How We Verify Software

Unlike traditional review sites, StackVerified analyzes real usage data from 47+ companies to deliver accurate, unbiased recommendations.

The StackVerified Difference

Most software review sites rely on user-submitted reviews or sales page features. We take a fundamentally different approach:

1. Real Usage Data

We track actual software usage across our portfolio of startups and growth companies. This gives us insight into:

  • True implementation costs (not just license fees)
  • Migration complexity and data loss risks
  • Feature usage patterns (what actually gets used vs. what's marketed)
  • Team adoption rates and satisfaction

2. APEX Intelligence Platform

Our proprietary APEX system continuously monitors:

  • Pricing Changes: Weekly API checks to catch hidden price increases
  • Feature Updates: Automated testing of key features across plans
  • Integration Health: Real compatibility testing with popular tools
  • Performance Metrics: Speed, uptime, and reliability tracking

3. Expert Analysis

Every review is written by operators who have:

  • Implemented the software in production environments
  • Managed teams using the tools daily
  • Analyzed ROI across multiple companies
  • Handled migrations and integrations

Our Verification Process

  1. Data Collection: Aggregate usage data from portfolio companies
  2. Hands-On Testing: 30-day real-world usage of both platforms
  3. Cost Analysis: Build total cost models across different scales
  4. Migration Testing: Attempt data exports and imports
  5. Continuous Monitoring: Weekly updates via APEX automation

Confidence Scores Explained

Each review includes a confidence score based on:

  • 90%+: High confidence - 30+ active installations tracked
  • 75-89%: Good confidence - 15-29 installations analyzed
  • 60-74%: Moderate confidence - 5-14 installations studied
  • <60%: Limited data - based on testing only

Affiliate Disclosure

Yes, we use affiliate links. Here's why that doesn't compromise our reviews:

  • We earn commissions from all major platforms we review
  • Our rankings are based on data analysis, not commission rates
  • We clearly disclose when products don't meet our standards
  • Commission revenue funds our APEX testing infrastructure

Our Promise:

If our data shows a lower-commission product is better for your use case, we'll recommend it. Revenue optimization happens through volume and trust, not by misleading recommendations.

Data Freshness

Reviews are updated:

  • Weekly: Pricing data and feature availability
  • Monthly: Performance benchmarks and integration tests
  • Quarterly: Full re-analysis with updated company data
  • On-Demand: Major product updates or pricing changes

Last methodology update: January 7, 2026