With the number of available software packages steadily increasing, making a software buying decision can be a complex process. Research can be a time-consuming and costly undertaking and therefore it is important to ensure you make use of the resources available to you.

Here is a quick guide to selecting the best package for you:

1. Begin with a prioritized list that defines the elements of the desired software product. Functionality, price and your current operating system are key items to include on your list. First, identify the functions the software must perform. For example, an accounting system may include Accounts Receivable, Accounts Payable, General Ledger, Order Entry, Invoicing and Payroll. Secondly, make sure you have a handle on your current operating system and any particular requirements that are relevant to software running on it. Lastly, your overall budget for your software purchase will have an impact on your selection.

2. Locate the available software packages that meet your criteria. Based on the above criteria, the next step can be the most time consuming part of the process as there are many sources of information for locating possible software options. Some options are:
   • Computer Dealers and Resellers - Often professionals such as computer dealers and resellers know of one or several packages which will meet your needs. There is no cost associated with contacting one of these professionals, however, they can only recommend the software they know about.

   • Periodicals - Magazines and other monthly publications are a great source of information. Computer publications and other vertical market publications often have either advertisements or reviews on different types of software. Obtaining information through periodicals can be very time consuming especially if you are looking for a very specialized software package.

   • Catalogues - There are several catalogues which list and outline computer software. Most public libraries carry many of these catalogues and if you are looking for something for a specific type of computer, such as Hewlett Packard (HP), there is a catalogue provided by HP which outlines the different types of software which run on the HP computer.

   • WAN services - There are several proprietary network services such as CompuServe which will allow you to search through comprehensive lists of 40,000 + products. These services do however require a computer, a modem, a membership, proprietary software and funds available for searching through the database, as these types of services normally charge on a per minute basis.

   • Computer Consultants - Computer consultants can provide valuable information on locating software options to meet your needs. Consultants generally have a good knowledge of the industry. Be aware it may take several hours using print sources to locate hard to find software. Computer consultants typically charge between $55 and $225 per hour.

   • CD-ROM Databases - There are a number of software information databases which contain information on between 20,000 and 50,000 products. Databases such as "The Software Finder" by Datapro come in CD-ROM format, require a computer, a CD-ROM player and between $1,000 and $1,500 U.S. to purchase the database. The information is current based on the latest version and becomes out-of-date quickly.

   • Software Search Services - Online searching services such as SoftSearch provide a comprehensive overview of all the software products on the market. With over 110,000 titles, the SoftSearch database can save you valuable time and money as you evaluate your options.

3. Prepare a short list. Once you have found a number of packages that meet your basic criteria, it is time to narrow this list down to the few top candidates. While each program has its unique properties, you will have to determine which products are the best given your budget and future needs. If you are still unsure, it may be worthwhile to contact a software consultant for a second opinion.

4. Obtain details on your short list of products. Any information you can obtain about the product in the form of product literature, marketing brochures, review articles from periodicals and demonstration packages could be useful in answering any specific questions you may have.

5. Review your information. Now that you have obtained additional details on all of the products in your "short list", it is time to review this information. Upon review of the literature and evaluation of the any demonstration software, you will have probably already decided which program is the "best". Try to talk to a user of the software package to get a firsthand account of the effectiveness of the software. Once you have chosen the "best" software....

6. Make one final check. Now that you have chosen a software package, you should make one final check of the product literature to ensure that the software will run on your operating system or the one you intend to purchase. Congratulations, you’re now ready to buy your software!

© All articles are copyright by authors, Last updated: 30 April 1998
URL: www.sla.org/chapter/cwcn/wwest/v1n3/graham13.htm