Printable checklist
Software Comparison Checklist
Use this checklist to make product trials comparable and the final decision easier to defend.
Use your browser's print command
Decision scope
- The workflow and desired outcome are written in one sentence.
- Current steps, handoffs, waits, systems, and exceptions are mapped.
- Must-haves, weighted differentiators, constraints, and open questions are separate.
- The users and decision owner are named.
Comparable trials
- Every product is tested with the same normal workflow.
- At least one difficult exception is tested.
- Actual users perform the work rather than only watching a demo.
- Setup steps, workarounds, and unresolved questions are recorded.
Verified details
- Pricing, plan limits, billing period, add-ons, and fees have a verification date.
- Required integrations are verified in current primary-source documentation.
- Support terms and implementation responsibilities are documented.
- Security, privacy, retention, and professional requirements receive appropriate review.
Implementation and decision
- Migration scope and export options are understood.
- The source of truth during transition is explicit.
- Training, permissions, ownership, fallback, and success measures are planned.
- The final record explains the fit, tradeoffs, risks, and condition that would change the decision.