Guide To The 28 Best Succession Planning Tools Of 2026
10 Best Succession Planning Tools Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 28 tools reviewed.
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.
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The Best Succession Planning Tools Summary
This comparison chart summarizes pricing details for my top succession planning tools selections to help you find the best one for your budget and business needs.
| Tool | Best For | Trial Info | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Best for succession planning templates | Free trial + demo available | From $29/user/month | Website | |
| 2 | Best for scalable workforce planning and execution | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 3 | Best for learning-centric talent development | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 4 | Best for integrated performance and skill development | Not available | From $11/user/month | Website | |
| 5 | Best for comprehensive talent management in one platform | Free demo available | Pricing on request | Website | |
| 6 | Best for unified HR, payroll, and talent management | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 7 | Best for global talent management solutions | Not available | From $10/user/month (min 20 seats) | Website | |
| 8 | Best for data-driven talent predictions | 14 days free trial | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 9 | Best for cultural analytics in talent acquisition | Not available | From $12/user/month (min 10 seats) | Website | |
| 10 | Best for personalized talent development strategies | Not available | From $12/user/month | Website |
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CARET Legal
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.5 -
Redactable
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Mitratech TAP Workflow Automation
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.2
Reviews Of The Best Succession Planning Tools
Below are my detailed summaries of the best succession planning tools that made it onto my shortlist. My reviews offer a detailed look at the key features, pros & cons, integrations, and ideal use cases of each tool to help you find the best one for you.
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
New Product Updates from Deel
Deel Expands Workplace Integrations With Microsoft Teams and Slack Alerts
Deel introduces Microsoft Teams HR approvals and consolidated Slack alerts for payouts, security, and compliance notifications. These updates help teams act faster and stay informed without leaving their communication tools. For more information, visit Deel’s official site.
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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
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.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Good integration with other HRIS and payroll systems
- Strong suite of tools for each stage of talent management
- Comprehensive talent management solution
Cons:
- Pricing could be high for smaller organizations
- Requires training to fully utilize its functionalities
- The interface might be overwhelming for new users
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
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
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
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
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
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.
- Pilat Talent Management
For customizable talent management solutions
- monday.com
For visually intuitive workflow management
- ChartHop
For data visualization in workforce planning
- Fuel50
Good for career pathing and talent experience
- PeopleFluent
Good for linking succession planning with learning and development
- SAP
Good for integrating succession planning with HR processes
- Sage People
Good for comprehensive HR and people management
- Orgvue
Good for organizational design and workforce planning
- Neobrain
Good for using AI to manage career development
- Innowork
Good for fostering an innovative work environment
- TalentGuard
Good for competency-based talent management
- Bullseye Engagement
Good for employee engagement and performance management
- SilkRoad Technology
Good for employee onboarding and transitions
- Censia
Good for predictive analytics in talent acquisition
- SigmaRadius
Good for creating leadership development plans
- SuccessFinder
Good for utilizing behavioral science in succession planning
- Succession Wizard
Good for affordable and scalable succession planning
- Emplysight
Good for detailed talent data analytics
Succession Planning Tool Selection Criteria
When selecting the best succession planning tools to include in this list, I considered common buyer needs and pain points like leadership continuity and talent development. I also used the following framework to keep my evaluation structured and fair:
Core Functionality (25% of total score)
To be considered for inclusion in this list, each solution had to fulfill these common use cases:
- Identify potential leaders
- Create succession plans
- Track employee development
- Analyze talent gaps
- Automate reporting
Additional Standout Features (25% of total score)
To help further narrow down the competition, I also looked for unique features, such as:
- Predictive analytics
- Customizable dashboards
- Integration with HR systems
- Mobile accessibility
- AI-driven insights
Usability (10% of total score)
To get a sense of the usability of each system, I considered the following:
- Intuitive interface
- Easy navigation
- Clear instructions
- Customizable settings
- Responsive design
Onboarding (10% of total score)
To evaluate the onboarding experience for each platform, I considered the following:
- Availability of training videos
- Interactive product tours
- Comprehensive templates
- Access to webinars
- Supportive chatbots
Customer Support (10% of total score)
To assess each software provider’s customer support services, I considered the following:
- 24/7 support availability
- Multiple support channels
- Knowledgeable staff
- Quick response times
- Detailed FAQs
Value For Money (10% of total score)
To evaluate the value for money of each platform, I considered the following:
- Competitive pricing
- Flexible subscription plans
- No hidden fees
- Free trial availability
- Discounts for annual plans
Customer Reviews (10% of total score)
To get a sense of overall customer satisfaction, I considered the following when reading customer reviews:
- Ease of implementation
- User satisfaction
- Feature satisfaction
- Support satisfaction
- Overall recommendation
How to Choose Succession Planning Tools
It’s easy to get bogged down in long feature lists and complex pricing structures. To help you stay focused as you work through your unique software selection process, here’s a checklist of factors to keep in mind:
| Factor | What to Consider |
|---|---|
| Scalability | Can the tool grow with your organization? Consider the number of users, data storage needs, and whether the tool can support future expansions or changes in your team size. |
| Integrations | Does it connect with your existing systems? Ensure it integrates with HR, payroll, and other tools you use to avoid data silos and manual data entry. |
| Customizability | Can you tailor it to your needs? Look for options to customize workflows, dashboards, and reports to fit your specific processes and preferences. |
| Ease of use | Is it user-friendly? Evaluate the interface and navigation to ensure your team can use it without extensive training or frustration. |
| Implementation and onboarding | How quickly can you get started? Consider the time and resources needed to set up the tool and train your team, including availability of support during this phase. |
| Cost | Does it fit your budget? Compare pricing structures, including subscription fees, hidden costs, and potential discounts for long-term commitments. |
| Security safeguards | Are your data protected? Look for features like encryption, access controls, and compliance with data protection regulations to keep your information secure. |
| Support availability | Will you get help when needed? Check for 24/7 support, multiple contact channels, and responsiveness to ensure assistance is available when issues arise. |
What Are Succession Planning Tools?
Succession planning tools are software solutions that help organizations identify and develop future leaders to ensure smooth transitions in leadership roles. These tools are generally used by HR professionals, managers, and executives to maintain leadership continuity and improve talent retention. Features like talent gap analysis, automated reporting, and predictive analytics help with identifying potential leaders and planning for future needs. Overall, these tools provide value by supporting organizations in maintaining a steady leadership pipeline.
Features
When selecting succession planning tools, keep an eye out for the following key features:
- Talent gap analysis: Identifies gaps in skills and competencies to help organizations focus on developing the right talent.
- Automated reporting: Streamlines the creation of reports to provide insights into succession planning progress and outcomes.
- Predictive analytics: Uses data to forecast future leadership needs and identify potential leaders within the organization.
- Customizable dashboards: Allows users to tailor the interface to display relevant information and metrics for their specific needs.
- Integration capabilities: Connects with existing HR and payroll systems to ensure seamless data flow and reduce manual entry.
- Mobile accessibility: Provides access to the tool on mobile devices, enabling users to work on succession planning anytime, anywhere.
- Interactive training resources: Offers training videos, product tours, and webinars to support user onboarding and ongoing learning.
- Security safeguards: Includes encryption and access controls to protect sensitive data and comply with data protection regulations.
- Career pathing tools: Helps map out career development plans for employees, aligning their growth with organizational goals.
Benefits
Implementing succession planning tools provides several benefits for your team and your business. Here are a few you can look forward to:
- Leadership continuity: Ensures smooth transitions by identifying and developing future leaders through features like talent gap analysis.
- Improved talent retention: Helps retain top talent by offering career pathing tools that align employee growth with organizational goals.
- Informed decision-making: Empowers managers with data-driven insights from predictive analytics to make better succession planning decisions.
- Time savings: Reduces manual effort with automated reporting, allowing HR teams to focus on strategic initiatives.
- Enhanced collaboration: Facilitates communication and collaboration across teams with integration capabilities that connect existing systems.
- Increased accessibility: Provides flexibility and convenience with mobile accessibility, enabling users to access the tool from anywhere.
- Data security: Protects sensitive information with security safeguards, ensuring compliance with data protection regulations.
Costs and Pricing
Selecting succession planning tools requires an understanding of the various pricing models and plans available. Costs vary based on features, team size, add-ons, and more. The table below summarizes common plans, their average prices, and typical features included in succession planning tools solutions:
Plan Comparison Table for Succession Planning Tools
| Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
|---|---|---|
| Free Plan | $0 | Basic reporting, limited user access, and basic security. |
| Personal Plan | $10-$30/user/month | Customizable dashboards, mobile access, and integration with HR systems. |
| Business Plan | $50-$100/ user/month | Talent gap analysis, predictive analytics, and enhanced support. |
| Enterprise Plan | $150-$300/ user/month | Advanced security features, full customization, and dedicated account management. |
Succession Planning Tools FAQs
Here are some answers to common questions about succession planning tools:
What is the main tool used in succession planning discussions?
An often-used tool in these discussions is the 9 box grid. This matrix helps you assess employees based on potential and performance. It allows you to identify high-performing individuals who could become future leaders, providing a structured approach to talent management.
Can succession planning tools help with leadership training?
Yes, many tools include features for leadership training and development. They offer resources and programs to build necessary skills in potential leaders. This helps prepare employees for future roles and supports your organization’s leadership pipeline.
How do succession planning tools integrate with existing systems?
Most tools offer integrations with HR and payroll systems, ensuring smooth data flow and reducing manual entry. Make sure to check compatibility with your current software to avoid disruptions and enhance efficiency in your planning processes.
What should you consider when choosing a succession planning tool?
Evaluate factors like scalability, ease of use, and integration capabilities. Consider your team’s specific needs, budget, and any compliance requirements. This ensures you select a tool that fits well with your organization’s goals and resources.
What’s Next:
If you're in the process of researching succession planning tools, connect with a SoftwareSelect advisor for free recommendations.
You fill out a form and have a quick chat where they get into the specifics of your needs. Then you'll get a shortlist of software to review. They'll even support you through the entire buying process, including price negotiations.