After you decide which programs are worth your serious consideration, you may still have questions about how the software works. You may also be worried about purchasing the software sight unseen. Fortunately, most software publishers do offer free labeling software trials before you invest.
Before using the free labeling software trial, take note of any limitations. Many free labeling software trials are valid for a limited period of time, whereas others restrict printing or saving files. Although the trial version may differ from the full product, it can still give you an overview of the product and help you get a feel for how the labeling software works.
Helpful Hints:
Give yourself sufficient time to review each free labeling software.
Take notes on each packages -- don't rely on your memory
How to Make the Most of Your Free Labeling Software Trial
Try the free labeling software in the same environment to which it will be deployed (O/S, printer, etc.).
Did you feel comfortable with the "look" and "feel" of the software?
Is it a stable application?
Use the companies support resources to answer questions.
Is the support staff responsive?
If you have staff that will be using the software, have the staff try it.
What does the staff think of it?
Design a typical label that has a variety of the features you need & recreate it from scratch in each software package.
Does it have all the features you need?
Is it easy to place fields accurately?
Can you rotate appropriate fields?
Does it communicate with your existing data?
Can you use your existing graphics?
Modify the label.
Can each field be edited easily?
Can field styles and types be changed without recreating them?
Can you change the printer type without recreating the label?
Print the label.
Are the prompts for variable information user friendly?
Can you print the required number of duplicate labels?
