Selecting a Scientific Graphing and Data Analysis Software

Selecting a Scientific Graphing and Data Analysis Software

12. Is the software well documented?

    A well documented product is often a sign of a well developed product. The documentation should be clear and concise. Technical terms and software-specific terms should be clearly defined in a glossary. Additionally, a tutorial should be provided introducing you to the major product features so you can get started using the product quickly.

13. Has the software been tested by an independent testing laboratory?

    Before you purchase a scientific graphing and data analysis software, check if the product has been tested for performance by an independent testing company. A positive test result, particularly if the software was tested against competitive products, indicates a high quality product you should consider purchasing.

14. What do you need to know about the software company before you purchase the product?

    The supplier of the software is an important factor you should consider before purchasing a product. You will spend a considerable amount of time and resources learning and using the software, and you will want the vendor to support you when you need them. Considerations include:

    What services are provided by the company?

    Look for a company that backs their product with high quality technical services. Contact the company's technical support team to assess their response time and level of support. Additionally, a website containing updated and informative technical information is a must, allowing you to resolve problems whenever they occur. To discuss application-specific issues, a web-based forum is a great benefit. A forum allows you to share and discuss information with your peers. If you are evaluating a software for a site license, you should look for a company that provides product training, preferably at your site or online.

    How long has the company been in business?

    Look for a company that has an established product and customer base.

    Who are their customers?

    Find out if the company has customers in your specific industry or academic field. Are well established institutions, research centers, and large corporations included in their list of customers?

    Can the company provide customer testimonials (case studies)?

    If a customer is willing to use their name and their employer's name and provide a testimonial about the software, it implies that the product is well-regarded in the market.

15. How can you evaluate your options?

    Purchasing a scientific graphing and data analysis software is a major decision that requires careful study. The main investment is not the money you spend purchasing the product, but rather the amount of time and effort you must invest in learning to use the product effectively. A quick decision can have long lasting consequences in terms of frustration, lost time and effort, and reduced productivity.

    We suggest that you develop your own checklist based on the information provided in the previous items, particularly in items 7-14. When reviewing scientific graphing and data analysis software products based on your checklist, be sure to consider the importance of each of the items in your particular working environment.

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