Last week I posted an article about maximizing an applicant tracking system’s (ATS) 30 day trial. While the post was specifically intended for a time limited trial, I want to extend the post to include topics regarding a different form of ATS test drive offered by vendors. This offer revolves around a completely free model of usage.

The word “free” has reigned champion as the number one attention getter for quite some time. I almost always review offers that land within my general or current interests. Most of the time, I do end up a bit disappointed about the offer or the context of which it was delivered. The following are some additional considerations to think about before using a free usage trial.

Feature Limits
In most cases, ATS vendors offer two trial choices:
1. Time limited trial (i.e. 30 Day Trial)
2. Free usage trial (i.e. Limited number features such as amount of posted positions, users, storage space, etc but the ATS can be used for an unlimited amount of time)
It is important that you know exactly what you are going to get (or not get) with a free usage trial. Many of the features and functions you are depending on might not be available in the free version.

Be Ready for the Up-Sell
The free usage model is simply another marketing tool to increase sales. The ATS vendor usually has a wider range of features available. The different features can then be grouped and offered as different packages such as Basic, Advance or Professional. As the level of features increase, so does the price. Just remember, rarely does anyone give anything away without expecting something in return. In this case, you are trading the free usage by becoming a long term lead.

Lower Priority Support
When you signup for a free usage trial, your account is usually setup within a few minutes. This allows you to quickly dive into the ATS. However, be aware of the support you get with the free usage trial. In most cases, your support issues will be placed lower than paying customers.

Ask for More Features
If you have researched an ATS that has a free usage trial, but you want to test an additional feature, simply asked for it. Most of the time, the vendor can enable the feature on your account with just a few clicks. As a trade off, you will probably now have a limited time trial, but at least you get to evaluate the ATS based on your requirements.

The list of considerations above certainly doesn’t apply to all ATS or other application vendors offering a free usage trial. I have used the free version of ZOHO CRM, and it is one of the greatest free applications I have ever used. The value in a free usage trial varies for person to person and company to company.
The following is just a sample list of ATS vendors that offer a free usage trial.

CATS
JobScore
Standout Jobs
Catch the Best
Simplicant – The also offer an incredibility long 90 day free trial for their subscription based versions.

Best of luck!!!
Jake Stupak
www.TheATSGuy.com
www.JobDigTracker.com