CADDManager on July 18th, 2008

I have heard of many strange collections over the years…  Snow Globes…  Paintings on Velvet… Cork Screws…  Hotel Keys…

What about software?

I have encountered many users that never seem to be satisfied with the current level of software titles that they have access to.  I appreciate the users who are always looking for another tool that does the job better.  But I have met a few that I have started calling “Collectors”.

They do not really seem interested in finding new tools that work better.  Nor do they seem to be interested in replacing the ones that they have.  What they seem to want is just “more stuff”.  If anyone has something, they also want it.  If others get new software, they all the sudden “need it” also.  When you give it to them, they never seem to get around to using it.

You don’t want to discourage them from using new software, but you don’t want to shell out the money at their every whim.

So what do you do when you encounter one of these types?  Here are a few things I have done…

Download Trials

Get them the trial software.  Let them test it before they get the real copy.  If they are just collectors and not users, then they will never get around to using it and you can avoid buying software for someone that may not need it.  Most trials are 30 days or so.  During the trial period, demand that they demonstrate a real need.

Refuse deployment

You could just tell them “no”.  It may be the best way to address them.  Define the requirements for getting software and require them justify the need.  No need – no software.

Delay deployment

Just drag your feet.  Sometimes, if they are just collectors, they will move on and forget that they requested it.  Don’t delay so long that they have something to complain about, but at least make them come to you again.  Don’t go back and ask them if they still want it.

Check back to see if they are using it

No matter what you end up doing, check back with them to see if they are actually using the software.  You may be able to either get the software back or encourage them to use it.

Give it to them – they will never use it

Finally – just give it to them.  They won’t use it anyway.  figure out some way to track it’s use and then remove the software that they never end up using.  If  it is licensed via a network pool, then there is little harm in installing software that a user will never use.

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