BARC Scores

The BARC scoring model - software product and vendor reviews that get to the heart of things!

The assessment and classification of business software and its suppliers can often be a complicated task. BARC Score is designed to demystify this process, providing a quick and clear overview of a unique market based on a combination of detailed end-user feedback and thorough analysis of products and vendors by our analysts.

Segments of the BARC Score

Software providers are evaluated on two dimensions, ‘Portfolio Capabilities’ and ‘Market Execution’, each representing an axis on the chart. ‘Portfolio Capabilities’ includes a series of weighted sub-criteria based on functional and technological capabilities, as well as the overall architecture and product satisfaction from an end-user point of view. ‘Market Execution’ takes into account a blend of product, sales and marketing strategy as well as certain organizational, financial and geographical considerations.

Dominators (in the upper right corner of the chart) are vendors that drive both technology and market adoption in a highly influential manner. They are considered a contender in virtually every planned implementation.

Market Leaders are well established vendors that drive strong market adoption, supported by technology innovation and strategic acquisitions and by leveraging robust account management and a solid track record.

Challengers are usually looking to expand into new markets – either through acquisition or via innovative – perhaps even disruptive – technologies or business models. However, they are limited in terms of sales and marketing.

Specialists are smaller suppliers with a product focus on particular market segments. Being a specialist means that you can win over customers with selected features and functionality.

Entrants appear in the lower left corner of the chart. They are relatively new to the market and have yet to make a big impact.

The BARC Score highlights a specific market segment in detail. This means it can be used both as a research product and, with the accompanying software selection advisory services, to create long and short lists.