Recommended Software
Line of Business Software
From Technology Handbook Line of Business (LOB) software is defined as any software packages or set of related packages that serve a particular customer transaction or business need. In our member libraries, the list of LOB software is diverse and encompasses such things as:
- Web browsers such as Chrome
- Accounting software such as QuickBooks or Quicken
- Time and print management software such as SAM
- Productivity software such as Microsoft Office
- Antivirus / Antimalware suites
Software Support
Vetted Default Software
The SWKLS staff has worked with and vetted many LOB software programs and continues to research and recommend new software for particular needs as they arise. We recommend particular LOB software in many cases due to vendor support. An example of this would be the Chrome web browser as it is currently the preferred web browser per Auto-Graphics, the vendor for the VERSO automation system. When installing new computers, we will include all baseline LOB packages on the machine and install additional packages as needed.
Non-Vetted Software
Due to the risk of detrimental effects caused by the installation of non-vetted software packages, we ask that member libraries contact us before attempting to install any new / unknown software on their computers. If you know of or have found a software package that you think would be beneficial, we welcome your suggestions and will test it for safety and functionality either for or with you so that others might benefit as well.
While SWKLS staff cannot support all non-vetted, non-LOB software, we will make a reasonable attempt to resolve any issues with the installation and usage of such software packages if they are deemed to be safe and have no vetted alternative. Legacy software products that are no longer supported by the vendor or that are no longer compatible with the current mainstream version of the Windows operating system should be either upgraded or replaced. SWKLS staff cannot fully support outdated software, but we will endeavor to find a replacement or upgrade option when possible.
Software Purchase
The SWKLS staff can assist you in finding the best price for your software. All members libraries can take advantage of discounted software through Tech Soup where SWKLS has the ability to purchase on your behalf and invoice your library. In addition, SWKLS has access to other discounted software options via vendors such as SHI and Amazon.
Software List
This is a list of recommended software.
Audio Recording / Editing
- Audacity
- Google Mail / GMail
Forms & Surveys
- Google Forms
- Survey Monkey
Image Editing
- Adobe Photoshop
- Canva
- Inkscape
- Irfanview
- GIMP
- Paint .NET
Media Players
- VLC (VideoLAN) Media Player
Online Conferencing
- Zoom
Office & Productivity
- Google Apps / G-Suite
- Microsoft Office
- Word
- Excel
- PowerPoint
- Publisher
Operating Systems
- Android
- FireOS
- iOS
- Windows 10
Password Managers
- Keepass
- LastPass
PDF Viewers / Editors
- Adobe Acrobat DC
- Adobe Reader DC
Text Editors
- Notepad ++
Video Editing
- Adobe Premier Pro
- Canva
- Cyberlink Power Director
- OpenShot Video Editor
Web Browsers
- Chrome
- Edge
- Firefox (limited)
HTML Editors & Website Software
- Notepad ++
- Wordpress