Number of Seats/Users: Top Hat offers discounts based on the number of users or seats. A higher volume typically leads to a better discount structure, especially for enterprise-level usage.

Commitment to a Long-Term Contract: Discounts are often provided to companies that commit to using the service for a longer period (e.g., 1-year or 3-year contracts). A longer commitment shows Top Hat that the company is serious and willing to invest in the platform long-term.

No Active Discounts: Companies that are not already receiving other active discounts may have a better chance of qualifying for additional discounts from Top Hat. Top Hat reserves discounts for new customers or those not currently under promotional pricing.

Volume or Usage Commitment: Top Hat offers discounts if you agree to a minimum amount of usage or transaction volume. This could be based on data storage, transactions, or other metrics tied to how much you will use the platform.

Enterprise-Level Negotiation: Companies that qualify as “enterprise” due to their size or complexity (e.g., having large teams, multiple departments, or geographical presence) may be eligible for additional discounts from Top Hat. Such companies are often in a position to negotiate for better pricing.

Early Renewal or Prepayment: Top Hat often offers discounts if you renew early or prepay for the entire contract period. This is a common approach to securing a lower price.

Here at Spendbase, our internal data shows that Top Hat is a popular choice for both instructors and students, particularly in higher education environments. Our Spendbase clients highlight some clear strengths, but also point out areas where the platform could be improved—especially when it comes to cost.

Top Hat’s Strengths
– *User-Friendliness*: Many Spendbase clients mention how easy it is to get started with Top Hat. Both professors and students appreciate the straightforward, intuitive interface.
– *Class Engagement*: Embedding quizzes, real-time Q&A, and polls within presentations makes lectures more interactive. This keeps students engaged and offers real learning checks.
– *Multiple Device Support*: Clients love being able to participate via phones, tablets, or computers. The mobile app receives special praise for its reliability and ease of use.
– *Streamlined Communication*: Top Hat centralizes communication so students aren’t lost in email chains. Announcements, grades, and material are convenient to access.
– *Attendance and Grading*: The attendance feature, coupled with auto-grade export, reduces administrative work for instructors.
– *Fast Tech Support*: Many have had fast, helpful experiences with Top Hat customer support when onboarding or transitioning courses.

Areas for Improvement
– *Pricing*: A top concern for Spendbase clients is the individual student pricing model. Students often feel the burden if their school doesn’t subsidize the software. Many wish there was a more cost-effective or institution-wide license.
– *Glitches and Bugs*: Occasional lags, especially in large lecture halls, and some issues with quiz submissions or integration of slides/videos pop up in feedback.
– *Limited Features for Advanced Needs*: Advanced grading for open-text (e.g., wild cards for answers) and better math/LaTeX support are frequently requested. There are also complaints about typos in educational content.
– *Navigation and Playback*: Some clients want features like the ability to bookmark, highlight, or easily revisit questions and notes. Others found that syncing slides with live lectures made it tough to review or catch up.
– *Accessibility*: Although generally accessible, clients wish for more offline or post-lecture access to materials and less pressure for anonymous participation to avoid social anxiety.

Summary
Top Hat scores well on engagement and usability for both large and small courses, and our Spendbase clients agree it’s particularly handy for making class participation seamless. However, price sensitivity among students is a recurring concern. If your institution is thinking of using Top Hat, bundling with other classes or negotiating a site license could maximize value—for both teaching staff and student budgets. Want to know about discounts or site-license options? Just let us know—Spendbase is here to help you save!