Start with the job, not the feature list
Write down the recurring task, the person who performs it, the current time cost, and the minimum acceptable result. A tool is valuable when it improves that workflow—not when its demo looks impressive.
Run a short paid test
A one-month subscription is often cheaper than weeks of indecision. Use real files, measure time saved, test exports and collaboration, and cancel anything that does not earn a permanent place in the process.