Frequent glitches in new software bug users
Article Abstract:
Software users are annoyed with the frequency that software packages are released with program errors and the lack of response from software companies. One small business owner purchased accounting software from PeachTree Software to run his business and a glitch in the software caused him to underestimate his earnings. If the error had not been discovered, the IRS might have been underpaid. PeachTree Software was unresponsive to the user's complaints and has still not updated the software to repair the program error. Microsoft's Access database had errors that caused it to crash when it was used with other software programs. Software companies deny responsibility for the software by releasing legal disclaimers with each software release. The companies do try to repair all bugs before release not only because consumers become unhappy but because it is costly to run the help lines that users call when they find errors.
Publication Name: The Wall Street Journal Western Edition
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0193-2241
Year: 1995
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Buggy PC software is botching tax returns
Article Abstract:
Financial software maker Intuit announces flaws its TurboTax and MacInTax tax applications on Mar 1, 1995. The software bugs affect the accuracy of calculations done using the software and could produce errors in users' tax filings. A bug in Intuit's MacInTax program reportedly deletes every 30th item in a list when data is imported into the application from Intuit's Quicken software. Intuit Chmn Scott Cook issued an apology on behalf of the company and is offering to fix the bugs and pay any penalties or interest payments users are assessed for inaccurate tax filings produced using the software. Some users have expressed concern over Intuit's response to the bug problem. The company reportedly knew about the flaw in the MacInTax program as early as Dec 1994, but failed to correct it or stop new shipments of the program until Mar 1995.
Publication Name: The Wall Street Journal Western Edition
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0193-2241
Year: 1995
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A trusting Oracle to enter market via Internet
Article Abstract:
Oracle Corp is looking to get into the desktop software market with its new Personal Oracle 7, but faces tough competition from companies such as Microsoft and Borland with more established distribution networks. A scaled-down version of its successful corporate database application development program, Personal Oracle 7, will be marketed in a way no other company has attempted. Oracle will pass over retail vendors and send out the actual product over the Internet. As part of a larger marketing strategy, customers will be able to use the product free for a 90-day trial. After 90 days, customers should discontinue using Personal Oracle 7 or pay Oracle for the product. Oracle hopes that using the Internet will provide access to millions of new customers that Microsoft has spent nearly 20 years getting to know.
Publication Name: The Wall Street Journal Western Edition
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0193-2241
Year: 1995
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