General Considerations
Step1
Determine your needs and how you propose to use the DTP programs. Don't buy a complicated program if you won't take advantage of it.
Step2
Check reviews in computer magazines and on the Internet to narrow your choices.
Step3
Download demo versions from manufacturers' Web sites to try specific programs.
Step4
Consider using an advanced word-processing program for basic needs.
Step5
Base your choice of software on your output device. If you will not be outputting to a PostScript printer or sending a file to a service bureau, get an amateur program.
Step6
Consider popular programs such as Microsoft Publisher, My Advanced Brochures, Press Writer, Broderbund Print Shop and Sierra Print Artist.
Considerations for Basic Programs
Step1
Look for a variety of templates for business documents such as brochures, business cards, certificates, envelopes, labels, letterhead, menus, newsletters and résumés.
Step2
Look for a variety of templates for home-use projects such as banners, calendars, greeting cards, posters, reports and stationery.
Step3
Compare the quantity and quality of included fonts, graphics, stock photos and clip art.
Step4
Compare word-processing features, such as a spell checker and thesaurus.
Considerations for Professional Programs
Step1
Take a class before attempting to use professional programs such as QuarkXPress, FrameMaker, Adobe PageMaker or Corel Ventura.
Step2
Find out which program your service bureau prefers, if you will be working with a service bureau.
Step3
Choose PageMaker for relative ease-of-use and integration with other Adobe products.
Step4
Choose QuarkXPress for long documents, typesetting, and sophisticated trapping and color separations.
Step5
Choose FrameMaker for book-integration features.