The Quilt Software Network's Checklist for Judging a Quilt Design Program

The following quick list provides a summary checklist of questions you should ask about a quilting program:

1. Compatibility--

Will the program work on your system?
What are its minimum hardware requirements?
Is it designed for your platform (Macintosh, IBM-compatible Windows or DOS)?
Does it run using a minimum of your system's resources and without conflicting with other programs?

2. Functionality --

Will it do a lot?
Will it allow you to design quilts with a large number of blocks, or is it limited?
Can you change colors/fabrics easily?
Can you change colors/fabrics in layout mode, or do you have to return to block design mode?
Can you change the set of a quilt easily?
Do you have a lot of options for sashes and borders?
Does it have a large block library?
Can you draw free-form applique?
Can you draw and print stencils?
Will it measure yardage for you?
Will it do paper-piecing patterns?
Can you design your own fabric?
Does it have a large fabric library?
Can you design quilts with multiple sized blocks in the layout?

3. Ease of Use --

Is the program easy to use?
Will it work with a mouse?
Is it structured logically so it is easy to move from module to module?
Is it integrated (i.e. do the parts fit together well?)
Is it easy to learn?
Are the steps between going from one process (say making a block) to the next (laying out the blocks in a quilt) minimized?
Does it have a good help system?
Is the help system context-sensitive?
Does it have good written documentation (a manual?)
Is it configurable by the user?

4. Pleasing interface --

Are the screens attractive and pleasing to the eye?
Is the type on the screen easy to read?
Are the screens laid out in a logical and easy-to-use way?
Will you be able to stand looking at this program for the many hours you will be using it?