ServiceNow has long been a leader in IT service management (ITSM), workflow automation, and enterprise solutions. However, its complexity, cost, and steep learning curve make many businesses look for alternatives that offer more flexibility, better UX, and faster deployment.
If you’re exploring options that deliver similar power but are more agile or budget-friendly, here are the top 8 ServiceNow alternatives to consider in 2025.
1. Barawave – Best AI-Driven Alternative for Workflow Automation & Support
Barawave is a rising star in 2025, offering an all-in-one platform that combines AI-powered ticketing, CRM, automation, and communication tools for businesses of any size.
🔍 Key Features:
- AI-based ticket routing and auto-responses
- Workflow automation across departments
- Unified inbox (email, SMS, chat, WhatsApp)
- CRM with sales & support pipelines
- No-code customization
- Affordable and scalable pricing
Why it’s a top alternative to ServiceNow:
Unlike ServiceNow’s complex enterprise setup, Barawave offers a lightweight, intuitive interface, faster deployment, and real-time automation—ideal for SMBs and mid-sized teams that want speed and smart features without the enterprise bloat.
2. Freshservice by Freshworks – Best for ITSM with Modern UX
Freshservice offers a clean, modern interface and is tailored for IT teams looking to manage assets, incidents, and service requests effortlessly.
Key Features:
- ITIL-aligned modules (incident, change, problem mgmt.)
- Automated workflows
- Service catalog
- Asset discovery & CMDB
- AI-powered suggestions
Why switch: It offers many of the same ITSM capabilities with lower cost and simpler implementation than ServiceNow.
3. Zendesk for Service – Best for Customer-Facing IT Support
Zendesk isn’t just for customer service—it has powerful tools to manage internal service desks and workflows.
Key Features:
- Omnichannel ticket management
- SLA tracking and custom views
- Automation rules and macros
- AI-powered self-service portals
Why it’s an alternative: Great for teams needing a blend of external and internal service management, especially in fast-moving environments.
4. ManageEngine ServiceDesk Plus – Best for Full ITSM Suite
ManageEngine provides a robust ITSM toolkit with advanced IT operations management (ITOM) capabilities.
Key Features:
- Full ITIL support
- CMDB, asset tracking, and remote control
- Custom automations and reporting
- On-premise or cloud deployment
Use case: Large IT departments that want a ServiceNow-style feature set at a lower cost.
5. BMC Helix ITSM – Best for Enterprise IT Operations
BMC Helix is a top-tier enterprise solution that rivals ServiceNow in features and scalability.
Key Features:
- AI for incident classification and prediction
- Multi-cloud management
- Predictive service management
- End-to-end automation
Why it competes: Perfect for enterprises looking for an equally powerful but potentially more open and flexible platform than ServiceNow.
6. SysAid – Best for Simplicity and Mid-Size IT Teams
SysAid combines powerful ITSM capabilities with usability and affordability.
Key Features:
- Self-service portal
- Helpdesk and ticket management
- Built-in automation tools
- Remote desktop and asset management
Why switch: Easier to learn and maintain than ServiceNow, SysAid suits organizations that want streamlined ITSM.
7. Jira Service Management (Atlassian) – Best for DevOps Teams
Jira Service Management is designed for agile teams needing rapid service delivery and developer integration.
Key Features:
- Integration with Jira Software & Confluence
- Change and incident management
- Automation and approval workflows
- Custom SLAs
Use case: Great for DevOps environments or agile IT teams where collaboration is key.
8. Ivanti Neurons – Best for Hyper-Automated IT and Security Ops
Ivanti Neurons combines ITSM with proactive automation and security intelligence.
Key Features:
- AI-based diagnostics
- Endpoint management
- Self-healing systems
- Risk-based prioritization
Why it stands out: Ivanti takes a proactive approach to service delivery, ideal for companies focused on automation and security.
🔎 Comparison Table – Quick Glance
| Platform | Best For | Notable Advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Barawave | AI automation & cross-functional ops | All-in-one CRM + ITSM + support |
| Freshservice | Mid-sized IT teams | ITIL-aligned, user-friendly UI |
| Zendesk for Service | Internal/external hybrid support | Great for customer-facing help desks |
| ManageEngine | Full ITIL enterprise service desk | On-prem & cloud flexibility |
| BMC Helix | Large enterprises | Predictive AI & multi-cloud management |
| SysAid | SMBs and mid-sized teams | Ease of use and setup |
| Jira Service Mgmt | DevOps teams | Developer-centric integrations |
| Ivanti Neurons | Security-first ITSM | AI diagnostics & endpoint automation |
Final Thoughts
ServiceNow is powerful—but not always practical for every business. Whether you’re a small team needing a fast and modern platform or an enterprise looking to cut costs without losing performance, there’s a perfect fit among these alternatives.
If you’re seeking a modern, AI-first platform that combines support, CRM, and workflow automation, then Barawave is a must-try in 2025.