Judge usefulness before novelty
A useful evaluation connects a tool to a real task and a real user. This page sets out the questions that help separate a promising idea from a distracting feature.
Name the task
First, describe the problem in ordinary language. A tool has a stronger case when it improves a specific activity, such as finding information, drafting material, coordinating work, or reducing a repetitive step.
Measure the effort
Next, consider setup, learning, maintenance, and review. A fast first result may not matter if the tool creates correction work, demands a new workflow, or depends on inputs that are difficult to provide.
Check the boundaries
Good judgment includes limits. Ask what the tool cannot do, what information it needs, how its output should be checked, and what happens when the ideal use case meets an ordinary day.
Clear answers before the next step
Does this method produce a universal score?
No. A tool's value depends on the task, user, workflow, and tolerance for effort, so the questions support judgment rather than replace it.
Why include limits?
Limits show where a tool may require supervision, another system, or a different approach.