11 Best ServiceNow Alternatives 2024

Discover the top 11 ServiceNow alternatives for 2024 with real user reviews, pricing info and feature comparisons. Find the best help desk solution.
Sophie Liu
October 22, 2024
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Choosing the right IT service management platform can make a world of difference for your business's workflow and efficiency. With so many options available, sifting through each one to determine the perfect fit is a mentally grueling and time-consuming task. 

Fret not. We’re here to help! Think of this blog as your trusty sidekick in exploring the top ServiceNow alternatives to transform your IT operations.

Ready? Let’s begin!

Reasons to Look for a ServiceNow Alternative

You’re here with one of two goals in mind:

  1. You want to find a more suitable IT service management tool for your business needs.
  2. You're looking to cut costs or improve functionalities with a different platform.

Here are reasons to look for a ServiceNow alternative:

Cost - ServiceNow can be pricey, especially for small to medium-sized businesses. Alternative platforms often provide more affordable options without compromising on core features.

Complexity - ServiceNow's extensive range of features can sometimes be overwhelming. If you need a simpler, more user-friendly interface, other tools might serve you better.

Customization Needs - ServiceNow allows for customization, but it can be difficult and require specialized knowledge. Other platforms might offer more intuitive options for tailoring the software to your needs.

Customer Support - At times, ServiceNow's customer support might not meet expectations. Alternatives can offer better customer service experiences with faster response times and actionable solutions.

Our Top Picks 

1. FieldEx

FieldEx stands out as a top-tier alternative to ServiceNow, offering a comprehensive suite of features designed to digitize and automate manual tasks. This all-in-one platform is a powerful solution for businesses aiming to enhance operational efficiency. With smart scheduling, digital signatures, centralized spare parts tracking, automated inspection checklists, fully automated workflows, and real-time data access, FieldEx covers all the bases.

Key Features
  • All-In-One Platform: Consolidation of diverse data streams into one dashboard, boosting operational efficiency.
  • Smart Scheduling: Matches the best field agents to tasks based on their skills, availability and location.
  • Automated Inspection Checklists: Dynamically set up inspection checklists specific to equipment type for thorough inspections, reducing the risk of overlooking safety issues.
  • Automated Mileage Tracking: Automatically tracks distances between jobs with start/end journey features, making mileage claims more accurate and much simpler.
  • SLA Performance Tracking: Centralized management of SLA contracts ensures deadlines are met with a notable improvement in meeting service deadlines.
  • Digital Signatures: Allows customers to sign off on work orders electronically.
  • Equipment & Spare Parts Inventory Management: Enables precise asset/spare parts tracking with mobile insights. 
  • Warranty Management: Easily checks if repairs are under warranty.
  • Contracts & SLA Management: Simplify the management of contracts and service level agreements (SLAs) on one convenient platform. 
  • Preventive Maintenance: Plans and schedules maintenance to avoid downtime.
Pros
  • Easy-to-use mobile app
  • Efficient task assignment
  • Easy digital sign-offs
  • Detailed spare part tracking
  • Real-time Data & Analytics
  • Seamless integration with other software, CRM and ERP systems
  • Scalability
Cons
  • Initial setup time
  • Learning curve for new users
  • Subscription cost

Pricing: Starts at $25 per user per month

Compared to ServiceNow, FieldEx provides a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing quality or features, making it an attractive choice for businesses looking to optimize their budget. The platform is also built to scale, accommodating the growth of small companies and large enterprises alike, while providing consistent performance and support.

In addition, FieldEx offers excellent customer support and training resources, ensuring a smooth transition and ongoing success with the platform. These factors combine to make FieldEx a compelling alternative to ServiceNow, providing a powerful, versatile and user-friendly field service management solution. Check out FieldEx now and find the right plan for your business! 

2. Jira Service Management

Jira Service Management is a robust IT service management tool created by Atlassian. It's designed to help IT teams log, track and resolve incidents. With an intuitive interface, it supports ITIL practices.

Key Features
  • Incident Management: Quickly address and resolve issues.
  • Change Management: Manage changes with minimal risk.
  • Asset Management: Track assets easily.
Pros
  • User-friendly interface
  • Seamless integration with Jira
  • Strong community support
Cons
  • Limited out-of-the-box features
  • Steep learning curve for newbies
  • Higher cost for premium features

Pricing: Starts at $7.16 per user per month

Jira Service Management offers tiered pricing based on team size. Plans start with a free tier, suitable for small teams. Enterprise pricing is available for larger organizations. For more details, visit Jira Service Management

3. Zoho Desk

Zoho Desk is customer service software that offers a seamless support experience. It helps you manage and resolve customer inquiries efficiently with its wide range of features.

Key Features
  • Omnichannel communication for seamless customer interactions.
  • Automation of repetitive tasks to increase efficiency.
  • AI-powered tools for enhanced customer support.
Pros
  • Omnichannel support
  • AI-powered responses
  • Context-aware help desk
Cons
  • Less intuitive UI
  • Limited customization
  • Steep learning curve

Pricing: Starts at $20 per month

Zoho Desk offers multiple pricing plans to fit different business sizes, starting with a free version for small teams. Higher-tier plans come with more advanced features and support. It also integrates seamlessly with other Zoho products, making it a reasonable choice for those already using Zoho tools.

To assess how Zoho Desk fits into your customer service strategy, visit their website.

4. Zendesk

Zendesk is a user-friendly customer service platform known for its powerful service desk tools. It's geared toward enhancing customer interactions and streamlining support processes with ease.

With Zendesk, you get a wealth of features designed to improve your customer support experience. These include ticketing, knowledge base management and live chat functionalities, helping you stay on top of customer needs efficiently.

Key Features
  • Integrated ticketing system for efficient issue tracking.
  • Multi-channel support including email, chat, and social media.
  • Advanced analytics and reporting for performance insights.
Pros
  • Easy to use
  • Robust ticketing system
  • Great integration capabilities
Cons
  • Can get pricey
  • Limited customization
  • Occasional performance issues

Pricing: Starts at $55 per month

Zendesk is suitable for businesses of all sizes but shines particularly for customer support-focused teams. Its pricing varies based on tiers, starting with a basic offering and scaling up with more advanced features.

To learn more about why Zendesk might be a great fit for your team, visit Zendesk.

5. SysAid

SysAid is a solid option for IT service management. It offers a range of features designed to help you manage your IT infrastructure efficiently.

SysAid provides a customizable dashboard, allowing you to monitor various IT tasks. Its asset management feature lets you keep track of your IT assets in real time. Additionally, the automation of repetitive tasks can save you time and reduce human error.

Key Features
  • Automated ticket routing and prioritization.
  • Comprehensive asset management and tracking.
  • End-user self-service portal for quick resolutions.
Pros
  • Highly customizable dashboard
  • Effective asset management
  • Automation of repetitive tasks
Cons
  • Interface can feel outdated
  • Limited third-party integrations
  • Occasional performance lags

Pricing: Undisclosed

SysAid offers various pricing plans, making it accessible for businesses of different sizes. You can explore more about SysAid through their official website or compare it with other tools on G2.

6. Spiceworks

Spiceworks is a popular IT management tool that offers a range of features, making it a strong competitor to ServiceNow. Its primary appeal lies in its easy-to-use interface and affordability, especially for small to mid-sized businesses.

Spiceworks provides a comprehensive help desk software that simplifies ticket management. It also integrates network management tools, allowing you to monitor your IT infrastructure efficiently. The platform is especially useful for organizations looking to streamline their IT operations without breaking the bank.

Key Features
  • Free help desk software for IT support.
  • Network monitoring and inventory management.
  • User-friendly ticketing system with email integration.
Pros
  • Free basic version
  • User-friendly interface
  • Strong community support
Cons
  • Limited advanced features
  • Slower performance at times
  • Basic version lacks customization

Pricing: Undisclosed 

For more advanced features, you may want to explore their premium options on their website. Spiceworks also hosts the SpiceWorld Conference, attracting tech enthusiasts and industry experts annually.

7. HappyFox

HappyFox is a versatile help desk solution designed for businesses of all sizes. It offers a range of features to streamline customer support, making it a strong contender among ServiceNow alternatives. The platform is known for its user-friendly interface and robust functionality.

HappyFox offers an intuitive dashboard that helps you manage support tickets efficiently. It supports multiple channels including email, live chat, phone and social media, ensuring comprehensive customer interaction.

Key Features
  • Ticketing System: Organize and prioritize tickets easily.
  • Live Chat Support: Provide real-time assistance to customers.
  • Knowledge Base: Create a library of FAQs for self-service.
Pros
  • Clean and simple interface
  • Multi-channel support
  • Customizable workflows
Cons
  • Limited reporting capabilities
  • Higher pricing for advanced plans
  • No free tier

Pricing: Undisclosed

You can start with their basic plan and scale up as your business grows. To learn more about HappyFox, visit their website

8. BMC Helix

BMC Helix is an advanced IT service management (ITSM) platform designed to streamline IT operations. It offers robust features that integrate seamlessly with various third-party solutions.

BMC Helix stands out with its powerful automation and AI-driven capabilities. It simplifies complex workflows and enhances productivity by reducing manual tasks.

It also provides comprehensive reporting tools, allowing better tracking and analysis of IT performance.

Pros
  • Powerful automation
  • AI-driven capabilities
  • Comprehensive reporting tools

Cons

  • Complex setup
  • Higher cost
  • Requires training

Pricing: Undisclosed

Pricing for BMC Helix varies based on your organization's needs and chosen features. The platform supports multiple integrated sales channels, making it a versatile choice for different business environments.

Explore more features and benefits by visiting BMC Helix ITSM.

9. SolarWinds Service Desk

SolarWinds Service Desk is a robust and user-friendly IT service management tool. It's designed for ease of use, quick deployment and efficient support.

Perfect for businesses of all sizes, it integrates seamlessly with your current systems.

Key Features
  • Ticketing system to manage requests
  • Incident management to resolve issues quickly
  • Change management to handle updates and modifications
Pros
  • Easy to set up
  • Affordable pricing plans
  • High-quality customer support
Cons
  • Limited customization options
  • Requires initial training
  • Occasional software glitches

Pricing: Starts at $39 per month 

You can also start with a free trial to see if it suits your needs. SolarWinds Service Desk integrates with several sales channels and platforms, making it a versatile choice. Interested? Check out their website.

10. TOPdesk

TOPdesk is a versatile service management solution known for its user-friendly interface and strong customer support. It provides a range of features designed to enhance service delivery and streamline operations across various IT and business functions.

Key Features
  • Incident Management: Efficiently handle and resolve incidents with a centralized ticketing system.
  • Change Management: Manage and track changes with automated workflows and approval processes.
  • Service Catalog: Offer a structured catalog of services to streamline request management and fulfillment.
Pros
  • Easy to use
  • Customizability
  • Responsive customer support
Cons
  • Limited advanced features
  • Pricing can be on the higher side for smaller organizations
  • Integration capabilities may not be as extensive as others  

Pricing: Undisclosed

TOPdesk is a solid choice for organizations looking for a straightforward and effective service management tool with strong support and user-friendly features. To explore further, get on to their official website.

11. Ivanti Service Manager

Ivanti Service Manager is a robust IT service management (ITSM) tool designed to streamline and automate your IT operations. It offers a user-friendly interface, making it accessible for both technical and non-technical users.

Ivanti's comprehensive features allow you to manage incidents, service requests, and changes with ease. It integrates well with other IT tools, ensuring seamless operations. This makes your workflow smoother and more efficient.

The platform provides advanced analytics, offering insights into your service performance. You can track key metrics and identify areas needing improvement.

Key Features
  •  Manage incidents and service requests with ease
  •  Advanced analytics offer insights into your service performance
  •  Track key metrics and identify areas needing improvement
Pros
  • User-friendly interface
  • Comprehensive ITSM features
  • Strong integration capabilities
Cons
  • Complex initial setup
  • Limited customization options
  • Premium pricing tier

Pricing: $975 per license, based on a third-party source

Ivanti Service Manager is priced competitively, with various tiers based on features. It's available through direct sales and certified partners. For more details, visit their official website.

How To Choose a ServiceNow Alternative

Selecting the right ServiceNow alternative means focusing on ease of use, customization options and integration capabilities.

Ease of Use

You want software that doesn't make you feel like you need a PhD in rocket science just to navigate it. Look for a user-friendly interface that minimizes the learning curve. Simple dashboards and intuitive navigation are your best friends here. Optional training materials or customer support are also vital. A solid help center or quick-start guides can make your transition smoother. Customer reviews can give you insight into real-life usability.

Customization Options

Every business is unique. You'll need software that allows you to tweak features to fit your specific needs. Look for customizable workflows that enable you to modify processes as you see fit. This flexibility is important for adapting to your changing requirements. Check if you can add widgets or tailor the dashboard to focus on the most critical metrics for your operations. This makes the software not just a tool but a perfect fit for your business needs.

Integration Capabilities

You likely use multiple tools and platforms to run your operations smoothly. Therefore, integration capabilities are crucial. The software should seamlessly connect with your existing systems like CRM, email or analytics tools. APIs and pre-built connectors can ease this integration process. Make sure that the alternative can handle data from various sources without glitching or causing disruption. This ensures a smoother workflow and better data management across your platforms.

Understanding Field Service Management Software

Field service management software helps businesses efficiently manage and coordinate field operations. It assists in scheduling, dispatching, tracking and reporting for field service professionals.

What is Field Service Management?

Field Service Management (FSM) is a system for managing company resources employed at or enroute to client locations. These systems support scheduling service orders, managing personnel and tracking the status of field operations.

FSM software typically includes a variety of tools like GPS tracking, mobile access and real-time updates. With these tools, managers can optimize routes, monitor job progress and ensure the timely completion of tasks. This kind of software is especially useful in industries like telecommunications, utilities, and any service-based business where timely and effective on-site service is critical.

Key Benefits of Field Service Management

Improved Efficiency: FSM software streamlines tasks such as job scheduling, employee dispatching and inventory management. This reduces downtime and ensures prompt service delivery.

▶ Enhanced Customer Satisfaction: With accurate scheduling, real-time updates and better communication, your customers receive faster and more reliable service. Providing a good customer experience can lead to stronger client relationships.

▶ Reduced Operational Costs: By optimizing routes and improving resource allocation, FSM software helps cut fuel costs and labor expenses. You’re able to do more with less, and who doesn’t love saving money?

▶ Data-Driven Decisions: The software provides detailed analytics and reporting features. These insights help you make informed decisions regarding workforce management and overall operations. It’s like having a crystal ball for your business.

In Summary

Selecting the right IT service management platform is crucial for enhancing efficiency and streamlining operations in today's fast-paced business environment. Each alternative to ServiceNow offers unique strengths and features tailored to different needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize comprehensive functionality, ease of use or cost-effectiveness, there is a solution that aligns with your specific requirements.

Considering FieldEx instead of ServiceNow for your field service management needs could be a smart move. Why? Let's break down the reasons. 

Choosing FieldEx as a ServiceNow Alternative

Feature-Rich Platform

FieldEx offers a range of features that cater to diverse business needs:

  • Real-time Tracking: Always know where your team is.
  • Automated Workflows: Save time and reduce manual errors.
  • Integrated CRM: Manage customer interactions seamlessly.

These features can drastically improve efficiency in managing your field operations.

Cost-Effective

Money matters, right? With FieldEx, you get a competitive edge without the hefty price tag. FieldEx offers:

  • Affordable Subscription Plans: Tailored to fit various budgets.
  • Lower Maintenance Costs: Less need for constant updates.

This can help you manage finances better and focus more on growing your business.

Flexibility

FieldEx stands out with its adaptability. Here’s how it shines:

  • Customizable Dashboard: Personalize it to display key metrics that matter to you.
  • Scalable Solutions: Grows with your business, whether you have a small team or a large fleet.

This flexibility ensures that FieldEx can adapt to your evolving needs.

Fewer Drawbacks

FieldEx has fewer of the common pitfalls found in other field service management options. You won’t have to deal with:

  • Complex Setup: Simple and user-friendly, get started quickly.
  • Limited Integrations: Works well with numerous other tools out of the box.

Investing time in making a final decision is crucial. A well-chosen platform can streamline workflows, reduce manual effort and empower your team with the tools they need to succeed. Conversely, the wrong choice can lead to inefficiencies and increased operational challenges.

Take your time to explore all available options, engage with demos. Assess how each platform's features and benefits align with your organizational goals and workflows. Making an informed decision will not only enhance your team’s efficiency but also drive better business outcomes by improving service quality, customer satisfaction, and overall performance.

Ultimately, a thoughtful and thorough selection process will pave the way for smoother operations, better resource management, and a more agile response to changing business needs. So, take your time, dig deep, and make the right call to set your organization up for long-term success.

Author for this article:

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Written by

Sophie Liu

Hi there! I'm Sophie Liu from FieldEx. I love finding simple and smart solutions to the tricky problems field service teams face every day. My background in tackling everything from various field service industries helps me write content that's not just easy to read, but useful for improving your business. Whether you're looking to make your day-to-day operations smoother or aiming to grow, I'm here to help with advice that works. Let's make things better together!

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