If you are like most computer users, you get your software out of the box or download it from the Internet, then you immediately start the installation of it.  This is not a good idea.  You should take a few things into consideration before installing any new program.

Here is a list of what you should do prior to installing ANY program on your computer:

1. 1.  Make sure what the minimum requirements are.
   

2. 2.  Find out what the program does and does not do.
   

3. 3.  Make sure you have adequate time to install the program.
   

4. 4.  Make sure you have made a backup of the software
   

5. 5.  Read the Readme files and installation instructions
   

If all of the above are done, you should now install the software.

I will now elaborate on steps 1 through 5.

Minimum requirements are just that - the absolute minimum needed to run the application.  You should not install programs on a computer that it can not handle.  The only reason to do so, (if the installer allows you to do so), is to make your computer run like molasses in January in Vermont.  This means SLOOOOOOOOOOW operation. 

Always install on a machine exceeds the minimum and you will never be unhappy about the performance.

Item two - make sure that the program is likely to fill your needs.  You can usually find reviews on most programs that are really in-depth enough to find out if the program will meet (or exceed) your needs.  Do some research and save yourself time, headaches and money.

Number three is a no-brainer.  Don’t try to install a new operating system that will take thirty minutes to install if you only have fifteen minutes before you have to be at work.

The fourth item is for your own security.  Make a backup of the software (you are allowed one archival copy, by law).  Use the backup for your install.  This protects you from something like I had happen to me. I had a grain of sand or some other material in the CD drive on a PC.  I didn’t know about it, and I started to do the install.  I placed the disc into the drive, it spun up, and just as I was about to do the install, I was interrupted.  I left the room for about 5 minutes.  When I came back, I started to do the install and the disk wouldn’t read.  It kept giving me errors, so I pulled the disc out.  There was a small mound of plastic in the drive, and the disc had a deep groove in it.  I tried to use a disc repair kit on it - to no avail.  The sad thing is that it was not my program.  It belonged to the company I worked for!  Fortunately my boss was very understanding and got me a replacement.  Do not risk your only copy of a program.

The last item is VERY important. The Readme file that is included with a program often has hints, tips, and more important, information about compatibility issues with the software.  It may have problems with programs you already have on your computer, or you may need to update some of your existing software to make it compatible.