Ever watched a high-potential buyer slip away with out warning? I’ve—and even from the surface wanting in, it’s irritating. What’s worse is realizing it was most likely avoidable.
Churn hardly ever reveals up with flashing lights. It’s typically a gradual fade: a drop in utilization, unanswered emails, and quiet complaints. And from every little thing I’ve realized researching this house, recognizing these indicators early is sort of 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 crucial beneficial investments a workforce could make.
I’ve spoken to CS leaders, learn by means 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 house, the clearer it turns into: nice buyer success software program isn’t only a “nice-to-have.” It’s a lifeline for retention, enlargement, and long-term buyer loyalty.
Nonetheless, with so many instruments claiming to unravel the identical issues, choosing the proper one isn’t simple. That’s why I’ve pulled collectively 9 greatest buyer success software program value your consideration based mostly 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 high 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 massive B2B firms. (accessible on request)
- ChurnZero for SaaS companies targeted on decreasing churn by means of automation. (accessible on request)
- Vitally for product-led groups needing quick, versatile CS workflows. (accessible on request)
- Planhat for versatile, modular CS setups (accessible on request)
- Totango for groups wanting prebuilt CS journeys and fast setup (accessible on request)
- Catalyst for startups looking for a contemporary, intuitive CS platform (accessible on request)
- Staircase AI by Gainsight for AI-powered relationship intelligence and sentiment evaluation. (accessible 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 line with G2 Grid Stories. Pricing for many of those merchandise is obtainable 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 personalised assist, monitor 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 monitor utilization developments, automate check-ins, and spot purple flags earlier than they develop into actual points.
It’s not nearly reacting when issues go mistaken; it’s about being one step forward and ensuring clients see success each step of the way in which.
And when you’re in the midst of evaluating instruments, I understand how overwhelming it could get. That’s why I put this record collectively—to highlight platforms that constantly stand out for his or her usability, retention-driven options, and the actual affect 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 value. 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 saved mentioning, options they couldn’t stay with out, or areas the place sure instruments constantly outperformed others.
Please be aware: Whereas some platforms provide free trials, demos, or guided excursions, there have been a couple of I wasn’t capable of strive firsthand. In these instances, I related 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 onerous 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, activity flows, and success milestones matter when scaling.
- Well being scoring and threat alerts: I paid shut consideration to how every software dealt with buyer well being—how versatile the scoring fashions had 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 appeared 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 kind or lifecycle stage.
- Reporting and visibility for CS leaders: I needed to see how simply groups might report on churn, NRR, retention, or section efficiency. Government dashboards and exportable information made an enormous distinction right here.
Utilizing these components, I in contrast over 20 instruments and narrowed them right down to 9 greatest buyer success software program. Whereas they are not excellent, checking each single field in my guidelines, they every excel in key areas that make them value contemplating.
The record under accommodates real person 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 workforce interactions.
- Facilitate engagement with clients all through the shopper lifecycle.
- Present suggestions, buyer success scores, and success stories based mostly on the evaluation of historic information.
- Automate workflow processes like communications, alerts, coordinating engagements, analyses, success planning, and reporting.
- Predict future buyer progress, purple flags, and developments as dashboards or graphs utilizing information associated to interactions, funds, inquiries, and extra.
- Scale, in line with the scale 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 without doubt one of the most well-known and broadly used CRM and buyer success platforms on the market. It’s just about the gold customary 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 might be: extremely highly effective, however not with out its quirks. It leans extra in the direction of assist and customer support workflows.

What stood out to me straight away was how strong the platform is for case administration. From what I’ve seen and what customers constantly point out, it handles assist at scale like a professional. The omnichannel capabilities, together with 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 may see simply how centralized and clear the case view is. You may assign labels, change homeowners, merge instances, and monitor every little thing with customizable filters. Every thing, from organising a brand new case and updating them to including data base articles, felt neat when you understood the movement.

The place Salesforce Service Cloud actually shines, in line with customers, is in customizability. You may tailor workflows, automate actions, and construct dashboards that really mirror your buyer lifecycle. Throughout my analysis, I noticed this talked about repeatedly: it is a centralized system that makes collaboration simpler, not more durable.
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 strategy to automation.
That stated, there are a couple of trade-offs to bear in mind. One factor that got here up in a number of critiques was the pricing, which might develop into a consideration for rising groups.
A couple of customers additionally talked about that whereas the platform is extremely customizable (which is a power), benefiting from that flexibility generally 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 troublesome to get began, however configuring extra superior workflows or settings can take a while when you’re not already accustomed to the Salesforce ecosystem.
That stated, in case your workforce has the assets to get it up and working correctly, it could completely develop into the spine of your buyer success operation, particularly if you have already got Salesforce in your stack for CRM.
What I like about Salesforce Service Cloud:
- The case administration expertise is genuinely highly effective—it’s simple to trace, assign, and arrange assist requests throughout a number of channels with out issues slipping by means 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 splendid for rising assist groups.”
– Salesforce Service Cloud Evaluation, Ian H.
What I dislike about Salesforce Service Cloud:
- I noticed that some superior configurations require admin or developer assist, which might gradual issues down in case your workforce doesn’t have in-house assist.
- The pricing construction seems like one thing to observe carefully—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 loads of add-ons for what I’d have thought-about fundamental performance, equivalent to quote formatting. All of those add-ons are sometimes all priced per person, so prices shortly rise relying on the variety of customers that you’ve got on the Salesforce Platform.”
– Salesforce Service Cloud Evaluation, Jon S.
2. Gainsight Buyer Success
Gainsight Buyer Success is precisely what its identify suggests in my view. It offers buyer success groups the perception they should drive actual good points 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 assist.

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 concerning the Timeline and 360-degree views. It seems like Timeline has develop into the go-to spot for staying on high of each interplay, touchpoint, and replace tied to a buyer. A whole lot of CS professionals described it as their single supply of reality, particularly when juggling a big e-book of enterprise. That’s the sort of construction I do know loads of groups want that they had—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 threat. The power to customise playbooks and set off workflows based mostly on habits or product utilization looks as if an enormous plus, particularly for CS groups attempting to scale with out dropping that private contact.
That stated, there are some things to bear in mind. A few customers that the platform can really feel a bit click-heavy at instances based mostly on what I heard. Accessing sure options typically takes extra steps than you’d count on, and that may add friction to your day when you’re working by means of a excessive quantity of accounts.
One other theme that I noticed typically was the complexity that got here with its feature-rich nature. Gainsight is extremely highly effective, however that energy comes with a studying curve. It’s not precisely plug-and-play.
These aren’t dealbreakers, however extra like issues to plan for, in my view. In case your workforce has the best assets (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 developments or supporting interdepartmental collaboration, the software appears to ship worth throughout the board.
I’ll not have gotten to strive it totally myself, but when I had been a part of a CS workforce 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 little thing into one place. Having a 360-degree view of accounts, timelines, well being scores, and playbooks makes it means simpler to remain proactive.
- The dashboards and automation choices are spectacular. It seems like I can construct workflows that really mirror how the CS workforce 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 may be a capability to extremely customise the arrange of your setting.
We will write guidelines based mostly on particular actions distinctive to our group; we will create related actions from guidelines to JO applications, to stories and dashboards, and again once more. Just like many different organizations, our information doesn’t simply stay in a single supply, so we make the most of its skill to connect with different sources, primarily by means of API calls however Amazon S3 and even CSV when wanted.”
– Gainsight Buyer Success Evaluation, 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 need to go, particularly if you’re managing loads of accounts.
- From what I noticed, Gainsight has a studying curve and works greatest when you may 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 great distance with their person interface however there are nonetheless some admin options which might be click on heavy and a few error messages that are not informative sufficient, requiring an admin to contact Gainsight assist.”
– Gainsight Buyer Success Evaluation, Dan A.
3. ChurnZero
Preserving monitor of dozens of accounts, well being scores, and touchpoints isn’t simple. However from every little thing I’ve learn, ChurnZero helps make it manageable. Full disclosure: I didn’t get the possibility to demo or check ChurnZero myself with a free trial, however after digging into current 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 widespread 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 little thing collectively. It’s designed to be a real command middle for CS groups: account overviews, activity monitoring, playbooks, well being scores, buyer journeys are multi function 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 means of in the way in which folks described their every day workflows.
Customization additionally appears to be an enormous win. Customers constantly talked about how simple it’s to tailor dashboards, automate processes, and section accounts based mostly on no matter metrics matter most to them. It seems 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 observed in a number of critiques, and one thing I’d consider if I had been evaluating ChurnZero for my workforce, is that it takes slightly time to get totally snug with the platform. There’s quite a bit underneath the hood, and whereas that depth is certainly a power, it takes a while.
I noticed a couple of reviewers additionally point out that the interface, whereas practical, might really feel slightly dated or click-heavy in locations. It seems 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 thing’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 elements of Buyer Success and has the whole circle of the shopper journey coated. It’s particularly devoted to Buyer Success processes and that’s what makes it distinctive. It is rather simple to make use of and it is buyer assist can be wonderful. I’ve reached out a few instances and so they had been all the time useful.
ChurnZero is included in our every 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 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 Evaluation, 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 slightly time to study, particularly in case your workforce 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 slightly outdated – there might be some enhancements made to the UX.”
– ChurnZero Evaluation, Orla M.
4. Vitally
From what I noticed within the product tour and backed by tons of G2 suggestions, Vitally feels prefer it’s constructed to offer buyer success groups their time again. Every thing about it appears designed for readability, pace, and customization, particularly for groups that need information entrance and middle with out drowning in it.

The UI was one of many first issues that stood out to me. It seems clear, trendy, and really pleasing to navigate. A number of reviewers echoed that—it’s customizable, continually enhancing, and offers 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 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 information from a number of instruments like CRMs, assist programs, 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 software 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 slightly troublesome 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 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 little thing’s in place, most customers appear to agree that the flexibleness pays off.
Total, Vitally seems like one of many extra trendy, CS-first platforms on the market. It doesn’t simply assist you to handle buyer information, it helps you act on it. In case your workforce desires one thing highly effective however nonetheless approachable, this one’s value a critical look.
What I like about Vitally:
- I actually preferred how clear and customizable the UI felt—it’s simple to think about a CSM beginning their day and realizing precisely what to concentrate on.
- From what I noticed and browse, 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 workforce. We combine our product, amplitude, and Hubspot – which implies 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 prone to get buried like it might in one thing like Slack.“
– Vitally Evaluation, Patricia S.
What I dislike about Vitally:
- Some customers talked about (and I can see why) that getting every little thing arrange, particularly integrations and workflows, and getting snug with the software takes a little bit of upfront effort.
- A couple of elements of the interface, whereas usually trendy, might be extra intuitive or versatile in relation to configuring alerts or visualizing information.
What G2 customers dislike about Vitally:
“I do suppose that studying Vitally takes a little bit of time and funding, since it’s so customizable. You really want to have folks in your workforce who’re invested in “determining” the perfect methods to make Vitally work in your firm and workforce. As well as, it is onerous for any individual 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 particular person utilizing it. It is not essentially “intuitive”, particularly if any individual new simply logs in with out the correct arrange (or understanding that they should do a arrange).“
– Vitally Evaluation, Melissa S.
5. Planhat
.From renewals and QBRs to portfolio well being and account insights, Planhat constructed to offer CS orgs the readability and construction they should keep on high of their pipeline and clients. It’s particularly widespread with mid-market and enterprise groups that want visibility into what’s taking place throughout segments with out dropping pace.

After watching the platform demo and digging into current 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, activity standing, renewal threat, and open enlargement alternatives multi function 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 every little thing, from NPS scores to overdue QBRs. in a single place.
What stood out probably the most was the stability 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 software you grasp in a single day. Some customers talked about the educational curve, particularly when attempting to configure dashboards or navigate superior workflows. Others famous that whereas the interface seems clear, it could take a little bit of exploring to get snug with how every little thing matches collectively.
I additionally noticed few reviewers mentioning that integration choices might be extra intensive or simpler to configure, particularly when attempting to attach instruments past the core ecosystem.
However total, folks appear to genuinely get pleasure from 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 would 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 information from totally different programs 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 middle article is greater than resolved by reaching out to their superior degree Help 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 Evaluation, Hannah D.
What I dislike about Planhat:
- From what I noticed in critiques, some elements of the platform can take time to study, particularly when you’re attempting to construct out extra superior workflows or views.
- A couple of customers talked about that integration choices might be extra intensive or less complicated to configure, relying on what instruments you’re connecting.
What G2 customers dislike about Planhat:
“Troublesome to get the grasp of initially. Filtering will be troublesome on the info view, particulary saving your most well-liked view. The calendar/ activity planning function is just not probably the most intuitive.”
– Planhat Evaluation, 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 adaptability—with out having to depend on a CS ops knowledgeable simply to get began.

The factor I observed most, and that reveals up typically 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, monitor lifecycle levels, and monitor habits with customized views.
It offers you that high-level dashboard really feel whereas nonetheless letting you drill down into what issues. The visible dashboards, activity group, and well being rating visibility stood out as massive wins. You get at-a-glance readability on renewals, threat, and engagement, which makes it simpler for groups to remain on high of what wants consideration.
A whole lot of 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 might be value calling out. Some customers talked about that sure elements of the platform really feel restricted or inflexible, like activity 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.
Total, Totango looks as if a robust selection for CS groups that need to scale their processes, maintain duties organized, and get a unified view of their clients with out drowning in complexity.
What I like about Totango:
- I actually preferred how simple it appeared to section clients and monitor lifecycle levels. The dashboards felt clear and helped floor the best data shortly.
- A whole lot of customers talked about how approachable the platform is, and I can see why. It seems like one thing a CS workforce might stand up and working while not having tons of technical setup.
What G2 customers like about Totango:
“Totango does a implausible job of taking the info fed into the platform and utilizing it to create a Well being Rating based mostly on the parameters that I would like. Through the use of the info, campaigns and SuccessBlocs will be simply utilized permitting for loads of customization. The workflows are simple to arrange and implement throughout the entire workforce. When I’ve wanted assist, the workforce has been fast to reply with the best resolution.“
– Totango Evaluation, 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 activity creation or account construction, which might restrict flexibility for complicated workflows.
- I observed fairly a couple of mentions of integrations that might be extra strong or simpler to work with. That is one thing to concentrate to when you work throughout a number of instruments.
What G2 customers dislike about Totango:
“Must be built-in a bit higher to our inside programs like SalesForce, there may be loads of inconsistency in workforce buildings and account ownershipm, in addition to matching alternatives with accounts.”
– Totango Evaluation, Andrea C.
7. Catalyst
Regardless that it is now formally a part of Totango, it’s clear Catalyst earned a robust status 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 concerning the interface. Practically everybody talked about that it’s intuitive, visually interesting, and simply is sensible for a CSM’s every day workflow. It wasn’t attempting to be every little thing without delay, which meant much less noise and extra precise work getting carried out. I noticed repeated mentions of how simple it was to trace buyer targets, monitor well being, handle duties, and see every little thing you want in a single place.
I might additionally see loads of 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 splendid 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 reality, Catalyst appeared to supply much-needed readability.
That stated, a couple of 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 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 proud of how Catalyst supported their workflow and made CS extra manageable. Should you’re a workforce on the lookout for pace, readability, and a no-nonsense strategy to buyer success, Catalyst undoubtedly earned its rep.
What I like about Catalyst:
- A whole lot of customers talked about how clear and intuitive the interface felt and I really feel that sort of usability goes a great 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, every little thing 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 offers us ammo to make use of each day. I sit up for each catalyst activity I get as a result of it means I’ve extra prospects to succeed in out to, and probably extra income to herald.”
– Catalyst Evaluation, Tyler G.
What I dislike about Catalyst:
- There have been a couple of feedback about occasional bugs or UI quirks I noticed. There aren’t any large points, however there are issues that may interrupt your movement if you’re in the midst of managing accounts.
- From what I gathered, Catalyst might not have all of the superior options supplied 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 when you want heavy customization or complicated workflows.
What G2 customers dislike about Catalyst:
“The platform could be a bit buggy at instances and I’ve had my integration with different instruments not sync correctly up to now.”
– Catalyst Evaluation, 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 threat, 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 information can really feel like quite a bit at first however with the best setup and studying, it turns into far 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 constructive. 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 stable software for groups who need deeper perception with out further busy work.
What I like about Staircase AI by Gainsight:
- I actually preferred how the platform surfaces relationship indicators like engagement, sentiment, and responsiveness with out having to dig by means of 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 shortly.
What G2 customers like about Staircase AI by Gainsight:
“The AI options are nice. They not too long ago launched assembly notes and it has saved me loads of time post-client calls. The stories 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 concerning the platform.”
– Staircase AI by Gainsight Evaluation, 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 when you’re managing loads of 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 all the time room for extra. Further Name Intelligence integrations and SFDC object syncing can be good additions.”
– Staircase AI by Gainsight Evaluation, Stephanie H.
9. ZapScale
ZapScale appears to be carving out a stable area of interest for itself within the B2B SaaS world, and from what individuals are saying, it’s simple to know 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 of us talked about getting a unified view of the shopper. Every thing from well being scores and product utilization to CS metrics and lifecycle levels 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 bought a way that ZapScale is fairly data-driven. There’s a heavy emphasis on monitoring KPIs and surfacing alerts that assist CSMs act earlier than issues go south.
That stated, there may be nonetheless some enchancment scope. Reporting got here up as a recurring theme as I analyzed critiques. Whereas the info is there, a couple of reviewers felt there might be extra personalized stories. 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 slightly polish might go a great distance.
Should you’re a rising B2B SaaS firm on the lookout for a CS software that balances automation with usability, I would say ZapScale is value trying out.
What I like about ZapScale:
- I preferred how ZapScale simplified buyer well being monitoring with out overwhelming me with configuration.
- 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 workforce could be very immediate & supportive. Marketing campaign & survey function is sport changer.ZapScale offers the view of our buyer well being & prone to churn account which is useful for us to plan our plan of action.”
– ZapScale Evaluation, Blair J, Director of Operations.
What I dislike about ZapScale:
- Primarily based on G2 person critiques, reporting looks as if a standard friction level—some customers needed extra customizable choices.
- A couple of reviewers additionally talked about slower load instances on heavier dashboards, although it didn’t look like a dealbreaker.
What G2 customers dislike about ZapScale:
“ZapScale would not but present us with an NPS survey, though plans exist to implement one quickly. Within the meantime, we handle NPS utilizing one other software and incorporate its outcomes into ZapScale for evaluation.”
– ZapScale Evaluation, Aarti P.
Steadily 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 usually used for managing gross sales pipelines, whereas buyer assist instruments handle particular person points. Buyer success platforms, alternatively, 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 prone to keep, renew, and suggest it. That’s why companies are more and more investing in buyer success software program to scale these outcomes.
4. What options ought to I search for in the perfect buyer success software program?
The most effective 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 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 together with your product. Whereas they overlap, many companies use each buyer expertise software program and buyer success instruments to cowl the complete 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 programs.
7. What are some examples of the perfect buyer success software program accessible immediately?
Some widespread options embody Gainsight, ChurnZero, Totango, Catalyst, and ClientSuccess. The only option is determined by your organization dimension, 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 “greatest” software program isn’t nearly options. It’s about match.
What works superbly for a SaaS firm with a high-touch mannequin may really feel clunky or extreme for a product-led progress workforce. I realized that understanding your inside workflows, buyer lifecycle levels, and the actual ache factors your CS workforce faces is extra essential than chasing shiny dashboards or the most costly resolution.
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 under a sure well being rating) will assist your workforce 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.
Should you’re nonetheless not sure, don’t simply depend on vendor demos. Speak to groups much like yours and run quick pilots when doable. The correct software gained’t simply assist your clients succeed; it’ll additionally make your CS workforce really feel empowered, environment friendly, and aligned with progress.
Wish to enhance buyer satisfaction? Learn to look after sad clients with escalation administration.
