Troubleshooting - - Troubleshooting and Software Updates

The Importance of Software Updates

When one purchases a software program costing hundreds of dollars, one expects a fully functional product free of bugs and defects. Unfortunately, many of these users are dismayed when they start using the software and begin experiencing glitches that disrupt their work. They often complain that the product is poorly designed, doesn't work correctly, and is a hassle to use. While some products have more bugs than others, all software programs have issues that will produce undesirable results.

To fully understand why this is the case, one must consider the development process of the product. When planning a new release, manufacturers will set a schedule for development; this schedule is then shared with departments outside the programming department, most notably the marketing department, that play different roles in ensuring the product is a commercial success. Because of these time constraints, the programmers must set minimum standards for what must be done for the software to ship. As they work on the program, they often become aware of bugs in the code -- usually resulting from the interaction of different components within the program or the interaction of the program with the operating system. If the problem is big enough, accommodations will be made to fix it before the product ships. If the problem is deemed minor, chances are it will not be rectified before the product reaches consumers.

This is not to say the bug is forgotten: it simply takes a lower priority. After the product ships, the programmers continue to work to fix the problem, and software patches and service packs are later made available to consumers who want or need them.

My point is, if you're having problems with your software -- or if even you aren't! -- the first thing to do is make sure your version of the software is complete by downloading any patches that have been issued. You'd be surprised at how often this will fix a problem you're having.

Microsoft Office Update site -- will scan your software and download any updates that are available.

Corel Update site -- lists updates for all Corel products; product name will not display if no updates have been issued. You will need to know which version number you're using.