In today's fast-paced digital world, having the right tools (paid or free) can make all the difference. However, it does not always have to come with hefty price tag, especially for those of us who lack access to premium features or the resources to afford them. While paid software often promises premium features and sleek interfaces, free (open source) tools offer comparable functionality, thereby enabling users like researchers and students alike to work seamlessly.
A Common Misconception?
There is a growing misconception among our budding researchers that only paid tools are valid or reliable, which I beleive is simply not true.
For example, a friend of mine recently asked me about SPSS, a paid data analysis tool that is popularly used in research. I explained to him that the version I have could no longer be used because its license had expired. I told him further that, these days, I rather prefer using Microsoft Excel or R, which are free tools that can perform the same tasks in different, yet effective ways.
However, he insisted that everyone at the research workshop he recently attended was excited to use SPSS, which their facilitator touted as having superior analytical abilities. While I agreed with the advancement of the software, I pointed out that there are some free tools that can perform the same tasks. I also emphasised that paid tools are not necessary, especially when they are hard to access due to our location and payment system (paid in foreign currency for subscription).
Despite this, he remained adamant, reinforcing the misleading belief that paid tools are inherently superior and reliable. The misconception was further visible when he said that we need to mention the version of tools or software used for data analysis in our manuscript. This trend is becoming increasingly common in our growing research community, where many believe that it is crucial to specify the name or version of software in their work. I have recently encountered this with several manuscripts of college students referred to me by their Supervisors.
In a quest to highlight the version of paid software we use – something that is of no real interest to the reviewers – we often forget the true purpose of data analysis: interpreting what the data reveals based on our research and not the software (paid or free) or its capabilities.
Comparing Free and Paid Tools
Now going back to the free and paid softwares, while paid versions usually excel with enhanced features they provide, each has its own benefits and cater to different user needs.
For example, free software or tools are accessible to everyone, making them a cost-effective choice, especially for those like me, who cannot afford paid versions. These free tools offer basic features that cover essential functions, often capable of performing tasks similar to the advanced features found in paid versions.
From my experience of using Zotero - a free citation management tool - I have also noticed a large, active community of users who offer support through forums and online resources. This network of users also contribute by providing updates, fixing bugs, and sharing code or links when the free tools seemed to be defunct. These regular updates ensure that the tool stays current with the latest advancements. The other merit of using free software is that they are often compatible across different operating systems (e.g., Windows, Mac, and Linux).
On the other hand, paid (or premium) software and tools require payment because they offer enhanced features with advanced capabilities, customisation options, and additional tools to improve efficiency and quality. Premium options generally have fewer bugs, better optimisation, and superior performance. Unlike free versions, paid services often include dedicated customer support, ensuring quicker resolution of issues. Premium versions are typically ad-free, unlike some free tools, which may only be available through websites or online links that contain distracting ads, unwanted links, or clickbait.
Doing the Same Work, Differently
Ultimately, the decision to choose free and paid options depends on what one is willing to sacrifice saving money versus what one is prepared to invest for better services – additional features, better quality, and enhanced support. That is, picking open-source and paid tools often depends on our specific needs, budget, accessibility, and tool’s capacity to match our needs. It is about finding the right balance between what we need and what each version offers within our financial limits.
For me, when premium services are out of reach (due to affordability or location), what matters most is getting my work done –efficiently, affordably, and with easy access. I prefer platforms that allow me to do the same work, perhaps in a more unique way.
Paid and Free Tools Doing the Same Work Differently
I have always emphasised the importance of exploring and sharing free alternatives, especially for those without access to paid versions. While this is not an exhaustive list, I share it to inspire a spirit of curiosity and exploration for those genuinely interested.
| Paid | Free |
Literature Search | Scopus Web of Science | CORE, |
Citation Management | EndNote | |
Data Analysis | SPSS, SAS | R, JASP, KNIME (Konstanz Information Miner), |
Surveys | Qualtrics, SurveyMonkey | Google Forms, LimeSurvey (basic plan), Typeform (free tier) SoGoSurvey (basic plan) |
Writing | Microsoft Word | Google Docs, Hemingway Editor, LibreOffice FocusWriter, Reedsy Book Editor |
Data Visualisation | Tableau | Datawrapper, Google Data Studio Chart.js, Matplotlib (Python library), Plotly |
Transcription and Qualitative Research | NVivo, Quirkos | Otter.ai (free tier), Taguette Sonix (basic plan), oTranscribe |
Illustrations and Figures | BioRender | BioArt by NIH, Canva (free version), Inkscape GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program), Krita |
Image Editing | Adobe Photoshop | GIMP |
Communication | Microsoft Teams, Slake | Zoom Skype WhatsApp WeChat Telegram |
Cloud Storage | Microsoft OneDrive | Google Drive (limited storage) Dropbox (limited storage)
|
Project Management | Monday.com Jira | Trello Asana (basic features)
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