Ever watched a high-potential buyer slip away with out warning? I’ve—and even from the skin wanting in, it’s irritating. What’s worse is realizing it was most likely avoidable.
Churn hardly ever exhibits up with flashing lights. It’s typically a sluggish fade: a drop in utilization, unanswered emails, and quiet complaints. And from every part I’ve discovered researching this house, recognizing these indicators early is almost unattainable with out the greatest buyer success software program.
I don’t work in buyer success, nor do I ship quarterly enterprise evaluation (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 one of the priceless investments a crew could make.
I’ve spoken to CS leaders, learn via numerous critiques, 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 resolve the identical issues, choosing the proper one isn’t simple. That’s why I’ve pulled collectively 9 greatest buyer success software program value your consideration primarily based on person suggestions, key options, and the way properly they really assist groups keep forward of churn.
9 greatest buyer success software program for 2025: My prime picks
- Salesforce Service Cloud for enterprise groups already deep within the Salesforce ecosystem. ($25/person/month)
- Gainsight Buyer Success for data-driven CS groups at giant B2B firms. (obtainable on request)
- ChurnZero for SaaS companies targeted on decreasing churn via automation. (obtainable on request)
- Vitally for product-led groups needing quick, versatile CS workflows. (obtainable on request)
- Planhat for versatile, modular CS setups (obtainable on request)
- Totango for groups wanting prebuilt CS journeys and fast setup (obtainable on request)
- Catalyst for startups looking for a contemporary, intuitive CS platform (obtainable on request)
- Staircase AI by Gainsight for AI-powered relationship intelligence and sentiment evaluation. (obtainable on request)
- ZapScale for early-stage CS groups in B2B SaaS house. ($500/month)
*These are the top-rated buyer success software program of their class, in accordance with G2 Grid Studies. Pricing for many of those merchandise is on the market upon request, apart from those for which I’ve already included the small print.
9 greatest 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 best platform may give CS groups the visibility they should scale customized help, 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’ll be able to monitor utilization tendencies, automate check-ins, and spot pink flags earlier than they grow to be actual points.
It’s not nearly reacting when issues go unsuitable; it’s about being one step forward and ensuring clients see success each step of the way in which.
And should you’re in the course 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 influence they’re making for buyer success groups.
How did I discover and consider the perfect 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 usefulness. I targeted on how properly they dealt with key features 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 critiques and floor recurring themes, whether or not it was ache factors customers stored mentioning, options they couldn’t dwell with out, or areas the place sure instruments constantly outperformed others.
Please be aware: Whereas some platforms supply free trials, demos, or guided excursions, there have been a couple of I wasn’t capable of strive firsthand. In these circumstances, I linked with professionals who’ve used the instruments immediately and in contrast their insights with verified G2 critiques and my very own unbiased analysis. The screenshots on this article embody a mixture of these captured throughout my analysis and testing, in addition to pictures sourced from the distributors’ G2 profiles.
What makes the perfect buyer success software program: My standards
After I got down to consider these instruments, I targeted on what really helps CS groups do their jobs higher. Right here’s what I prioritized whereas reviewing every platform.
- Ease of use: Even the perfect options don’t matter if the platform’s arduous to make use of. I paid consideration to how intuitive the UI felt, how clean onboarding was, and whether or not customers would wish heavy coaching to get began.
- Onboarding and lifecycle automation: I appeared 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 danger 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 help instruments: Buyer success doesn’t dwell in a vacuum. I prioritized instruments that play properly with CRMs like Salesforce or HubSpot and help platforms like Zendesk or Intercom so groups get a unified view of the client.
- Playbooks and success planning: I appeared 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 primarily based on account sort or lifecycle stage.
- Reporting and visibility for CS leaders: I needed to see how simply groups may report on churn, NRR, retention, or phase efficiency. Government dashboards and exportable knowledge made an enormous distinction right here.
Utilizing these elements, I in contrast over 20 instruments and narrowed them right down to 9 greatest 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 beneath comprises real person critiques 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 crew interactions.
- Facilitate engagement with clients all through the client lifecycle.
- Present suggestions, buyer success scores, and success studies primarily based on the evaluation of historic knowledge.
- Automate workflow processes like communications, alerts, coordinating engagements, analyses, success planning, and reporting.
- Predict future buyer progress, pink flags, and tendencies as dashboards or graphs utilizing knowledge associated to interactions, funds, inquiries, and extra.
- Scale, in accordance with the dimensions of the corporate and technique of buyer adoption or engagement.
*This knowledge was pulled from G2 in 2025. Some critiques might have been edited for readability.
1. Salesforce Service Cloud
Salesforce is likely one of the most well-known and extensively used CRM and buyer success platforms on the market. It’s just about the gold commonplace for big 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 will be: extremely highly effective, however not with out its quirks. It leans extra in direction of help and customer support workflows.
What stood out to me immediately was how strong the platform is for case administration. From what I’ve seen and what customers constantly point out, it handles help at scale like a professional. The omnichannel capabilities, together with net, chat, and electronic mail case routing, are an enormous win for help groups juggling a number of channels.
Within the screenshots I captured throughout my trial (earlier than organising the channels), you may see simply how centralized and clear the case view is. You’ll be able to assign labels, change house owners, merge circumstances, and monitor every part with customizable filters. Every part, from organising a brand new case and updating them to including data base articles, felt neat when you understood the stream.
The place Salesforce Service Cloud actually shines, in accordance with customers, is in customizability. You’ll be able to tailor workflows, automate actions, and construct dashboards that really mirror 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 way in which AI is subtly built-in all through the platform. From producing solutions to summarizing buyer conversations to utilizing Einstein AI for predicting tendencies, Salesforce appears to be taking a considerate strategy to automation.
That stated, there are a couple of trade-offs to remember. One factor that got here up in a number of critiques was the pricing, which may grow to be a consideration for rising groups.
Just a few customers additionally talked about that whereas the platform is extremely customizable (which is a energy), taking advantage of that flexibility typically requires admin or developer help. 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 crew has the sources to get it up and working correctly, it will possibly completely grow to be 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 help requests throughout a number of channels with out issues slipping via the cracks.
- I actually like how customizable the platform is. Having the ability to tailor workflows, dashboards, and automation to suit completely 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 very best for rising help groups.”
– Salesforce Service Cloud Overview, Ian H.
What I dislike about Salesforce Service Cloud:
- I noticed that some superior configurations require admin or developer assist, which may sluggish issues down in case your crew doesn’t have in-house help.
- The pricing construction seems like one thing to observe carefully—particularly for rising groups the place prices may stack up quick, primarily based on my analysis.
What G2 customers dislike about Salesforce Service Cloud:
“Salesforce Service Cloud is an excellent platform, however requires loads of add-ons for what I might have thought of fundamental performance, resembling quote formatting. All of those add-ons are sometimes all priced per person, so prices rapidly rise relying on the variety of customers that you’ve got on the Salesforce Platform.”
– Salesforce Service Cloud Overview, Jon S.
2. Gainsight Buyer Success
Gainsight Buyer Success is strictly what its title suggests in my view. It offers buyer success groups the perception they should drive actual features in retention, engagement, and progress. Primarily based on what I’ve discovered until now, Gainsight’s a favourite amongst mature CS orgs with devoted ops or admin help.
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 person critiques, 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 grow to be the go-to spot for staying on prime of each interplay, touchpoint, and replace tied to a buyer. Numerous CS professionals described it as their single supply of reality, particularly when juggling a big ebook of enterprise. That’s the sort of construction I do know loads of groups want they’d—much less looking throughout instruments, extra time really serving to clients.
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 danger. The power to customise playbooks and set off workflows primarily based on conduct or product utilization looks as if an enormous plus, particularly for CS groups attempting 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 primarily based 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 via 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 crew has the best sources (or is keen to put money into 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 tendencies or supporting interdepartmental collaboration, the instrument appears to ship worth throughout the board.
I could not have gotten to strive it totally myself, but when I had been a part of a CS crew trying to degree up our operations, I’d completely need this on the shortlist.
What I like about Gainsight Buyer Success:
- I like how Gainsight pulls every part into one place. Having a 360-degree view of accounts, timelines, well being scores, and playbooks makes it method simpler to remain proactive.
- The dashboards and automation choices are spectacular. It seems like I can construct workflows that really mirror how the CS crew works, not simply power 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 setting.
We will write guidelines primarily based on particular actions distinctive to our group; we are able to create linked actions from guidelines to JO packages, to studies and dashboards, and again once more. Just like many different organizations, our knowledge doesn’t simply dwell in a single supply, so we reap the benefits of its means to connect with different sources, primarily via API calls however Amazon S3 and even CSV when wanted.”
– Gainsight Buyer Success Overview, Carol Ok.
What I dislike about Gainsight Buyer Success:
- Primarily based on G2 critiques, what I discovered is that some elements 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 loads of accounts.
- From what I noticed, Gainsight has a studying curve and works greatest when you could have an influence person 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 person interface however there are nonetheless some admin options which are click on heavy and a few error messages that are not informative sufficient, requiring an admin to contact Gainsight help.”
– Gainsight Buyer Success Overview, Dan A.
3. ChurnZero
Preserving monitor of dozens of accounts, well being scores, and touchpoints isn’t simple. However from every part 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 latest G2 critiques and doing a deep dive into what the platform gives, I can see why it’s gaining traction with buyer success groups. It’s particularly common with fast-growing mid-sized CS groups.
What stood out to me instantly, from each analysis and person suggestions, is how properly ChurnZero brings every part 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 function 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 via in the way in which 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 phase accounts primarily based on no matter metrics matter most to them. It feels like ChurnZero offers groups loads of flexibility with out complexity. There’s additionally a robust 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 critiques, and one thing I’d remember if I had been evaluating ChurnZero for my crew, is that it takes somewhat time to get totally snug with the platform. There’s so much underneath 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 practical, may really feel somewhat 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 robust contender within the buyer success house.
What I like about ChurnZero:
- Every part’s centralized—duties, buyer knowledge, journeys, and notes all dwell 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 help completely different CS fashions with out forcing a one-size-fits-all setup.
What G2 customers like about ChurnZero:
“ChurnZero covers all elements of Buyer Success and has the whole circle of the shopper journey lined. It’s particularly devoted to Buyer Success processes and that’s what makes it distinctive. It is extremely simple to make use of and it is buyer help 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 E-mail) and I’m able to see all messages within the account profile and the conferences as properly, which makes my day organised.“
– ChurnZero Overview, Ivana S.
What I dislike about ChurnZero:
- From the critiques, it looks as if the platform isn’t one thing you simply bounce into. It takes somewhat time to study, particularly in case your crew doesn’t have admin help.
- 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 somewhat outdated – there might 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 provide buyer success groups their time again. Every part about it appears designed for readability, velocity, and customization, particularly for groups that need knowledge entrance and heart with out drowning in it.
The UI was one of many first issues that stood out to me. It appears clear, fashionable, and really pleasurable to navigate. A number of reviewers echoed that—it’s customizable, always bettering, and offers you management over the way you see buyer knowledge. You’ll be able to inform it’s designed with day-to-day usability in thoughts.
I additionally favored 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, help 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.
After all, no instrument is ideal. Primarily based on what I’ve seen within the critiques, getting Vitally totally arrange and ensuring all of your integrations are working the way in which you need undoubtedly takes a while. It may be somewhat 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 fashionable total, some elements of it might be a bit extra intuitive or strong, particularly in relation to accessing sure options. That stated, as soon as every part’s in place, most customers appear to agree that the flexibleness pays off.
General, Vitally appears like one of many extra fashionable, CS-first platforms on the market. It doesn’t simply assist you to handle buyer knowledge, it helps you act on it. In case your crew needs one thing highly effective however nonetheless approachable, this one’s value a severe look.
What I like about Vitally:
- I actually favored how clear and customizable the UI felt—it’s simple to think about a CSM beginning their day and realizing precisely what to concentrate on.
- From what I noticed and skim, the flexibility to automate playbooks and centralize key knowledge from completely 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 carry collectively all related infomation in your CS crew. We combine our product, amplitude, and Hubspot – which implies 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 will 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 part arrange, particularly integrations and workflows, and getting snug with the instrument takes a little bit of upfront effort.
- Just a few elements of the interface, whereas typically fashionable, might be extra intuitive or versatile in relation 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 really want to have folks in your crew who’re invested in “determining” the perfect methods to make Vitally work in your firm and crew. As well as, it is arduous for anyone who’s outdoors 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 correct 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 provide CS orgs the readability and construction they should keep on prime of their pipeline and clients. It’s particularly common with mid-market and enterprise groups that want visibility into what’s occurring throughout segments with out shedding velocity.
After watching the platform demo and digging into latest G2 critiques, 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’ll be able to rapidly see account well being, job standing, renewal danger, and open enlargement alternatives multi function view. I discovered the way in which it visualizes buyer portfolios genuinely useful. A number of reviewers known as out the time they save by having every part, 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 compelled right into a inflexible playbook, however you continue to have the instruments to maintain issues constant: playbooks, lifecycle monitoring, alerts, and integrations that really 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 attempting to configure dashboards or navigate superior workflows. Others famous that whereas the interface appears clear, it will possibly take a little bit of exploring to get snug with how every part matches collectively.
I additionally noticed few reviewers mentioning that integration choices might be extra in depth or simpler to configure, particularly when attempting 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 inside groups, and prioritize the best buyer actions with out guessing. So, I might say it is undoubtedly value attempting 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 way in which Planhat pulls in knowledge from completely 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 degree Help Workforce. 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 critiques, some elements of the platform can take time to study, particularly should you’re attempting to construct out extra superior workflows or views.
- Just a few customers talked about that integration choices might be extra in depth or easier to configure, relying on what instruments you’re connecting.
What G2 customers dislike about Planhat:
“Tough to get the hold of initially. Filtering will be tough on the information view, particulary saving your most popular view. The calendar/ job planning characteristic isn’t 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 help CS groups that need visibility, construction, and suppleness—with out having to depend on a CS ops professional simply to get began.
The factor I seen most, and that exhibits up typically in G2 critiques, is how useful Totango’s segmenting and filtering capabilities are. Customers actually appear to like how they will rapidly slice their buyer base by key metrics, monitor lifecycle levels, and monitor conduct with customized views.
It offers 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 massive wins. You get at-a-glance readability on renewals, danger, and engagement, which makes it simpler for groups to remain on prime of what wants consideration.
Numerous customers additionally point out that it’s fairly simple to study. 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 critiques I analyzed which are value calling out. Some customers talked about that sure elements 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 might be improved or really feel incomplete relying on the remainder of your tech stack.
General, Totango looks as if a robust alternative for CS groups that wish to scale their processes, hold duties organized, and get a unified view of their clients with out drowning in complexity.
What I like about Totango:
- I actually favored how simple it appeared to phase clients and monitor lifecycle levels. The dashboards felt clear and helped floor the best data rapidly.
- Numerous customers talked about how approachable the platform is, and I can see why. It appears like one thing a CS crew may rise up and working with no need tons of technical setup.
What G2 customers like about Totango:
“Totango does a unbelievable job of taking the information fed into the platform and utilizing it to create a Well being Rating primarily based on the parameters that I want. By utilizing the information, campaigns and SuccessBlocs will be simply utilized permitting for loads of customization. The workflows are simple to arrange and implement throughout the entire crew. When I’ve wanted help, the crew has been fast to reply with the best answer.“
– Totango Overview, Christopher B
What I dislike about Totango:
- Primarily based on the critiques, a couple of areas really feel extra inflexible than I’d count on—like job creation or account construction, which may restrict flexibility for complicated workflows.
- I seen fairly a couple of mentions of integrations that might be extra strong 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 inside techniques like SalesForce, there may be loads of inconsistency in crew constructions 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 robust fame 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 sensible for a CSM’s each day workflow. It wasn’t attempting to be every part without delay, which meant much less noise and extra precise work getting achieved. I noticed repeated mentions of how simple it was to trace buyer targets, monitor well being, handle duties, and see every part you want in a single place.
I may additionally see loads of love for the way non-technical groups may get worth from the platform with no need heavy admin help. Customized views, centralized buyer knowledge, and a clear dashboard expertise made it very best for CS groups who need one thing highly effective however not overwhelming. For people coping with buyer chaos throughout instruments or missing a single supply of reality, Catalyst appeared to offer 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 targeted 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. For those who’re a crew on the lookout for velocity, readability, and a no-nonsense strategy to buyer success, Catalyst undoubtedly earned its rep.
What I like about Catalyst:
- Numerous customers talked about how clear and intuitive the interface felt and I really feel that sort of usability goes a good distance in CS work.
- It’s nice that you simply don’t want a ton of admin or technical help to get worth out of it. Primarily based on what I learn, every part 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 herald 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 doubtlessly extra income to herald.”
– 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 stream while you’re in the course 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 serious disadvantage, in my view, however one thing to maintain this in thoughts should you want heavy customization or complicated workflows.
What G2 customers dislike about Catalyst:
“The platform could be a bit buggy at occasions and I’ve had my integration with different instruments not sync correctly prior to now.”
– Catalyst Overview, Lex H.
8. Staircase AI by Gainsight
Staircase AI stood out to me as one of many extra targeted instruments within the buyer intelligence house. It’s constructed particularly to assist CS groups perceive engagement and sentiment throughout accounts, utilizing real-time communication indicators.
From the product overview I noticed, I can inform it leans closely on automation and AI to floor insights that may in any other case get misplaced within the noise, like who’s slipping into danger, which stakeholders are going darkish, or the place sentiment is trending.
What stood out to me, and clearly to loads 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 daily. You don’t want an enormous studying curve to start out 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 indicators, flagging dangers, or displaying who’s engaged at what degree, the platform offers you a way more full image of every account.
After all, there are a couple of minor limitations value noting. I noticed a couple of customers stating that the quantity of knowledge can really feel like so much at first however with the best setup and studying, it turns into rather 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 present 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 as if a strong instrument for groups who need deeper perception with out further busy work.
What I like about Staircase AI by Gainsight:
- I actually favored how the platform surfaces relationship indicators like engagement, sentiment, and responsiveness with out having to dig via calls or emails manually.
- The interface appeared clear and straightforward to navigate, and reviewers appear to agree it’s intuitive sufficient to start out seeing worth rapidly.
What G2 customers like about Staircase AI by Gainsight:
“The AI options are nice. They just lately launched assembly notes and it has saved me loads of time post-client calls. The studies are fairly insightful as properly and assist me rapidly see when sure accounts want extra consideration. I like that we even have a CSM who helps us study 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 might be extra versatile. I can see how that may matter should you’re managing loads of accounts and wish sharper views.
- Just a few critiques additionally talked about wanting extra integration depth with instruments your CS instruments depend on sturdy 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 can be good additions.”
– Staircase AI by Gainsight Overview, Stephanie H.
9. ZapScale
ZapScale appears to be carving out a strong area of interest for itself within the B2B SaaS world, and from what persons 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.
Many people talked about getting a unified view of the client. Every part from well being scores and product utilization to CS metrics and lifecycle levels is pulled into one place. Just a few reviewers even talked about utilizing it as their central system of document for CS, which says so much.
I additionally acquired 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 critiques. Whereas the information is there, a couple of reviewers felt there might be extra custom-made studies. 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 somewhat polish may go a good distance.
For those who’re a rising B2B SaaS firm on the lookout for a CS instrument that balances automation with usability, I might say ZapScale is value testing.
What I like about ZapScale:
- I favored how ZapScale simplified buyer well being monitoring with out overwhelming me with configuration.
- Primarily based on my analysis, it felt purpose-built for lean CS groups—fast to implement, with simply the best degree of insights.
What G2 customers like about ZapScale:
“ZapScale is nice for Buyer Success automation, Additionally the Buyer success crew could be very immediate & supportive. Marketing campaign & survey characteristic is sport changer.ZapScale offers 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:
- Primarily based on G2 person critiques, reporting looks as if a typical friction level—some customers needed extra customizable choices.
- Just a few reviewers additionally talked about slower load occasions on heavier dashboards, although it didn’t appear to be 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.
Regularly 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 completely different from buyer help or CRM software program?
CRM software program is often used for managing gross sales pipelines, whereas buyer help instruments tackle particular person points. Buyer success platforms, however, take a proactive strategy—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 decreasing 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 advocate 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 the perfect buyer success software program?
The very best buyer success software program gives options like well being rating monitoring, buyer segmentation, utilization analytics, onboarding playbooks, and integrations with CRMs or help instruments. Superior platforms may additionally embody 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 making certain 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 help instruments?
Completely. Buyer help 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 the perfect buyer success software program obtainable right this moment?
Some common options embody 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 completely different buyer success software program platforms, one factor grew to become clear to me: the “greatest” 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 progress crew. I discovered that understanding your inside workflows, buyer lifecycle levels, and the actual ache factors your CS crew faces is extra essential than chasing shiny dashboards or the costliest answer.
Right here’s one other factor I picked up throughout this course of: pay shut consideration to how properly the platform permits proactive engagement. Instruments that provide deep integrations and usage-based triggers (like when a buyer hasn’t logged in for 7 days or drops beneath a sure well being rating) will assist your crew transfer from reactive firefighting to strategic relationship constructing. That shift is the place the actual ROI of buyer success software program begins to point out.
For those who’re nonetheless uncertain, don’t simply depend on vendor demos. Discuss to groups much like yours and run quick pilots when attainable. The appropriate instrument gained’t simply assist your clients succeed; it’ll additionally make your CS crew really feel empowered, environment friendly, and aligned with progress.
Need to enhance buyer satisfaction? Discover ways to look after sad clients with escalation administration.