Key Facts:
- Only 30% of Australian companies are successful software adopters. Most struggle with costly disruptions and regret.
- 51% of successful buyers rely on expert reviews and software comparison sites, but disappointed buyers are much less likely to use these resources.
- Just over half of successful adopters create a formal implementation plan, compared to only 31% of disappointed buyers.
- 81% of Australian businesses plan to increase software spending by 5–15% in the next year.
Sydney, Australia – 31st October 2025 – Despite ongoing investment in digital tools by Australian organisations, new research from Capterra highlights a persistent challenge: most businesses still struggle to select software that delivers on expectations, leading to costly disruptions and regret. Capterra's 2026 Software Buying Trends Report, based on survey responses from 281 Australian decision-makers, reveals that under one-third (30%) of local companies are successful software adopters, while the majority face setbacks that impact budgets and productivity.
"Choosing the right software isn't just about ticking boxes. It's about setting your business up for success," analyst Laura Burgess explains. "Our research shows that a structured approach, informed by real user experiences and expert advice, is the key to avoiding regret and disruption."
The report identifies five habits that consistently set successful software adopters apart, offering actionable insights for businesses aiming to maximise ROI and minimise disruption.
1. Define outcomes and requirements early
Successful adopters are more likely than disappointed buyers to set clear goals, budgets, and risk assessments before starting their search. This structured approach helps avoid costly mistakes, ensures the chosen software aligns with business needs, and provides a better return on investment. In contrast, disappointed buyers often cite poor stakeholder communication and inadequate budgeting as factors they would address differently in future purchases.
2. Seek expert and peer input over GenAI
User reviews and software comparison sites are top resources for successful buyers, with 51% relying on them during their research to help them filter options and make informed decisions. However, disappointed buyers are far less likely to use this information, missing valuable perspectives that could inform their decisions. GenAI tools can assist with initial research, but their outputs may lack context or accuracy. Buyers should always validate AI findings against verified reviews and expert analysis to make informed decisions.
3. Shortlist decisively
Successful adopters keep their shortlist focused, engaging with fewer vendors (average 3.6) and are more likely to complete the selection process within three months. Longer, unfocused searches often signal confusion and lead to disappointment. By narrowing the field early and engaging meaningfully with a select group of vendors, successful adopters save time and reduce the likelihood of regret.
4. Execute a detailed implementation plan.
Planning for timelines, training, and data migration is critical. Just over half of successful adopters in Australia create a formal implementation plan, compared to only 31% of disappointed buyers, helping them avoid common pitfalls among disappointed buyers, such as data migration problems (41%), delays (40%), and budget overruns (36%).
5. Align Software choices with strategic goals.
With 81% of Australian businesses planning to increase software spending by 5–15% in the next year, aligning purchases with long-term objectives is essential. Successful adopters are less likely to increase their software budgets than disappointed buyers (74% vs 89%), suggesting that making the right choice the first time can help control costs and prevent unnecessary replacements.
Software adoption is central to business growth and efficiency, but dissatisfaction remains high. The data points to a clear path forward: companies that plan ahead, rely on peer feedback, and focus their search see better outcomes and lower risk.
For more insights and strategies to improve software buying outcomes,
