Look, I’ll be honest: channel partnerships aren’t really my day-to-day jam.
I’m a marketer through and through, crafting campaigns and driving leads. But working closely with our partnerships team for their channel partners' campaigns, I hear their wins and struggles all the time. And let me tell you, their pain points sound all too familiar.
Tracking leads and partner performance? A mess. Communicating across teams? Chaos. Scaling? Nearly impossible. It’s like herding cats—except some are in different time zones, clinging to spreadsheets and occasionally ghosting emails.
Curious as I am, I dug into their world and found partner relationship management (PRM) software. At first, I was skeptical. But as I read through thousands of G2 reviews on the best PRM software, something changed.
Now, why am I sharing this with you? Whether you’re directly managing channel partnerships, supporting the partnership team, or just exploring how to make processes smoother, this list will help. It’s for anyone looking to improve partner onboarding, drive engagement, and scale channel sales without the headache.
After seeing how many teams struggle with partner management, I wanted to actually figure out what's the most recommended partner relationship management software out there, and that’s what this guide is all about.
If you’re trying to figure out where to find reliable partner relationship management tools, I pulled together this list based on everything I learned from my team and hours of reading G2 reviews.
*These are the top-rated software solutions in the PRM software category, according to G2 Grid Reports. Pricing for these products is available upon request, except for those for which I've already included the details.
In my understanding, PRM software is to partnerships what a CRM is to sales. It helps manage relationships with partners, whether you're working with resellers, distributors, affiliates, or any type of channel partner. And honestly, while a lot of big companies lean on these tools, I also found plenty of options that work great if you’re just looking for the best partner relationship management software for small businesses that need to stay organized early.
But from what I understood, it’s not just about managing partner data, it’s about solving real challenges I’ve seen our partnerships team face. Like automating deal registration so there’s no risk of duplicate entries, providing real-time analytics to track partner performance across channels, sharing lead opportunities automatically, centralizing enablement materials like playbooks or co-branded assets, and even managing MDF (Market Development Funds) distribution without the usual back-and-forth chaos.
A good PRM tool doesn’t just simplify life for the partnerships team—it also makes things easier for marketing. I’ve seen users highlight how easy it becomes to upload and manage marketing collateral, especially for campaigns involving channel partners. Everything lives in one centralized hub, keeping both internal teams and external partners aligned.
Adopting a PRM solution often means saying goodbye to scattered spreadsheets, long email threads, and disconnected tools. And since my own partnerships team works across time zones, I saw firsthand how important it is to pick the best PRM software for remote teams that keeps everyone on the same page no matter where they're working from.
First, I started with the G2 Grid Reports to build a shortlist of the PRM software with the best reviews, because honestly, if hundreds of people are raving about something, it’s usually a good place to start.
Then, I used AI to summarize reviews of users of these tools on G2. This helped me spot trends: common praises, recurring frustrations, and how each tool stacked up from the perspective of other users. By the end, I had a clear picture of what works and what doesn’t.
I also looked up demos of these tools and found that they provided enough functionality to help me really understand their value.
All the insights I got from my team were verified against trusted G2 reviews. The screenshots in this article include a mix of those sourced from G2 vendor pages and publicly available material.
After spending weeks evaluating PRM tools, I realized these are the things that really separated the top PRM platforms to improve partner collaboration from the rest when I dug into the reviews and demoed the platforms.
These technical specifications helped me identify the 5 best PRM software that truly deliver after evaluating more than 10 solutions. Now, they may not check all the boxes on my list, but they’re built to address the real needs of partnership teams, in my opinion.
The list below contains genuine user reviews from the PRM software category. To be included in this category, a solution must:
*This data was pulled from G2 in 2025. Some reviews may have been edited for clarity.
When it comes to Salesforce Partner Relationship Management (PRM), it’s impossible to ignore the reputation that comes with the Salesforce name. I mean, if you’re in sales or marketing, you probably know Salesforce is practically the gold standard for CRMs—but their PRM offering was a new find for me. I took the time (with my partnership team’s input and G2 reviews) to check out how it stacks up.
Salesforce PRM slots right into the Salesforce ecosystem if you're already using their CRM. If you're trying to find the best partner management system for increasing revenue, this one makes a strong case, especially for bigger, multi-tiered partner programs.
Based on my research, what really sets Salesforce PRM apart is how easily it integrates with the rest of the Salesforce ecosystem. For teams already working within Salesforce CRM, the PRM feels like a natural extension—it fits right in, making data sharing, deal tracking, and analytics incredibly smooth while cutting out any unnecessary duplication.
The channel management console also stood out to me. Users mentioned that it offers pre-built reports and dashboards that give channel managers a clear, real-time view of partner activities and performance. This allows them to track deal progress, partner engagement, and key metrics without having to dig through scattered data.
I liked that Salesforce also brings its AI expertise into the mix. I read several reviews that stated features like AI-generated lead and opportunity scoring helped them connect partners with the best deals and provide them with insights on which opportunities to prioritize. I found this particularly useful.
However, no tool is perfect. The biggest challenge G2 users noticed is that Salesforce PRM has a steep learning curve, especially for partners unfamiliar with its interface. While it’s incredibly powerful, the initial setup and configuration require significant time and expertise. In fact, if your team isn’t already comfortable with Salesforce, onboarding partners onto the platform could become a bottleneck.
Also, while it has many out-of-the-box integrations, some advanced configurations may require coding or external development support, which could increase costs. It also isn't the most budget-friendly option compared to other tools.
Despite its limitations, Salesforce PRM is one of the best tools in the market for providing a comprehensive, scalable solution for managing complex multichannel partnerships.
If you are part of enterprise-level businesses or organizations already invested in the Salesforce ecosystem, especially those managing multi-tiered, global partner programs, do check it out.
"Salesforce Partner Relationship Management (PRM) has a lot of great features. It provides tools for managing leads, marketing development funds, and performance metrics. This ultimately leads to better communication."
- Salesforce Partner Relationship Management (PRM) Review, Carlene R.
"Some drawbacks of Salesforce Partner Relationship Management (PRM) include its complexity, which can make initial setup and customization challenging for users. The learning curve for new users can be steep, especially if they aren't familiar with Salesforce."
- Salesforce Partner Relationship Management (PRM) Review, Raul N.
ZINFI Unified Partner Management (UPM) is one of the recognized solutions in the PRM space. After spending time exploring reviews and opinions about it, I can see why it’s a strong choice.
ZINFI is absolutely feature-packed, and that’s something users truly appreciate. From marketing automation and campaign development to deal management and enablement, it feels like they’ve thought of everything.
One thing I really appreciated reading the user feedback was how ZINFI makes creating and managing partner campaigns straightforward. Its templates are incredibly helpful—they save time and ensure everything looks polished without needing extra design or technical work.
ZINFI's partner portal is another remarkable feature that allows channel partners to access all materials for enablement, deal management, and marketing campaigns for their products at one place based on what I heard from some of the channel partners using ZINFI-powered partner portal.
Their customer support is also top-notch. Users said that anytime they had questions, the team was responsive and made the whole process feel seamless.
The marketing automation capabilities also receive some praise. It gives marketing team the ability to centralize everything—from developing campaigns to launching and monitoring them—all in one place. Whether it’s web-syndicated landing pages, email marketing, or social media campaigns, ZINFI lets marketers launch integrated campaigns in just a few clicks.
That said, there are a few areas where ZINFI could improve. For starters, based on my observation, Zinfi can improve its UI and UX. G2 reviewers said that the existing themes and appearance are simple and basic. The navigation is not as intuitive as they expected. Also, occasionally the system slows down a bit when there’s heavy usage.
Improving the design could enhance the overall look and feel of the app, making it more engaging. Some G2 users report that ZINFI has a huge learning curve. While the platform is undeniably feature-rich, it can feel overwhelming, especially for teams new to PRM systems. I realized it requires time, training, and patience to fully understand and utilize its capabilities.
Nonetheless, its features and usefulness outweigh these weaknesses. I'd say ZINFI is an excellent choice for mid-sized to enterprise-level businesses, especially tech companies like IT resellers, service providers, or channel-driven industries.
"The best feature I like about UPM Platform is it does partner deal registration in a straightforward and simple way and enables partner engagement deals with great transparency, and it simply reduces process time in terms of submitting deals, ideal in business deals, and manages approval with ease.
Overall, UPM provides a productive partnership by simplifying the steps and ensuring that all parties stay informed and fully engaged throughout the deal process.
- ZINFI Unified Partner Management (UPM) Review, Christian E.
"One downside of ZINFI's Partner Portal Management is that its extensive features can be overwhelming for new users. A steeper learning curve might require additional training and support for full utilization."
- ZINFI Unified Partner Management (UPM) Review, Alejandro S.
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PartnerStack stood out to me because it's so clearly built for SaaS companies trying to scale fast. In fact, I’d say it’s easily one of the best app for partner relationship management if you want something that feels like it was made for SaaS from the start.
What really sets it apart is its network of B2B-ready partners that users can tap into right away. It’s not just a tool; it’s an ecosystem that connects people with affiliates, resellers, and other channel members ready to collaborate and drive results. I can imagine this feature alone saving so much time and effort when you’re looking to scale your program quickly.
Another aspect reviewers liked about PartnerStack is the gamification options. They can set up challenges for partners, encouraging them to hit specific milestones—like achieving a set number of sign-ups or sales—and rewarding them with bonus commissions. It’s a fantastic way to keep partners motivated and engaged.
I’ve also seen a lot of love for features like polls. They make it easy to gather feedback from partners and fine-tune programs based on what they actually need. The automation is a big win, too—auto-commissioning partners after they complete challenges takes so much manual work off your plate.
While PartnerStack is a great platform overall, one drawback is that the reporting and analytics tools feel a bit basic. Many partners and G2 users agree that while the data is helpful, it could be more comprehensive and customizable. Breaking the data into more detailed segments would go a long way in providing actionable insights for channel managers.
Another feature users wish PartnerStack had is a vendor profile section. Some competing platforms allow providers to feature their companies in a directory of preferred vendors, showcasing profiles and portfolios of work completed for specific vendors. G2 users believe that this feature is a "nice to have" and could significantly assist with marketing efforts and even boost SEO across the platform.
Honestly, if you’re in SaaS and you’ve been wondering which is the leading PRM tool for software companies, PartnerStack comes up again and again in conversations, and I can see why.
"The platform's intuitive interface makes managing partnerships straightforward. The automated payment system has saved us countless hours of manual work, and its reporting tools give us clear insights into our program's performance. The onboarding process for new partners is particularly smooth, which has helped us scale our program effectively."
- PartnerStack Review, Caio O.
"While PartnerStack is a great platform overall, there are a few areas that could be improved. One drawback is that the reporting and analytics features could be more comprehensive and customizable.
Also, marketing material must be made available for all partners."
- PartnerStack Review, Venkatesh S.
Impact.com immediately caught my eye because it’s designed for affiliate and influencer marketing and referral programs, which feels super aligned with where a lot of partner programs are headed. But honestly, what really impressed me is how many users called it the most user-friendly PRM software they’ve tried. The interface just makes sense.
The core strength of Impact.com comes from its simple-to-use interface. Users say that it is one of the best they've seen across different platforms. It simplifies everything, from automating partner screening and bulk approval or rejection of applications to detailed referral URL reports and configuring brand portals.
What G2 reviewers also really valued was the comprehensive documentation Impact.com provides. Whether it was diving into how to set up workflows, commission tiers, or integrations, the guides are noted to be clear and detailed. For someone new to the platform, this kind of resource is invaluable, especially for onboarding new team members.
G2 reviewers consistently highlight the dynamic commissioning feature. It’s not just flat-rate payouts, users mention the ability to build flexible reward structures based on partner performance, customer journey stages, specific SKUs, or even hybrid models with exclusions. According to feedback, the platform rarely feels limiting when it comes to setting up complex commission logic.
Transaction tracking also earns strong praise. Many reviewers say it offers clear visibility into every step of the purchase journey: clicks, conversions, and which partner was involved, across channels like referral, social, and content publishing. It’s often called essential for understanding channel performance at a deeper level.
That said, the reporting tools don’t always meet users' expectations. Some reviewers noted limitations around customizing reports to extract more specific insights. Technical glitches and slow page loads were also mentioned—particularly when navigating complex workflows or generating large reports. While not dealbreakers, they do add friction, especially during high-traffic periods.
Implementation is generally described as straightforward, though a few reviews pointed out that users without a technical background, especially those unfamiliar with tools like Google Tag Manager, might need extra support during setup.
Still, even with those minor challenges, Impact.com is a powerful platform for managing affiliates, influencers, and referral partners all in one place. It keeps everything organized and gives you the flexibility to scale.
"Our team relies on Impact daily. I appreciate that they have developed a suite of tools that helps us manage our brand’s online presence in more than just affiliate marketing.
One is the Creator platform, which has increased the visibility and organization of our influencer campaigns.
Prior to using Impact Creator, we manually managed these with scattered procedures and content storage. Creator discoverability is also another huge tool in our arsenal. Within Impact, I’ve enjoyed seeing constant improvements to the platform, especially in the reporting area.
Benchmark reports have helped us gain insight into our partner presence and others in our industry. Having been with Impact for over five years now, I can say that I am pleased with everyone on our dedicated Impact team. Our suggestions are always acknowledged, and we see improvements based on our feedback quite often. The team support is beyond any other platform I’ve worked with."
- Impact.com Review, Marie M.
"The system seems to slow down a bit more than I would expect and versus what I have seen in comparable systems. Also has the occasional navigation/time out issue when looking at details on partner contracts and other specifics."
- Impact.com Review, John G.
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Channel Mechanics PRM made a strong impression on me as a practical solution for managing partner programs without overcomplicating things.
One of the aspects people appreciated most while working with it was its “single pane of glass” view, which consolidates real-time data about channel performance, ROI, and partner engagement into a single dashboard.
A core strength frequently highlighted in G2 reviews of Channel Mechanics is its ability to scale with ease. Users often mention how simple it is to add new Opportunity Partner Groups (OPGs) as their partner network grows. This scalability gives teams confidence that the platform can handle increasing complexity without slowing things down.
Another feature that gets consistent praise is the regular check-ins with account managers. Weekly meetings help users stay on top of open tickets, track progress, and align with broader goals. While it might seem like a small detail, reviewers say it makes a big difference in keeping partner programs organized and proactive.
That said, there are a few areas where Channel Mechanics could improve. Several G2 reviewers mention that the UI feels a bit dated. While it’s functional and gets the job done, it’s not the most visually polished. The good news is that a recent update seems to have improved the overall look and feel, menus and navigation are noticeably cleaner than before.
Reporting is another area where some users have faced limitations. While the dashboard offers useful insights, exporting data for deeper analysis doesn’t always deliver the level of detail needed. A few reviewers have also noted occasional hiccups when pulling reports. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it can be a bit inconvenient, especially for teams relying on detailed reporting for strategic decisions.
Channel Mechanics PRM is a reliable and practical platform for businesses or organizations scaling their partner programs and looking to automate them. Please note that Allbound PRM bought Channel Mechnicacs earlier in 2024. This may result in some changes to the platform in the future.
"Due to the simplicity of the platform and the assistance we received from Ronan, our dedicated customer success manager, we implemented the first phase of our new partner program in less than two months, allowing partners to sign up, register leads, and access content all from one location."
- Channel Mechanics PRM Review, Linda H.
"Tagging, tracking, and reporting user activity in the portal is less developed than some competitors. There is a need for some work here."
- Channel Mechanics PRM Review, Simon B.
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While I've shared my top picks with you, there are a few tools that didn’t make the final list but still deserve a mention for their unique strengths. Based on my evaluation, here’s what I think they excel at:
Based on G2 reviews, the PRM software with the best reviews includes Salesforce PRM, ZINFI Unified Partner Management, PartnerStack, Impact.com, Channel Mechanics PRM, Mindmatrix, Affise, Everflow, Allbound, and Kiflo.
It really depends on your setup. If you're a SaaS company, there are options built for that. If you're a small business looking for your first PRM tool or managing remote partners across time zones, other platforms shine there. I tried to include options that cover all of those situations.
100%. Most PRM platforms — especially the best apps for partner relationship management — include training dashboards, certifications, and resource hubs that make sure your partners know what they’re doing before they start selling.
I saw SaaS companies, small businesses, fast-scaling remote teams, and global enterprises all using PRM software in slightly different ways. But honestly, anyone running a partner program can benefit from having a proper system in place instead of spreadsheets
6. How does PRM software differ from CRM software?
CRM tools manage direct customer relationships. PRM software is more about managing partners (resellers, distributors, affiliates) and helping channel managers better support them.
Yes. Not every small business needs something super complex. When I looked at the options, tools like Kiflo or Allbound stood out as some of the best partner relationship management software for small businesses. They’re lightweight, easy to set up, and don’t overwhelm you with features you don’t need yet.
Since my partnerships team works across different time zones, I really paid attention to this one. Tools that offered strong centralized partner portals and easy collaboration, like ZINFI and Salesforce PRM, felt like the best PRM software for remote teams trying to stay synced across locations.
For SaaS companies, I kept seeing PartnerStack come up again and again. It’s not just a tool; it connects you to a network of B2B partners out of the gate. Honestly, if you’re looking for the best app for partner relationship management that’s made for SaaS growth, PartnerStack is tough to beat.
If you’re running a software business, I saw a lot of teams leaning on either PartnerStack or Salesforce PRM, depending on complexity. I’d say those are definitely among the leading PRM tools for software companies trying to scale partnerships fast.
After spending weeks evaluating these PRM tools, I’ve learned that the real magic of a great platform isn’t just about fancy features—it’s about how it empowers your partners and simplifies your life. Each platform I reviewed has its own unique strengths, and choosing the right one depends on what your business really needs.
For me, this wasn’t just an exercise in ticking boxes. I worked with my partnerships team and dug into G2 user sentiment to explore what truly works—and what doesn’t—when managing a complex partner ecosystem. From intuitive dashboards to customizable commission structures, these tools made me understand how much easier channel management can be when you have the right systems in place.
The truth is, PRM software isn’t just a tool—it’s the backbone of a successful partner strategy. It’s the difference between a scattered, chaotic program and one that drives growth, engagement, and loyalty. So, whether you’re managing resellers, affiliates, influencers, or distributors, there’s a PRM out there that can help you take your program to the next level.
At the end of the day, your partners deserve a flawless experience, and you deserve a solution that gives you clarity, scalability, and control. My advice? Don’t settle—find the PRM that feels like a true extension of your team. Because when your partners succeed, so do you.
Want specialized tools for just tracking and managing channel incentives? Take a look at the best channel incentive management software.
Soundarya Jayaraman is a Content Marketing Specialist at G2, focusing on cybersecurity. Formerly a reporter, Soundarya now covers the evolving cybersecurity landscape, how it affects businesses and individuals, and how technology can help. You can find her extensive writings on cloud security and zero-day attacks. When not writing, you can find her painting or reading.
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