PhraseExpander

Vorteile

-flexibility to use dot phrases/templates in any EMR and any section/field of the EMR
-it is very easy to start using the software but there is also option to build more complex templates/actions
-will never lose work I put in building templates/phrases if I move to a different EMR or job. I can use on any computer.
-more accurate and quicker than using template commands with Dragon
-best customer service of any application I have ever used. I have emailed a few times with questions and within the same day got a solution from the creator of the software
-some people are put off by the upfront cost (it was about 100 dollars for the professional version) but I prefer this over paying a monthly fee that will add up to a lot more over time

Nachteile

-there is the ability for more powerful/complex functions but I struggle more trying to figure these out. To use some of these looks/feels like computer programming which is not my skill set. It can feel overwhelming. To use it at the level that you would find in an EMR or dragon doesn't require this level of complexity but I would like to use more of the bells and whistles. there are pretty good videos and really good user manual but wish some of the more complex features were spelled out a little better.
-would love to have forum/location to share templates and tips/tricks with other users

Vorteile

It's very easy to use, the resources were very well planned to make our life as easy as possible, I saw that the developer really understands the subject and knows what he's doing. The software was meticulously planned to do tasks on the computer with incredible speed. I use it for everything, I have 614 templates (between phrases and automations) created. If I turn on the computer and phraseexpander is not running for some reason from my own computer, I stop everything to resolve it immediately. The backup system is fabulous, and I never lost any data. Support is awesome.

Nachteile

To be able to move up or down, that is, to change the phrasing priorities (templates) within the same group. For very advanced users like me who have several phrases with the same meaning, let's assume URLs, or phrases, but I want you to appear in the search within a group, with priorities that I define. Most users don't even need it, I believe. but I need. I also requested dark mode and I know it is in development, which is a luxury.

Vorteile

Phrase expander is a great software for professional people especially doctors who need to type a lot. This is something that saves really a lot of time.

Free medical glossary is available so there is no need to enter alternative text/abbreviation for all the terms and yet the ability to save new abbreviations mean it can adapt to anyone using any phrases.

15 day free trial is available so you know for sure whether it will help you or not.

When you buy the one for medical professionals, you can install it on any device which is kinda nice.

Finally, the pricing is flexible, as they offer discounts to those who use competitors product or those who work for nonprofit or educational institutions.

Nachteile

The software is only available on windows, too bad we have to write on iPad at times and sometimes on even a chrome device.

The free medical glossary is so devoid of the vast medical terminology. For example even some of the most common terms like tuberculosis are not pre-abbreviated.
And so, you will have to work really hard to enter new phrases on daily basis. This makes it especially challenging for individual practitioners.

There is no monthly pricing option. only yearly upgrade subscription at the moment. Which seem too much for a small software like this. E.g Microsoft office, the holy grail of softwares, costs about 40% less than this comparitevly tiny app.

Vorteile

Easy to use and it does what is expected in an efficient and stable way.

Nachteile

There is no Cons related to how we use PhraseExpander.

Vorteile

How well it works in most instances in windows.

Nachteile

Learning curve for building macros, and there was a new version release that changed alot of things I had spent time learning, shortly after I started using it, so it felt like time wasted. But not a huge deal-breaker.

Vorteile

Extensive customization. Easy setup. Ease of use. Value for money. Personalized and responsive customer support.

Nachteile

For what I use it for, none that I can think of. I might have a more critical opinion if I took advantage of the software's full capabilities.

Vorteile

Very stable (unlike others I tried)
Easy to add your own word lists from e.g. excel list
Fast
Good implementation of macro and forms.
And last but not least: very fast and personal support from the developer when needed.

Nachteile

There is a learning curve (but help is good)
Seems te depend heavily on the developer, that may prove a vulnerability in the future.

Vorteile

Works well and is reliable. I use it to make templates with variables for HPI, ROS, Exam, Treatment plans. It allows me to use my own language and therefore templates are worded appropriately and the result doesn’t look like a templated result.

Nachteile

Doesn’t work well with Surface X. Shuts down randomly but this seems to be improving with each update!

Vorteile

It makes repetitive entries/texts so much quicker and easier. The autocorrect feature is totally brilliant.

Nachteile

It's a tad pricey for my situation but I've yet to find anything to replace it.

Vorteile

The best thing about this product is how much time it saves me when writing my notes

Nachteile

It does take a while to set up but you can continue to modify it as you go

Vorteile

Portability , I can use it on different computers and share the glossary,
easy to make templates and convert list into phrase.

Nachteile

sometimes it gives an error that the file format is not valid and it could not save the work
The window from phrase expander interfere with the drop down box of some application and I am not able to open phrase expander away from what I type
features specially saving are very slow when I open the Dragon dictation software
You should have an auto learning feature like android to give you a list of the common words you use when you type the first letters of the world
you should incorporate a medical dictionary and update the list of drugs
there is no way to find a saved phrase unless you remember the abbreviation,
you should have a feature where if you type one word you get a list of templates which contain this word
auto correction feature do not work well
You should have a feature where you design a template with a check list with radio buttons

Vorteile

I've tested all of the text replacement programs I could find for PC. A couple of them I used very extensively, and got very proficient in programming macros with them, but I reached the limit of what they could do, and needed a better option. PhraseExpander gives me features that no other program has. For example, no other program has 3-state buttons, or answers "yes", "no" and "n/a", letting me create custom wording for each of the situations. I can create long medical notes that look just like they would if I had typed or dictated them with few clicks. This way I can see patients without the distraction of typing excessively, or having to cut their time short so I can go dictate a note before seeing my next patient.

Another feature that is extremely useful is being able to edit the "canned" responses I prepared from the form, not having to go into the program again.

Another thing I like is the preview boxes, that concatenate my answers in real time, and I can click in the text and edit it at any time, without having to execute the whole macro. This is a huge feature that no other program I tested had.

My favorite is the grid forms, that let me write notes for very specific scenarios that were a nightmare to template for with other software, but with the grid form, it's easy to program the macro and to use it.

Remembering macros was hard with other programs and since I have over 1000 macros to choose from that's nearly impossible. PE has auto-complete. EASY!

Nachteile

I'm told version 5 will help with building gender-specific forms, and more "logic" features to program macros that are more advanced. I'll welcome those changes.

Vorteile

Especially in the world of Windows, there are not too many great text expander options available. Having said that this product accomplishes simple text expander features as well as advanced macros etc. It is truly a phenomenal product, and also can be used to set up templates for consistency across the organization.

Nachteile

There are really no cons. However, I would like to see the product expand with customizing macro templates, etc. for other industries besides medical.

Vorteile

PhraseExpander has so many wonderful features. I consistently save an incredible amount of time each time I'm in clinic or on a call shift. When working a 24 hour call shift, saving 1-1.5 hours on documentation makes a huge impact. But one of the things I love the most is the real practicality of the software. It consistently works great, without hassle. The set up takes only a short time to learn and wonderful tutorial videos and instructional manuals are provided. I've never seen something with such great support in the setup process. And what I've found is that at every turn there are shortcuts or quick helps to making using the product a breeze. I've been in information technology and in healthcare a long time and am SO glad I've finally found something game changing - PhraseExpander.

Nachteile

There are an abundance of helpful features, the integration into my workflow was really smooth, and the function and stability of the product is excellent. I really can't think of a 'least like' despite trying.

Vorteile

Ease of use. Having to train hundreds of providers, nurses, and support staff on yet another product is never a treat... until PhraseExpander. I was able to teach my organization quickly and effiently.

Power. Think outside the box. I set up phrases for ICD-10 codes, provider names, and commonly prescribed medications.

Nachteile

Nothing yet.

Vorteile

Flexibility. Having multiple options for forms, choice options, custom phrases, on-the-spot corrections and updates... This list of the options that I like "the most" is innumerable. This application is essential to capturing correct and complete data every time I sit down to record provider documentation. The icing on the cake is that the PhraseExpander developers truly want and listen to their client's feedback and desires. New functionality is coming based upon this constructive feedback and the commitment to creating an outstanding application!

Nachteile

Although the base functionality is simple to learn, there are a few nuances that have taken a few weeks to adapt and adopt into my workflows.

Vorteile

Fast, seamless background program that speeds my data entry in EMR and correspondence.

Nachteile

Would like more detailed information about using the advanced feature set so that I can become more proficient at using its deeper features.

Vorteile

Ease of use
Customizability
Continually updated and improved
Autocorrect function and customizability very helpful
Easily integrates into the background with our electronic medical record

Nachteile

While the upfront cost is reasonable the continued updates are a bit pricey
for large scale office use

Vorteile

Integrating with my electronic medical record was easy and my productivity went up significantly!

Nachteile

There is so much you can do with it that it is a little overwhelming if you don't block off time to learn about it in the beginning. I get so much out of how I use it but can't help but think I could do even better if I sat down to play around with it more.

Vorteile

The commands and transcripts are very easy to set on your account. It made my typing faster and easier. The customer support was extremely helpful with us while using the trial version and they help us transitioned to the paid version.

Nachteile

When I upgraded to the paid version or the free trial expired all of my commands were removed. Due to this, I had to type everything again.

Vorteile

This is just amazing, I use it for pretty much everything in my workflow, I use it for programming macro in Excel VBA, forms filling, saving documents path, file naming, template for responding to clients, and I'm probably forgetting a lot.

Nachteile

None honestly, this is gold ! You know what ? A mac version would be good, as I'm using a PC and a MAC.

Vorteile

I have been using PhraseExpander for a few months now and don't think I have yet explored all that the program can do, but I use it daily for emails, patient notes, letter/report writing and other tasks and it is a significant time saver.

Nachteile

It could be a nicer/more user-friendly interface, but was still fairly easy to work out how to use.

Vorteile

It saves me hundreds of keystrokes every day. It is easy to set up and distribute to my other users using Dropbox to share the glossaries. Basic phrases are simple to set up. Forms and templates are a breeze to create. Program sits in backround and does not seem to take up much overhead. It is fast to fill in whatever phrase you are using.

Nachteile

My only gripe is there is no version for Apple, otherwise I have no problems with this software!!!!!

Vorteile

No need to correct spelling, saves time and secretaries work

Nachteile

None, this product nicely adapts to my need

Vorteile

Amazing templates that are very easy to set up. No coding experience required. One of the customer rep is always available and helpful online.

Nachteile

I will we could use the software while creating templates. I were creating a template, PhraseExpander should still be working, if possible.

Vorteile

I love having the ability to create templates using fill-ins, texts or yes/no values. Most importantly, having the ability to use sections, update or insert macros is amazing and extremely efficient. Phrase Expander is a game changer and ultimately saves the user a lot of time and the company saves money. It's a win-win for all!

Nachteile

No. I do not have any complaints about using Phrase Expander.

Vorteile

This software enables me to quickly fill in information in emails, documents, websites and anywhere where I need to write text. Not only text can be expanded based in certain combinations of character of shortcuts but also customized via forms. Before we copied and pasted text and adjusted it but this was time consuming and mistakes where made. Now the variable pieces of text can be adjusted with a form and this helps me to not forget about each think I need to addapt. Also correction of typing is very useful. Sharing is also very useful. I create form on one laptop and on my other laptopn everything is synced> I can imagine that this is also useful in a company with several employees.

Nachteile

The basics of the forms are quite easy to implement but sometimes I need some additional time to figure out how to tackle a problem in the forms. Working with the variables can sometimes be complicated because this is not something I do daily. Sometimes that is why I procratinate sometimes making a certain form. However, support is great and fast. And when the form is finally ready it saves a tremendous amount of time.

Vorteile

The flexibility of PhraseExpander templates is outstanding. Products I used previously were pretty much limited to one fixed string per abbreviation.

Nachteile

I have a problem with editing the variables in more than one template at a time without exiting from and restarting PhraseExpander. I reached out for help but they didn't seem to be able to duplicate my problem. I had designed a number of templates before a new upgrade came out and renamed my variables as {{Fillin1}, {{Fillin2}} etc. Now when I rename {{Fillin1}} in template A, and then go on to template B (in which {{Fillin1}} may have an entirely different meaning than it has in template A), PhraseExpander tells me {{Fillin1}} is already open in the editor - and I cannot proceed.

Vorteile

This software has been easy to use since day one. Very intuitive. Also, it has so much more functionality than simply a "phrase expander" that I've become addicted to it. My favorite extra part is starting applications with keyboard shortcuts. It's just great software.

But I recently learned about the best part of PhraseExpander. I had an issue with a software update, so I emailed the developer and, within a minute or so, I had a response right back. He was so on top of the issue that I couldn't keep up! I've never experienced that kind of tech support anywhere. BTW, he figured out the issue and sent me an updated version so quick that I never felt for a minute that I was running without the software.

I hate writing software reviews because I usually find them fake and insincere, so I guess it says something that I'm actually writing about PhraseExpander. You can trust that not only does the software work well, but if you have a problem, you won't be stranded trying to figure out how to fix it from some blog or website.

Nachteile

Love it all, not a single issue with this software.

Vorteile

I use this software when teaching to pull up frequently used phrases. I like that you can easily add, edit, and even upload glossaries of phrases. Huge time saver when teaching and we use some phrases very often

Nachteile

There are lots of steps you have to take to create some personalized phrases - like fill in the blank phrases

Vorteile

* Saves me about ten hours per month in typing, looking up numbers or phrases, flipping clipboard snippets, and switching apps/windows.
* Data: Keeps detailed statistics.
* Interface to the shortcuts is very detailed and flexible, allowing user to group and sort in many different ways.
* I like the ability to toggle Auto Expansion on or off with a lightning bolt icon, for each and every snippet.
* Easy to duplicate an existing snippet and tweak it for another use, another state, another facility...
* Provides automatic inline search, a great help if I haven' t memorized an assigned keystroke yet.
* Can easily set up a few expansions to start... later when you're more familiar with it, go back and organize the interface or flesh them out.
* Customer service is very responsive; the developer has personally helped me a couple times.

For Mac users: PhraseExpander is like a strange marriage between TextExpander, Alfred and Keyboard Maestro. It has greatly improved my workday relationship with Windows.

Nachteile

*Could be used as a Launcher, except it doesn't index commands or locations automatically; must be set individually.
*There was some learning curve the first two weeks; I definitely had to look some things up online or in the manual.
*Would like to be able to sort the statistics data, I could mine it for more ideas.

Vorteile

I really love the automation, variables, flow, and data features. I'm continually finding new ways to put them to use to save time and improve accuracy and consistency.

Nachteile

1. I'd like more flexibility in terms of what can be used as the expansion key. For over 20 years using other expansion software I used the semicolon and I'm having a very hard time breaking that habit.
2. I wish the popup suggestions window was wider to show more of the description. I have a lot of templates that all start the same way but end differently.
3. I wish the order of the suggestions could be rearranged to override alphabetic order. For example, "ht" suggests "hemithyroid" and "hypertension." Since I use hypertension much more often than hemithyroid, I would choose to have hypertension be at the top of the list.
4. I wish I didn't have to open PE and use my mouse to activate/deactivate glossaries. My other program had the ability to switch glossaries with a key combination and I really miss that.

Vorteile

It is boundless in its application. I have been using PhraseExpander for over 5 years. I used it as an IT Administrator, and I use it in my current, transitional job as a manager of the Friends University Cyber Security Lab. I am also full-time student in the Marriage and Family Therapy masters program at Friends Univerity,and I use it constantly in my client documentation. From CLI commands in Unix to filling out a DSM-5 diagnosis, PhraseExpander doesn't let me down.

Nachteile

The autoupdate is not so "auto" in the Sharing feature. I have autoupdate configured, but if I make a change in a template, then that change will not update until I "Send Changes". So, if I make a change and forget to sycn, then that change won't be there on my other device. I will say, though, I was having to make a backup and restore the database if I wanted it on more than one device. Sharing is a HUGE benefit. Coupled with Microsoft OneDrive, it does work fabulously.

Vorteile

I use PhraseExpander everytime I use my keyboard. Whether for personal or work, the ability of PhraseExpander to complete my work and keyboard entry in a more efficient manner makes me wonder how I ever got along before I used it.
If there is any repetitive elements to your keyboard entries, you will benefit from the use of PhraseExpander.

Nachteile

I think my own learning curve has been my largest obstacle. There are plenty of tutorials and the feedback when I have asked questions has been quick and helpful. However, I have made improvements with my use and especially lately as I incorporate PhraseExpander into the EMR I use.

Vorteile

The ease of setup! I was able to set up the program within minutes and learned how to use it in hours. Many programs are out there but you need a freaking IT degree to set them up (they do this on purpose, i think) - not this one! It's literally created to be EASY and SIMPLE to use for the everyday person. It's really the most important thing about this program.

Nachteile

Honestly, I liked the previous setup screen than the newest update.......... but that's just me. I feel like the previous UI was a little easier to use.

Vorteile

That it is easy to use this software.
Also easy to customize to your own needs
Saves a lot of time.

Nachteile

The license model.
That means that usual a license starts when you buy a license or upgrade one. At prase expander if you bought it for example in March and renew your subscription for example in July of next year your subscripton runs then not from July to July it runs then from July to March of the following year.

Vorteile

Everything is pretty easy! From renewal to creating new phrasing. Support is 5 stars.

Nachteile

I am not sure I have anything negative to say except maybe ways to use the product in more ways for other applications!

Vorteile

I have been using PhraseExpander for 8 years. It is easy to set up, even without any programming knowledge. PhraseExpander offers the most convenience, value and features for its price. If I have a problem, I get great help very quickly from an expert/programmer. PhraseExpander saves me a lot of time and prevents typing errors. I warmly recommend PhraseExpander.

Nachteile

I can always handle the mail and sending homework on my own even it is a lot. That saves a nice colleague. So I have to keep working alone.

Vorteile

Reduces significant time while charting.

Nachteile

There are a few extra steps to input into a flash text field.

Vorteile

I write psychological assessment reports as part of my practice. PhraseExpander allows me to insert frequently used phrases into my report with a few keystrokes. It also allows me to insert tables and to make lists of behaviors and symptoms, using checklists that organize my observations (e.g., Mr. Smith reported symptoms of anxiety which included constant worry, increased startle reaction but he denies disrupted sleep or muscle tension). I can use a brief command to add my entire report format to Word. I estimate that PhraseExpander has cut my report writing time in half.

Nachteile

I don't dislike any particular aspect of the program. There is a bit of a learning curve when it comes to using some of the more complicated operations, but its not even necessary to use all the programs features for PhraseExpander to make report writing much more efficient.

Vorteile

It is simple to set up templates (phrases)
Phrases can be formatted to RTF so there is no need to tidy them up once pasted into Word and Outlook
It allows you to deign your own macros, so that when the phrase is played, you can insert customisation easily.
Support is fast, efficient and friendly.

Nachteile

PRICING
If you buy it from the USA, its $149
If you buy it in the UK its £149
With purchasing other software, the USA price is converted into UK sterling.

Vorteile

The software is excellent at what it does, which is expand shortcuts to pre-defined text. In addition the customisable components make it much more useful, particularly when entering medical notes.

Nachteile

The main issue I have come across is the lack of a portable version. As a healthcare worker moving across various working environment as systems you cannot always install software such as this, especially if it ties in to a licence. A version that you could run in a browser or install without admin privileges and use across multiple computers (one at a time of course, with a licence) would make this much more useful and practical. For this reason I have had to use alternative software but would be desperate to use PhraseExpander if such functional was enabled.

Vorteile

The template builder has made a world of difference to me in developing systematic and reproducible templates that make creating intricate arguments, reporting, and data reviews simple.

Nachteile

There is definitely a learning curve to understand the capabilities and significant time required to build your templates in the first place.

Vorteile

Excellent and keeps getting better

Nachteile

Learning curve but very well worth any minute spent getting to the advanced level

Vorteile

The interactive nature makes it fun even when creating templates.
Easy to use, flexible.

Nachteile

Cannot think of any. Seriously. It is just a wonderful program to me.

Vorteile

I am a very demanding user. I uncover shortcomings in software very quickly. This software has the ultimate combination of:
1. Very powerful out of the box.
2. Anything that doesn't work for me gets quick attention.

You may have one simple thing in mind when considering this software, but it can do so much! Start small, and keep expanding.

Nachteile

This is not really a con. The software is so powerful, and requires some setup and learning. I recommend setting up something very basic, getting used to it, and then building up from there. This way, you will start reaping the benefits quickly.

Vorteile

Reliable. FAST. Able to customize phrases on the fly. Easy to view a list and organize my HUNDREDS of macro phrases. Back-up on-line via drop box and keep ALL my 13 computers + 2 laptops up-to-date.

Nachteile

I quickly get rusty and creating new more complicated phrases/macros. I have to review the on-line tutorials before making large complex macros. More menu-driven would be easier.
Updates are great.. but seems to always have some new update to install.

Vorteile

Easy to setup and use. Adds extra time to every day.

Nachteile

It takes a while to figure out how to use all of the features, but once you do it is easy to use.

Vorteile

We use it in almost everything we write in the practice from patient's H&P and any letters or communications that is needed to run a medical practice. The program is very well integrated into our EMR and helps to finish the task so much more efficiently.

Nachteile

Not much, but still don't know how to use some of the template creating features to make our office work even better.

Vorteile

Phrase Expander has removed barriers to documentation efficiencies throughout our organization. We are able to build glossaries and share amongst team members. This has enabled us to create standardized processes which are easy to maintain and update. It multi-functionality works with a variety of programs removing duplicative efforts when you experience a change in software. I appreciate the collaboration and support we have received from Representative and his team for the past 3 years.

Nachteile

I do not see any cons with this software.