Each year, computers and the software that the computers run become more and more sophisticated. Each year there are also more versions and brands of software on the market. It's hard to know where to turn for good information and where to begin when you go software shopping. You want to get the most for your money-and a product that will best meet your needs-but what is that?

     For this activity, you will need to create a chart either on paper or using your computer. Also, you will need to plan at least one visit to a store that sells computer software or have a computer with access to the Internet.

     One of the most common types of computer software is the word processor. It is an application that many people use every day or at least every week. What is the best word processor available on the market? That is what you are going to find out. Because the answer will probably vary from person to person, you will be coming up with the answer for you.

     Begin by making a list of all of the features that you want and need for a word processor to have. (Refer to the list in the DATA-BANK to get started.) This list should be unique to you. Using the list you have created, select your top ten criteria. Be sure to include price as one of the criteria that you use. Using these items, create a chart on paper or using your computer, and gather information about at least three types of word processing programs based on your list.

     After you have collected all of the information, decide which software is best suited to meet your needs.

• Why did you select the ten criteria that you did? Ask a friend or classmate what they think is important in a word processor. Compare their list to your list.



• What are some of the similarities and differences in the software programs that you reviewed?



• What was the relationship between price and the number of features?



• Which features surprised you?



• Did you visit more than one store? If so, did you notice a difference on prices for software at the different locations? What about electronic shopping? Were you able to find the same product on the Internet? Did it cost less or more on the Internet? Don't forget to include things like sales tax and shipping on your Internet purchases, (if applicable).

     Make a similar comparison using a different type of software (such as a spreadsheet, database program, game, or educational program).

     Conduct another software comparison, using someone else's criteria as a guide. Were your recommendations the same or different?

     Visit with a local business to find out what type of software they use. Ask them how they decide what type of software to purchase. Find out if they feel that they are missing any features on their software that they will shop for next time they purchase software.

     There are many sources of information available that will tell you what type of software you should buy. Although many of these sources are well meaning, often you are unique enough that it's best to handle your own comparisons.

     Think about how you will be using the computer program you are thinking of buying. Will you be doing any out of the ordinary things with it? If so, you probably would benefit from doing your homework. Don't forget that you might want to share information with others from time to time, so compatibility of software is an important issue. Also beware of companies that may be in business for only a short while. You may need support for your program in three years and not be able to find it because a company may have gone out of business.

     Additional information about purchasing software can be found in computer publications such as Computer Shopper. You also may want to check these sites on the Internet:

• PCWorld - Comparison of Word Processors - http://www.pcworld.com/software/word_processing/.



• Let's Keep It Simple Spreadsheet - http://macworld.zdnet.com/pages/september.96/Reviews.2613.html.



• Microsoft Word - http://www.microsoft.com/office/word/default.htm.



• Computer Shopper - http://netbuyer.zdnet.com/texis/netbuyer/doframe.html?rg=r129 &u=www.zdnet.com/netbuyer/edit/cshopper/.



• Netbuyer - http://www.zdnet.com/netbuyer/.

• Cost
• Font availability
• Toolbar functions
• Conversion
• Spell check
• Grammar check
• Flexibility
• Thesaurus
• Compatibility with other programs
• Automatic formatting
• Import/export capability
• Online help
• Drawing capability

Adapted from material developed by Illinois 4-H. Used by permission.

For IFAS-related questions or information, please contact IFAS External Relations.
Copyright © 1994-2000 | University of Florida | Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences | Gainesville, FL 32611
For Web site problems or suggestions, contact the site Web Master.