Inexpensive micro software will soon be only a memory several software company representatives predicted at the recently concluded National Computer Conference. The sophistication of software packages for micros is increasing and buyers are expecting more. In the past, good quality software backed by the developer was priced at the same low level as poor quality software.
Most of the people interviewed predicted price increases of 300% or more over the next three years. There is little point in rushing out to buy software now to beat the price increases unless one really knows how to distinguish the good and the bad. The higher priced software will offer guarantees, flexibility in upgrading, etc.; the bargain products may have a hidden cost: poor functionality, poor manuals, and no guarantees. The most frequent caveat at NCC was don't buy without a right to return a defective product.
