Playbook: evaluate a SaaS tool during a 14-day trial

Most trials end with a renewal you regret. Pressure-test it properly:
— Day 1: import your real data, not the demo set — fake data hides every limit
— Day 3: try the one workflow you'll do daily; if it's clunky now, it won't improve
— Day 7: test the export. If you can't get your data out clean, that's a lock-in red flag
— Day 10: email support with a hard question and time the reply before money's on the line

Annual plans
👍 20-30% cheaper, locks your rate
👎 refunds rare, you're betting before you know

Monthly plans
👍 bail anytime, test under real load
👎 pricier, vendors gate features to push annual

Verdict: Go monthly until two full billing cycles prove it sticks, then switch to annual.

Best for: anyone tempted by an annual discount on day two.

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