Before you buy another app, ask these five questions.
Another subscription isn't always the answer. Start with the job you need done—and what you're already paying for.
This is a starter guide for the new IPF journal, prepared for review before launch. It is not a hands-on product review.
1. What exact job does this app need to do?
Describe the task before looking at the product. 'Track requests from first contact to final invoice' is useful. 'Get organized' is too broad to evaluate.
2. Can a tool you already pay for handle it?
List your current subscriptions and check their features. An unused feature in an existing tool may be enough. Test it on one real task before committing to a new subscription.
3. How will your information get in—and out?
Check import and export options. Download a sample export during the trial and see whether another tool can read it. Do not assume a product with an export button gives you every attachment or custom field.
4. Who needs access?
Compare the total cost for your actual team, not just the headline price for one seat. Review permissions and make sure people can do their jobs without having access to everything.
5. What will make you keep it?
Choose a simple measure before the trial: fewer missed follow-ups, faster quote preparation, or less duplicate typing. If the tool doesn't improve that task, cancel it before the trial ends.
The short version
A sensible purchase solves a defined problem, fits your team, and lets you take your data with you. A long feature list is not a substitute for those things.