5 Things to Consider when Choosing Design Software

By virtue of selling so many design products a very typical conversation we have with customers is about what product best fits their needs.
Of course different customers have different needs but I have tried to abstract the selection criteria. Here are what I believe are the five key things to keep in mind when selecting design software.

1. There are several products that can do the job well
   Today’s design software technology is so well developed that, unless you have very exotic requirements, several products that do more than you need are available. Choosing between similarly performing products is challenging. Once you have narrowed your choice down to the products that can do the job, you will have to use additional criteria to help you with your decision.
2. You have to like the user interface
   While “raw” performance can be very similar between different systems, the user interface is often very different. Apparently the user interface is one component of design products where developers are still able to create diversity. Since you will have to spend a lot of time using the system you should select the one that you find easiest to interact with.
3. Nobody works in a vacuum
   Another key differentiating factor is the ability to interface with other elements of the design and manufacturing environment you belong to. Make sure that the product that you chose can exchange files (directly or through good quality translators) with other products that you or your suppliers/partners use.
4. Think long term
   Design software tends to be a very long term decision. The cost of switching is so high (conversion of large databases of design data, re-training of operators) that it is often preferable to live with your current system than to switch to a better one. It is therefore very important to consider all the long term factors when choosing design software. For example:
   • Does the software manufacturer have a good track record?
   • Is it a widely used product with a large user base that provides a readily available pool of talented operators?
   • Is the product designed for the future or is it close to its end of life (e.g., Catia V4 vs. Catia V5)?
5. Price should not be an issue
   Many customers are price sensitive when it comes to design software but we always recommend putting quality first. Think of the cost of the software operator compared to the cost of the software itself. No matter how expensive the software might be the cost of the operator will be significantly higher. Therefore a less expensive and sub-optimal product will hinder the productivity of a very expensive user. Is it worth it? Furthermore, design stage decisions have an enormous impact on downstream costs. Design is generally not the place to be cost conscious.

As this a short checklist, it is inevitably incomplete. However, I hope you will find it helpful in increasing your chances of selecting the product that is best for your needs.

Please share your experience in choosing your design software by leaving a comment.

Cristiano Sacchi