Frequently Asked Questions

Through a four-pillar scoring model applied over 12 months: Market Engagement, Customer Happiness, Feature Impact, and Recommendation Reliability — all sourced from our verified platform data.

To activate, display your Excellence Award badge on your website or social platforms. Activation unlocks Top 5 placements, inclusion in ‘Best Of’ lists, and Innovation Spotlight Series’ opportunities.

No. Advertising and paid programs have zero impact on eligibility, scoring, or outcomes.

A product must have  

  • 50+ verified user reviews 
  • Active consultation data 
  • Accurate and up-to-date profile information 

Yes. Appeals may be submitted within 15 business days and are reviewed solely for data accuracy or methodological discrepancies.

No. Only winners are published. Scoring inputs will remain confidential to protect data integrity.

Keep product information up to date and encourage verified user reviews. Strong performance across these areas directly supports future scoring.

January 27, 2026 : Winners notified under embargo. 
February 10, 2026: Public announcement and press release. 

Verified award badges, social assets, Press Release templates, badge usage guidelines, category spotlights, and enhanced visibility across Software Finder channels.

Yes. Each year is evaluated independently; products may earn recognition repeatedly if their performance meets the criteria.

It’s an editorial series that features vendors with standout product innovation, including how their solution works, the real-world problems it solves, and the measurable business results it creates. Each spotlight gives buyers a behind-the-scenes look at the technology and its industry impact.