Wednesday, April 23, 2025

9 Greatest 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 skin wanting in, it’s irritating. What’s worse is figuring out it was most likely avoidable.

Churn not often reveals up with flashing lights. It’s usually a gradual fade: a drop in utilization, unanswered emails, and quiet complaints. And from all the things I’ve realized researching this area, recognizing these indicators early is almost unattainable with out the finest buyer success software program.

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

I’ve spoken to CS leaders, learn by way of 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 area, 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 straightforward. That’s why I’ve pulled collectively 9 finest buyer success software program price your consideration based mostly on consumer suggestions, key options, and the way properly 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 appropriate platform can provide CS groups the visibility they should scale customized assist, observe product adoption, and uncover alternatives so as to add worth. These instruments make it a lot simpler to handle a rising record of accounts with out lacking a beat. You may observe utilization developments, automate check-ins, and spot crimson flags earlier than they turn into actual points. 

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

And if you happen to’re in the midst of evaluating instruments, I understand how overwhelming it could possibly get. That’s why I put this record collectively—to highlight platforms that persistently 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 very 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 usefulness. I centered 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 investigate G2 critiques and floor recurring themes, whether or not it was ache factors customers saved mentioning, options they couldn’t stay with out, or areas the place sure instruments persistently outperformed others.

 

Please be aware: Whereas some platforms provide free trials, demos, or guided excursions, there have been just a few I wasn’t in a position to attempt firsthand. In these circumstances, I related with professionals who’ve used the instruments instantly 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 photographs sourced from the distributors’ G2 profiles.

What makes the very best buyer success software program: My standards

Once 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 the very best 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 want heavy coaching to get began.
  • Onboarding and lifecycle automation: I seemed for platforms that make it straightforward to construct and automate buyer journeys. Triggered emails, process flows, and success milestones matter when scaling.
  • Well being scoring and danger alerts: I paid shut consideration to how every software dealt with buyer well being—how versatile the scoring fashions have been, what information 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 stay 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 shopper.
  • 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 software lets groups customise and automate them based mostly on account sort or lifecycle stage.
  • Reporting and visibility for CS leaders: I wished to see how simply groups might report on churn, NRR, retention, or phase efficiency. Govt dashboards and exportable information made an enormous distinction right here.

Utilizing these elements, I in contrast over 20 instruments and narrowed them all the way down to 9 finest buyer success software program. Whereas they don’t seem to be excellent, checking each single field in my guidelines, they every excel in key areas that make them price contemplating.

The record beneath incorporates real consumer critiques from G2’s buyer success software program class web page. To be included within the record, a software should:

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

*This information 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 normal 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 straight away was how strong the platform is for case administration. From what I’ve seen and what customers persistently point out, it handles assist at scale like a professional. The omnichannel capabilities, together with net, chat, and electronic 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 organising the channels), you’ll be able to see simply how centralized and clear the case view is. You may assign labels, change homeowners, merge circumstances, and observe all the things 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. 

Salesforce

The place Salesforce Service Cloud actually shines, in response to customers, is in customizability. You may tailor workflows, automate actions, and construct dashboards that truly 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 developments, Salesforce appears to be taking a considerate method to automation.

That mentioned, there are just a few trade-offs to bear in mind. One factor that got here up in a number of critiques was the pricing, which may turn into a consideration for rising groups.

A couple of customers additionally talked about that whereas the platform is very customizable (which is a energy), taking advantage of 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 if you happen to’re not already conversant in the Salesforce ecosystem.

That mentioned, in case your group has the assets to get it up and operating correctly, it could 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 straightforward to trace, assign, and manage 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 big 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 Assessment, Ian H. 

What I dislike about Salesforce Service Cloud:
  • I noticed that some superior configurations require admin or developer assist, which may gradual issues down in case your group doesn’t have in-house assist.
  • The pricing construction looks like one thing to observe intently—particularly for rising groups the place  prices might 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 numerous add-ons for what I might have thought of fundamental performance, comparable 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 got on the Salesforce Platform.” 

Salesforce Service Cloud Assessment, Jon S.

2. Gainsight Buyer Success

Gainsight Buyer Success is precisely what its title suggests in my view. It provides buyer success groups the perception they should drive actual good points in retention, engagement, and development. Primarily based 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 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 turn into the go-to spot for staying on prime of each interplay, touchpoint, and replace tied to a buyer. Lots of CS professionals described it as their single supply of fact, particularly when juggling a big e-book of enterprise. That’s the sort of construction I do know numerous groups want they’d—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 straightforward it’s to trace account well being, arrange alerts, and even forecast danger. The power to customise playbooks and set off workflows based mostly on habits or product utilization looks like an enormous plus, particularly for CS groups making an attempt to scale with out dropping that private contact.

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

One other theme that I noticed usually 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 group has the appropriate assets (or is prepared 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 developments or supporting interdepartmental collaboration, the software appears to ship worth throughout the board.

I’ll not have gotten to attempt it absolutely myself, but when I have been a part of a CS group seeking 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 all the things 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 looks like I can construct workflows that truly mirror how the CS group works, not simply drive us right into a preset system.

What G2 customers like about Gainsight Buyer Success: 

A number of the issues I like most about Gainsight is the breadth of performance. It helps us centralize our buyer information for our Buyer Success Administration groups. As well as, there’s a capability to extremely customise the arrange of your surroundings.

 

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

 

Gainsight Buyer Success Assessment, 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 just a few additional steps to get the place you wish to go, particularly once you’re managing numerous accounts.
  • From what I noticed, Gainsight has a studying curve and works finest when you will 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 are click on heavy and a few error messages that are not informative sufficient, requiring an admin to contact Gainsight assist.” 

Gainsight Buyer Success Assessment, Dan A. 

3. ChurnZero

Retaining observe of dozens of accounts, well being scores, and touchpoints isn’t straightforward. However from all the things I’ve learn, ChurnZero helps make it manageable. Full disclosure: I didn’t get the possibility to demo or check ChurnZero myself with a free trial, however after digging into latest G2 critiques and doing a deep dive into what the platform presents, I can see why it’s gaining traction with buyer success groups. It’s particularly fashionable with fast-growing mid-sized CS groups. 

ChurnZero

What stood out to me instantly, from each analysis and consumer suggestions, is how properly ChurnZero brings all the things collectively. It’s designed to be a real command middle for CS groups: account overviews, process monitoring, playbooks, well being scores, buyer journeys are multi functional place.

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

Customization additionally appears to be an enormous win. Customers persistently talked about how straightforward it’s to tailor dashboards, automate processes, and phase accounts based mostly on no matter metrics matter most to them. It feels like ChurnZero provides groups numerous 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 mentioned, it’s not with out its friction factors. One factor I observed in a number of critiques, and one thing I’d consider if I have been evaluating ChurnZero for my group, is that it takes just a little time to get absolutely comfy with the platform. There’s quite a bit beneath the hood, and whereas that depth is certainly a energy, it takes a while. 

I noticed just a few reviewers additionally point out that the interface, whereas practical, might really feel just a little dated or click-heavy in locations. It feels like when you’re conversant in 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 area.

What I like about ChurnZero:

  • Every part’s centralized—duties, buyer information, journeys, and notes all stay 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 features of Buyer Success and has the full circle of the consumer journey lined. It’s particularly devoted to Buyer Success processes and that’s what makes it distinctive. It is vitally straightforward to make use of and it is buyer assist can also be wonderful. I’ve reached out a few occasions they usually have been at all times useful.

 

ChurnZero is included in our day by day duties and we use it fairly often, for probably 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 properly, which makes my day organised.

 

ChurnZero Assessment, Ivana S.

What I dislike about ChurnZero:
  • From the critiques, it looks like the platform isn’t one thing you simply soar into. It takes just a little time to study, particularly in case your group doesn’t have admin assist.
  • A couple of 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 just a little outdated – there could possibly be some enhancements made to the UX.”

ChurnZero Assessment, 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 present buyer success groups their time again. Every part about it appears designed for readability, velocity, and customization, particularly for groups that need information entrance and middle with out drowning in it.

Vitally

The UI was one of many first issues that stood out to me. It seems clear, trendy, and really pleasurable to navigate. A number of reviewers echoed that—it’s customizable, continuously bettering, and provides you management over the way you see buyer information. You may 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 straightforward to think about a CSM leaping in every morning and figuring out precisely what wants consideration.

What actually impressed me is how Vitally balances being highly effective with out being overwhelming. It pulls information from a number of instruments like CRMs, assist methods, product analytics and makes it usable, not simply seen. Customers appear to like how straightforward 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 software is ideal. Primarily based on what I’ve seen within the critiques, getting Vitally absolutely arrange and ensuring all of your integrations are working the way in which you need undoubtedly takes a while. It may be just a little tough to create and put your playbooks in place as they require cautious consideration. 

A couple of customers additionally identified that whereas the UI is clear and trendy general, some elements of it could possibly be a bit extra intuitive or strong, particularly in terms of accessing sure options. That mentioned, as soon as all the things’s in place, most customers appear to agree that the pliability pays off.

Total, Vitally seems like one of many extra trendy, CS-first platforms on the market. It doesn’t simply make it easier to handle buyer information, it helps you act on it. In case your group desires one thing highly effective however nonetheless approachable, this one’s price a critical look. 

What I like about Vitally: 

  • I actually preferred how clear and customizable the UI felt—it’s straightforward to think about a CSM beginning their day and figuring out precisely what to give attention to.
  • From what I noticed and skim, the power to automate playbooks and centralize key information 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 excellent software to convey collectively all related infomation in your CS group. We combine our product, amplitude, and Hubspot – which suggests I can consider any related cilent information in as soon as place.

 

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

 

Vitally Assessment, Patricia S. 

What I dislike about Vitally:
  • Some customers talked about (and I can see why) that getting all the things arrange, particularly integrations and workflows, and getting comfy with the software takes a little bit of upfront effort.
  • A couple of elements of the interface, whereas usually trendy, could possibly be extra intuitive or versatile in terms of configuring alerts or visualizing information.
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 group who’re invested in “determining” the very best methods to make Vitally work in your firm and group. As well as, it is arduous for someone 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 someone new simply logs in with out the correct arrange (or understanding that they should do a arrange).

Vitally Assessment, Melissa S.  

5. Planhat

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

Planhat

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 may shortly see account well being, process standing, renewal danger, and open enlargement alternatives multi functional view. I discovered the way in which it visualizes buyer portfolios genuinely useful. A number of reviewers referred to as out the time they save by having all the things, from NPS scores to overdue QBRs. in a single place.

What stood out probably 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 truly plug into your day-to-day instruments.

That mentioned, it’s not a software you grasp in a single day. Some customers talked about the educational curve, particularly when making an attempt to configure dashboards or navigate superior workflows. Others famous that whereas the interface seems clear, it could possibly take a little bit of exploring to get comfy with how all the things suits 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 general, 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 appropriate buyer actions with out guessing. So, I might say it is undoubtedly price making an attempt out. 

What I like about Planhat:

  • I actually like how customizable the dashboards are. It’s straightforward 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 information from totally different methods and provides 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 middle article is greater than resolved by reaching out to their superior stage Assist Staff. 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 Assessment, Hannah D.

What I dislike about Planhat: 
  • From what I noticed in critiques, some elements of the platform can take time to study, particularly if you happen to’re making an attempt to construct out extra superior workflows or views.
  • A couple of 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 might be tough on the information view, particulary saving your most popular view. The calendar/ process planning characteristic is just not probably the most intuitive.” 

Planhat Assessment, 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 professional simply to get began.

Totango

The factor I observed most, and that reveals up usually in G2 critiques, is how useful Totango’s segmenting and filtering capabilities are. Customers actually appear to like how they’ll shortly slice their buyer base by key metrics, observe lifecycle phases, and monitor habits with customized views.

It provides you that high-level dashboard really feel whereas nonetheless letting you drill down into what issues. The visible dashboards, process 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.

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

That mentioned, just a few issues got here up in critiques I analyzed which are price calling out. Some customers talked about that sure elements of the platform really feel restricted or inflexible, like process 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.

Total, Totango looks like a powerful 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 preferred how straightforward it appeared to phase clients and observe lifecycle phases. The dashboards felt clear and helped floor the appropriate info shortly.
  • Lots of customers talked about how approachable the platform is, and I can see why. It seems like one thing a CS group might stand up and operating while not having tons of technical setup.

What G2 customers like about Totango:

Totango does a implausible job of taking the information 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 information, campaigns and SuccessBlocs might be simply utilized permitting for loads of customization. The workflows are straightforward to arrange and implement throughout the entire group. When I’ve wanted assist, the group has been fast to reply with the appropriate resolution.

 

Totango Assessment, Christopher B

What I dislike about Totango:
  • Primarily based on the critiques, just a few areas really feel extra inflexible than I’d anticipate—like process creation or account construction, which might restrict flexibility for complicated workflows.
  • I observed fairly just a few mentions of integrations that could possibly be extra strong or simpler to work with. That is one thing to concentrate to if you happen to work throughout a number of instruments.
What G2 customers dislike about Totango:

Must be built-in a bit higher to our inside methods like SalesForce, there’s numerous inconsistency in group constructions and account ownershipm, in addition to matching alternatives with accounts.” 

Totango Assessment, Andrea C. 

7. Catalyst 

Regardless that it is now formally a part of Totango, it’s clear Catalyst earned a powerful fame by itself for being quick, clear, and refreshingly straightforward to make use of in comparison with a few 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 day by day workflow. It wasn’t making an attempt to be all the things directly, which meant much less noise and extra precise work getting accomplished. I noticed repeated mentions of how straightforward it was to trace buyer objectives, monitor well being, handle duties, and see all the things you want in a single place.

I might additionally see numerous love for the way non-technical groups might get worth from the platform while not having heavy admin assist. Customized views, centralized buyer information, 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 mentioned, just a few themes got here up within the “could-be-better” division. I might see mentions of occasional bugs and minor UI confusion. Nothing main, however sufficient that individuals 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 proud of how Catalyst supported their workflow and made CS extra manageable. When you’re a group searching for velocity, readability, and a no-nonsense method to buyer success, Catalyst undoubtedly earned its rep.

What I like about Catalyst:

  • Lots of 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 just don’t want a ton of admin or technical assist to get worth out of it. Primarily based on what I learn, all the things simply feels accessible.

What G2 customers like about Catalyst:

“Catalyst pulls actual time triggers and information 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 provides us ammo to make use of each day. I sit up for each catalyst process I get as a result of it means I’ve extra prospects to succeed in out to, and probably extra income to herald.”

 

 – Catalyst Assessment, Tyler G. 

What I dislike about Catalyst:
  • There have been just a few feedback about occasional bugs or UI quirks I noticed. There are not any large points, however there are issues that may interrupt your stream once you’re in the midst of managing accounts.
  • From what I gathered, Catalyst might not have all of the superior options provided by greater 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 if you happen to want heavy customization or complicated workflows.
What G2 customers dislike about Catalyst: 

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

Catalyst Assessment, Lex H.

8. Staircase AI by Gainsight

Staircase AI stood out to me as one of many extra centered instruments within the buyer intelligence area. 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 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 numerous customers, is how straightforward 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 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 alerts, flagging dangers, or displaying 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 just a few minor limitations price noting. I noticed just a few customers declaring that the quantity of knowledge can really feel like quite a bit at first however with the appropriate setup and studying, it turns into far more manageable. There have been additionally just a few mild mentions of integration gaps, principally from groups searching for deeper or extra seamless connections with their present instruments. 

That mentioned, 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 strong software for groups who need deeper perception with out additional 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 simple to navigate, and reviewers appear to agree it’s intuitive sufficient to start out seeing worth shortly.

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 numerous time post-client calls. The experiences are fairly insightful as properly and assist me shortly 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 Assessment, 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 that may matter if you happen to’re managing numerous accounts and wish sharper views.
  • A couple of critiques additionally talked about wanting extra integration depth with instruments your CS instruments depend on robust information 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 at all times room for extra. Further Name Intelligence integrations and SFDC object syncing can be good additions.” 

Staircase AI by Gainsight Assessment,  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 straightforward 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 shopper. Every part from well being scores and product utilization to CS metrics and lifecycle phases is pulled into one place. A couple of reviewers even talked about utilizing it as their central system of report for CS, which says quite a bit.

I additionally obtained 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 mentioned, there’s nonetheless some enchancment scope. Reporting got here up as a recurring theme as I analyzed critiques. Whereas the information is there, just a few reviewers felt there could possibly be extra custom-made 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. Total, these appeared like areas the place just a little polish might go a good distance.

When you’re a rising B2B SaaS firm searching for a CS software that balances automation with usability, I might say ZapScale is price trying out. 

What I like about ZapScale:

  • I preferred 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 appropriate stage of insights.

What G2 customers like about ZapScale: 

“ZapScale is nice for Buyer Success automation, Additionally the Buyer success group may be very immediate & supportive. Marketing campaign & survey characteristic is sport 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 Assessment, Blair J, Director of Operations. 

What I dislike about ZapScale:
  • Primarily based on G2 consumer critiques, reporting looks like a standard friction level—some customers wished extra customizable choices.
  • A couple of 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 does not but present us with an NPS survey, though plans exist to implement one quickly. Within the meantime, we handle NPS utilizing one other software and incorporate its outcomes into ZapScale for evaluation.”

ZapScale Assessment, 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 information, 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 often used for managing gross sales pipelines, whereas buyer assist instruments tackle 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 necessary?

Buyer success is important for lowering churn and maximizing buyer lifetime worth. When your clients persistently 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 very best buyer success software program?

The perfect buyer success software program presents options like well being rating monitoring, buyer segmentation, utilization analytics, onboarding playbooks, and integrations with CRMs or assist instruments. Superior platforms can also 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 objectives 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 methods.

7. What are some examples of the very best buyer success software program obtainable immediately?

Some fashionable options embody Gainsight, ChurnZero, Totango, Catalyst, and ClientSuccess. Your best option is dependent upon 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 group. I realized that understanding your inside workflows, buyer lifecycle phases, and the actual ache factors your CS group faces is extra necessary than chasing shiny dashboards or the costliest resolution.

Right here’s one other factor I picked up throughout this course of: pay shut consideration to how properly the platform allows 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 group 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.

When you’re nonetheless not sure, don’t simply depend on vendor demos. Speak to groups just like yours and run brief pilots when attainable. The fitting software gained’t simply assist your clients succeed; it’ll additionally make your CS group 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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