Guide to the 27 Best Succession Planning Tools Of 2024
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12 Best Succession Planning Tools Shortlist
I've shortlisted these succession planning tools as the very best in 2023 and summarized what they're best for below:
- TalentQuest - Best for personalized talent development strategies
- PageUp - Best for comprehensive talent management in one platform
- Plum - Best for data-driven talent predictions
- humanintelligence - Best for cultural analytics in talent acquisition
- Cegid Talentsoft - Best for global talent management solutions
- Saba Cloud - Best for learning-centric talent development
- Cornerstone Performance - Best for integrated performance and skill development
- Pilat Talent Management - Best for customizable talent management solutions
- UKG Pro - Best for unified HR, payroll, and talent management
- Monday.com - Best for visually intuitive workflow management
- ChartHop - Best for data visualization in workforce planning
- Anaplan - Best for scalable workforce planning and execution
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.
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.
Overviews of the 12 Best Succession Planning Tools
1. TalentQuest - Best for personalized talent development strategies
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.
Pricing:
TalentQuest starts from $12/user/month. Pricing depends on the specific modules that an organization chooses to use, making it flexible and adaptable to various needs.
Pros:
- Personalized talent development strategies
- Robust learning management system
- Flexible pricing based on modules used
Cons:
- The interface may be complex for some users
- The reporting feature could be more versatile
- Customer support responsiveness may vary
2. PageUp - Best for comprehensive talent management in one platform
PageUp delivers a complete talent management solution that effectively addresses every aspect of the talent lifecycle. Its comprehensive nature also aligns with our 'best for' statement, making it ideal for organizations seeking an all-in-one platform.
Why I Picked PageUp:
PageUp made the list because of its complete suite of talent management solutions. From recruitment to succession planning, the platform shines in providing an all-encompassing view of the talent journey. Additionally, its comprehensive nature positions it as the best choice for organizations wanting a unified approach to talent management.
Standout features & integrations:
Key features of PageUp include an applicant tracking system, onboarding tools, performance management, and of course, succession planning. The platform also integrates well with various HRIS and payroll systems, enabling seamless data exchange and enhanced efficiency.
Pricing:
PageUp pricing starts at $8/user/month (billed annually). The pricing varies based on the number of employees and the specific modules you choose to utilize.
Pros:
- Comprehensive talent management solution
- Strong suite of tools for each stage of talent management
- Good integration with other HRIS and payroll systems
Cons:
- The interface might be overwhelming for new users
- Requires training to fully utilize its functionalities
- Pricing could be high for smaller organizations
3. Plum - Best for data-driven talent predictions
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.
Pricing:
Pricing for Plum starts at $10/user/month (billed annually). The pricing is subject to change depending on the number of users and the specific features you choose.
Pros:
- Advanced predictive capabilities
- Compatibility with personality tests
- Integration with HRIS and ATS
Cons:
- The pricing could be high for some organizations
- A learning curve may be present for non-data oriented users
- Some users might prefer more traditional succession planning methods
4. humanintelligence - Best for cultural analytics in talent acquisition
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.
Pricing:
humanintelligence's pricing starts at $12/user/month (min 10 seats), offering various features for this rate.
Pros:
- Unique focus on cultural analytics
- Comprehensive self-assessment tools
- Seamless integration with HRIS and ATS
Cons:
- Necessitates a minimum of 10 users
- The cultural analytics approach might not align with all company strategies
- Pricing could be steep for smaller businesses
5. Cegid Talentsoft - Best for global talent management solutions
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.
Pricing:
Cegid Talentsoft's pricing starts at $10/user/month (min 20 seats, billed annually), which includes the core talent management features.
Pros:
- Robust global capabilities
- Wide range of talent management tools
- Numerous integrations with HR systems
Cons:
- Minimum of 20 users required
- Billed annually, which might not suit all budgets
- May include features not necessary for smaller businesses
6. Saba Cloud - Best for learning-centric talent development
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.
Pricing:
Saba Cloud pricing begins at $8/user/month, with a minimum of 10 seats (billed annually). Additionally, this base price includes access to their learning-focused talent management platform.
Pros:
- Strong focus on learning and development
- Integration with various HR systems
- Robust LMS capabilities
Cons:
- Requires a minimum of 10 users
- Billed annually, which may not fit all budgets
- Might be more complex than necessary for smaller organizations
7. Cornerstone Performance - Best for integrated performance and skill development
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.
Pricing:
The pricing for Cornerstone Performance starts from $11/user/month (billed annually). This is the starting price for their integrated performance and skill development platform.
Pros:
- Strong integration of performance and skill development
- Robust set of features for goal setting and tracking
- Works well with other Cornerstone tools and common HR platforms
Cons:
- Pricing is on the higher end for some smaller businesses
- Only offers annual billing
- May be more complex than necessary for smaller teams
8. Pilat Talent Management - Best for customizable talent management solutions
Pilat Talent Management is a tool designed to offer comprehensive, yet customizable talent management solutions for businesses. It's also designed to help HR professionals effectively manage all aspects of talent management, from performance to succession planning, making it perfect for organizations requiring flexible and adaptable tools.
Why I Picked Pilat Talent Management:
I selected Pilat Talent Management because it offers a high degree of customization, which can be vital for businesses with unique or evolving needs. Its customization capabilities are a key differentiator, making it ideal for organizations that want a talent management solution tailored to their specific requirements.
Standout features & integrations:
Key features of Pilat Talent Management include performance management, 360-degree feedback, succession planning strategy, and job evaluation. These modules can also be customized to match the organization's needs, giving businesses more control over their talent management processes. Moreover, Pilat can be linked with most HRIS and payroll systems to facilitate data exchange and streamline HR operations.
Pricing:
Pricing for Pilat Talent Management starts at $8/user/month (billed annually). This starting price includes access to all their customizable talent management modules.
Pros:
- High degree of customization
- Comprehensive suite of talent management features
- Compatible with most HRIS and payroll systems
Cons:
- Customization may require additional setup time
- Only offers annual billing
- Might be too complex for smaller businesses
9. UKG Pro - Best for unified HR, payroll, and talent management
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.
Pricing:
UKG Pro's pricing starts from $15/user/month. The base price includes all primary HR, payroll, and talent management features, providing an integrated solution for managing employees.
Pros:
- Unified platform for HR, payroll, and talent management
- Integration with other popular HR software
- Comprehensive set of features
Cons:
- May be more than needed for small businesses
- Interface may be complex for some users
- Potentially high starting price
10. Monday.com - Best for visually intuitive workflow management
Monday.com is a versatile project and workflow management software designed for teams of all sizes. It has made a name for itself in the realm of visual workflow management because of its user-friendly, graphic interfaces that make project tracking and team collaboration simple and effective.
Why I Picked Monday.com:
I picked Monday.com for this list because it offers an engaging and easy-to-understand visual representation of workflows. It stands out for its highly customizable interface, which allows teams to create unique workflows that mirror their processes precisely. Given this, I believe it's best for visually intuitive workflow management.
Standout features & integrations:
Among its important features, Monday.com offers customizable workflow templates, a timeline view for project planning, and advanced reporting capabilities for project performance analysis. It also supports significant integrations with a wide range of popular tools like Motivosity, Slack, Google Drive, Dropbox, and more, making it a versatile addition to an existing tech stack.
Pricing:
Pricing for Monday.com starts from $8/user/month, billed annually. This includes a suite of features that facilitate effective workflow and project management.
Pros:
- Highly customizable and visually intuitive interface
- Wide range of integrations with popular tools
- Advanced reporting capabilities
Cons:
- Can be overwhelming for new users due to its many features
- High starting price, especially for small teams
- Annual billing may not be ideal for all organizations
11. ChartHop - Best for data visualization in workforce planning
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.
Pricing:
Pricing for ChartHop is upon request. It's important to contact the provider for specific pricing details to better understand what fits your organization's needs and budget.
Pros:
- Robust data visualization capabilities
- Wide range of integrations with HRIS, payroll, and performance management systems
- Offers scenario modeling features
Cons:
- Pricing information not readily available
- May require a learning curve for non-technical users
- Potential overkill for smaller organizations with simple HR processes
12. Anaplan - Best for scalable workforce planning and execution
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.
Pricing:
Anaplan's pricing details are provided upon request. Businesses interested in Anaplan will need to reach out to the company directly for a customized quote that aligns with their needs.
Pros:
- Scalable platform that grows with your business
- Robust scenario planning capabilities
- Integration with multiple data sources and business applications
Cons:
- Pricing information is not publicly available
- May require a significant time investment to fully understand and utilize all features
- Some users report the interface is not as intuitive as it could be
Other Succession Planning Tools
Below is a list of additional succession planning tools that we shortlisted, but did not make it to the top 12. Definitely worth checking them out.
- Neobrain - Good for using AI to manage career development
- SuccessFinder - Good for utilizing behavioral science in succession planning
- Fuel50 - Good for career pathing and talent experience
- Emplysight - Good for detailed talent data analytics
- Orgvue - Good for organizational design and workforce planning
- PeopleFluent - Good for linking succession planning with learning and development
- Sage People - Good for comprehensive HR and people management
- Innowork - Good for fostering an innovative work environment
- SilkRoad Technology - Good for employee onboarding and transitions
- Succession Wizard - Good for affordable and scalable succession planning
- TalentGuard - Good for competency-based talent management
- Censia - Good for predictive analytics in talent acquisition
- SAP - Good for integrating succession planning with HR processes
- SigmaRadius - Good for creating leadership development plans
- Bullseye Engagement - Good for employee engagement and performance management
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.