For each program, make sure it is Vista Compatible.
Install from the original media, find installer, right click and run as
administrator
I prefer to install somewhere other than the default location of Program
Files as MS has locked this folder down in Vista and many older programs
malfunction when installed there.
If all else fails, install programs in compatibility mode.
Once the programs are installed, you can try the Easy Transfer Wizard to
move your data, but it doesn't always work.

--
A Professional Amateur...If anyone knew it all, none of would be here!
CarGodZeroOne********.com
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"eganders" <eganders******.com> wrote in message
news:125eec08-3a43-4d23-8a92-53cc017fdbf8@a70g2000hsh.googlegroups.com...
> I have an XP system with a lot of applications. I ordered a new
> laptop that will come with Vista. I would like to be able to transfer
> all my applications as seamlessly as possible to the new system. What
> is the best way to accomplish this?
>
> Example of applications:
> Word, Excel, Access, Outlook (with connection to Pocket PC)
> Visio
> Photoshop
> Quickbooks
> Card Scan
> Streets & Trips
> ACDSee
> and about 15 to 20 other specialized programs from DVD editing
> programs to TV remote editors to speaker design programs.
>
> It will probably take me days of time over a couple of months to get
> these programs reloaded on the new machine, with the possibility of
> some of them not working properly either due to compatibility problems
> with Vista to having original disks to programs that have had updates
> (automatic or otherwise) that will have to be updated again by going
> to the site and getting the updates.
>
>
> Is there a program, programs or a procedure that you-all can recommend
> that will make this LESS painful. Oh, I know it will be painful. I
> just want it to be LESS painful.
>
> Thanks in advance!
>
> (microsoft.public.windows.vista.general)