Our independent reviews and recommendations are funded in part by affiliate commissions, at no extra cost to our readers. Click to Learn More
Organizing and monitoring how your company gets work done is an integral part of running a successful business, and the fastest way to do so is with the best performance management software on the market. Fortunately, we've found some of the most productive and efficient software available for you.
After some research, we believe the best performance management software you can choose is Namely, with honorable mentions for Workday and UltiPro. This software provides users with easy to use platforms that accurately measure employee performance, based on a wide range of criteria.
These aren't the only impressive performance management tools on the market, though. This competitive field plays host to a number of unique and helpful platforms that can make a huge difference to your company. Now, you just have to find out which one works with your particular needs.
In This Guide:
We've compiled a large list of performance management software providers below. However, if you're looking for the best of the best, we've compared the top three brands to give you a clear picture of which provider is most likely to fit your company.
Scroll horizontally to view full table on mobile devices —>
![]() Namely |
![]() Workday |
![]() UltiPro |
|
---|---|---|---|
Starting Price | $15/month/user | $8.33/month/user | $10/month/user |
Best For | All-in-one solution | Ease of use | Reliability |
Pros | – Open API – Customizability – Lots of features |
– Well designed – Affordable |
– Great support options – Works for any-sized business |
Cons | – Expensive – Too expansive |
– 3-year contract | – Outdated design – Fewer features |
Performance Management Software Summary
With so many options in the performance management industry, it can be difficult to decide which one works best for you. That's why we've pulled together some information about the top brands to make sure you don't get too overwhelmed. Take a look at their specifics to get a better idea of what you want before moving on.
Scroll horizontally to view full table on mobile devices —>
Starting Price | Summary | Review | |
---|---|---|---|
![]() Namely |
$15/month/user | All-in-one solution built on an open API, allowing for substantial customization – including a wide range of third party integrations. | Namely Review |
![]() Workday |
$8.33/month/user | An incredibly easy to use platform that's stylishly designed for a modern feel, helping even the newest employee get to grips. | Workday Review |
![]() UltiPro |
$10/month/user | A reliable service with amazing customer support options, although the outdated interface can be a turn off for some. | UltiPro Review |
![]() Betterworks |
On request | Feature-rich, goal-oriented software that's a bit more expensive, but offers lots of value for money. | Betterworks Review |
![]() BambooHR |
$6/month/employee | An easy to use, visually-focused platform that makes it easy to understand your team. Few customer support options, though. | BambooHR Review |
![]() Impraise |
On request | Team-centric performance management software with great Slack integration and plenty of feedback options. | Impraise Review |
![]() Performance Pro |
$5/month/employee | Pleasantly affordable, decidedly customizable, somewhat complicated software with compensation features. | Performance Pro Review |
![]() SAP Successfactors |
$7/month/employee | Comprehensive performance management software with lots of features, a year-long contract, and no free trial. | SAP Successfactors Review |
![]() Lattice |
$9/month/user | Helpful software with built-in notifications to keep employees engaged with performance management. | Lattice Review |
![]() Reviewsnap |
$3,040/year | Robust, group-focused performance management software for large teams that definitely costs more than your average platform. | Reviewsnap Review |
![]() Zoho People |
$0.83/month/employee | A recognizable name in performance management that uses automation to improve productivity. | Zoho People Review |
![]() Engagedly |
$5/month/user | Stylishly designed performance management software with 24/7 customer support via phone and email, with online documentation to fill in the gaps. | Engagedly Review |
![]() Lumesse |
On request | An individual-focused platform that makes employee growth and learning a priority, offering an à la carte pricing model. | Lumesse Review |
![]() PerformYard |
$4/month/user | Affordable, bare-bones software that gets the job done at a great price. | PerformYard Review |
Best Performance Management Software Reviewed
Now that you've got a better understanding of what the top brands are doing in the performance management sector, it's time to get the full picture. We've tested and researched these providers quite a bit, so you'll know exactly which features you can expect, what price you'll have to pay, and what pros and cons you'll come across in your own research.
Take a look at our thorough reviews below, and make sure to get a customized quote before making a decision, as each provider will have specific costs related to your particular company.
- Namely Performance Management Software
- Workday Performance Management Software
- UltiPro Performance Management Software
- Betterworks Performance Management Software
- BambooHR Performance Management Software
- Impraise Performance Management Software
- Performance Pro Performance Management Software
- SAP Successfactors Performance Management Software
- Lattice Performance Management Software
- Reviewsnap Performance Management Software
- Zoho People Performance Management Software
- Engagedly Performance Management Software
- Lumesse Performance Management Software
- PerformYard Performance Management Software
Namely
Best for Customizability
Namely is the number one performance management software on this list for a reason. In addition to providing a wide range of helpful features for managing HR, payroll, and benefits – including reviews, goals, and detailed analytics – Namely is built on an open API, allowing for an unprecedented level of customization.
What does this mean for your business? Well, it means you'll be able to add on any number of third party integrations to the platform, while measuring exactly what you want. Thanks to the Connect Marketplace, you'll be able to add and remove these integrations with ease, making Namely one of the most comprehensive all-in-one platforms you can buy.
Unfortunately, with all these embellishments comes a notably higher price tag, especially compared to other software on this list. However, if you're looking for a robust, feature-rich platform that will let you do what you want, Namely can't be beat – even for the price.
Pros
- Open API
- Customizability
- Lots of features
Cons
- Expensive
- Too expansive
Workday
Best for Ease of Use
Adding new programs to your company can be stressful, which is why an easy to use platform like Workday can make a big difference. Between its modern design and its 24/7 support team, you can be sure that your employees will actually utilize this platform to improve productivity.
Specifically designed to highlight internal talent, Workday provides users with goal-setting, talent review, and analytics features that comprehensively give managers and employees a clear picture of the work at hand. Plus, at this lower price point, it offers some serious bang for your buck.
There is a catch, though: Workday users are required to lock into a three-year contract to sign up. You are granted access to a free demo, so you can find out if the software is right for you – but once you've purchased Workday, you're in it for the long haul.
Pros
- Well-designed
- Affordable
Cons
- 3-year contract
UltiPro
Best for Reliability
Founded in 1990, it's safe to say UltiPro has the experience to provide users with a reliable platform that gets the job done without too much hassle. With 24/7 customer support and efficient workplace features like feedback and learning, you can easily track how your employees are performing, while giving them the power to monitor their progress.
Another advantage of UltiPro is its mobile app, which gives you complete control over HR, benefits, and payroll functionality while on the go. Employees can access documentation, view reviews, and even request time off right from their smartphones.
The only problem with signing on with a software company founded in the 1990s is that its design team hasn't done a great job of evolving with the times. Their outdated interface can be a bit tricky to figure out, and is far from easy on the eyes.
Pros
- Great support options
- Works for any sized company
Cons
- Outdated design
- Fewer features
Betterworks
Best for Goal-Oriented Teams
Setting and measuring goals can be difficult in a growing company, which is why Betterworks makes it such a valued priority. Founded in Goal Science, the robust platform provides users with a plentiful bounty of features, aimed at measuring what really matters on your team.
From the hefty feedback system to the well-designed goals and results processes, you'll be able to easily see what your team excels at, and where they struggle. Plus, with third party integrations like Slack, Salesforce, and Jira, you can manage your whole company from one platform.
Feature-rich platforms like Betterworks don't come cheap, though, and it's important to consider this before making a decision. However, as far as value for money goes, you could do a whole lot worse than Betterworks.
Pros
- Feature-rich
- Third party integration with Slack, Salesforce, Jira, and more
Cons
- More expensive than most
BambooHR
Best for Visual Users
Installing performance management software for your company is all about painting a clear picture of how your company functions, and BambooHR provides a wide range of visual tools to help you do so. Its platform is built on graphs, charts, and visual metrics that make it easy for everyone on your team to understand how they're performing.
From employee performance charts with multiple axes to color-coded team engagement scores that can be organized by function, you'll be able to get an in-depth look at your company's strengths and weaknesses.
BambooHR is incredibly easy to use, which is fortunate, considering its customer support options are decidedly lacking. You won't have 24/7 help (more like 12/7), but you will have plenty of online resources to hopefully solve the problem yourself.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Visually focused interface
- Online customer support resources
Cons
- Customer support only available 12/7
Impraise
Best for Team-Centric Tracking
Communication is the key to a solid relationship, and feedback is the key to a well-run company. Fortunately, Impraise provides you with a whole bunch of feedback options, putting the power of performance management in the hands of managers and employees alike.
Perhaps one of the most valuable features of Impraise is its integration with Slack. By providing users with a fast and easy avenue for giving praise and criticism to coworkers and employees, using a program they're already familiar with, Impraise makes feedback a priority beyond any other software on this list.
However, Impraise is more team-focused than individual-focused, which means it's missing independent development features that can help you focus your efforts more specifically.
Pros
- Simple, stylish interface
- Lots of feedback options for employees
- Slack integration
Cons
- Too basic for experts
- No individual performance tracking features
Performance Pro
Best for Performance and Compensation
If you're looking for software that can do more than just the basics, Performance Pro is a no-brainer. In addition to the many performance management features available, you'll also be able to provide compensation for accomplished goals, and even increase pay based on actionable data found within the platform.
Performance Pro is also notably customizable, giving you the ability to set and adjust goal management and feedback processes. Most fields can be changed and tailored to your specific company, so you'll measure exactly what you need to know.
Unfortunately, with customizability comes complication, which makes Performance Pro far from ideal for new or inexperienced users. Make sure you know what you're getting into – maybe with a free trial – before you pull the trigger on Performance Pro.
Pros
- Compensation features
- Highly customizable
- Fairly affordable
Cons
- Difficult to use
- Unsuitable for inexperienced users
SAP Successfactors
Best for Users Who Know What They Want
With over 120 million users across more than 200 countries and territories, SAP Successfactors is certainly equipped to handle your performance management needs. The HR-focused software provides goal, performance, and assessment management features, and offers several customization opportunities, with 500 preloaded goals on the platform.
SAP Successfactors does have one major flaw, though: In addition to being a bit more expensive than the average software, you are required to sign a year-long contract when you buy. To make matters worse, SAP Successfactors doesn't have a free trial, but rather a 15-minute walkthrough, so you better be able to recognize what you want in your software quickly before making a decision.
Pros
- Customizable management features
- Attentive support team
Cons
- Year long contract
- No free trial
Lattice
Best for Mid-Sized Businesses
Employing performance management software is useless if none of your employees are using it – which is why Lattice has built-in notifications to keep employees engaged. They'll receive reminders to partake in feedback and reviews on a regular basis, facilitating an open communication between managers and employees.
Because Lattice is relatively new to the performance management industry, it isn't fully equipped to manage a larger company's workforce. However, it's perfect for mid-sized companies who are looking to scale, supported by a business that understands its needs.
Additionally, because Lattice is a bit on the expensive side, it doesn't make sense for smaller companies looking to get off the ground, as the resources dedicated to managing performance would likely be too high. This makes Lattice perfect for mid-sized companies.
Pros
- Built-in notifications for engagement
- Promotes feedback culture
Cons
- Too small to manage large companies
- Too expensive for small companies
Reviewsnap
Best for Large Teams with Money
Reviewsnap is one of the more popular performance management tools in this list, and for good reason. This all-in-one platform provides users with any and all the features they'll need to keep track of their team's progress. Between 360-degree feedback and automated performance reviews, you know you're getting a heavy-duty platform with Reviewsnap.
Additionally, Reviewsnap provides users with a number of helpful third party integrations that turn the platform into a productivity machine. By offering integrations with any Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) app that uses web services or flat file integration, you can effectively make Reviewsnap do anything you need it to.
The price, however, is a bit of a problem. Granted, you're getting a lot of bang for your buck, but the yearly contract combined with the hefty price tag can definitely make some users turn and run the other way.
Pros
- Unlimited third party integrations
- 360-degree feedback
- Automated performance reviews
Cons
- Yearly contract
- Very expensive
Zoho People
Best for Automation
While Zoho People has only been around for a decade, the Zoho company has been improving business management since 1996 – meaning you'll have a wealth of experience at your back when you decide on them. Plus, you'll have access to plenty of helpful features designed to track, manage, and customize your team's performance.
Zoho People also makes automation a priority, allowing employees access to a self-service platform that cuts steps out of tedious HR practices. Employees will be able to take care of basics like leave, on-boarding, and training, all online, without taking time away from other employees.
If you have a team that is frequently on the go, however, Zoho People might not be for you – its mobile app is notably inconsistent, and a bit hard to use. Fortunately, its desktop software runs smoothly and simply, so you'll be fine as long as you stay in the office.
Pros
- Automated self-serve platform
- Reliable support team
Cons
- Unimpressive mobile app
Engagedly
Best for Customer Support
When it comes to new, complicated software, having a dedicated customer support team can make a huge difference. With Engagedly, that's just what you get, as its robust, feature-rich software comes with a 24/7 support team that is available via email or phone all day long. Plus, with a wealth of knowledge on its website, you can troubleshoot the problem on your own if you're not in a talkative mood.
As for Engagedly's performance management features, you'll have access to multi-rater feedback and performance review cycles, so that everyone can stay engaged throughout the process. Plus, with its modern interface, it'll be hard to keep employees off Engagedly.
The pricing is fairly competitive, but tragically, there's no free trial. This means you're going to need to show a little faith when it comes to utilizing Engagedly at your company.
Pros
- Great customer support
- Competitive price
Con
- No free trial
Lumesse
Best for Individual Evaluation
While many of the platforms on this list cater to teams and groups, Lumesse is different in that it focuses on individual performance and growth. With specific personal objective overviews and continuous feedback, your individual team members will feel valued and heard within your company.
Lumesse also features a number of self-serve features that let employees take care of their own performance management needs, such as HR tasks and learning opportunities. Plus, with team goal trackers, you can maintain that group attitude while fostering productive employee behavior.
However, Lumesse does have a segmented pricing model, which means each of the specific features you might be interested in will cost extra – which can really add up down the line. This à la carte pricing might work for you, but just be sure you know what you're in for.
Pros
- Focused on individual team members
- Self-serve HR platform
Cons
- Complicated, sometimes expensive pricing model
PerformYard
Best for Affordability
Sometimes, when it comes to adding new software to your business, affordability is most important – which is where PerformYard comes in handy. It may not be the most robust option on the list, but it's definitely on the cheaper side of the spectrum, without sacrificing too much functionality.
You'll still get all your favorite performance management features, like reviews, goal management, and continuous feedback, while still having access to third party integrations with G Suite, Office 365, Okta, and OneLogin.
However, you won't have nearly as much customer support since teams are limited to business hours only, while some of the fancier features – such as customizability and automation – are nowhere to be found. Still, if you're looking to organize your business while saving money, PerformYard could definitely help.
Pros
- Very affordable
- Integrates with GSuite, Office 365, and OneLogin
Cons
- Missing added features
- Limited customizability
Next Steps for Choosing Performance Management Software
That was certainly a lot of information – but now, at least, you understand how these performance management software tools stack up against each other. Between the cavalcade of features and the varying price points, there's a lot to consider before making a decision for your company.
If you're serious about setting up performance management software for your company, be sure to grab a customized quote for a complete picture of how much one of these platforms will cost you.
Tech.co is reader-supported. Using Tech.co's comparison form, you can receive quotes from various suppliers, tailored to the needs of your business. If you enter into a contract with a provider, we may receive a payment for the introduction. Equally, if you make a purchase through the links on our site, we may earn a commission from the retailers of the products we have reviewed. This helps Tech.co to provide free advice and reviews. It carries no additional cost to you, and doesn’t affect our editorial independence.