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Twelve Things You Should Know to Save on Computer Software
Do you want to get quality software at a reasonable price?
Whether you work at home or just need good software for
your personal computer, you are faced with an almost endless
selection of computer software. Sorting through the options
can sometimes be a major task. However, if you want to
get good, quality software there are several things that
you can do that will save you money and headaches.
With the arrival of online marketing, you have more choices
than ever. There are a large number of reputable software
companies that sell software at significant savings. With
a little homework and thought on your part, you can get
good quality software that will accomplish your specific
task.
In order to save both time and money on computer software,
here is a list of twelve things you should do.
1. First, make sure you know as closely as possible the
exact task you want your software to accomplish. The more
specific you are the better. For example, do you want a
very general word processing program to write occasional
letters or a more sophisticated word processing software
program to run the marketing for your business?
2. Check out the minimum requirements necessary to run
the software. You want to make sure it will run on your
computer equipment. You should find out how much memory
the program takes, what operating systems it will run on
and how much disk space is required. Is there any other
computer accessory required to use the software?
3. Talk to friends and associates that have used the specific
type of software you’re searching for. Ask them where
they got the software, how much they paid, how long they’ve
used the program, what type of guarantee came with the
program, etc. If you have a task, which involves a deadline,
like a payroll program, ask them how they were able to
get answers to their questions and how long did it take.
4. Search the Internet for reviews on the software. Look
at user groups or bulletin boards to see what users are
saying about the software. For example, if you’re
looking at the QuickBooks business program, type in “QuickBooks
Software Review” to locate review information about
the program.
5. You should always test the software program before
you purchase it. Many reputable companies will allow you
to download their software and test it out before you buy.
Take advantage of the opportunity to test the program.
Enter some data, print some reports, and give the program
a real workout. Try as many options as possible. Don’t
always follow set procedures. Try to experiment on your
own. You want to know what the software does in a real
world setting. You want to know what happens when you make
a mistake.
6. If the software provides support, you should think
of a question about the program that may not be too obvious
and ask support for help. You’re much better off
to try out support before you truly need help than to wait
until you’re in a “must have help” situation.
See how long it takes to get an answer. Check out how clear
the response is. Ask yourself, “Did this completely
resolve the problem for me?”
7. Check out the software warranty and company guarantees.
A software company that stands behind their program will
usually guarantee their products for a specific period
of time. You should get at least a 30-day money back guarantee
after purchasing the product. A 90-180 day guarantee is
better. Usually, the longer the product warranty, the better
the software.
8. Find out how often the company provides updates to
their software. Check out the cost for getting the updates.
For example, many companies will include updates for a
specific period of time with the purchase price of the
software. Companies that actively listen to their users
update their software. If a computer program has not been
updated for a long time, you probably won’t get further
updates.
9. If you get a “Freeware” software program,
you need to know four things:
First, freeware is a software program that does not cost
you any money. That means you will not be able to receive
support from the author. You are basically on your own.
Sometimes that is good. However, if you have a time sensitive
task and run into a software problem, free software may
not be your best option. If you miss a deadline and have
to pay a penalty of some type, that free software isn’t
so cheap after all.
Second, many times freeware is an “introductory” version
of a program. That means you may still have to pay for
the “complete” program or the ability to use
all the program options.
Third, if there is no charge for a program, the program
may include software options that gather information about
you, your computer, your surfing habits, etc. and then
return this information to the company via the Internet.
This is sometimes referred to as “Spyware” and
can cause some real problems with your computer. When you
use a program to eliminate the spyware on your computer,
your “free” software program may no longer
work.
Finally, if you are fairly computer literate, have no
specific deadlines and know that a freeware program does
not contain spyware, then, a freeware computer program
can be a great bargain.
10. If you get a “Shareware” software program
you need to know three things:
First, shareware is a software program that lets you try
it out before you buy it. The author is “sharing” the
program with you. If the computer shareware program does
what you want it to do, then the author expects you to
pay for it.
Many shareware programs allow you to use the program for
a set period of time. After that period of time, the program
(or at least some of the program options) will not continue
to work. Don’t make the mistake of entering a lot
of important data and then decide you “don’t
want to pay” for the program. You could be left high
and dry.
Finally, some shareware programs will continue to operate
regardless of how long you use them. If you come to rely
on a shareware computer program, it is wise to pay the
author the nominal fee they usually request. This will
help the author continue to develop and enhance the program.
Besides, you’ll probably get support and help from
the author if you need it.
11. Beware of companies that send you unsolicited emails
offering “name brand” computer software at
huge discounts. These are often overseas companies selling “illegal” software.
You will not get support, but you could get a letter from
the company’s lawyer telling you that you’re
using a pirated copy of their software. Some people have
even reported giving their credit card information to purchase
these “great bargains” only to learn weeks
later, they had paid for software they never got.
12. Last but not least, always order your computer software
from a reputable online company. You’ll experience
the best service, the best warranty and the best computer
products available.
About The Author
Larry Andrew is an educational consultant, author and publisher
of www.ez-software-review.com. Learn how to purchase
cheap, reliable and quality software for your home, school
and business.
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