Hi, I am researching currently diverse billing/CPQ tools for a subscription/usage based billing model. We are using Salesforce as CRM system and customized it in the past to be able to invoice with Salesforce. The current method is not scaling and I want to implement a new tool while doing a Salesforce "re-design". Unfortunately the range of vendors is wide and I'd be happy about some recommendations. I am already in touch with Zuora and have pretty mixed feelings about them. Has anybody experience with Apptus, Track or Steelbrick? (costs, feature set, implementation complexity, customer service). Thanks in advance!
Billing Tool/CPQ recommendation for subscription/usage-based model needed
Answers
We just implemented Ordway (www.ordwaylabs.com). We have a very complex pricing structure and very few solutions in the market could handle it. There are levels of billing automation you can set, too, so that you can get comfortable with the system before setting it on "auto". Once you do, it automatically handles the entire end-to-end process from initial order to customer management including renewals (both manual and auto), to invoicing and payments (with configurable email workflows for past due invoices and dunning), to revenue recognition. It is a very flexible system and I would recommend it. They have a lightweight CPQ system, but I've seen improvements to it lately and they mentioned that it will be a focus in the coming months.
SalesForce is more of a platform today-it still has its core CRM and SFA capabilities, but there are modules or platform built apps that extend into:
-CPQ
-order management
-order fulfillment
-billing, AR/Cash app
-revenue recognition
-accounting
But, before you talk of products, what are your process needs? What counts more than anything in selecting any software is the clear definition of your unique and complex business requirements.
For any of the products you name above, some will fit great for one business model, but are bad for another. So, what are your process needs?