Guide To The 28 Best Succession Planning Tools Of 2024
10 Best Succession Planning Tools Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 28 tools reviewed.
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I truly comprehend the need for solid succession planning. I trust in the power of mentoring and metrics for designing a robust succession plan that not only ensures retention but also supports upskilling of your team. With the right tool, such as the best succession planning software, we can effectively identify future roles, cultivate individual development, and guarantee the sustainable growth of your organization.
This succession planning software also acts as an integrated platform that streamlines the process of identifying and training successors for critical roles in your organization. This software also eases these pain points by automating the process, employing advanced algorithms to identify talent, and linking individual development plans with business strategies. Your journey to structured succession planning starts here. Trust me, your future self will thank you.
What Is A Succession Planning Tool?
A succession planning tool is an essential software solution that helps organizations prepare for changes in leadership and key roles. Used by HR professionals, business leaders, stakeholders, and managers, it aids in identifying and developing future leaders within the company to fill these critical roles when they become vacant. These tools provide functionalities such as talent analytics, potential identification, development planning, and scenario modeling.
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Additionally, the primary goal is to ensure business continuity and minimize disruptions caused by unexpected leadership changes. With a focus on nurturing internal talent, these tools will also serve to fortify the company's future, making it resilient in the face of change and growth.
The Best Succession Planning Tools: Comparison Chart
| Tools | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Deel | Flat rate user pricing, with a free version for businesses with up to 200 people | Website |
| Anaplan | Pricing upon request | Website |
| Saba Cloud | Pricing upon request | Website |
| Cornerstone Performance | From $11/user/month | Website |
| Cegid Talentsoft | From $10/user/month (min 20 seats) | Website |
| ChartHop | From $8/user/month | Website |
| UKG Pro | Pricing upon request | Website |
| TalentQuest | From $12/user/month | Website |
| humanintelligence | From $12/user/month (min 10 seats) | Website |
| Plum | Pricing upon request | Website |
Compare Software Specs Side by Side
Use our comparison chart to review and evaluate software specs side-by-side.
Compare SoftwareReviews Of The Best Succession Planning Tools
Deel is a platform that provides payroll, HR, and compliance solutions tailored for managing global teams. It supports businesses in handling international employees by ensuring local labor law compliance, simplifying payroll processes, and facilitating cross-border hiring.
Why I Picked Deel: As a succession planning software, Deel lets you analyze key performance metrics, which aids in identifying potential successors and aligning succession plans with your organization's strategic goals. Deel also offers a comprehensive employee succession planning template that helps proactively identify and nurture high-potential employees for future leadership roles.
Standout features & integrations:
Deel also provides tools for mentorship and continuous development, which offer a framework for setting development plans and monitoring progress. It also has a people directory, an org chart, and reports for analyzing global costs and forecasting headcounts. Integrations include Calendly, Hubspot, Zendesk, Slack, QuickBooks, Xero, BambooHR, and NetSuite.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Integrated payroll features
- Strong emphasis on compliance
- Features for managing a global workforce
Cons:
- Could offer more robust reports, like predictive analytics
- Limited customization options
Anaplan is a cloud-native enterprise SaaS company that provides a platform for dynamic, collaborative, and intelligent planning. It is designed to scale with your business, supporting the planning and execution processes of your workforce, making it ideal for organizations that anticipate or experience rapid growth.
Why I Picked Anaplan: I chose Anaplan due to its comprehensive and scalable approach to workforce planning. It allows for detailed scenario planning and robust analytics, which also sets it apart from other solutions. With its ability to scale, I have determined that Anaplan is the best fit for organizations seeking scalable workforce planning and execution solutions.
Standout features & integrations:
Anaplan shines with features like real-time scenario planning, data-driven decision-making, and collaborative workspaces.
It can also integrate with multiple data sources, systems, and other business planning applications, enhancing the flexibility and usefulness of the platform.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Integration with multiple data sources and business applications
- Robust scenario planning capabilities
- Scalable platform that grows with your business
Cons:
- Some users report the interface is not as intuitive as it could be
- May require a significant time investment to fully understand and utilize all features
- Pricing information is not publicly available
Saba Cloud is a comprehensive talent management solution that has a strong focus on learning and development. It also aligns people's skills and knowledge with organizational objectives, making it the prime choice for businesses that prioritize continuous learning.
Why I Picked Saba Cloud: I chose Saba Cloud for its learning-centric approach to talent management. It supports ongoing performance growth with simple and fast 360-degree feedback. This tool distinguishes itself with an emphasis on creating personalized learning experiences, thus supporting talent growth and development. Also, its the ideal choice for organizations seeking to foster a culture of learning and skill improvement.
Standout features & integrations:
Saba Cloud is also renowned for its robust Learning Management System (LMS) that includes features like personalized learning paths, virtual classrooms, and mobile learning. It also provides a full suite of talent management tools and easily pairs with a variety of HR platforms and other business tools to create a unified talent management solution.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Robust LMS capabilities
- Integration with various HR systems
- Strong focus on learning and development
Cons:
- Might be more complex than necessary for smaller organizations
- Billed annually, which may not fit all budgets
- Requires a minimum of 10 users
Cornerstone Performance is a robust platform that is designed to link employee performance with skill development. It is particularly suitable for organizations seeking to enhance their workforce's capabilities by closely aligning their performance reviews and learning initiatives.
Why I Picked Cornerstone Performance: When choosing Cornerstone Performance, the key aspect that stood out was its seamless integration of performance management and learning development. I believe it's best suited for those who want to integrate these two critical HR functions, as this approach promotes a more holistic view of employee skill set growth.
Standout features & integrations:
Cornerstone Performance is highly praised for its features such as goal setting, performance tracking, and employee development plans. It also offers a robust Learning Management System (LMS) that provides personalized learning paths.
For integrations, Cornerstone Performance works seamlessly with Cornerstone's own suite of HR tools, as well as with other common business applications and HR platforms.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Works well with other Cornerstone tools and common HR platforms
- Robust set of features for goal setting and tracking
- Strong integration of performance and skill development
Cons:
- May be more complex than necessary for smaller teams
- Only offers annual billing
- Pricing is on the higher end for some smaller businesses
Cegid Talentsoft is a global talent management solution that offers comprehensive functionalities for managing a multinational workforce. The tool also simplifies and unifies global HR processes, making it the best pick for companies with diverse and dispersed teams.
Why I Picked Cegid Talentsoft: I selected Cegid Talentsoft not just for its robust capability to handle global HR tasks but also for its ability to accommodate multi-lingual, multi-currency, and varying labor law requirements makes it stand out. Also, it is best for companies with a global presence that require a unified talent management platform.
Standout features & integrations:
Cegid Talentsoft shines in its capacity to handle international regulations and offer multi-lingual support. It also features a comprehensive suite of talent management tools, including recruitment, learning, performance, compensation, and succession planning.
Moreover, it provides integrations with various HR systems and data management platforms.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Numerous integrations with HR systems
- Wide range of talent management tools
- Robust global capabilities
Cons:
- May include features not necessary for smaller businesses
- Billed annually, which might not suit all budgets
- Minimum of 20 users required
ChartHop is a dynamic platform that brings clarity to workforce planning and strategy. It also stands out by transforming people's data into visual dashboards, and actionable insights, making it a fitting choice for organizations aiming to strengthen data visualization in their workforce planning efforts.
Why I Picked ChartHop: In my evaluation, ChartHop clearly stood out for its powerful data visualization tools. This aspect played a significant role in my decision to select this tool. Also, its capability to distill complex people's data into comprehensive visuals is why I believe it's best for data visualization in workforce planning.
Standout features & integrations:
ChartHop offers numerous standout features, including robust data analytics, scenario modeling, and an interactive organizational chart.
It supports integrations with an array of HRIS, payroll, and performance management systems such as Workday, BambooHR, and ADP, allowing for a seamless exchange of data.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Offers scenario modeling features
- Wide range of integrations with HRIS, payroll, and performance management systems
- Robust data visualization capabilities
Cons:
- Potential overkill for smaller organizations with simple HR processes
- May require a learning curve for non-technical users
- Pricing information not readily available
UKG Pro is a cloud-based Human Capital Management (HCM) solution that provides a robust platform that combines human resources, payroll, and talent management functionalities. Also, this comprehensive tool is well-suited for organizations seeking a centralized solution for all HR-related tasks, justifying its reputation as the best for unified HR, payroll, and talent management.
Why I Picked UKG Pro: I selected UKG Pro because it's an all-in-one solution that provides a unified platform for HR, payroll, and talent management. Its’ talent assessment platform supports objective data-driven decision-making throughout the employee lifecycle using predictive psychometric data. Also, this comprehensiveness is a standout quality, making it a strong contender for organizations that seek to simplify their HR operations and bring multiple functions under one roof.
Standout features & integrations:
UKG Pro offers features such as talent acquisition, onboarding, payroll, benefits administration, time and attendance tracking, and talent management.
Moreover, its integrations stand out as well, with compatibility with many popular software tools like Workday and Salesforce, thereby streamlining data flow across different HR applications.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Comprehensive set of features
- Integration with other popular HR software
- Unified platform for HR, payroll, and talent management
Cons:
- Potentially high starting price
- Interface may be complex for some users
- May be more than needed for small businesses
TalentQuest provides an intuitive succession planning solution to effectively develop internal talent. Their personalized approach to talent development also ties perfectly with our 'best for' statement, providing strategies that cater to individual employee'’ growth.
Why I Picked TalentQuest: I chose TalentQuest because of its unique, personalized focus on talent development. Additionally, TalentQuest stands out with its detailed development plans and strategies. Moreover, its personalized approach makes it the best for organizations seeking individualized growth opportunities for their employees.
Standout features & integrations:
TalentQuest's primary feature is its AI-driven talent analytics, providing insightful data for decision-making. The platform also includes a robust learning management system (LMS) that aids employee growth.
As for integrations, TalentQuest smoothly also connects with major HRIS systems and other LMS platforms, providing a more unified talent development approach.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Flexible pricing based on modules used
- Robust learning management system
- Personalized talent development strategies
Cons:
- Customer support responsiveness may vary
- The reporting feature could be more versatile
- The interface may be complex for some users
humanintelligence is a game-changer in the talent acquisition space with its unique focus on cultural analytics. The tool revolutionizes succession planning by integrating culture-fit considerations, aligning with our 'best for' assertion.
Why I Picked humanintelligence: I included humanintelligence in the list for its cultural analytics feature, a unique aspect not commonly found in other tools. It also addresses the often-overlooked dimension of culture fit in succession planning, making it the best choice for organizations that value cultural alignment.
Standout features & integrations:
humanintelligence is distinctive for its Cultural Analytics and Self-Assessment tools, which provide a deep understanding of employees' cultural fit.
It also integrates effectively with multiple HRIS systems and ATS tools, consolidating talent management under one roof.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Seamless integration with HRIS and ATS
- Comprehensive self-assessment tools
- Unique focus on cultural analytics
Cons:
- Pricing could be steep for smaller businesses
- The cultural analytics approach might not align with all company strategies
- Necessitates a minimum of 10 users
Plum offers an innovative approach to succession planning with its data-driven predictive tool. By utilizing predictive analytics, Plum resonates with our 'best for' statement, offering crucial talent insights to organizations.
Why I Picked Plum: I selected Plum for its unique predictive capabilities. It harnesses the power of data and as well as AI to deliver accurate talent predictions, setting it apart from other tools. Plum's data-driven approach makes it the best choice for organizations prioritizing data-backed succession decisions.
Standout features & integrations:
Plum's key features also lie in its predictive analytics and its compatibility with various personality tests, which provide deep talent insights. Moreover, it integrates well with SAP SuccessFactors, HRIS systems, and Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), aiding in comprehensive talent management.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Integration with HRIS and ATS
- Compatibility with personality tests
- Advanced predictive capabilities
Cons:
- Some users might prefer more traditional succession planning methods
- A learning curve may be present for non-data oriented users
- The pricing could be high for some organizations
Other Succession Planning Tools
Below is a list of additional succession planning tools that we shortlisted, but did not make it to the top 10. Definitely worth checking them out.
- PageUp
Best for comprehensive talent management in one platform
- Pilat Talent Management
Best for customizable talent management solutions
- monday.com
Best for visually intuitive workflow management
- SAP
Good for integrating succession planning with HR processes
- Sage People
Good for comprehensive HR and people management
- Fuel50
Good for career pathing and talent experience
- PeopleFluent
Good for linking succession planning with learning and development
- Innowork
Good for fostering an innovative work environment
- SigmaRadius
Good for creating leadership development plans
- Censia
Good for predictive analytics in talent acquisition
- Emplysight
Good for detailed talent data analytics
- SuccessFinder
Good for utilizing behavioral science in succession planning
- TalentGuard
Good for competency-based talent management
- Bullseye Engagement
Good for employee engagement and performance management
- Succession Wizard
Good for affordable and scalable succession planning
- Orgvue
Good for organizational design and workforce planning
- SilkRoad Technology
Good for employee onboarding and transitions
- Neobrain
Good for using AI to manage career development
Selection Criteria For Choosing Succession Planning Tools
As someone who has evaluated dozens of succession planning tools, there are specific elements I looked for that cater to the unique needs of this niche. From the core functionality to key features, and usability, here are the main criteria that these tools were assessed on:
Core Functionality:
- Talent assessment: The tool should be able to provide a comprehensive evaluation of employees’ skills such as performance, and potential for growth.
- Talent mapping: The tool should be capable of identifying and mapping potential leaders within the organization.
- Succession planning: The tool should enable HR teams to plan and manage the succession pipeline and talent pool effectively, with tools for scenario planning.
Key Features:
- Predictive analytics: Utilizing AI and machine learning for predictive analytics helps forecast potential skills gaps and identify high-potential employees for leadership roles.
- Integration: The ability to seamlessly connect with other HR tools and systems is vital for efficient data management and workflow.
- Robust reporting: Detailed, customizable reports provide valuable insights for decision-making and strategy development.
Usability:
- Intuitive interface: Given the complexity of succession planning tasks, the tool should have a user-friendly design that simplifies navigation and usage.
- Training and support: Comprehensive mentorship and training materials and prompt, effective customer support are crucial for maximizing the benefits of the tool.
- Configurable access: The tool should have role-based access settings, as the information involved is sensitive and should only be available to authorized personnel.
- Scalability: The solution needs to be able to adapt and grow with the company, accommodating increased data volumes and new functionalities as required.
Most Common Questions Regarding Succession Planning Tools (FAQs)
What are the benefits of using succession planning tools?
Succession planning tools offer several benefits:
- Streamline and automate the process of identifying and preparing potential future leaders within your organization.
- Help reduce the risk associated with unexpected vacancies in key leadership positions by ensuring there are qualified candidates ready to step in.
- Aid in retaining top talent by providing clear career progression paths and development opportunities.
- Use predictive analytics to anticipate future skills gaps, enabling proactive planning.
- Offer robust reporting features that aid in strategic decision-making and planning.
How much do succession planning tools typically cost?
The cost of succession planning tools can vary significantly based on the complexity of the software, the size of your organization, and the specific features you need. Some solutions offer tiered pricing structures, where the cost per user decreases as you add more users.
What are the typical pricing models for succession planning tools?
The most common pricing model for succession planning tools is a subscription model, typically billed monthly or annually. Also, the price often depends on the number of users, with some solutions offering volume discounts. Some vendors may also offer one-time license fees for perpetual use of the software.
What is the typical range of pricing for succession planning tools?
Entry-level succession planning tools can start from as low as $5 per user per month for basic functionality. Mid-range solutions with more comprehensive features may range between $20-$60 per user per month. Premium solutions with advanced analytics and integrations can cost several hundred dollars per user per month.
Which are the cheapest and most expensive succession planning software?
The cheapest options include basic tools like Succession Wizard, which start at around $5 per user per month. On the expensive end of the spectrum, comprehensive solutions such as Anaplan can cost several hundred dollars per user per month, depending on the number of users and features included.
Are there any free succession planning tools available?
Free succession planning tools are quite rare due to the complexity of the processes involved. However, some vendors offer free trials or demo versions of their software, which can give you a sense of whether the tool fits your needs before committing to a purchase. It’s always recommended to take advantage of these free trials when available.
Summary
In conclusion, selecting the right succession planning tool is a critical business decision that can greatly impact your organization's future. The ideal solution should align with your organization's specific needs, ensuring continuity in key positions and helping to develop the next generation of leaders. Here are three key takeaways from this buyer's guide:
- Understand your needs: Before choosing a tool, have a clear understanding of your organization's succession planning needs. Define the core functionalities and key features that are important for your use case. It may involve a good match for your company's size, industry, and as well as the complexity of your succession planning process.
- Consider usability: A tool with advanced features but poor usability can become a roadblock rather than a facilitator in your succession planning process. Evaluate the user interface, ease of use, and the quality of customer support provided by the vendor.
- Assess the cost: While pricing shouldn't be the only factor in your decision, understanding the different pricing models and having a clear budget can help narrow down your options. Remember, a more expensive tool doesn't always mean it's the best fit for your organization. Look for a tool that provides the best value based on your specific needs.
With these guidelines in mind, you're better equipped to find a succession planning tool that will help ensure smooth transitions and also maintain business continuity within your organization.
What Do You Think?
As I strive to keep this guide as comprehensive and up-to-date as possible, your contributions are invaluable. Also, if you know of a succession planning tool that you believe should have made the list, please don't hesitate to reach out.
I'm always interested in exploring new tools and hearing your experiences. Your input can help others make better, more informed decisions. Let's continue this conversation and make this a resource that truly benefits everyone.