Productivity like a Pro! How to Know If Your Tool Subscriptions Are Actually Worth It
Jan 28, 2026
They walk through tracking subscription ROI and mapping tool costs to see what you really pay for. They break down real monthly stacks and compare core apps versus satellite apps. They discuss testing subscriptions, avoiding lock-in, and trimming redundant tools. They also cover why design, motivation, and AI teammates can justify certain paid services.
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Know Why You Pay For Tools
- Many people pay for subscriptions without knowing the real reason they use the tools.
- Tom argues that subscriptions must show time back or saved to be justified.
Map Tools Into Core, Satellite, Utility
- Map your tools into core, satellite and utility categories to reveal redundancies and cost.
- Add pricing to calculate monthly and annual spend and spot savings opportunities.
Tom's $869 Monthly Tool Stack
- Tom shared his productivity-stack spend: about $869 per month and roughly $10,000 per year.
- He frames that cost against hiring people and the value tools provide when used correctly.