Having quite a bit experience as project manager there are several aspect that are needed to be discussed in managing projects.Project management tools or templates has helped a lot in planning,executing and implementing project management activities.Several aspect regarding selection of right tool is a discussion topic which needs to be focused on.
Beware of finding a nifty
Beware of finding a nifty tool then seeking the right application! No one would use a wrench to hammer in a nail, or would they??
I work in Lean Manufacturing which focuses on optimal processes. Often, we fall into the trap of the nifty new tool (pick your buzzword from the Lean Six Sigma Magazine) or best practice from somewhere else. We then try to cut and paste into our application and then wonder why we failed. I have seen it way too many times that we become a slave to the tool at the expense of the process.
That being said, I think there are some fantastic tools out there. It would simply be helpful for someone, somewhere to put together a toolbox explaining exactly when/where to use each tool.
Do some R&D
Before investing in any application or tool (in your case it is project management tool), i think a detailed research is necessary because it helps in reducing a significant amount of stress.
I have been using eResource Scheduler, the best thing about this application is that it comes up with an unrestricted free trial of 14 days (that I think are enough to know whether the application is a fit or not).
It's website is loaded with training videos, which helps the visitor / client to understand the features and that makes it a '+1'.
Recently, I have written an article on exactly the same question what you have asked, i.e. "Questions to ask yourself before investing in a resource / project scheduling application".
I hope that helps.