How we review tools
Disclosure: Some links may be affiliate links. See disclosure.
Our goal is simple: help small agencies pick tools that actually stick — fast setup, clear trade‑offs, and routines your team will follow.
What makes a tool a “good fit” here
- Scenario fit: we pick based on real agency workflows (handoffs, approvals, multi‑client reporting).
- Adoption: low friction beats “power features” nobody uses.
- Trade‑offs: every pick includes a “watch‑out” so you can avoid bad fits.
- Updates: we refresh guides when vendors change plans, limits, or pricing.
How we shortlist tools
- We start with a common agency scenario (for example: retainer delivery, lead gen, client portals, or outbound sales).
- We pick a small shortlist (usually 3–5) and explain who each tool is best for.
- We include “watch‑outs” (cost traps, missing features, poor client access, or admin overhead).
Affiliate links and independence
- No pay‑to‑play rankings: commissions do not buy placement.
- If a tool is a poor workflow fit, it doesn’t make the list — even if it pays well.
- Always verify current pricing/limits on the vendor site.
What “updated” means
When we update a guide, we re‑check the shortlist, watch‑outs, and key vendor pages (pricing, plan limits, integrations, and client permissions). If a tool drifts out of “best fit”, we change the recommendation.
Corrections
If you spot something outdated, email us via the contact details on the About page. We prioritize fixes on high‑intent money pages first (CRM, proposals, time tracking, invoicing).
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