Cloud9 Orthodontic Software Review

Product Overview and Utility:
 
Cloud9 Orthodontic Software is designed to streamline orthodontic practice management, providing a comprehensive solution for professionals in the field. Its primary utility is in offering orthodontic practitioners a platform to efficiently manage patient information, treatment plans, and scheduling.
 
1. Performance and Quality (4 stars):
   - The performance of Cloud9 Orthodontic Software is quite well, meeting the basic requirements of orthodontic practice management. Cloud9 operates entirely in the cloud, eliminating the need to download additional software except for the Twain connection between X-ray equipment and Cloud9. The overall loading speed is satisfactory, with few disconnections reported in our practices over the past few years.
 
2. Features (2 stars):
   - Cloud9 Orthodontic Software provides essential features for orthodontic professionals but may lack some innovative functionalities. Notably, features such as electronic signatures, patient hub, two-way texting, appointment reminders, and reputation management come at an additional cost. A additional significant drawback is the need for multiple phone lines for texting, reminders, and calls, potentially causing confusion for patients.
 
3. Ease of Use (3 stars):
   - The software's clinical interface is generally user-friendly, offering an intuitive layout for managing orthodontic tasks. However, the administrative side, including ledgers, is somewhat counterintuitive, presenting a steep learning curve for users.
 
4. Customer Service (2 stars):
   - Cloud9's customer service has experienced a decline since its acquisition by PlanetDDs. As of the writing of this article, contacting Cloud9 customer care is not possible through direct calls; users need to open a ticket and wait for a reply.
 
5. Value for Money (3 stars):
   - Cloud9 Orthodontic Software provides moderate value for the cost, meeting essential needs. However, perceived as potentially overpriced, especially when factoring in additional features. The all-inclusive version may cost around $1300-1400 per month, excluding initial licensing, training, and implementation fees. Prices may vary significantly among offices based on initial promotions.
 
6. User Experience (3 stars):
   - The overall user experience with Cloud9 is positive, but dissatisfaction has been expressed regarding the decline in customer support post the PlanetDDS takeover and the additional costs associated with extra features.
 
7. Reliability (5 stars):
   - Cloud9 Orthodontic Software is generally reliable, with occasional minor issues.
 
8. Innovation (3 stars):
   - While Cloud9 was once a leader in orthodontic PMS innovation, it now strives to keep up with other software's features. The software lacks significant innovation, offering standard features without introducing groundbreaking functionalities. Their mobile version is far from easy to use. 
 
9. Compatibility (4 stars):
   - Cloud9 is compatible with various systems, minimizing compatibility issues for users. Ongoing efforts to ensure seamless integration with other platforms would further enhance the software's appeal.
 
10. Customization (4 stars):
   - The schedule and clinical side of the software are customizable, but the administrative side has limitations in terms of customization.
 
11. Feedback and Reviews (3 stars):
   - User feedback for Cloud9 is mixed, encompassing both positive and negative comments. It's worth noting that we have decided to transition away from Cloud9 for our practices around April 2024.
 
Alternative Options:
   - 1. Greyfinch
   - 2. Ortho2
   - 3. Wave Ortho
 
Disclaimer: Dr. Kevin Baharvand has no financial interest in Cloud9/PlanetDDS.