Why the Future of ESG & EHS Software Might Not Be What You Expect

A deep dive blog capturing the key differences concerning small and large EHS software providers. We will also explore the often-overlooked strengths of smaller, specialized  platforms versus large-scale providers. We examine how proximity to real-world problems, customer experience, and system usability can make or break a company’s compliance journey. Whether you're just starting your search or reassessing your current system, this blog offers key insights to help you choose the solution that fits your company's needs.

A deep dive into what really separates large platforms from specialist providers.

In recent years, we’ve seen the rise (and sometimes fall) of countless ESG & EHS software providers. As society became more self-aware of our environmental footprint, sustainability as well as health and safety. With rising pressure on companies to act transparently and responsibly, many spotted a gap in the market, and the era of “GreenTech” and “SafetyTech” was born.

What’s striking is that two very different worlds have emerged: Small Tech and Big Tech. Each one serves a different need, and therefore often delivers a completely different experience. What can these ESG & EHS Software providers bring to the table?  

Keeping the Focus on What Actually Matters

Some GreenTech providers scaled fast and became global giants. Others stayed lean, keeping their focus where it counts: solving real frontline pain points and making workers’ and users’ lives safer and easier. It is refreshing to witness how many smaller providers prioritise innovation through adaptation, not just building the most features, but refining what works based on customer realities. The proximity of the providers to the problem brings a real focus on defining and refining the real issues. Small scale fosters genuine relationships. And while it’s not a universal rule, it often leads to a stronger emphasis on customer experience and continuous learning.

At denxpert, for example, our Customer Success team is dedicated to making client journeys as smooth and seamless as possible. With curated tutorial videos and personal platform managers guiding sustainability teams step-by-step, we aim to be more than a service provider, we aim to be your partner in sustainability.

Feedback Straight from the Field

A recurring theme in client feedback is this: they prefer working with small or mid-sized providers that offer field-tested, configurable ESG/EHS solutions.

Why?

Because user experience (UX) is everything. And the future success of any product is tied directly to how it feels to use it. Many large-scale ESG/EHS  systems simply miss the mark. They can be rigid, overly complex, and lacking in flexibility. Even worse, some overlook basic human-centred design principles. Ironically, even safety products can fall into the trap of ignoring the user. These systems can be clunky, non-intuitive, and riddled with confusing workflows that invite user error.

A Word of Advice for Anyone on the Lookout

If you are currently on the hunt for the most suitable systems, our advice is to pay very close attention to user experience in the pre-purchase piloting. For example:

• How intuitive the system is?
• Does it adopt good design principles?
• Can users (not techies or the designers) understand the layout, labels and the workflow on first impression?

User experience can tell you more than any analyst rating ever will. Don’t be afraid to ask direct questions about UX during demos. If the answer feels vague? That’s a red flag. The reality is that many large providers don’t score well on customer focus. You’re one of hundreds. And when annual license fees climb into the six or seven figures, the gap between the sales pitch and the day-to-day support can be deeper than the Mariana Trench.

But maybe that’s the point. A sticky product. High switching costs. Annual renewals. Poor service might be the economic trade-off.

Sticking to Small

As the ESG/EHS software market matures, some of the bigger names seem more focused on growth targets and analyst rankings than customer outcomes. What’s missing? Independent evaluation of service quality, client relationships, and actual user satisfaction. If you’re swayed by market reports, make sure you also look at how real customers experience the platform. The best way to to a deeper dive into consumer feedback is by visiting G2 or Capterra, many software companies have viable profiles as well as software reviews.

Because if you don’t? You might soon experience the very common reality of:

“Technology as Designed” vs. “Technology as Experienced.”

Want to experience the difference with denxpert? We’re built for teams who care about usability, adaptability, and results.