. It positions itself as a buyer success automation platform, and from what I noticed, most customers appear to agree that it really delivers on that promise.

ZapScale

Many people talked about getting a unified view of the client. The whole lot from well being scores and product utilization to CS metrics and lifecycle phases is pulled into one place. Just a few reviewers even talked about utilizing it as their central system of report for CS, which says rather a lot.

I additionally bought a way that ZapScale is fairly data-driven. There’s a heavy emphasis on monitoring KPIs and surfacing alerts that assist CSMs act earlier than issues go south.

That stated, there may be nonetheless some enchancment scope. Reporting got here up as a recurring theme as I analyzed opinions. Whereas the info is there, a couple of reviewers felt there could possibly be extra personalized experiences. There have been additionally a handful of mentions round web page load time and efficiency in heavier dashboards, although it didn’t sound like a dealbreaker. General, these appeared like areas the place a little bit polish may go a good distance.

Should you’re a rising B2B SaaS firm on the lookout for a CS instrument that balances automation with usability, I might say ZapScale is value trying out. 

What I like about ZapScale:

  • I preferred how ZapScale simplified buyer well being monitoring with out overwhelming me with configuration.
  • Based mostly on my analysis, it felt purpose-built for lean CS groups—fast to implement, with simply the proper stage of insights.

What G2 customers like about ZapScale: 

“ZapScale is nice for Buyer Success automation, Additionally the Buyer success staff may be very immediate & supportive. Marketing campaign & survey function is recreation changer.ZapScale provides the view of our buyer well being & more likely to churn account which is useful for us to plan our plan of action.”

 

ZapScale Overview, Blair J, Director of Operations. 

What I dislike about ZapScale:
  • Based mostly on G2 consumer opinions, reporting looks like a standard friction level—some customers wished extra customizable choices.
  • Just a few reviewers additionally talked about slower load occasions on heavier dashboards, although it didn’t look like a dealbreaker.
What G2 customers dislike about ZapScale: 

“ZapScale would not but present us with an NPS survey, though plans exist to implement one quickly. Within the meantime, we handle NPS utilizing one other instrument and incorporate its outcomes into ZapScale for evaluation.”

ZapScale Overview, Aarti P.

Ceaselessly requested questions (FAQs) on buyer success software program

1. What’s buyer success software program?

Buyer success software program helps companies proactively handle relationships with their clients by monitoring utilization knowledge, automating outreach, and monitoring key success metrics like well being scores and renewals. It ensures clients obtain their desired outcomes, which boosts retention and satisfaction.

2. How is buyer success totally different from buyer assist or CRM software program?

CRM software program is usually used for managing gross sales pipelines, whereas buyer assist instruments deal with particular consumer points. Buyer success platforms, alternatively, take a proactive method—figuring out churn dangers and alternatives to drive product adoption and upsells earlier than issues come up.

3. Why is buyer success essential?

Buyer success is important for lowering churn and maximizing buyer lifetime worth. When your clients constantly get worth out of your product, they’re extra more likely to keep, renew, and suggest it. That’s why companies are more and more investing in buyer success software program to scale these outcomes.

4. What options ought to I search for in one of the best buyer success software program?

The most effective buyer success software program affords options like well being rating monitoring, buyer segmentation, utilization analytics, onboarding playbooks, and integrations with CRMs or assist instruments. Superior platforms may additionally embrace workflow automation, predictive alerts, and customizable dashboards.

5. How does buyer expertise differ from buyer success?

Buyer expertise is the general notion a buyer has of your model throughout all touchpoints. Buyer success focuses extra narrowly on guaranteeing customers obtain their targets along with your product. Whereas they overlap, many companies use each buyer expertise software program and buyer success instruments to cowl the total journey.

6. Is there a distinction between software program for buyer success and buyer assist instruments?

Completely. Buyer assist software program is reactive—dealing with points as they come up. Buyer success platforms are proactive—monitoring engagement, triggering alerts for low utilization, and enabling strategic outreach. For optimum outcomes, many groups combine each techniques.

7. What are some examples of one of the best buyer success software program accessible at this time?

Some common options embrace Gainsight, ChurnZero, Totango, Catalyst, and ClientSuccess. Your best option will depend on your organization measurement, business, and whether or not you prioritize automation, integrations, or reporting depth.

Your license to retain

After spending a while exploring totally different buyer success software program platforms, one factor turned clear to me: the “finest” software program isn’t nearly options. It’s about match.

What works superbly for a SaaS firm with a high-touch mannequin would possibly really feel clunky or extreme for a product-led development staff. I discovered that understanding your inner workflows, buyer lifecycle phases, and the actual ache factors your CS staff faces is extra essential than chasing shiny dashboards or the most costly answer.

Right here’s one other factor I picked up throughout this course of: pay shut consideration to how effectively the platform allows proactive engagement. Instruments that supply deep integrations and usage-based triggers (like when a buyer hasn’t logged in for 7 days or drops under a sure well being rating) will assist your staff transfer from reactive firefighting to strategic relationship constructing. That shift is the place the actual ROI of buyer success software program begins to indicate.

Should you’re nonetheless uncertain, don’t simply depend on vendor demos. Discuss to groups just like yours and run brief pilots when attainable. The proper instrument received’t simply assist your clients succeed; it’ll additionally make your CS staff really feel empowered, environment friendly, and aligned with development.

Wish to enhance buyer satisfaction? Discover ways to take care of sad clients with escalation administration



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