There are three things to look for when selecting professional DVD software: functionality, file formats and data compression rates. Digital video disc (DVD) software is used to store a variety of different types of files onto a DVD. A DVD itself is a physical device used to store large amounts of data. The information stored on a DVD can be accessed through either a DVD player or a computer DVD drive, depending on the format of the data files.
Professional DVD software is used by people who regularly need to store and share large files. The film and movie production industry are among the highest users of professional DVD software. Other users include data archivists, data management centers and librarians.
When selecting a professional DVD software program, the first step is to make a list of the required and optional functions. This list should be based on the actual projects to be completed within the next six months. Avoid the temptation to think about projects that are more than a year away, because the technology might have changed by that time.
Take the list of required functions and make one copy for each professional DVD software program that is going to be evaluated. Compare the functionality available to the list of requirements. Award points for ease of use and options within each feature. Subtract points if the functions are overly complicated to use or require a significant investment of time and effort.
Check all of the different file formats that the professional DVD software can work with, and make sure that this list includes all of the most commonly used formats for your industry. Look for a file conversion tool and the ability to change the label of each file for archiving purposes. Avoid programs that do not include an update function that allows new file formats to be added to the software as they become available.
The amount of information that can be stored on a DVD is based on several factors, including the data compression rate. The higher the rate, the more information can be saved on a single DVD. Make sure that the hardware used meets or exceeds the software requirements. If not, this can become a limited factor that stops the software from performing as it should.