Microsoft Streets & Trips 2009 [OLD VERSION]
by Microsoft Software
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Software Reviews of Microsoft Streets & Trips 2009 [OLD VERSION]
Customer Review: Good for trip planning, features not worth the upgrade
Summary: 4 Stars
This review is based on owning a much older version (2004).
Installation was somewhat annoying that Microsoft defaults to installing Windows live and making Microsoft Live Search the default search engine in internet explorer. To be fair, all these options can be (and were) unchecked by the user.
To check out the features, I opened up some of the trip itineraries created in the old versions. These opened up perfectly in the new version. The interface is a bit more colorful, you get updated maps, and some new features such as send to mobile.
For trip planning, there are 'minor' tweaks such as 'optimize stops'. For route selection, it is possible to go to each route segment and select from quickest, shortest, and preferred roads. For my own planning, I just drag on the map to change calculated routes to my own preferred routes when necessary.
The send to mobile feature requires outlook (won't support other email programs), and only sends address info from the search box. It would be much better if driving directions can be sent. Due to its limitations to Outlook (2003 & 2007) and also only being able to send addresses, this feature is of minimal use.
For owners of earlier versions, it's only necessary to upgrade to this edition only if newer maps are needed (such as new highways in the city you live in, new communities, etc.). Otherwise, the features are not really worth the upgrade. For new owners, this software program is useful for planning vacation road trips, that's why it's getting 4 stars.
Customer Review: ms streets and trips
Summary: 4 Stars
I have one criticism of all of these trip programs and that is the fact that you cannot click on a spot on the map and use that spot as your start or destination. I have been using this program for a number of years and find that it works better than others I have tried. It seems to be more flexible and generally is more up to date with addresses and new roads. Although I have 4 different programs of this type installed on my computer, this is the one I use almost exclusively.Customer Review: Microsoft Streets & Trips 2009
Summary: 3 Stars
This product is great for my use I up date every couple of years. I have it on the hard drive so internet access isn't required, I live in a rural area where the cell phone service is very limited so thatis why I like it on the hard drive.
Bob
Customer Review: Almost Perfect
Summary: 4 Stars
The product is great. I have used Streets and Trips for several years and like the product. What kept the purchase from being perfect was the fact that the provider of the product (not Microsoft) did not mention in their download instructions that my Vista software will appear to be blocking the download even though the download is happening in the background and takes several hours. Originally, as far as I could tell, the download never happened. 2 days later when I spoke with tech support I discovered the missing information and waited the 2 hours and the program loaded as it was supposed to.
The product shipped as planned and arrived in perfect condition. Good job on everything but the download instructions for Vista lovers.
Customer Review: A useful planning tool
Summary: 3 Stars
While I can't quite give S&T 4 stars, I would give it 3 1/2 if that were allowed. It's not an above average product but its not strictly average either. It all really depends on how you use it over time.
See, I've used it for several years now and it only has had slight improvement over time. As a result I don't buy a new version each year and tend to wait a year between . This year I got a free 2009 vine version (sans GPS) but I had the 2008 version with GPS which we used extensively last year and the GPS dongle in Europe with that version.
I also have a Garmin 760 and previously had a Navman PIN handheld (what a nightmare!). The Garmin works great on the road (I have a few complaints but generally I'd use it rather that S&T). None of them can acurately located my home, and over a 5 year period none has so far found the shortest (time) route to the major shopping area in my town. Of course, I can do that without help so it really only indicates the need for improved map updating by everyone - Google can do it so why not Microsoft and Garmin?
I do however like S&T for planning purposes. It beats the bejeezus out of every Auto GPS unit I've tried for data entry and route modification and its way faster. The POI search is reasonably fast and can be used in ways that only Microsoft Live currently can match (and if you have a net connection on the road ... think the new mifi product from Sprint or a broadband modem ... its all good). Haven't tried the Entertainment coupon deal - the last three times I bought them they just ended up in the trunk growing mold. The new interface is a bit of a let down - I was expecting more from that and frankly would prefer the old one.
One think I REALLY do like is the multiple map modes - particularly the night mode and the terrain mode (thought the later isn't all that - unless you're in the Sierra's or Rockies - but I like it).
On the downside, Microsoft is now requiring registration and the license is so damned long I haven't been able to zero in on the number of allowable installations (I'm assuming two) - honest... each time I try I must black out somewhere along the way.
BTW, I'm using it on a Samsung NC-10 Netbook which gives me about 7 hours of battery time and charges fine with the ac converter in my SUV or Accord. No power problem, no operation problem with the Samsun USB (5 stars for Samsung, best of breed in Netbooks).
Overall, if you're a Virgo with a need to preplan stuff you'll find it increases your sense of well being. Otherwise, get a portable GPS for the road and a map for planning.
Oh, yeah, I also have AAA - nothing beats a triptik and a set of tour guides AND a GPS.