About project
Period: January 2021 – September 2024
Client: Worksoft Inc.
Subject: Google Ads Overhaul & PPC Optimization for Lead Generation and Brand Awareness
Worksoft, Inc. is a global leader in test automation solutions for enterprise applications such as SAP. To enhance lead generation and brand visibility, Worksoft turned to a full Google Ads program overhaul to drive high-quality traffic, demo requests, and awareness in a competitive space dominated by bigger-budget competitors like Tricentis.
Challenges Faced
- Underfunded PPC Budget: Worksoft’s initial budget was far below competitive standards, requiring a 1400% increase over a few months to remain viable.
- Outspent by Competitors: Even after budget expansion, Worksoft’s biggest competitor was outspending them by at least 3x.
- Scaling Multiple Campaign Types: Search, Display, Remarketing, YouTube, and Competitor Bidding campaigns needed precise execution.
- Performance Max & Display Issues: Spam leads resulted in wasted spend, forcing a strategic reallocation of budget.
- Frequent Leadership Turnover: Changes in CFOs, CROs, and even the CEO required continuous alignment on PPC strategy and budget.
PPC Strategy & Execution
1. Budget & Campaign Expansion
- Increased monthly PPC budget by 1400% over a few months.
- Strategically managed budget constraints while competitors spent 3x more.
- Focused spend on high-converting campaigns, reallocating funds from underperforming areas.
2. Search, Competitor & Branded Campaigns
- Non-Branded Campaigns: Initially focused on high-intent test automation terms.
- Competitor Bidding: Created campaigns specifically targeting Tricentis and other rivals.
- Branded Defense Campaigns: Once competitors started bidding on Worksoft’s brand name, we launched branded campaigns to protect traffic.
3. Geographic Targeting & Audience Segmentation
- Focused on key regions: North America (NA), EMEA, and DACH markets.
- Segmented audiences by industries, job roles, and geographies.
- Regularly refined targeting to increase lead quality and conversion rates.
4. Landing Page Optimization & CRO Enhancements
- Continuously tested and improved web copy, headings, CTAs, and form designs.
- Implemented A/B testing across landing pages to boost conversion rates.
- Aligned ad messaging with landing pages to maintain consistency and improve Quality Score.
5. Smart Bidding & Optimization Strategies
- Used a mix of Maximize Conversions, Target CPA, and Manual Bidding.
- Adjusted bids, keywords, and ad groups to maximize results within budget constraints.
- Paused underperforming campaigns and reallocated budget to high-performing areas.
Performance & Results
1. Lead Generation & Conversion Success
- 1.57K total conversions driven by PPC.
- Competitor campaigns converted significantly (186 conversions, $94K spend).
- Branded campaigns delivered 396 conversions (North America alone).
- Conversion Rate increased by 51.4%.
- Sessions increased by 38%, showcasing improved traffic quality.
2. Cost Efficiency & Budget Impact
- Despite being outspent 3:1, Worksoft dominated lead generation compared to all other channels.
- Competitor bidding strategy worked so well that rival brands started bidding on Worksoft’s terms.
- Performance Max and Display were scaled back after testing showed spam lead generation.
3. Business Outcomes & Competitive Impact
- PPC became Worksoft’s top lead generation channel.
- Most closed-won deals originated from PPC campaigns.
- Whenever PPC campaigns were paused, lead flow dropped dramatically—proving the direct pipeline impact.
- Worksoft’s brand recognition increased significantly, forcing Tricentis and others to increase their bids on Worksoft’s branded keywords.
Challenges & Key Learnings
- Biggest lead generation channel for Worksoft.
- Strongest closed-won deal source across marketing channels.
- Demonstrated the power of strategic PPC, even when outspent.
- Worksoft established itself as a major player, forcing competitors to adapt their bidding strategies.
This case study highlights how a data-driven PPC strategy, budget scaling, and competitor-focused execution led to Worksoft’s best-ever Google Ads performance. 🚀