software

[K]

Being a newbie I sure could use advice on software. I am looking at Specialty Soft, Lifesaver, and Frame Ready. Would like to hear from anyone regarding the good, the bad and the ugly on what to expect from these companies before I decide on which one.

[Jerry Ervin]

Everyone here will give you a different opinion based on what they like or dislike.

Specialty Soft is written on an Access database from Microsoft. Lifesaver is written on FoxPro and FrameReady is written with File Maker Pro.

I personally like the FrameReady product the best. Is is a very solid and stable database.

Softouch is a great company to do business with. You couldn't find a nicer group of people. Not saying the others are bad.

[Jerry Ervin]

Welcome to the Grumble!

[Kkastorf]

We bought Frame Ready last September and are very pleased with it. I used Specialty Soft in another shop and from that experience wanted to try something different. Technical support is prompt and accurate.

[Jay H]

Don't forget to take a look at FrameSmart. HERE (http://www.chameleonsmart.com/framesmart/index.php) is the site.

[smantecon]

I bought Frame Ready a couple of years ago because it was the only one (and still is, I think) that offers it for a Mac. I love the software and the people are so friendly and you can always get someone on the phone.

[Tim Hayes.]

I like the Specialty Soft that I purchased 2 years ago.

[RozR]

I have had Lifesaver for 3+ years and couldn't live without it.

[Mike Labbe @ GTP]

We're a very happy LifeSaver shop too.

Here's a side by side/neutral comparison of all known products.

http://www.getthepictureframing.com/gfaq/

I suggest grabbing the free demos and seeing which one feels best for your workflow and situation.

You've narrowed it down to the top 3 in popularity, so it looks like you may have already done some research.

Happy hunting!
Mike

[FramerRandy]

I've been using FrameReady for close to two years & am very happy with it. I also considered the fact that it will run on Apple OS to be a big factor for me. I don't want to be locked into the Microsoft OS & plan to switch the POS to a MAC at some point.
I think that most of the POS systems are good.
My biggest mistake was not using one sooner. They all have many benefits, some you will find out about after you install & starting using one.
Good luck on your decision. graemlins/kaffeetrinker_2.gif

[JbNormandog]

Frameready here. I used many different programs at different shops and found the software and the help line to be the best. Reasonably priced as well.

[Jim Miller]

We all tend to like the software we know and use, but most of us know and use only one. Fortunately, a few Grumblers have experience with more than one program.

But none of us can determine which one is best for YOU. I suggest you download the demos and try them all. Then call up the TechHelpers and ask a few questions. Get to know the company behind the software.

Personally, I started with FullCalc in 1994, and switched to FrameReady in 2001. Both are full-featured programs that serve every function my small shop needs. FrameReady's online updating is easier & faster, and I think the program is more user-friendly. I can't comment on the others available.

Having suffered through chronic problems with FullCalc in the late 90s, I was in search of perfect technical support. I am delighted to say I found it. However, the Frameready program runs very well, and my calls have been only questions about how to use features I seldom need.

Carol Graham and Bert DeRoo are both very knowledgeable and seemingly always available. I once called after 7pm, expecting to leave a voicemail for callback the next day, and Carol answered the phone! They are very responsive.

[danny boy]

We have been pleased with Frame Ready and give it a two thumbs up graemlins/thumbsup.gif graemlins/thumbsup.gif . I researched it well and made a plunge into the dark. I think you will find many framers with many opinions, but only because we all approach our business differently.
Welcome to the Grumble...