Chemical modeling software varies widely depending on what services your firm offers as well as what specific needs best suits your company. Your computer operating system comes into play as you will need software that works with your present system or you will have to upgrade the entire system to fit the software. Make sure that the software is network-ready for multiple sharing over departments and branches.

Many software systems will contain information that you do not need so do not pay for options that don't work for you. Select a software system that will grow with your institution. Alternatively, upgrading your present software with new functions may be the best option if you have a system that is already working for you. Look for these features when choosing chemical process simulation software:

1. Purchase the chemical simulation software that is right for your institution.

2. Upgrade existing computer chemical modeling to get the most out of your system.

3. Find help with chem modeling software through customer service support.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Locate chemical modeling software vendors with programs you can use

Software programs come in all shapes and sizes and there is a price tag that goes with that. Check the features of the software you are considering and purchase what your institution needs.

I recommend: Chemistry Software offers software that includes simulation and modeling of the entire process. Chem Pen Software offers several programs including molecular mechanics and chemical shift prediction.

Choose chemical modeling software solutions that integrate with the system already in place

If your present software is working for you, consider upgrading it to add a few features that you need instead of replacing the entire system. There may be a small charge to upgrade but this would be minimal compared to replacing the entire system. Find out if the new necessary features are available with your present software. Alternatively, choose a software program that adds these features but integrates with the program in place.

I recommend: ACD Labs offers several software programs including chemical naming, chemical drawing and database and analysis software. The software integrates fully to deliver data with minimal human involvement. Cambridge Soft offers Chemistry E-Notebook, which replaces paper laboratory notebooks. It integrates with Excel, Powerpoint, Word and other applications to import all data so that the data is contained in one place.

Select chemical model software that has live customer support

The best software in the world is no good to you if you cannot reach someone to answer questions when that need arises. Software has an online guide but sometimes that is not enough when you run into a difficulty. Choose software systems with live customer support features to get the most out of program.

I recommend: Vogel Scientific stores chemical data and assists in planning chemical reactions. They offer support by phone or you can fill out a form with non-urgent questions. Chemical Safety provides chemical compliance software to keep you informed of government regulations. They offer support by phone or email.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  When purchasing your chemical modeling program, consider purchasing other business software programs at the same time. Many companies offer a discount for multiple purchases.