What should we record during a software trial?

QUICK ANSWER

Record the task, input, plan, result, corrections, and time spent for each test. Keep the same pass conditions across tools and note unresolved questions. A small consistent evidence log makes a decision more useful than a long list of impressions.

What to do next

Set pass conditions

Define the result that would make the tool worth adopting. Include required integrations, permissions, exports, and acceptable manual effort.

Capture each test

Save the input and result, then record setup time, review work, errors, and workarounds. Include a difficult case as well as normal use.

Review with the actual users

Compare evidence against the baseline and discuss maintenance, adoption, and cost. Decide which questions need another test or a written vendor answer.

Useful tools to explore

Open a profile for more detail, or check the vendor’s current plans.

Notion

Individuals and teams organising everyday work considering Notion for this job: Connected notes, documents, and workspaces.

Obsidian

Individuals and teams organising everyday work considering Obsidian for this job: Local-first notes and linked knowledge.

Before you decide

  • Test the plan you intend to purchase.
  • Use equivalent inputs for every option.
  • Record failure cases and unresolved limitations.
Keep in mind

A successful vendor demonstration may not represent your data, access rules, or everyday workload.

A LITTLE FEEDBACK GOES A LONG WAY

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