3 stars (GOOD PRODUCT! BUT, ONLY A MINIMAL UPGRADE OPTION FOR USERS OF 2005 & 2006 EDITIONS) - "Quicken Willmaker Plus 2006 Estate Planning Software" is an easy-to-use handy tool for anyone who has to author a written-will and/or similar legal document. The software has a well-designed layout. It runs on any Windows operating system, which is 95 or later version. It can be installed and configured in a shortwhile. Its operational tempo is nice; and, it does not tie-up systems resources as much as other 'Quicken software' like: "Quicken Premier Personal Finance" and "Premier Home & Business" do.
However, the first negative sign users of previous editions will notice in this one is that very little has changed. As a result of this, it is difficult to see any good reason why those who own either the 2006 or the 2005 versions should bother themselves with upgrading to this 'new' version.
In general terms, the naked truth is that most software manufacturers, who indulge in the production of yearly 'new versions', have very little or nothing to show for the money they ask. They often play on buyers' psychology by rearranging the graphical interface of their 'old' products, and then hype them up as 'new' and 'improved'. This explains in part, why most of the recently released 'new products' have more bugs than the 'older ones', which they are supposed to be replacing. And since most of the potential buyers believe that 'new' items are always better, they fall into the buying trap.
What I have mentioned does not partain only to the makers of 'Quicken' products. It includes Microsoft, Adobe, Macromedia, Norton, McAfee, Corel, and so on. But, I hinted it here because I have conclusively inferred that this newly released "Quicken Willmaker Plus 2006 Estate Planning Software" is very much like the 'old' 2005 edition, which it suppose to replace. And, the 2005 version is as well, very similar to the 2006 version: in both design and function. So, how on earth can one justify all these calls for upgrade, if the trend persists as it currently is?
In conclusion, I will advise any first-time buyer, who is considering this software, to gladly invest on it. It is by every means a good product. And, the retail price is reasonable enough. However, if you are an old-timer, who owns either the 2005 or the 2006 edition of this software, I will categorically tell you not to buy this 2006 edition. It is still functionally very similar to what you already have. So, why should you pay for it? Spending on this 'new version' won't be a wise decision at all. Just wait and see if there will be a real upgrade-worthy version coming out for you next year. Good luck! |
