How do I run a software evaluation process properly?

A rigorous software evaluation: (1) define requirements (must-haves vs. nice-to-haves) before looking at vendors, (2) shortlist 3–4 vendors based on requirements, (3) run a 2-week proof-of-concept with real data, (4) involve end users in the trial — not just decision-makers, (5) check reference customers similar to your company size and use case, (6) evaluate total cost of ownership, not just the license fee.