This page provides details about Zoho (organization) which was ranked #5 out of 100 in the list of brands (69 mentions (15.8% share)) in answers from AI models (Perplexity Sonar (with search) (latest), Anthropic Claude Sonnet (latest), OpenAI ChatGPT Latest, Google Gemini Flash (latest), X.AI Grok (latest)) when they were asked the following 3 questions: "What are the best CRM Software options available today? Please provide a comprehensive overview including: the leading brands and products, top companies and service providers, recognized experts and thought leaders, promising startups and new market entrants, major industry events and conferences, active communities and forums, and influential publications and media covering this space.", "If I'm looking to get into CRM Software, who and what should I know about? Include the most trusted brands, recommended products and services, reputable companies and providers, influential experts and reviewers to follow, helpful communities and resources, important events and conferences, notable startups disrupting the space, and key publications and media channels to stay informed.", "What does the CRM Software industry look like right now? Identify the dominant market leaders and brands, best products and services, key companies and providers, influential figures and thought leaders, emerging startups and trends, major conferences and events, active professional communities, and the top publications and media that cover this industry." on Dec 30, 2025 by AI Chat Watch.
What are the best CRM Software options available today? Please provide a comprehensive overview including: the leading brands and products, top companies and service providers, recognized experts and thought leaders, promising startups and new market entrants, major industry events and conferences, active communities and forums, and influential publications and media covering this space.
[...] wners in 2025 | Top 14](https://www.emailtooltester.com/en/best-crm-for-small-business/)[My TOP 5 CRM Software for 2025 | Free vs Paid CRMs ... - YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GCMdLB82FXg)[Best CRM Software: User Reviews from December 2025 - G2](https://www.g2.com/categories/crm)), and **Zoho CRM** (budget-friendly, feature-rich for SMBs with automation and workflows[Best CRM Software in 2025 - HubSpot Community](https://community.hubspot.com/t5/CRM/Best-CRM-Software-in-2025/td-p/1083714)[The 24 Top CRM Software Systems in 2025 | Clarity Ventures](https://www.clarity-ventures.com/ecomme [...]
December 30, 2025
[...] ftware-systems)[Best CRM for Small Business Owners in 2025 | Top 14](https://www.emailtooltester.com/en/best-crm-for-small-business/) | Costs rise for advanced features [Best CRM Software in 2025 - HubSpot Community](https://community.hubspot.com/t5/CRM/Best-CRM-Software-in-2025/td-p/1083714) |
| **Zoho CRM** | Budget-conscious SMBs | Value, automation, suite integration [Zoho.com/crm](https://www.zoho.com/crm/) [Best CRM Software in 2025 - HubSpot Community](https://community.hubspot.com/t5/CRM/Best-CRM-Software-in-2025/td-p/1083714)[The 24 Top CRM Software Systems in 2025 | Clarity Ventures](htt [...]
December 30, 2025
[...] //www.emailtooltester.com/en/best-crm-for-small-business/) | Costs rise for advanced features [Best CRM Software in 2025 - HubSpot Community](https://community.hubspot.com/t5/CRM/Best-CRM-Software-in-2025/td-p/1083714) |
| **Zoho CRM** | Budget-conscious SMBs | Value, automation, suite integration [Zoho.com/crm](https://www.zoho.com/crm/) [Best CRM Software in 2025 - HubSpot Community](https://community.hubspot.com/t5/CRM/Best-CRM-Software-in-2025/td-p/1083714)[The 24 Top CRM Software Systems in 2025 | Clarity Ventures](https://www.clarity-ventures.com/ecommerce-integrations/top-crm-software-syste [...]
December 30, 2025
[...] -CRM-Software-in-2025/td-p/1083714)[The 24 Top CRM Software Systems in 2025 | Clarity Ventures](https://www.clarity-ventures.com/ecommerce-integrations/top-crm-software-systems)[Best CRM for Small Business Owners in 2025 | Top 14](https://www.emailtooltester.com/en/best-crm-for-small-business/)), **Zoho** (affordable suites[Best CRM Software in 2025 - HubSpot Community](https://community.hubspot.com/t5/CRM/Best-CRM-Software-in-2025/td-p/1083714)[The 24 Top CRM Software Systems in 2025 | Clarity Ventures](https://www.clarity-ventures.com/ecommerce-integrations/top-crm-software-systems)[Best CRM for [...]
December 30, 2025
[...] top-large-crms/)). Service add-ons like **Leadangel** aid collaboration[Best CRM Software in 2025 - HubSpot Community](https://community.hubspot.com/t5/CRM/Best-CRM-Software-in-2025/td-p/1083714).
### Recognized Experts and Thought Leaders
Forbes Advisor ranks platforms via hands-on testing (e.g., Zoho top for SMBs[10 Best CRM Software Of 2025](https://morriscountyedc.org/10-best-crm-software-of-2025/)). G2 user reviews highlight Salesforce #1, HubSpot #2[Best CRM Software: User Reviews from December 2025 - G2](https://www.g2.com/categories/crm) ([G2.com/categories/crm](https://www.g2.com/categor [...]
December 30, 2025
If I'm looking to get into CRM Software, who and what should I know about? Include the most trusted brands, recommended products and services, reputable companies and providers, influential experts and reviewers to follow, helpful communities and resources, important events and conferences, notable startups disrupting the space, and key publications and media channels to stay informed.
### Most Trusted CRM Brands and Recommended Products
The most trusted CRM brands in 2025 are **Salesforce**, **HubSpot**, **Microsoft Dynamics 365**, **Zoho CRM**, and **Pipedrive**, consistently ranked highest across reviews for enterprises, SMBs, and growing businesses due to their scalability, AI features, integrations, and user adoption.[Top 11 CRM Software in 2025 (Features, Pricing & Reviews)](https://erpsoftwareblog.com/2025/10/top-crm-software/ [...]
December 30, 2025
[...] g & Reviews)](https://erpsoftwareblog.com/2025/10/top-crm-software/)[Top 10 Large CRMs In 2025 - ElevatIQ](https://www.elevatiq.com/post/top-large-crms/)[The 24 Top CRM Software Systems in 2025 | Clarity Ventures](https://www.clarity-ventures.com/ecommerce-integrations/top-crm-software-systems)
- **Zoho CRM**: AI-driven (Zia for sentiment analysis, anomaly detection), all-in-one for enterprises/SMBs, budget-friendly from $20/user/month; interface can feel dated.[Top 11 CRM Software in 2025 (Features, Pricing & Reviews)](https://erpsoftwareblog.com/2025/10/top-crm-software/)[The 12 best CRM softwar [...]
December 30, 2025
[...] 2025.[Best CRM Software: User Reviews from December 2025 - G2](https://www.g2.com/categories/crm)
| Business Size | Top Recommendations | Key Strengths | Pricing Starting Point |
|---------------|---------------------|---------------|------------------------|
| Startups/SMBs | HubSpot, Pipedrive, Zoho | Ease of use, free tiers, marketing alignment | Free–$20/user/month[Top 11 CRM Software in 2025 (Features, Pricing & Reviews)](https://erpsoftwareblog.com/2025/10/top-crm-software/)[The 12 best CRM software in 2025 - Zapier](https://zapier.com/blog/best-crm-app/)[Best CRM Software in 2025 - HubSpo [...]
December 30, 2025
[...] 25 - ElevatIQ](https://www.elevatiq.com/post/top-large-crms/)[The 12 best CRM software in 2025 - Zapier](https://zapier.com/blog/best-crm-app/) |
Official sites: [Salesforce](https://www.salesforce.com), [HubSpot](https://www.hubspot.com), [Microsoft Dynamics 365](https://dynamics.microsoft.com), [Zoho CRM](https://www.zoho.com/crm), [Pipedrive](https://www.pipedrive.com). Review platforms: [G2 CRM Category](https://www.g2.com/categories/crm).[Best CRM Software: User Reviews from December 2025 - G2](https://www.g2.com/categories/crm)
### Reputable Companies and Providers
Leading providers includ [...]
December 30, 2025
[...] ry](https://www.g2.com/categories/crm).[Best CRM Software: User Reviews from December 2025 - G2](https://www.g2.com/categories/crm)
### Reputable Companies and Providers
Leading providers include **Salesforce** (enterprise leader), **Microsoft** (ecosystem integration), **HubSpot** (SMB growth), **Zoho** (affordable all-in-one), and **Freshworks** (Freshsales/Freshmarketer for marketing automation).[Top 11 CRM Software in 2025 (Features, Pricing & Reviews)](https://erpsoftwareblog.com/2025/10/top-crm-software/)[Top 10 Large CRMs In 2025 - ElevatIQ](https://www.elevatiq.com/post/top-large-crms/)[T [...]
December 30, 2025
What does the CRM Software industry look like right now? Identify the dominant market leaders and brands, best products and services, key companies and providers, influential figures and thought leaders, emerging startups and trends, major conferences and events, active professional communities, and the top publications and media that cover this industry.
[...] .cxtoday.com/crm/the-top-crm-software-vendors-in-2025-what-makes-each-one-enterprise-ready/)[Top 10 Large CRMs In 2025 - ElevatIQ](https://www.elevatiq.com/post/top-large-crms/)[CRM Market Share, Size & Buyer Trends Report - HG Insights](https://hginsights.com/resource/crm-market-share-report/)
- **Zoho** (185,822 customers, AI via Zia).[Top CRM Statistics You Need To Know In 2025 - SellersCommerce](https://www.sellerscommerce.com/blog/crm-statistics/)[The Top CRM Vendors to Consider in 2025 - CX Today](https://www.cxtoday.com/crm/the-top-crm-software-vendors-in-2025-what-makes-each-one-enterprise [...]
December 30, 2025
[...] s in the US Industry Analysis, 2025 - IBISWorld](https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/industry/crm-system-providers/4592/) |
| Oracle | 4.1%[Top CRM Statistics You Need To Know In 2025 - SellersCommerce](https://www.sellerscommerce.com/blog/crm-statistics/) | CX Cloud marketing | N/A |
| HubSpot/Zoho | Tier 2 (~5-6%)[CRM Market Share, Size & Buyer Trends Report - HG Insights](https://hginsights.com/resource/crm-market-share-report/) | Midmarket scalability | N/A |
### Best Products and Services
Top enterprise CRMs: **Salesforce** (#1 for large businesses, complex workflows), **Microsoft Dynami [...]
December 30, 2025
[...] # Best Products and Services
Top enterprise CRMs: **Salesforce** (#1 for large businesses, complex workflows), **Microsoft Dynamics 365**, **Oracle CX Cloud** (superior marketing/CPQ).[Top 10 Large CRMs In 2025 - ElevatIQ](https://www.elevatiq.com/post/top-large-crms/) Midmarket: **HubSpot CRM**, **Zoho CRM**.[The Top CRM Vendors to Consider in 2025 - CX Today](https://www.cxtoday.com/crm/the-top-crm-software-vendors-in-2025-what-makes-each-one-enterprise-ready/)[Top 10 Large CRMs In 2025 - ElevatIQ](https://www.elevatiq.com/post/top-large-crms/) AI standouts: Salesforce Einstein GPT, Microsoft Co [...]
December 30, 2025
[...] [The Top CRM Vendors to Consider in 2025 - CX Today](https://www.cxtoday.com/crm/the-top-crm-software-vendors-in-2025-what-makes-each-one-enterprise-ready/)[Top 10 Large CRMs In 2025 - ElevatIQ](https://www.elevatiq.com/post/top-large-crms/) AI standouts: Salesforce Einstein GPT, Microsoft Copilot, Zoho Zia (ChatGPT-powered), Oracle/SAP AI for predictions/automation—boosting sales accuracy 40%+.[Top CRM Statistics You Need To Know In 2025 - SellersCommerce](https://www.sellerscommerce.com/blog/crm-statistics/)[CRM Statistics and Market Insights for 2025 - Kixie](https://www.kixie.com/sales-blog/cr [...]
December 30, 2025
[...] .com/crm/the-top-crm-software-vendors-in-2025-what-makes-each-one-enterprise-ready/)[Top 10 Large CRMs In 2025 - ElevatIQ](https://www.elevatiq.com/post/top-large-crms/)
### Key Companies and Providers
Core providers: Salesforce, Microsoft, SAP, Oracle, Adobe (3.4% share, fastest growth), HubSpot, Zoho, ServiceNow, Pegasystems, NetSuite, Sage.[Top CRM Statistics You Need To Know In 2025 - SellersCommerce](https://www.sellerscommerce.com/blog/crm-statistics/)[The Top CRM Vendors to Consider in 2025 - CX Today](https://www.cxtoday.com/crm/the-top-crm-software-vendors-in-2025-what-makes-each-one-ent [...]
December 30, 2025
What are the best CRM Software options available today? Please provide a comprehensive overview including: the leading brands and products, top companies and service providers, recognized experts and thought leaders, promising startups and new market entrants, major industry events and conferences, active communities and forums, and influential publications and media covering this space.
[...] keting automation integration
### 3. **Microsoft Dynamics 365**
[Microsoft Dynamics 365](https://dynamics.microsoft.com) integrates deeply with Microsoft's ecosystem (Office 365, Teams, Outlook).
- Strong for enterprise customers
- AI-powered insights
- Excellent integration capabilities
### 4. **Zoho CRM**
[Zoho CRM](https://www.zoho.com/crm/) provides affordable, feature-rich CRM for businesses of all sizes.
- Competitive pricing
- Extensive customization
- Part of larger Zoho suite
### 5. **Pipedrive**
[Pipedrive](https://www.pipedrive.com) focuses on sales pipeline management with an intuit [...]
December 30, 2025
[...] ation integration
### 3. **Microsoft Dynamics 365**
[Microsoft Dynamics 365](https://dynamics.microsoft.com) integrates deeply with Microsoft's ecosystem (Office 365, Teams, Outlook).
- Strong for enterprise customers
- AI-powered insights
- Excellent integration capabilities
### 4. **Zoho CRM**
[Zoho CRM](https://www.zoho.com/crm/) provides affordable, feature-rich CRM for businesses of all sizes.
- Competitive pricing
- Extensive customization
- Part of larger Zoho suite
### 5. **Pipedrive**
[Pipedrive](https://www.pipedrive.com) focuses on sales pipeline management with an intuitive visual i [...]
December 30, 2025
[...] eams, Outlook).
- Strong for enterprise customers
- AI-powered insights
- Excellent integration capabilities
### 4. **Zoho CRM**
[Zoho CRM](https://www.zoho.com/crm/) provides affordable, feature-rich CRM for businesses of all sizes.
- Competitive pricing
- Extensive customization
- Part of larger Zoho suite
### 5. **Pipedrive**
[Pipedrive](https://www.pipedrive.com) focuses on sales pipeline management with an intuitive visual interface.
- Sales-focused
- User-friendly interface
- Strong mobile app
### 6. **Freshsales (Freshworks)**
[Freshsales](https://www.freshworks.com/crm/sales/) offers AI [...]
If I'm looking to get into CRM Software, who and what should I know about? Include the most trusted brands, recommended products and services, reputable companies and providers, influential experts and reviewers to follow, helpful communities and resources, important events and conferences, notable startups disrupting the space, and key publications and media channels to stay informed.
[...] or small to medium businesses with a robust free tier
4. **[Oracle NetSuite CRM](https://www.netsuite.com/portal/products/crm.shtml)** - Enterprise-level CRM with ERP integration
5. **[SAP Customer Experience](https://www.sap.com/products/crm.html)** - Comprehensive enterprise CRM solution
6. **[Zoho CRM](https://www.zoho.com/crm/)** - Affordable, feature-rich option for businesses of all sizes
### Mid-Market Solutions
7. **[Pipedrive](https://www.pipedrive.com/)** - Sales-focused CRM known for visual pipeline management
8. **[Freshsales](https://www.freshworks.com/crm/sales/)** (by Freshwor [...]
December 30, 2025
[...] insights
2. **[CRM Magazine Newsletter](https://www.destinationcrm.com/Newsletter)** - Industry news and trends
3. **[Really Good Emails](https://reallygoodemails.com/)** - Email marketing examples (relevant for CRM campaigns)
4. **Subscribe to individual vendor blogs** from Salesforce, HubSpot, Zoho, etc.
## Key Considerations When Choosing CRM
- **Company size and growth projections**
- **Industry-specific needs**
- **Integration requirements** (email, marketing automation, accounting)
- **Budget and pricing model** (per user, tiered, enterprise)
- **Customization needs**
- **Mobile accessi [...]
December 30, 2025
What does the CRM Software industry look like right now? Identify the dominant market leaders and brands, best products and services, key companies and providers, influential figures and thought leaders, emerging startups and trends, major conferences and events, active professional communities, and the top publications and media that cover this industry.
[...] osoft.com](https://dynamics.microsoft.com)
- Strong integration with Microsoft ecosystem
- Second largest CRM provider globally
3. **HubSpot** - [https://www.hubspot.com](https://www.hubspot.com)
- Leader in inbound marketing and SMB CRM
- Known for freemium model and ease of use
4. **Zoho CRM** - [https://www.zoho.com/crm](https://www.zoho.com/crm)
- Popular among small to mid-sized businesses
- Part of larger Zoho suite of business applications
5. **SAP Customer Experience** - [https://www.sap.com/products/crm.html](https://www.sap.com/products/crm.html)
- Strong in enter [...]
December 30, 2025
[...] s.microsoft.com)
- Strong integration with Microsoft ecosystem
- Second largest CRM provider globally
3. **HubSpot** - [https://www.hubspot.com](https://www.hubspot.com)
- Leader in inbound marketing and SMB CRM
- Known for freemium model and ease of use
4. **Zoho CRM** - [https://www.zoho.com/crm](https://www.zoho.com/crm)
- Popular among small to mid-sized businesses
- Part of larger Zoho suite of business applications
5. **SAP Customer Experience** - [https://www.sap.com/products/crm.html](https://www.sap.com/products/crm.html)
- Strong in enterprise market
- Formerly [...]
December 30, 2025
[...] 3. **HubSpot** - [https://www.hubspot.com](https://www.hubspot.com)
- Leader in inbound marketing and SMB CRM
- Known for freemium model and ease of use
4. **Zoho CRM** - [https://www.zoho.com/crm](https://www.zoho.com/crm)
- Popular among small to mid-sized businesses
- Part of larger Zoho suite of business applications
5. **SAP Customer Experience** - [https://www.sap.com/products/crm.html](https://www.sap.com/products/crm.html)
- Strong in enterprise market
- Formerly SAP C/4HANA
6. **Oracle CX Cloud** - [https://www.oracle.com/cx](https://www.oracle.com/cx)
- Comprehens [...]
December 30, 2025
[...] ervice and CRM focus
8. **MarTech Conference** - [https://martechconf.com](https://martechconf.com)
- Marketing technology including CRM
9. **SalesLoft's Revenue Summit** - [https://salesloft.com](https://salesloft.com)
- Sales engagement and CRM integration
10. **Zoholics** - [https://www.zoho.com/zoholics](https://www.zoho.com/zoholics)
- Zoho's user conference
## Professional Communities and Networks
### Online Communities
1. **Salesforce Trailblazer Community** - [https://trailblazer.salesforce.com/en/community](https://trailblazer.salesforce.com/en/community)
- Official Sal [...]
December 30, 2025
[...] ://martechconf.com](https://martechconf.com)
- Marketing technology including CRM
9. **SalesLoft's Revenue Summit** - [https://salesloft.com](https://salesloft.com)
- Sales engagement and CRM integration
10. **Zoholics** - [https://www.zoho.com/zoholics](https://www.zoho.com/zoholics)
- Zoho's user conference
## Professional Communities and Networks
### Online Communities
1. **Salesforce Trailblazer Community** - [https://trailblazer.salesforce.com/en/community](https://trailblazer.salesforce.com/en/community)
- Official Salesforce community
- Forums, events, and resources
2. [...]
December 30, 2025
What are the best CRM Software options available today? Please provide a comprehensive overview including: the leading brands and products, top companies and service providers, recognized experts and thought leaders, promising startups and new market entrants, major industry events and conferences, active communities and forums, and influential publications and media covering this space.
[...] d-market / SMB “workhorse” CRMs (fast deployment, strong core sales)
- [HubSpot CRM](https://www.hubspot.com/products/crm) — very strong for inbound/marketing-led growth and ease of use; partner ecosystem via the [HubSpot Solutions Directory](https://ecosystem.hubspot.com/marketplace/solutions).
- [Zoho CRM](https://www.zoho.com/crm/) — broad suite value; integrations via [Zoho Marketplace](https://marketplace.zoho.com/).
- [Pipedrive](https://www.pipedrive.com/) — pipeline-focused and lightweight; add-ons via [Pipedrive Marketplace](https://www.pipedrive.com/en/marketplace).
- [Freshsales](https: [...]
December 30, 2025
[...] pot CRM](https://www.hubspot.com/products/crm) — very strong for inbound/marketing-led growth and ease of use; partner ecosystem via the [HubSpot Solutions Directory](https://ecosystem.hubspot.com/marketplace/solutions).
- [Zoho CRM](https://www.zoho.com/crm/) — broad suite value; integrations via [Zoho Marketplace](https://marketplace.zoho.com/).
- [Pipedrive](https://www.pipedrive.com/) — pipeline-focused and lightweight; add-ons via [Pipedrive Marketplace](https://www.pipedrive.com/en/marketplace).
- [Freshsales](https://www.freshworks.com/crm/sales/) (Freshworks) — good value with built-in com [...]
If I'm looking to get into CRM Software, who and what should I know about? Include the most trusted brands, recommended products and services, reputable companies and providers, influential experts and reviewers to follow, helpful communities and resources, important events and conferences, notable startups disrupting the space, and key publications and media channels to stay informed.
[...] s://www.oracle.com/cx/) — large enterprise CX suite.
- [SAP Customer Experience](https://www.sap.com/products/crm.html) — suite approach, common in SAP shops.
### SMB / mid-market standouts
- [HubSpot CRM](https://www.hubspot.com/products/crm) — fast time-to-value, strong marketing + CRM combo.
- [Zoho CRM](https://www.zoho.com/crm/) — broad suite value, flexible for SMBs.
- [Pipedrive](https://www.pipedrive.com/) — sales pipeline simplicity.
- [Freshsales](https://www.freshworks.com/freshsales-crm/) (by [Freshworks](https://www.freshworks.com/)) — SMB-friendly CRM with support-suite adjacency.
- [...]
December 30, 2025
[...] Spot Academy](https://academy.hubspot.com/)
- If you expect Microsoft environments: [Microsoft Learn](https://learn.microsoft.com/)
### If you’re choosing a CRM for a small team (typical “first CRM”)
- [HubSpot CRM](https://www.hubspot.com/products/crm)
- [Pipedrive](https://www.pipedrive.com/)
- [Zoho CRM](https://www.zoho.com/crm/)
- [Freshsales](https://www.freshworks.com/freshsales-crm/)
### If you’re choosing a CRM for a larger org (governance + integrations)
- [Salesforce](https://www.salesforce.com/)
- [Microsoft Dynamics 365](https://dynamics.microsoft.com/)
- [Oracle CX](https://www.ora [...]
December 30, 2025
[...] Source](https://appsource.microsoft.com/) and partner info via [Microsoft Partner Network](https://partner.microsoft.com/)
- HubSpot partners & apps: [HubSpot Solutions Partner Program](https://www.hubspot.com/partners) and [HubSpot App Marketplace](https://ecosystem.hubspot.com/marketplace/apps)
- Zoho apps: [Zoho Marketplace](https://marketplace.zoho.com/)
---
## 5) Influential experts, analysts, and reviewers to follow
CRM-focused thinkers:
- [Paul Greenberg](https://www.paulgreenberg.com/) (CRM author/analyst)
- [Brent Leary](https://crmassentials.com/) (CRM Essentials)
- [Denis Pombriant](h [...]
December 30, 2025
[...] s://appsource.microsoft.com/) and partner info via [Microsoft Partner Network](https://partner.microsoft.com/)
- HubSpot partners & apps: [HubSpot Solutions Partner Program](https://www.hubspot.com/partners) and [HubSpot App Marketplace](https://ecosystem.hubspot.com/marketplace/apps)
- Zoho apps: [Zoho Marketplace](https://marketplace.zoho.com/)
---
## 5) Influential experts, analysts, and reviewers to follow
CRM-focused thinkers:
- [Paul Greenberg](https://www.paulgreenberg.com/) (CRM author/analyst)
- [Brent Leary](https://crmassentials.com/) (CRM Essentials)
- [Denis Pombriant](https://beagl [...]
December 30, 2025
What does the CRM Software industry look like right now? Identify the dominant market leaders and brands, best products and services, key companies and providers, influential figures and thought leaders, emerging startups and trends, major conferences and events, active professional communities, and the top publications and media that cover this industry.
[...] s://ecosystem.hubspot.com/marketplace)
- **Oracle CX** (enterprise CX/CRM stack): [Oracle Customer Experience (CX)](https://www.oracle.com/cx/)
- **SAP Customer Experience (CX)** (enterprise suite, common in SAP-heavy orgs): [SAP CRM / Customer Experience](https://www.sap.com/products/crm.html)
- **Zoho CRM** (value-focused suite with broad business app portfolio): [Zoho CRM](https://www.zoho.com/crm/), [Zoho Marketplace](https://marketplace.zoho.com/)
Other widely adopted CRM vendors (often strongest in specific segments or regions):
- **Freshworks (Freshsales)**: [Freshsales CRM](https://www.fr [...]
December 30, 2025
[...] /CRM stack): [Oracle Customer Experience (CX)](https://www.oracle.com/cx/)
- **SAP Customer Experience (CX)** (enterprise suite, common in SAP-heavy orgs): [SAP CRM / Customer Experience](https://www.sap.com/products/crm.html)
- **Zoho CRM** (value-focused suite with broad business app portfolio): [Zoho CRM](https://www.zoho.com/crm/), [Zoho Marketplace](https://marketplace.zoho.com/)
Other widely adopted CRM vendors (often strongest in specific segments or regions):
- **Freshworks (Freshsales)**: [Freshsales CRM](https://www.freshworks.com/crm/sales/)
- **Pipedrive** (sales-focused SMB CRM): [Pi [...]
December 30, 2025
[...] e (CX)](https://www.oracle.com/cx/)
- **SAP Customer Experience (CX)** (enterprise suite, common in SAP-heavy orgs): [SAP CRM / Customer Experience](https://www.sap.com/products/crm.html)
- **Zoho CRM** (value-focused suite with broad business app portfolio): [Zoho CRM](https://www.zoho.com/crm/), [Zoho Marketplace](https://marketplace.zoho.com/)
Other widely adopted CRM vendors (often strongest in specific segments or regions):
- **Freshworks (Freshsales)**: [Freshsales CRM](https://www.freshworks.com/crm/sales/)
- **Pipedrive** (sales-focused SMB CRM): [Pipedrive](https://www.pipedrive.com/)
- [...]
[...] & AI-assisted selling/service**
Examples of official AI product lines:
- [Salesforce Einstein](https://www.salesforce.com/products/einstein/overview/)
- [Microsoft Copilot](https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-copilot)
- [HubSpot AI](https://www.hubspot.com/artificial-intelligence)
- [Zoho Zia](https://www.zoho.com/zia/)
- [Freshworks Freddy AI](https://www.freshworks.com/freddy-ai/)
2) **Data unification + activation** (CRM + CDP + warehouse patterns)
Source: [Customer data platform](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Customer_data_platform)
3) **Low-code customization** to reduce [...]
December 30, 2025
What are the best CRM Software options available today? Please provide a comprehensive overview including: the leading brands and products, top companies and service providers, recognized experts and thought leaders, promising startups and new market entrants, major industry events and conferences, active communities and forums, and influential publications and media covering this space.
[...] tomer Experience (CX)**: Comprehensive enterprise suite focused on data-driven customer journeys. [Oracle CX](https://www.oracle.com/cx/)
* **SAP Customer Experience**: Preferred by large global organizations already using SAP’s ERP solutions. [SAP CX](https://www.sap.com/products/crm.html)
* **Zoho CRM**: Highly rated for affordability and its broad suite of business tools for SMEs. [Zoho CRM](https://www.zoho.com/crm/)
### 2. Promising Startups and New Market Entrants
These moving players focus on "Modern CRM"—emphasizing automation, AI, and niche-specific workflows.
* **Attio**: A data- [...]
December 30, 2025
[...] neys. [Oracle CX](https://www.oracle.com/cx/)
* **SAP Customer Experience**: Preferred by large global organizations already using SAP’s ERP solutions. [SAP CX](https://www.sap.com/products/crm.html)
* **Zoho CRM**: Highly rated for affordability and its broad suite of business tools for SMEs. [Zoho CRM](https://www.zoho.com/crm/)
### 2. Promising Startups and New Market Entrants
These moving players focus on "Modern CRM"—emphasizing automation, AI, and niche-specific workflows.
* **Attio**: A data-driven CRM that allows for massive customization and automated data syncing. [Attio](https:/ [...]
December 30, 2025
If I'm looking to get into CRM Software, who and what should I know about? Include the most trusted brands, recommended products and services, reputable companies and providers, influential experts and reviewers to follow, helpful communities and resources, important events and conferences, notable startups disrupting the space, and key publications and media channels to stay informed.
[...] enowned for its ease of use and "Inbound Marketing" integration. [HubSpot CRM](https://www.hubspot.com/products/crm)
* **Microsoft Dynamics 365:** The go-to for organizations already heavily invested in the Microsoft/Azure ecosystem. [Microsoft Dynamics 365](https://dynamics.microsoft.com/)
* **Zoho CRM:** A highly affordable, feature-rich alternative that is popular with small businesses and global startups. [Zoho CRM](https://www.zoho.com/crm/)
* **Pipedrive:** A sales-focused CRM designed specifically for "activity-based" selling and visual pipelines. [Pipedrive](https://www.pipedrive.com [...]
December 30, 2025
[...] **Microsoft Dynamics 365:** The go-to for organizations already heavily invested in the Microsoft/Azure ecosystem. [Microsoft Dynamics 365](https://dynamics.microsoft.com/)
* **Zoho CRM:** A highly affordable, feature-rich alternative that is popular with small businesses and global startups. [Zoho CRM](https://www.zoho.com/crm/)
* **Pipedrive:** A sales-focused CRM designed specifically for "activity-based" selling and visual pipelines. [Pipedrive](https://www.pipedrive.com/)
* **Zendesk Sell:** Originally "Base CRM," this focus is on integrating sales with customer support. [Zendesk Sel [...]
December 30, 2025
What does the CRM Software industry look like right now? Identify the dominant market leaders and brands, best products and services, key companies and providers, influential figures and thought leaders, emerging startups and trends, major conferences and events, active professional communities, and the top publications and media that cover this industry.
[...] eds (Sales vs. Support).
* **Best for Scaling Startups:** [HubSpot CRM](https://www.hubspot.com/products/crm)
* **Best for Sales Teams:** [Pipedrive](https://www.pipedrive.com)
* **Best for Creative/Project Teams:** [Monday.com CRM](https://monday.com/crm)
* **Best for Small Businesses:** [Zoho CRM](https://www.zoho.com/crm/)
* **Best for Customer Support:** [Zendesk](https://www.zendesk.com)
### 3. Key Companies and Providers
Beyond the "Big Five," these providers offer specialized or highly competitive platforms.
* **Freshworks (Freshsales):** Known for its intuitive UI and ease o [...]
December 30, 2025
What are the best CRM Software options available today? Please provide a comprehensive overview including: the leading brands and products, top companies and service providers, recognized experts and thought leaders, promising startups and new market entrants, major industry events and conferences, active communities and forums, and influential publications and media covering this space.
[...] ent) software market is dominated by a few key players, with others excelling in niches like SMBs, enterprises, or sales-focused automation. According to G2's 2024 Grid report for CRM, top-rated options include Salesforce (leader in enterprise), HubSpot (best for inbound marketing integration), and Zoho CRM (value leader for small businesses). [G2 CRM Software Category](https://www.g2.com/categories/crm).
- **Salesforce**: The market leader with comprehensive features for sales, service, marketing, and analytics. Pricing starts at $25/user/month. Official site: [Salesforce](https://www.salesforce [...]
December 30, 2025
[...] tarts at $25/user/month. Official site: [Salesforce](https://www.salesforce.com/products/sales-cloud/overview/).
- **HubSpot CRM**: Free core CRM with scalable paid add-ons for marketing and sales hubs. Ideal for growing teams. Official site: [HubSpot CRM](https://www.hubspot.com/products/crm).
- **Zoho CRM**: Affordable, customizable with AI features (Zia). Starts free for 3 users. Official site: [Zoho CRM](https://www.zoho.com/crm/).
- **Microsoft Dynamics 365 Sales**: Integrates deeply with Microsoft ecosystem (Outlook, Teams). Enterprise-focused. Official site: [Microsoft Dynamics 365 Sales](h [...]
December 30, 2025
[...] verview/).
- **HubSpot CRM**: Free core CRM with scalable paid add-ons for marketing and sales hubs. Ideal for growing teams. Official site: [HubSpot CRM](https://www.hubspot.com/products/crm).
- **Zoho CRM**: Affordable, customizable with AI features (Zia). Starts free for 3 users. Official site: [Zoho CRM](https://www.zoho.com/crm/).
- **Microsoft Dynamics 365 Sales**: Integrates deeply with Microsoft ecosystem (Outlook, Teams). Enterprise-focused. Official site: [Microsoft Dynamics 365 Sales](https://dynamics.microsoft.com/en-us/sales/overview/).
- **Pipedrive**: Sales pipeline-focused, visual [...]
December 30, 2025
[...] zer Community](https://trailhead.salesforce.com/trailblazercommunity).
- **HubSpot Community**: Forums and Academy. [HubSpot Community](https://community.hubspot.com/).
- **Reddit**: r/CRM ([r/CRM](https://www.reddit.com/r/CRM/)), r/sales ([r/sales](https://www.reddit.com/r/sales/)), r/HubSpot.
- **Zoho Community**: User forums. [Zoho Community](https://community.zoho.com/crm).
- **G2 Community**: Reviews and Q&A. [G2 Community](https://www.g2.com/discover).
Slack/Discord: Sales Stack Slack via [Sales Stack Community](https://salesstack.co/).
### Influential Publications and Media
Sources for t [...]
December 30, 2025
[...] .salesforce.com/trailblazercommunity).
- **HubSpot Community**: Forums and Academy. [HubSpot Community](https://community.hubspot.com/).
- **Reddit**: r/CRM ([r/CRM](https://www.reddit.com/r/CRM/)), r/sales ([r/sales](https://www.reddit.com/r/sales/)), r/HubSpot.
- **Zoho Community**: User forums. [Zoho Community](https://community.zoho.com/crm).
- **G2 Community**: Reviews and Q&A. [G2 Community](https://www.g2.com/discover).
Slack/Discord: Sales Stack Slack via [Sales Stack Community](https://salesstack.co/).
### Influential Publications and Media
Sources for trends, reviews, benchmarks:
- ** [...]
December 30, 2025
If I'm looking to get into CRM Software, who and what should I know about? Include the most trusted brands, recommended products and services, reputable companies and providers, influential experts and reviewers to follow, helpful communities and resources, important events and conferences, notable startups disrupting the space, and key publications and media channels to stay informed.
[...] site: [HubSpot](https://www.hubspot.com/products/crm).
- **Microsoft Dynamics 365**: Strong integration with Microsoft ecosystem (e.g., Office 365, Teams). Best for enterprises already on Microsoft stack. Official site: [Dynamics 365 Sales](https://dynamics.microsoft.com/en-us/sales/overview/).
- **Zoho CRM**: Affordable, customizable for SMBs with strong multichannel support. Official site: [Zoho CRM](https://www.zoho.com/crm/).
- **Pipedrive**: Sales-focused with visual pipelines; great for sales teams. Official site: [Pipedrive](https://www.pipedrive.com/).
For comparisons:
- [G2 CRM Grid Repo [...]
December 30, 2025
[...] gration with Microsoft ecosystem (e.g., Office 365, Teams). Best for enterprises already on Microsoft stack. Official site: [Dynamics 365 Sales](https://dynamics.microsoft.com/en-us/sales/overview/).
- **Zoho CRM**: Affordable, customizable for SMBs with strong multichannel support. Official site: [Zoho CRM](https://www.zoho.com/crm/).
- **Pipedrive**: Sales-focused with visual pipelines; great for sales teams. Official site: [Pipedrive](https://www.pipedrive.com/).
For comparisons:
- [G2 CRM Grid Report](https://www.g2.com/categories/crm) (user reviews, leader quadrant).
- [Forrester Wave: CRM S [...]
December 30, 2025
What does the CRM Software industry look like right now? Identify the dominant market leaders and brands, best products and services, key companies and providers, influential figures and thought leaders, emerging startups and trends, major conferences and events, active professional communities, and the top publications and media that cover this industry.
[...] ound marketing CRM; free tier popular. Official site: [HubSpot](https://www.hubspot.com/). Leader/Challenger in [Gartner's 2024 Magic Quadrant for CRM for Sales](https://www.gartner.com/en/documents/4516268).
- Other key players: **Zendesk** (service-focused, [Zendesk](https://www.zendesk.com/)), **Zoho CRM** (affordable all-in-one, [Zoho CRM](https://www.zoho.com/crm/)), **Pipedrive** (sales pipelines, [Pipedrive](https://www.pipedrive.com/)).
**Best Products/Services** (based on user reviews and leaderboards):
- Top-rated on [G2's CRM Grid](https://www.g2.com/categories/crm) (Fall 2024): Salesf [...]
December 30, 2025
[...] r. Official site: [HubSpot](https://www.hubspot.com/). Leader/Challenger in [Gartner's 2024 Magic Quadrant for CRM for Sales](https://www.gartner.com/en/documents/4516268).
- Other key players: **Zendesk** (service-focused, [Zendesk](https://www.zendesk.com/)), **Zoho CRM** (affordable all-in-one, [Zoho CRM](https://www.zoho.com/crm/)), **Pipedrive** (sales pipelines, [Pipedrive](https://www.pipedrive.com/)).
**Best Products/Services** (based on user reviews and leaderboards):
- Top-rated on [G2's CRM Grid](https://www.g2.com/categories/crm) (Fall 2024): Salesforce, HubSpot, Zoho CRM, Pipedrive. [...]
December 30, 2025
[...] ble all-in-one, [Zoho CRM](https://www.zoho.com/crm/)), **Pipedrive** (sales pipelines, [Pipedrive](https://www.pipedrive.com/)).
**Best Products/Services** (based on user reviews and leaderboards):
- Top-rated on [G2's CRM Grid](https://www.g2.com/categories/crm) (Fall 2024): Salesforce, HubSpot, Zoho CRM, Pipedrive.
- [Capterra's CRM Reviews](https://www.capterra.com/customer-relationship-management-software/): Leaders include Freshsales by Freshworks ([Freshworks](https://www.freshworks.com/crm/)), monday sales CRM ([monday.com](https://monday.com/sales)).
- Comparison sites: [G2 CRM Compariso [...]