What Are the Big Five Expert Networks?

​In today’s fast-paced business environment, having access to timely, credible insights is more than a competitive advantage — it’s essential. Expert networks have become indispensable tools for organisations seeking strategic guidance, market validation, or industry-specific intelligence.

Among the many platforms in the market, five stand out as industry leaders: AlphaSense, Tegus, Gerson Lehrman Group (GLG), Third Bridge, and AlphaSights. These are commonly referred to as the “Big Five” expert networks, recognised for their scale, innovation, and global impact.

Let’s explore what makes each of these firms a top-tier provider, the key differences between them, and how emerging competitors are shaping the future of the industry.

The Big Five Expert Networks

1. AlphaSense
AlphaSense is a technology-forward platform that has gained prominence for its use of artificial intelligence to streamline the research process. It allows users to search across expert transcripts, earnings calls, news, and research reports with speed and precision.

Key Features:

• AI-Driven Tools: Sentiment analysis and Smart Summaries™ help users quickly surface key insights
• Transcript Access: A growing library of expert call transcripts across sectors
• Compliance Focus: Built-in safeguards ensure information remains secure and regulated

Ideal for research analysts and teams that rely on data speed and automation, AlphaSense merges human insight with machine efficiency.

2. Tegus
Tegus has earned a strong reputation for its growing database of expert transcripts and direct consultations. It appeals particularly to investment firms and analysts who want actionable insights quickly and affordably.

Key Features:

• 100,000+ Transcripts: Searchable library of expert interviews
• Live Consultations: Custom one-on-one access to industry professionals
• AI Navigation Tools: AskTegus improves content discovery across the platform

With its emphasis on speed, quality, and cost-effectiveness, Tegus is a strong fit for deal teams, private equity firms, and portfolio analysts.

3. Gerson Lehrman Group (GLG)
Often regarded as the original expert network, GLG has a vast and well-established reputation. With over 900,000 vetted professionals, it serves corporates, investors, consultancies, and government agencies.

Key Features:

• Wide-Ranging Services: Expert calls, surveys, strategic events, and tailored research
• Global Reach: Access to experts in 150+ countries
• Sector Breadth: Strong in healthcare, finance, industrials, and tech

GLG’s longevity and size make it an ideal choice for global organisations needing broad expertise and proven service delivery.

4. Third Bridge
Third Bridge specialises in qualitative research, offering clients deep insights through primary interviews and curated content. Its strength lies in nuanced conversations and expert storytelling.

Key Features:

• Forum Library: 30,000+ transcripts from investigative expert interviews
• Analyst-Led Research: Calls and content curated by in-house professionals
• Emphasis on Depth: Detailed, tailored content for strategy and diligence

Often used by private equity firms and management consultancies, Third Bridge delivers layered context that goes beyond surface-level insights.

5. AlphaSights
AlphaSights focuses on customised expert matching, using a high-touch approach to connect clients with precisely the right professionals. The platform is well suited for fast-moving teams that need quick access to trusted guidance.

Key Features:

• Tailored Consultations: Every call matched to a specific project brief
• AlphaNow™: Curated library of insight-rich content
• Surveys and Research: Combines qualitative and quantitative research for holistic decision support

AlphaSights is trusted by investment firms, global corporations, and strategy leaders looking for fast, reliable insight delivery.

Rising Challengers in the Expert Network Industry

While the Big Five dominate the space, a new generation of platforms is gaining momentum by leveraging smart technology and client-focused models.

ProSapient
ProSapient uses machine learning to automate the expert matching process and supports both live consultations and survey services. It is known for its ease of use, affordability, and flexible engagement models.

• Ideal for startups and SMEs
• Strong UK presence and intuitive dashboard tools

Atheneum
Atheneum blends global scale with multilingual capabilities, offering expert matching across complex international markets. It supports corporates, consultancies, and investment teams with agile delivery.

• Strong foothold in EMEA and APAC
• Technology-enhanced research workflows

NewtonX
NewtonX is transforming the expert network space by using AI to custom-source experts for each request. Its precision-focused approach and scalable delivery model are particularly appealing to tech-native clients.

• Custom recruitment for each project
• Well suited for niche or frontier-sector queries

Comparing the Big Five: Which Expert Network Is Best?

Each of the Big Five providers brings different advantages to the table:

• AlphaSense: Best for tech-enabled insights and rapid content processing
• Tegus: Ideal for cost-conscious users needing transcript access and fast turnaround
• GLG: Excellent for global coverage and sector-wide expertise
• Third Bridge: Strongest in deep, primary research and qualitative analysis
• AlphaSights: Leading in personalised matching and responsive, high-touch service

The right network for your business will depend on your timeline, budget, industry, and preferred research format.

Why Choose Silverlight Research?

Silverlight Research offers a tailored, flexible alternative to the Big Five. We work closely with clients to deliver expert insights that are both timely and aligned with your strategic objectives.

What Sets Us Apart:

• Custom Project Scoping: Every engagement is built from the ground up, with no pre-set templates
• Global Access: We match you with experts across sectors and regions, from mainstream to highly niche
• Compliance First: All expert engagements are vetted and managed under a robust legal framework

Whether you're exploring a new market, conducting due diligence, or validating a commercial strategy, Silverlight Research delivers fast, accurate, and reliable insights — backed by a team that prioritises your success.

• Learn more on our homepage
• Contact Silverlight Research to discuss your next project

FAQs

What are expert networks, and how do they work?
Expert networks connect organisations with vetted professionals who offer direct insights on markets, industries, or technologies. These insights are delivered via phone calls, surveys, or curated transcript libraries.

What makes the “Big Five” expert networks stand out?
AlphaSense, Tegus, GLG, Third Bridge, and AlphaSights are considered industry leaders due to their scale, innovation, and reliability across sectors. Each offers different strengths, from AI-powered search to custom expert matching.

How do I choose the right expert network?
Start by considering your budget, industry focus, project complexity, and whether you need rapid insights or deep, strategic research. If flexibility, personal service, and fast turnaround are priorities, Silverlight Research is a strong choice.

Is Silverlight Research suitable for smaller businesses?
Yes — Silverlight Research supports businesses of all sizes, offering scalable services and pricing to meet the needs of SMEs, startups, and large enterprises alike.

Tags: expert networks, AlphaSense, Tegus, GLG, Third Bridge, AlphaSights, Silverlight Research