Choosing and Configuring a Tool

Ask these questions

Instead of asking "which is best?", ask: Does it see enough of my project (whole repo, not only the open file)? Can it run my tests? What happens to my code and prompts (stored, used for training, retained how long)? Does it work in my editor? What does it cost per user? Tools and plans change quickly, so check current documentation and your organisation's policy before committing.

An evaluation checklist

Try two tools on the same real task from your own project before deciding.

Context      sees whole repo?  indexes it locally or sends it out?
Actions      edits files?  runs tests / commands?  asks before running?
Privacy      training on my code?  retention?  org-level controls?
Fit          my editor / language / framework supported?
Cost         per seat?  usage limits?
Trial        same task on 2 tools; compare diff quality and review time

Pilot before you standardise

Run a two-week trial with a few volunteers on real tickets and track review time, bugs found later and how people felt. A small pilot gives evidence for a team-wide decision.

Quick check: What is the best way to compare two coding assistants?

• Read only advertisements
• Give both the same real task from your project and compare the results
• Pick the cheapest
• Pick whichever is newest