Testing method
How I review AI tools
Every tool is judged on real small business tasks, scored against the same criteria, and rechecked on a fixed schedule so readers can trust each verdict.
Four steps, the same every time
Each review follows this workflow so that one tool can be compared fairly against another.
1. Choosing the tool
I shortlist tools by the category small businesses actually buy in, then remove options with unclear pricing or no usable trial.
2. Testing on real tasks
I run each tool through everyday work such as drafting an email, automating an invoice step, or building a simple design, and record what happened.
3. Scoring approach
Each tool is scored for usefulness, onboarding friction, and total cost. The same rubric applies to every review, so scores can be compared directly.
4. Update frequency
Pricing and features are rechecked on a regular schedule, and each review shows its last updated date so you know how current it is.
Independence
Affiliate disclosure and independence
Some links on this site are affiliate links. If you buy through them, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Disclosed links never change a review’s conclusions, pros and cons, or scores.
Partnerships do not buy placement or ratings. A tool with a weaker result gets the weaker verdict, whether or not it pays an affiliate commission.