In the world of SaaS sales, presenting a compelling demo can be the difference between closing a deal and losing a prospect. But in presales, there are multiple ways to create and deliver a demo – each method having its pros and cons. This guide will take you through the most common demo types used in presales.
Interactive videos
Interactive videos engage viewers by allowing them to interact with the content. This could involve clicking on hotspots, answering questions, or navigating through different paths in the video.
Shared via links, these videos enable viewers to engage with an asynchronous overview at their own pace.
They aim to automate repetitive presentations and let viewers choose the demo’s direction through a series of self-guided questions, often featuring a visible presenter who provides voiceover guidance throughout the video offering product exploration without scheduling a live session.
Product tours
Product tours guide users through your software, highlighting key features and functionalities.
Initially, product tours were predominantly static screenshots with tooltips as guides and limited functionality. They have since evolved to be more responsive, capturing HTML & CSS and layering tooltips, modal windows, interactive embeds, and elements of personalization.
Intent and tracking data have also improved.
They provide hands-on experience, allowing prospects to explore the software at their own pace. This type of demo is particularly effective for giving users a comprehensive understanding of the product.
Regular updates are necessary to keep the tour aligned with any changes in the software.
Cloning or Sandboxing
Cloning or sandboxing involves creating a duplicate environment of your software where prospects can experiment without affecting the live system.
Cloning was a natural progression of product tours as vendors began to replicate and copy the responsiveness of the SaaS front-end, and then elements of the backend.
Sandbox demos gained traction, offering a way for prospects to explore product features in an isolated environment. Customizable but limited in scalability, it can be challenging to ensure each environment is fully functional and mirrors the live system updates.
Live
Live demos involve presenting your live app in real-time, often during a sales call, webinar, or in-person event. This type of demo allows for immediate interaction and questions from the prospect.
Demo software that support live demos allow real-time customization and navigation without the limitations of cloning or sandboxing. These advancements create more engaging and effective demos, enhancing product value and driving better sales outcomes.
Each type of demo offers unique benefits and requires specific considerations to be effective. By understanding and leveraging these demo types, you can provide prospects with a compelling and personalized experience, ultimately driving sales success.
Ready to elevate your presales demos? Start by exploring Saleo to see how we can help you create engaging and effective demos.
