The version of GoDutch! I evaluated was a freeware evaluation release which expired on 31. July, 1997. That was four months ago; after so long, it's not clear when it might be updated. To use this program, you'll have to set your PalmPilot organizer's clock back. The program comes only in English, and the only documentation is a note on the Web page in Japanese. It is distributed as a .ZIP archive.

Conclusions
It's surprising that so many developers have stepped forward to help address this seemingly simple task. All four programs really do improve on the built-in calculator and rules of thumb. They each have special strengths to recommend them. QuickTip is great if you want displays in your own currency. Big Tipper is really simple and easy. GoDutch is interesting, and excellent if dining someplace where tips aren't an issue.

For my money, the best all-round value for the money is TipMaster. It matches most of what the other programs do, and in a best-designed display. I believe it has a place in the library of anyone who dines out frequently, and enjoys using their PalmPilot organizer.

Ashley Parsons coordinates a tradeshow list for Synchrologic, a developer of Internet-based mobile computing software for the enterprise.