If you have to consider the installation of communications packages, the same questions have to be asked.

(a) Does the software and the modem support the necessary transmission rates?

(b) Is the software secure? Telephone lines are often 'noisy' and unless there are sufficient data checks and error messages, you may end up with garbage instead of useful data.

(c) Is the software 'user friendly'? Some packages do not allow much operator control.  (d) Is the modem reliable? They can be susceptible to 'noise' and cause trouble. Generally, the more you pay for a modem, the more control you have over its operation and the more reliable it is.

Internal modems are usually reliable.

This is not really a feature of communications packages. Just make sure that you are not locked in to slow transmission rates which can produce high telephone charges.

You need to work this out carefully as costs mount up and may be difficult to justify. The elements are:

 (a) Software for your PC.

(b) A modem for your PC.

(c) Subscription charges for database/mail service.

(d) Access charges to a database or mail box.

(e) Telephone call charges.