I totally read the reviews, and use common sense. 

MP wrote on Oct 8^th, 2007 at 8:31pm:


I agree that the reviews (not just for software) tend to be less than useful. Very positive reviews are often non-specific. Very negative reviews are often mis-aimed or inaccurate. Few people go for the more moderate ratings. Because of this, anything less than stellar is considered by skimmers to be negative. As someone with a product, it's frustrating.

I don't pay too much attention to reviews except those done by "professionals" in their field, in their industry publications.  These are more technically correct then reviews by new users.

I think that most on line reviews are done by people who are unhappy, and want to strike back.  Much of their disappointment is usually based on their ignorance at the time.  They did not read the documention, they did not have the right hardware, memory, etc.  Unfortunately, more customer calls are always for complaints/problems, not calls to say "Great Product!". 

So, most user reviews, in my opinon, will be negative.

What I do use, however, are the foriums like this.  I look at the number of posts of the users when they make editorial comments.  Long time users get more weight re their comments. 

All software has issues, many caused by user ignorance as noted above.  But what is important is how the manufacturers respond to the issues on the forum.  I look for timely and accurate responses.  I look for enhancements as a result of user requests.  I look for replies that are respectful of the user, does not consider any question dumb, etc.  Willingness to make remote connections for support, activity and resources around the clock, on weekends and holidays.  And complete and thorough electronic, searcheable documentation with cut/paste examples,

Hmm, I think I just described many of the attributes of the Sesame forum. 
I guess this must justify giving a serious look at Sesame as a product for consideration.

Hammer wrote on Oct 8^th, 2007 at 11:42pm:

This is very helpful, btw. I almost always read the entire thread if it's new or current, but I know I will really appreciate the "bottom line" answer appearing in large red letters at the top of the thread, when I'm researching something in the future. I'm sure the final word right there at the top, will make it much faster to find the answer I'm searching for.

Quote:


I thought that one was especially strange in light of his desire to not learn a new programming language. I know SBasic isn't exactly the same as Q&A Basic, but it's a lot closer than VBA.

Alec wrote on Oct 9^th, 2007 at 7:59pm:


They are still there, but you have to click the All Reviews link to see them. The total rating still reflects all the reviews and votes. CNet keeps changing the interface so, any of this may change later.

charliebrown wrote on Oct 9^th, 2007 at 10:10pm:

Ah yes! The interface that consists of one big "CLICK HERE" button that magically does whatever you are thinking at the moment. I'd like that one too!