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GitLab vs. ServiceNow: Which Enterprise Software Stock Has an Edge?
ZACKS· 2026-02-27 19:00
Core Insights - GitLab (GTLB) and ServiceNow (NOW) are significant players in the enterprise software and workflow automation sectors, with GitLab focusing on DevOps automation and ServiceNow on IT service management and enterprise workflow automation [1][2] Market Overview - The global workflow automation market was valued at $25.10 billion in 2025 and is projected to grow from $27.91 billion in 2026 to $65.26 billion by 2034, reflecting a CAGR of 11.20% from 2026 to 2034, benefiting both GitLab and ServiceNow [2] GitLab Insights - GitLab is experiencing strong demand for its DevSecOps platform, with solutions like GitLab Ultimate and GitLab Duo driving customer adoption [3] - In Q3 fiscal 2026, GitLab reported a 10% year-over-year increase in customers with over $5K in Annual Recurring Revenue (ARR), totaling 10,475, and a 23% increase in customers with over $100K in ARR, reaching 1,405, indicating strong enterprise traction [4] - The introduction of the GitLab Duo Agent platform, which integrates AI capabilities, is a significant growth driver for GitLab [5][6] ServiceNow Insights - ServiceNow is benefiting from increased adoption of its workflows as enterprises undergo digital transformation, supported by a strong and frequently updated portfolio [7] - In Q4 2025, ServiceNow recorded 244 transactions exceeding $1 million in net new annual contract value (ACV), marking nearly 40% year-over-year growth, and had 603 customers with over $5 million in ACV, representing approximately 20% year-over-year growth [8] - ServiceNow's collaboration with Anthropic to embed AI capabilities into its workflows is expected to enhance app development and internal productivity [9][10] Performance and Valuation - Over the trailing 12 months, GitLab shares have declined by 53.7%, while ServiceNow shares have fallen by 43.4%, with GitLab's underperformance attributed to macroeconomic uncertainties and increased competition [12][13] - GitLab shares are currently trading at a forward Price/Sales ratio of 4.13X, while ServiceNow's is at 6.96X, indicating that both stocks are currently overvalued [16] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for GitLab's fiscal 2026 earnings is 89 cents per share, reflecting a 20.27% year-over-year increase, while ServiceNow's estimate for 2025 earnings is $4.13 per share, indicating a 17.66% year-over-year increase despite a recent decline [18] Conclusion - Both GitLab and ServiceNow are positioned to benefit from the growing enterprise software and workflow automation market, but ServiceNow is highlighted for its broader enterprise footprint, stronger large-deal momentum, and deeper AI integrations [19][20]