Which Document Generation Apps Might Disappear in 2026?

Let’s face- it not every app survives forever. The way businesses handle document generation is evolving fast. In 2026, companies don’t just want tools that create files; they want automation, Salesforce-native integration, and affordability. If an app can’t help you easily generate PDFs from Salesforce or streamline workflows, chances are it won’t last long.

So, which apps might fade into the background this year? Let’s dig in.

1. Overpriced Legacy Tools

Some of the oldest names in document automation, like Conga Composer and Windward, have built solid reputations over the years. But here’s the catch: users increasingly complain about high pricing, complex setup, and limited innovation.

These tools often come with features you may never use but still pay for. For small and mid-sized businesses, that’s a deal-breaker.

Why they may disappear:

• Rising costs that don’t match value.
• Clunky user experience compared to modern apps.

2. Niche Players Without Strong Integration

Some apps still work like standalone products, with weak or outdated Salesforce integrations. In today’s world, integration is everything. If your document tool doesn’t connect seamlessly with Salesforce, HubSpot, or your sales pipeline, it’s just extra work.

At risk here: boutique or niche players that fail to adapt their APIs or stay compatible with Salesforce’s evolving ecosystem.

Why they may disappear:

• Poor ecosystem fit.
• Reliance on outdated tech that slows users down.

3. Basic Document Generation Without E-Signature Apps 

E-signatures are essential, but let’s be real — signing alone isn’t enough anymore. Apps that only handle signatures and don’t include document creation are losing relevance fast.

For example, DocuSign Gen has made strides by adding Salesforce integration, but many users say the formatting options and advanced customizations are limited unless you buy add-ons. That leaves room for frustration.

Why they may disappear:

• Too narrow in scope.
• Users prefer all-in-one docgen platforms.

4. Complex but Clunky Enterprise Tools

Some enterprise solutions tried to become “everything in one box,” but ended up overwhelming users. Conga Suite is often called powerful but overly complicated. Others require so much training and maintenance that adoption stays low.

In 2026, businesses are choosing tools that are intuitive, automation-ready, and don’t need a 200-page manual to run.

Why they may disappear:

• Steep learning curves.
• High churn from SMBs moving to lightweight alternatives.

5. DIY Template Builders

Relying on basic templates in Word, Google Docs, or even older Salesforce-native builders like outdated S-Docs setups is risky. Businesses now expect automation, compliance, and AI-driven features that manual tools just can’t deliver.

Why they may disappear:

• No true automation.
• Can’t scale for modern business needs.

Final Thoughts

2026 is shaping up to be a survival-of-the-fittest year for document generation apps. The tools most likely to disappear are those that are overpriced, poorly integrated, or overly complex. Businesses are voting with their wallets, and the trend is clear: they want simplicity, speed, and smart automation.

That’s why Salesforce-native, automation-first platforms are gaining traction.

One such tool is Docs Made Easy. Unlike legacy players, it’s designed to let you generate PDFs from Salesforce, manage templates, and even integrate e-signatures — all without the heavy price tag or steep learning curve. For companies that want security, scalability, and a future-ready docgen tool, it’s a strong alternative that feels built for the next generation.