1. Selection

Businesses are selected for review based on consumer demand, regional significance, and existing reputation signals. We aim to cover the businesses our readers most need information about — not necessarily the largest or most-marketed companies.

2. Research

Each review begins with an extensive research phase. This typically includes:

Reviewing publicly available information including licensing, accreditation, and regulatory records. Analyzing customer feedback patterns across multiple platforms. Reviewing the business's own communications, website, and policies. Where possible, conducting interviews with current and former customers. Reaching out to the business directly for comment.

3. Scoring

Every business is scored on a 5-point scale across four dimensions:

The overall score is the average of these four dimensions. We do not weight any dimension above another — we believe each is equally important to the customer experience.

4. Writing

Reviews are drafted by our editorial team and reviewed by a second editor before publication. We aim for prose that is clear, fair, and grounded in evidence. We name specific strengths and weaknesses rather than dealing in generalities.

5. Verdict

Every review concludes with an editorial verdict — our final, plain-language recommendation. Verdicts fall into one of four categories: Highly Recommended, Recommended, Mixed, or Not Recommended.

6. Annual updates

Every published review is revisited at least once a year. Businesses change, and our coverage must change with them. Updates are dated and noted at the bottom of each review.

7. Corrections and disputes

If a business believes a review contains a factual error, they may submit a correction request through our contact page. Factual corrections are made promptly. Editorial judgments — our interpretation of facts — are not subject to revision based on the business's preferences.