Is the software comfortable to use?

How many buttons or commands does it take to perform the functions you need? Are the steps required obvious or less intuitive? Does it behave well?

Do you have the right level of control over things like hoops, pull compensation, and stitch patterns?

You may need less control if your main interest is stitching embroidery and more control if you are more interested in digitizing it, or working with complex designs.

Remember that the more automated functions are, the more you are likely to pay for the software. You may also find that you have less control over the end result with automated functions than you do with manual functions. If certain automated functions are especially interesting to you, make sure to test them extensively to be sure that they perform as well as you hope they will.

It is easy to figure out how to use the software?

Are the tutorials provided enough to make you feel comfortable using the it, or will you need further help? If you think you will need additional instruction in using your software, remember to include the estimated costs in your budget.

How long will the software meet your needs?

Ideally, you want software that meets your current skill level, but also allows you to do more complex projects as your confidence increases.

Consider how comfortable you are with new challenges.

If you think that you will be frustrated or overwhelmed with learning to use the software, a simple, inexpensive package may be best for you. On the other hand, if you thrive on new challenges, a more complex embroidery software package could be a good choice.

Take a critical look at all the extras like fonts, patterns and designs that are included with the embroidery software.

Stitch some out if you can. Do they stitch well, do you like them and are you likely to use them? Remember that these extras are just filler if you don’t think you’ll use them.

Finally, be aware of any biases you have for or against specific software or companies.

Almost all purchases have an emotional component, so it’s wise to be aware of this when making your decision. Comparing the features of several software options helps to insure that your decision is more rational than emotional.
After taking all of these issues into consideration, you will probably find that one embroidery package best meets your specific needs. If that’s the case, it’s time to purchase your software, install it, and start learning to use it. You will find helpful suggestions for getting started on the Learning to Use Your Software page.

If no software stands out as the best choice at this point, it’s time to change your approach a bit.

Does one of the choices fit your current budget better than the rest, even if it ends up being more expensive in the long run?

Your available budget is a huge factor in making a software purchasing decision. If no software package stands out in other areas, basing your choice on cost makes sense, and is probably what most people end up doing.

Is one of the packages easier to add to as you become more experienced?

If you’re new to embroidery, starting small with something you can grow into over time is probably a better choice. In many cases, this choice will be the most budget-friendly as well.

Are you finding that your needs are best met by components from several different packages?

If the components are modular, you may be able to piece together a system from several different software manufacturers. This could work for you if you have some embroidery experience and research your options carefully. If you’re new to machine embroidery, you’ll probably want to stick to a single brand for your embroidery software.

Is there a choice that feels better, even if you can’t explain it rationally?

Try mentally choosing each software package, and notice your reaction. In the course of your research, you may have run into something that made you feel better about one package over others, even though you can’t pinpoint it. Choosing embroidery software emotionally without having done any research isn’t recommended, but if all the other factors appear to be equal after you have done your research, choosing the software that makes you happiest is reasonable.

Remember that all embroidery software will have its flaws and frustrations, so you probably will not find a perfect package. If you carefully weigh your options after doing thorough research, you can be assured that you’ve made the best decision possible for your needs from what is currently available.