Q1 Has the software been developed by electrical engineers?
Electrical software should be developed by knowledgeable and industry experienced engineers. It is a good sign when the software company and the engineers who work for them are well-known and respected in the industry.
Q2 Is the software fully-featured and easy to use? Is there a trial version?
Great electrical software should be fully-featured as well as simple to learn and easy to use.
Try out the software first. Download or request an evaluation.
Speak with the software company about your requirements. Send them an email then follow it up with a phone call.
Remember electrical software developed for PC/laptop will have more features and capabilities than software for tablets or smart phones.
Q3 Does the software cover appropriate electrical standards?
There are many electrical standards which vary depending on your location.
It is your obligation to ensure compliance so check that the software complies with the latest relevant standards or ask the software company to confirm.
Q4 Is the software well-known and does it have a good reputation?
Q5 Does the software company provide a range of products?
Q6 What are the software licencing terms?
It’s important to know what you’re getting yourself into once you’ve made the purchase.
The best licencing arrangements should allow access from multiple devices such as your PC and laptop for a single licence, be easy and free to transfer licences.
Q7 Is there local phone support available?
Conclusion
Good electrical software is an essential tool to have in your business, the right software will save you time, ensure accuracy and will save you money giving you an edge over your competition.
There are many electrical software products and companies on the market and these are built to different standards. Finding the best fit for your needs now and as your business grows can seem daunting.
Investing time comparing your options against these questions will help to make sure you find the best software for you. By asking the software company the above questions, or finding the answers to these questions on their website, will help you choose the right software for you and your business.
