How to Shop for Financial Software

When you are ready to shop for financial software, there are many factors to keep in mind. From price to ease of use to tools provided, what you choose depends not only on your taste, but also on the use you intend to give the software. Try to postpone shopping until you are sure the software is exactly what you want and need.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Shop for Financial Software

1. Try free demos or ask a friend to let you try his software. Download and try as many options as you can before you decide to buy the full version, especially if you are thinking of buying an unknown software that has few available consumer reviews.
2. Choose software that you understand and are able to handle. While taking some time to learn the wording and the processes is fine, you don't want to spend days going through the most basic of functions before you can start using the program. You also don't need software that has 50 functions if you are only looking to keep a budget or balance your checkbook.
3. Shop at office-supply stores for a large selection of software, as long as you don't need anything too sophisticated or specialized. In certain situations, you may be better off at a computer store or technical shop.
4. Review different software programs online and decide on three or four options that seem the best, based on features offered and ease of use. Be sure to read user comments or look for official reviews from professionals.
5. Read reviews published by PC Magazine to help you choose the right software for your needs (see Resources below). Keep in mind that PC magazine reviews only new titles, so you may have to look into older issues if you are buying software that has been available for a few months.
6. Look beyond your computer. If you rely heavily on your PDA or smartphone for scheduling and programming, you may do better buying a software program that works on these platforms. Pocket Quicken and SplashMoney for Palm are two popular examples.

Tips & Warnings

• Financial software varies widely in price, depending on many factors, such as its manufacturer and popularity. Rather than basing your decision on price, look at the features offered and the possibilities for upgrading and renewing.

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