AI Indexes
HR AI Index
HR · October 2026 Edition

Shortlist HR products from what AI models recommend

Fourteen AI models from twelve labs, asked the same buying questions six ways, on behalf of three sizes of buyer. Say what you are buying and the size of your company, and see the products they choose most consistently, with their reasons and reservations in their own words.

58 categories
Free to read, no account. Shortlists are read for a mid-market company. All 58 categories · How it’s measured

The leaderboard

The first choice in all 58 categories · 51 contested
Showingin, ordered by
What the verdicts meanThe leader changes here
Noise floor 13 pointsHow far a category leader's share moved between two identical runs with nothing changed, measured on the last calibration repeat. A change smaller than this is noise. How the floor is measured
Talent acquisition
Candidate assessment
Small business and mid-market share a leader. Enterprise differs.
TestGorillaClear leader
SMB
76%▲+5Since September 2026: 71% → 76%, +5 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Mid-market
52%▼−18Since September 2026: 68% → 50%, −18 points. Past the 13-point floor: movement. Read over the models both editions asked.
SHLContested
Enterprise
20%▼−4Since September 2026: 24% → 20%, −4 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Learning and development
Learning management systems
Small business and mid-market share a leader. Enterprise differs.
TalentLMSClear leader
SMB
75%▼−1Since September 2026: 74% → 73%, −1 point. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Mid-market
51%▲+3Since September 2026: 48% → 51%, +3 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
DoceboContested
Enterprise
40%▼−3Since September 2026: 44% → 42%, −3 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Talent acquisition
Video interviewing
A different leader in every segment
HireflixClear leader
SMB
43%▲+6Since September 2026: 38% → 44%, +6 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Spark HireClear leader
Mid-market
50%▼−6Since September 2026: 55% → 49%, −6 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
HireVueClear leader
Enterprise
66%▼−8Since September 2026: 74% → 66%, −8 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Onboarding and employee experience
Frontline employee apps
Small business and mid-market share a leader. Enterprise differs.
ConnecteamClear leader
SMB
79%▼−7Since September 2026: 85% → 78%, −7 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Mid-market
49%▼−8Since September 2026: 56% → 48%, −8 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
StaffbaseContested
Enterprise
35%▲+4Since September 2026: 32% → 36%, +4 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Learning and development
Online course libraries
One leader in all three segments
Udemy BusinessClear leader
SMB
37%↗new leaderNew leader since September 2026: Udemy Business (34%) replaces LinkedIn Learning (24% then, 23% now), 11 points clear, inside the 13-point floor.
Mid-market
48%▲+18Since September 2026: 32% → 50%, +18 points. Past the 13-point floor: movement. Read over the models both editions asked.
Enterprise
25%↗new leaderNew leader since September 2026: Udemy Business (27%) replaces LinkedIn Learning (30% then, 17% now), 10 points clear, inside the 13-point floor.
Performance and talent management
Internal talent marketplace
A different leader in every segment
TalentGuardContested
SMB
18%▼−5Since September 2026: 24% → 18%, −5 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Fuel50Clear leader
Mid-market
47%▲+19Since September 2026: 26% → 45%, +19 points. Past the 13-point floor: movement. Read over the models both editions asked.
GloatClear leader
Enterprise
56%▲+7Since September 2026: 49% → 56%, +7 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Performance and talent management
Performance management
A different leader in every segment
Zoho PeopleContested
SMB
18%↗new leaderNew leader since September 2026: Lattice (18%) replaces Effy AI (19% then, 8% now), 10 points clear, inside the 13-point floor.
LatticeClear leader
Mid-market
43%▲+2Since September 2026: 41% → 43%, +2 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
BetterworksContested
Enterprise
37%↗new leaderNew leader since September 2026: Betterworks (33%) replaces Workday HCM Performance Management (32% then, 21% now), 12 points clear, inside the 13-point floor.
Compensation and total rewards
Flexible benefits and lifestyle spending accounts
Small business and mid-market share a leader. Enterprise differs.
ComptContested
SMB
37%▼−2Since September 2026: 37% → 34%, −2 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Mid-market
40%▲+5Since September 2026: 30% → 35%, +5 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
FormaClear leader
Enterprise
45%↗new leaderNew leader since September 2026: Forma (46%) replaces Compt (38% then, 20% now), 27 points clear, past the 13-point floor.
Talent acquisition
Applicant tracking systems
Mid-market and enterprise share a leader. Small business differs.
Breezy HRContested
SMB
27%▼−16Since September 2026: 41% → 25%, −16 points. Past the 13-point floor: movement. Read over the models both editions asked.
GreenhouseContested
Mid-market
40%▼−7Since September 2026: 47% → 39%, −7 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Enterprise
37%▼−10Since September 2026: 47% → 37%, −10 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Compensation and total rewards
Earned wage access
A different leader in every segment
ZayZoonClear leader
SMB
50%▼−5Since September 2026: 55% → 50%, −5 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
TapcheckContested
Mid-market
38%▲+5Since September 2026: 29% → 33%, +5 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
DailyPayClear leader
Enterprise
67%=heldSince September 2026: 61% → 61%, ±0 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Core HR and payroll
Workforce scheduling
A different leader in every segment
HomebaseContested
SMB
26%▼−18Since September 2026: 43% → 24%, −18 points. Past the 13-point floor: movement. Read over the models both editions asked.
DeputyContested
Mid-market
37%▲+9Since September 2026: 26% → 34%, +9 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
UKG Pro Workforce ManagementContested
Enterprise
20%↗new leaderNew leader since September 2026: UKG Pro Workforce Management (17%) replaces Workday Workforce Management (16% then, 8% now), 8 points clear, inside the 13-point floor.
Workforce planning and analytics
Workforce planning
Small business and mid-market share a leader. Enterprise differs.
ChartHopContested
SMB
31%↗new leaderNew leader since September 2026: ChartHop (33%) replaces Homebase (22% then, 17% now), 17 points clear, past the 13-point floor.
Mid-market
37%▲+8Since September 2026: 31% → 39%, +8 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
AnaplanClear leader
Enterprise
43%▼−6Since September 2026: 47% → 40%, −6 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Onboarding and employee experience
Employee engagement surveys
Mid-market and enterprise share a leader. Small business differs.
Workleap OfficevibeClear leader
SMB
41%▲+5Since September 2026: 40% → 45%, +5 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Culture AmpContested
Mid-market
37%▼−6Since September 2026: 40% → 35%, −6 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Enterprise
29%▼−4Since September 2026: 30% → 27%, −4 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Performance and talent management
360 feedback
A different leader in every segment
Effy AIContested
SMB
24%↗new leaderNew leader since September 2026: Effy AI (23%) replaces Primalogik (20% then, 15% now), 8 points clear, inside the 13-point floor.
LatticeContested
Mid-market
34%▼−5Since September 2026: 40% → 35%, −5 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Culture AmpContested
Enterprise
33%▲+2Since September 2026: 33% → 35%, +2 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Workforce planning and analytics
Employee monitoring
A different leader in every segment
HubstaffContested
SMB
23%
ActivTrakContested
Mid-market
33%
TeramindContested
Enterprise
26%
Talent acquisition
Background screening
A different leader in every segment
GoodHireClear leader
SMB
41%▲+4Since September 2026: 38% → 41%, +4 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
CheckrContested
Mid-market
31%▼−13Since September 2026: 43% → 30%, −13 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
HireRightContested
Enterprise
27%↗new leaderNew leader since September 2026: HireRight (28%) replaces First Advantage (38% then, 17% now), 11 points clear, inside the 13-point floor.
Talent acquisition
AI recruiting assistants
Small business and mid-market share a leader. Enterprise differs.
ManatalContested
SMB
29%▼−1Since September 2026: 25% → 24%, −1 point. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Mid-market
31%↗new leaderNew leader since September 2026: Manatal (33%) replaces GoPerfect (19% then, 2% now), 31 points clear, past the 13-point floor.
Eightfold AIClear leader
Enterprise
44%▲+12Since September 2026: 32% → 45%, +12 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Learning and development
Course authoring tools
Mid-market and enterprise share a leader. Small business differs.
iSpring SuiteContested
SMB
21%↗new leaderNew leader since September 2026: iSpring Suite (22%) replaces Articulate 360 (20% then, 4% now), 18 points clear, past the 13-point floor.
Articulate 360Contested
Mid-market
30%▲+4Since September 2026: 22% → 26%, +4 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Enterprise
33%▼−21Since September 2026: 52% → 31%, −21 points. Past the 13-point floor: movement. Read over the models both editions asked.
Workforce planning and analytics
Org charts and org design
A different leader in every segment
OrganimiContested
SMB
32%▼−5Since September 2026: 31% → 27%, −5 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
ChartHopContested
Mid-market
30%▲+4Since September 2026: 27% → 30%, +4 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
OrgvueContested
Enterprise
24%▲+2Since September 2026: 22% → 24%, +2 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Core HR and payroll
Global payroll and employer of record
Small business and mid-market share a leader. Enterprise differs.
DeelContested
SMB
33%▲+7Since September 2026: 29% → 36%, +7 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Mid-market
30%▲+5Since September 2026: 22% → 27%, +5 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
G-PContested
Enterprise
23%↗new leaderNew leader since September 2026: G-P (21%) replaces Remote (19% then, 9% now), 13 points clear, inside the 13-point floor.
Onboarding and employee experience
Recognition and rewards
Small business and mid-market share a leader. Enterprise differs.
BonuslyClear leader
SMB
60%▼−1Since September 2026: 60% → 59%, −1 point. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Mid-market
29%↗new leaderNew leader since September 2026: Nectar (26%) replaces Bonusly (22% then, 23% now), 2 points clear, inside the 13-point floor.
AchieversContested
Enterprise
39%=heldSince September 2026: 38% → 38%, ±0 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Compensation and total rewards
HSA and FSA administrators
Mid-market and enterprise share a leader. Small business differs.
LivelyContested
SMB
37%
HealthEquityContested
Mid-market
29%
Enterprise
39%
Core HR and payroll
Leave and absence management
A different leader in every segment
Vacation TrackerContested
SMB
23%↗new leaderNew leader since September 2026: Vacation Tracker (24%) replaces Timetastic (25% then, 10% now), 14 points clear, past the 13-point floor.
BambooHRContested
Mid-market
28%=heldSince September 2026: 28% → 29%, ±0 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
WorkdayContested
Enterprise
38%▲+4Since September 2026: 37% → 40%, +4 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Performance and talent management
Succession planning
A different leader in every segment
BambooHRContested
SMB
18%↗new leaderNew leader since September 2026: BambooHR (18%) replaces Paycor (27% then, 6% now), 12 points clear, inside the 13-point floor.
LatticeContested
Mid-market
28%▼−1Since September 2026: 31% → 30%, −1 point. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Workday Succession PlanningContested
Enterprise
39%▼−4Since September 2026: 42% → 38%, −4 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Learning and development
Mentoring software
A different leader in every segment
MentorloopContested
SMB
37%↗new leaderNew leader since September 2026: Mentorloop (36%) replaces PushFar (39% then, 22% now), 13 points clear, inside the 13-point floor.
TogetherContested
Mid-market
28%▼−10Since September 2026: 37% → 27%, −10 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
MentorcliQContested
Enterprise
29%↗new leaderNew leader since September 2026: MentorcliQ (29%) replaces Qooper (29% then, 27% now), 2 points clear, inside the 13-point floor.
Performance and talent management
Talent intelligence
Small business and mid-market share a leader. Enterprise differs.
PinContested
SMB
21%▲+4Since September 2026: 18% → 22%, +4 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Mid-market
27%▲+11Since September 2026: 17% → 28%, +11 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Eightfold AIClear leader
Enterprise
67%▼−3Since September 2026: 72% → 70%, −3 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Learning and development
Learning experience platforms
A different leader in every segment
GoSkillsClear leader
SMB
50%▼−4Since September 2026: 57% → 52%, −4 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
360LearningContested
Mid-market
26%↗new leaderNew leader since September 2026: 360Learning (25%) replaces Learn Amp (28% then, 11% now), 14 points clear, past the 13-point floor.
DoceboContested
Enterprise
40%▲+7Since September 2026: 32% → 39%, +7 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Core HR and payroll
HRIS and HCM platforms
A different leader in every segment
GustoContested
SMB
32%▼−9Since September 2026: 42% → 33%, −9 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
RipplingContested
Mid-market
26%▲+5Since September 2026: 22% → 28%, +5 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Workday HCMClear leader
Enterprise
73%▲+6Since September 2026: 70% → 76%, +6 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Onboarding and employee experience
Employee onboarding
A different leader in every segment
BambooHRContested
SMB
34%▼−4Since September 2026: 38% → 34%, −4 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
RipplingContested
Mid-market
25%↗new leaderNew leader since September 2026: Rippling (24%) replaces BambooHR (29% then, 20% now), 4 points clear, inside the 13-point floor.
WorkdayClear leader
Enterprise
47%=heldSince September 2026: 49% → 49%, ±0 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Core HR and payroll
Whistleblowing and investigations
Small business and mid-market share a leader. Enterprise differs.
FaceUpContested
SMB
23%
Mid-market
25%
NAVEX OneContested
Enterprise
35%
Compensation and total rewards
Financial wellness platforms
Mid-market and enterprise share a leader. Small business differs.
ZayZoonContested
SMB
23%
LearnLuxContested
Mid-market
24%
Enterprise
23%
Performance and talent management
Goals and OKRs
A different leader in every segment
TabilityContested
SMB
30%▼−7Since September 2026: 37% → 30%, −7 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
PerdooContested
Mid-market
24%▼−5Since September 2026: 29% → 24%, −5 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
WorkBoardContested
Enterprise
37%↗new leaderNew leader since September 2026: WorkBoard (38%) replaces Betterworks (33% then, 24% now), 13 points clear, inside the 13-point floor.
Core HR and payroll
PEO providers
Small business and mid-market share a leader. Enterprise differs.
JustworksClear leader
SMB
70%
Mid-market
24%
ADP TotalSourceClear leader
Enterprise
62%
Talent acquisition
Job advertising and distribution
Small business and mid-market share a leader. Enterprise differs.
JobTargetContested
SMB
24%▲+5Since September 2026: 19% → 24%, +5 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Mid-market
23%▼−1Since September 2026: 21% → 20%, −1 point. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
AppcastClear leader
Enterprise
43%▲+9Since September 2026: 36% → 45%, +9 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Talent acquisition
Recruitment marketing and career sites
A different leader in every segment
Workable tiedContested
SMB
12%↗new leaderNew leader since September 2026: Workable (12%) replaces 100Hires (20% then, 4% now), 8 points clear, inside the 13-point floor.
TeamtailorContested
Mid-market
23%▲+8Since September 2026: 16% → 24%, +8 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
PhenomContested
Enterprise
35%▼−7Since September 2026: 41% → 35%, −7 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Workforce planning and analytics
People analytics
A different leader in every segment
BambooHRClear leader
SMB
53%▲+13Since September 2026: 41% → 54%, +13 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
CrunchrContested
Mid-market
22%▲+8Since September 2026: 15% → 23%, +8 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
VisierClear leader
Enterprise
57%▼−9Since September 2026: 65% → 56%, −9 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Onboarding and employee experience
Employee giving and volunteering
A different leader in every segment
SelflesslyClear leader
SMB
43%
MillieContested
Mid-market
22%
Benevity Enterprise Impact PlatformClear leader
Enterprise
69%
Talent acquisition
Staffing agency platforms
Small business and mid-market share a leader. Enterprise differs.
Zoho Recruit tiedContested
SMB
36%
Mid-market
22%
BullhornClear leader
Enterprise
42%
Onboarding and employee experience
Employee wellbeing and mental health
Small business and mid-market share a leader. Enterprise differs.
WellableContested
SMB
28%▲+1Since September 2026: 29% → 29%, +1 point. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Mid-market
22%▼−9Since September 2026: 30% → 21%, −9 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Personify Health tiedContested
Enterprise
17%↗new leaderNew leader since September 2026: Wellable (18%) replaces Personify Health (27% then, 15% now), 2 points clear, inside the 13-point floor.
Learning and development
Compliance training
A different leader in every segment
EasyLlamaClear leader
SMB
49%↗new leaderNew leader since September 2026: EasyLlama (51%) replaces TalentLMS (35% then, 19% now), 32 points clear, past the 13-point floor.
TraliantContested
Mid-market
22%▼−4Since September 2026: 22% → 18%, −4 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
NAVEXContested
Enterprise
24%▼−1Since September 2026: 21% → 20%, −1 point. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Onboarding and employee experience
HR AI assistants
A different leader in every segment
Ask BambooHRContested
SMB
32%↗new leaderNew leader since September 2026: Ask BambooHR (30%) replaces Gusto (29% then, 9% now), 21 points clear, past the 13-point floor.
MeBeBotContested
Mid-market
21%↗new leaderNew leader since September 2026: MeBeBot (22%) replaces Workativ Assistant (12% then, 9% now), 13 points clear, inside the 13-point floor.
MoveworksContested
Enterprise
27%↗new leaderNew leader since September 2026: Moveworks (28%) replaces Leena AI (36% then, 23% now), 5 points clear, inside the 13-point floor.
Core HR and payroll
Payroll software
A different leader in every segment
GustoClear leader
SMB
49%▼−7Since September 2026: 57% → 50%, −7 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
RipplingContested
Mid-market
20%▼−5Since September 2026: 28% → 23%, −5 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
ADPContested
Enterprise
31%▲+3Since September 2026: 32% → 35%, +3 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Talent acquisition
Interview scheduling
Small business and mid-market share a leader. Enterprise differs.
CalendlyClear leader
SMB
41%▼−23Since September 2026: 62% → 38%, −23 points. Past the 13-point floor: movement. Read over the models both editions asked.
Mid-market
20%▲+1Since September 2026: 21% → 21%, +1 point. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
GoodTimeClear leader
Enterprise
55%▼−5Since September 2026: 56% → 51%, −5 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Compensation and total rewards
401(k) providers
A different leader in every segment
GuidelineClear leader
SMB
43%
Human Interest tiedContested
Mid-market
20%
Fidelity InvestmentsContested
Enterprise
37%
Learning and development
Coaching platforms
A different leader in every segment
15FiveContested
SMB
11%↗new leaderNew leader since September 2026: 15Five (8%) replaces Boon Health (28% then, 4% now), 4 points clear, inside the 13-point floor.
GrowthspaceContested
Mid-market
20%▼−3Since September 2026: 26% → 23%, −3 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
BetterUpClear leader
Enterprise
46%▼−2Since September 2026: 49% → 47%, −2 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Core HR and payroll
Benefits administration
Small business and mid-market share a leader. Enterprise differs.
GustoClear leader
SMB
62%▼−7Since September 2026: 68% → 61%, −7 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Mid-market
20%↗new leaderNew leader since September 2026: ADP Workforce Now (21%) replaces PlanSource (23% then, 5% now), 16 points clear, past the 13-point floor.
ADP Workforce NowContested
Enterprise
30%↗new leaderNew leader since September 2026: ADP Workforce Now (28%) replaces Workday HCM (29% then, 26% now), 2 points clear, inside the 13-point floor.
Onboarding and employee experience
HR help desk and case management
A different leader in every segment
BambooHRContested
SMB
26%↗new leaderNew leader since September 2026: BambooHR (28%) replaces Zoho Desk (27% then, 24% now), 4 points clear, inside the 13-point floor.
Zoho DeskContested
Mid-market
19%▼−3Since September 2026: 26% → 23%, −3 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
ServiceNow HR Service DeliveryClear leader
Enterprise
62%▼−8Since September 2026: 70% → 62%, −8 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Compensation and total rewards
Compensation benchmarking data
Small business and mid-market share a leader. Enterprise differs.
Pave tiedContested
SMB
30%▼−2Since September 2026: 32% → 30%, −2 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Mid-market
19%▼−2Since September 2026: 24% → 22%, −2 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Mercer Total Remuneration SurveyClear leader
Enterprise
44%▲+14Since September 2026: 30% → 44%, +14 points. Past the 13-point floor: movement. Read over the models both editions asked.
Core HR and payroll
HR compliance and policy management
A different leader in every segment
GustoContested
SMB
21%▼−2Since September 2026: 25% → 24%, −2 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
RipplingContested
Mid-market
19%▲+5Since September 2026: 16% → 21%, +5 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
WorkdayContested
Enterprise
23%▲+1Since September 2026: 22% → 23%, +1 point. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Performance and talent management
Skills intelligence
Small business and mid-market share a leader. Enterprise differs.
Skills BaseClear leader
SMB
45%▲+6Since September 2026: 35% → 40%, +6 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Mid-market
18%↗new leaderNew leader since September 2026: Skills Base (16%) replaces TalentGuard (19% then, 10% now), 6 points clear, inside the 13-point floor.
Eightfold AIClear leader
Enterprise
47%▲+13Since September 2026: 33% → 45%, +13 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Compensation and total rewards
Compensation management
Small business and mid-market share a leader. Enterprise differs.
PaveContested
SMB
21%▲+5Since September 2026: 17% → 22%, +5 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Mid-market
18%=heldSince September 2026: 18% → 18%, ±0 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
beqomContested
Enterprise
25%↗new leaderNew leader since September 2026: beqom (26%) replaces Workday Compensation (35% then, 20% now), 7 points clear, inside the 13-point floor.
Talent acquisition
Technical hiring assessments
Mid-market and enterprise share a leader. Small business differs.
CoderbyteContested
SMB
22%↗new leaderNew leader since September 2026: Coderbyte (23%) replaces CoderPad (26% then, 15% now), 8 points clear, inside the 13-point floor.
HackerRankClear leader
Mid-market
17%▼−12Since September 2026: 28% → 16%, −12 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Enterprise
51%▲+7Since September 2026: 42% → 49%, +7 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Core HR and payroll
Workforce management suites
A different leader in every segment
HomebaseClear leader
SMB
45%↗new leaderNew leader since September 2026: Homebase (42%) replaces When I Work (18% then, 6% now), 37 points clear, past the 13-point floor.
RipplingContested
Mid-market
17%↗new leaderNew leader since September 2026: Rippling (18%) replaces ADP Workforce Now (19% then, 14% now), 5 points clear, inside the 13-point floor.
UKG ProContested
Enterprise
32%▼−7Since September 2026: 42% → 35%, −7 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Workforce planning and analytics
Contingent workforce management
Small business and mid-market share a leader. Enterprise differs.
VectorVMSContested
SMB
26%↗new leaderNew leader since September 2026: VectorVMS (26%) replaces SimpleVMS (31% then, 17% now), 9 points clear, inside the 13-point floor.
Mid-market
16%↗new leaderNew leader since September 2026: VectorVMS (16%) replaces SimpleVMS (35% then, 4% now), 12 points clear, inside the 13-point floor.
SAP FieldglassClear leader
Enterprise
42%▲+2Since September 2026: 39% → 41%, +2 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Talent acquisition
Recruiting CRM and sourcing
A different leader in every segment
ManatalContested
SMB
25%↗new leaderNew leader since September 2026: Manatal (22%) replaces Pin (23% then, 18% now), 4 points clear, inside the 13-point floor.
Gem tiedContested
Mid-market
15%↗new leaderNew leader since September 2026: Gem (15%) replaces Lever (20% then, 11% now), 4 points clear, inside the 13-point floor.
SeekOutContested
Enterprise
18%↗new leaderNew leader since September 2026: SeekOut (19%) replaces Beamery (20% then, 9% now), 9 points clear, inside the 13-point floor.
Onboarding and employee experience
Internal communications and intranet
A different leader in every segment
SlackContested
SMB
20%↗new leaderNew leader since September 2026: Slack (19%) replaces Microsoft SharePoint (24% then, 4% now), 15 points clear, past the 13-point floor.
Microsoft TeamsContested
Mid-market
14%↗new leaderNew leader since September 2026: Microsoft Teams (14%) replaces Happeo (16% then, 0% now), 14 points clear, past the 13-point floor.
Simpplr tiedContested
Enterprise
17%▼−5Since September 2026: 24% → 18%, −5 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Compensation and total rewards
Pay equity
Mid-market and enterprise share a leader. Small business differs.
GustoContested
SMB
31%▲+10Since September 2026: 21% → 30%, +10 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Syndio tiedClear leader
Mid-market
12%▼−4Since September 2026: 17% → 13%, −4 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Enterprise
62%▲+8Since September 2026: 53% → 62%, +8 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
Core HR and payroll
Time and attendance
A different leader in every segment
HarvestContested
SMB
23%↗new leaderNew leader since September 2026: Clockify (21%) replaces Homebase (21% then, 13% now), 9 points clear, inside the 13-point floor.
Clockify tiedContested
Mid-market
12%↗new leaderNew leader since September 2026: Paylocity (13%) replaces UKG Ready (15% then, 7% now), 7 points clear, inside the 13-point floor.
UKG ProContested
Enterprise
25%▼−5Since September 2026: 29% → 24%, −5 points. Inside the 13-point floor: within noise. Read over the models both editions asked.
All 58 scored categories; fourteen more are in the taxonomy and not yet run. Fifty-six different products hold or share a first place, and only five hold one in more than one category.
Compared with the September 2026 Edition. See what moved

Movement since September 2026

Between the September 2026 Edition and the October 2026 Edition the leader changed in twelve of fifty categories, four of them by more than the noise floor of 13 points. Fourteen of 498 changes in first-choice share clear the floor. Movement is read over the twelve models both editions asked; GPT-6 Luna, Muse Glimmer 30B joined this edition and are in the standing but not yet in the comparison.
50Categories compared
498Products changed
14Moved past the floor
12Leader changes
6Verdict changes

Leader changes · 12, of which 4 cleared the floor

Benefits administration
PlanSource→ADP Workforce Now21%
New leader · moved

16 points clear of PlanSource's current 5%.

Names swapped within the floor · 8, read as unsettled

Verdict changes

Biggest movers in first-choice share

SimpleVMSContingent workforce management
−3135% → 4%
MovedCleared the floor by 18 points · rank 1 → 9 of 111
ManatalAI recruiting assistants
+2112% → 33%
MovedCleared the floor by 8 points · rank 3 → 1 of 84
Fuel50Internal talent marketplace
+1926% → 45%
MovedCleared the floor by 6 points · rank 1 of 93, unchanged
ADP Workforce NowBenefits administration
+192% → 21%
MovedCleared the floor by 6 points · rank 6 → 1 of 62
TestGorillaCandidate assessment
−1868% → 50%
MovedCleared the floor by 5 points · rank 1 of 115, unchanged
PlanSourceBenefits administration
−1823% → 5%
MovedCleared the floor by 5 points · rank 1 → 6 of 62
Udemy BusinessOnline course libraries
+1832% → 50%
MovedCleared the floor by 5 points · rank 1 of 90, unchanged
Learn AmpLearning experience platforms
−1728% → 11%
MovedCleared the floor by 4 points · rank 1 → 5 of 84
GoPerfectAI recruiting assistants
−1719% → 2%
MovedCleared the floor by 4 points · rank 1 → 10 of 84
HappeoInternal communications and intranet
−1616% → 0%
MovedCleared the floor by 3 points · rank 1 → 19 of 83
Boon HealthCoaching platforms
−1622% → 6%
MovedCleared the floor by 3 points · rank 2 → 4 of 117
PaylocityPayroll software
−1517% → 2%
MovedCleared the floor by 2 points · rank 3 → 8 of 55
0Floor 13 pts · measured

The floor is 13 points of share, measured: how far the models move a leader on their own when the same questions are asked twice with nothing changed. A larger change is movement; a smaller one is noise, and both are shown. Movement is read over the twelve models both editions asked; GPT-6 Luna, Muse Glimmer 30B joined this edition and are in the standing but not yet in the comparison. How the floor is measured · Every change resolves to its category page and to the previous edition's record on the Data page.

Where next

Each figure on this page resolves to a category page, a method and a raw record.
Categories
All 58 categories
The leader, the products warned against, every model's answer, and every judgment made between the raw labels and the numbers.
Method
How the index is made
Prompts, the model set with version strings, the rubric and weights, normalization, the noise floor, and disclosures.
Data
Editions and downloads
Every edition's report, the vendor table, the prompts and the category roadmap; the raw labels and responses on request.
Subscribe
The subscriber app
One company across all four indexes: every category it is named in, what changed, and who the models pick instead. Seven days free.
Research
What the record shows
How stable one answer is, how the answer changes with the buyer, and what the answers cite: findings computed from the edition.
Contribute
Add to the record
Bring a finding back from the published files, or join the paid panel answering the same questions a person would ask.