How we research, test, compare and correct.
Editor
Andreas Klaus is the founder and editor of Proof & Merit and is responsible for editorial direction, methodology and publication standards.
We start with the buying decision
We do not begin with a list of products and work backward toward a ranking. We start with the reader's job, define the criteria that materially affect that decision, gather evidence and then explain the tradeoffs.
Evidence is labeled by strength
Not every statement deserves the same confidence. Our research can use several evidence types, and we distinguish them rather than blending them together:
- Direct product use: hands-on use of the product or workflow.
- Primary documentation: official pricing, help-center, product, legal or technical documentation.
- Measured data: values we can reproduce or verify from a defined test.
- Qualified third-party evidence: independent reporting or data used when a primary source is unavailable or insufficient.
- Partner-supplied information: useful for factual verification, but not treated as an independent verdict.
We do not pretend documentation review is hands-on testing
Some pages are research reviews based primarily on current product documentation and buyer economics; others may include direct product testing. A page should not imply hands-on experience that did not occur. When direct testing materially changes confidence in a recommendation, we state what was tested and what was not.
How comparisons are built
A comparison should answer a real budget decision. We compare the same job where possible: buyer fit, workflow, pricing logic, meaningful limitations and switching costs. We avoid declaring a universal winner where the products solve different problems.
Commercial independence
Affiliate participation, demo access, credits, partner documentation or commercial contact does not guarantee positive coverage. Affiliate relationships are disclosed on relevant pages before or near the first commercial link. Commission size is not an editorial ranking criterion.
Pricing and fast-changing products
Software and AI products can change quickly. We date material updates and prefer current primary sources for pricing, plan names, usage limits and product availability. When a dynamic pricing page or regional offer prevents a single stable number, we say so rather than presenting a temporary snapshot as permanent.
Corrections policy
We correct material factual errors when they are verified. If a correction changes the substance of a recommendation or comparison, the page is updated clearly rather than silently preserving a misleading conclusion.
To request a correction, email hello@proofandmerit.com with the page URL, disputed statement and supporting evidence.
Update policy
Material pricing changes, plan renames, major feature additions, discontinued products and changes in commercial terms can trigger a re-check when they affect the buyer decision. Pages should show publication or update dates where recency matters.
Last updated: 9 October 2026.