Transferring programs

I know that there are no MS methods for transferring programs after performing a custom install. I can't do an upgrade because I'm upgrading from 32 bit Vista Ultimate to 64 bit Windows 7 Ultimate. This means re-installing masses of software and patches and updates. The last time I did this, from XP to Vista, it took weeks to finally complete the process.

I have found this application Laplink PCmover Windows 7 Upgrade Assistant that purports to move your existing applications from Vista to 7 on the same PC. The company has a good reputation and for about £10 it doesn't seem bad value (1 migration).

Anyone know anything about it?

I've read about that and it seems worthwhile if you don't mind paying for it. Will save a lot of time and effort

I've been doing some more research and reading a number of reviews. They range from "the greatest thing since sliced bread" to "don't touch it with a bargepole". I'm guessing that as long as I take the usual precautions, backups, disk images etc. it will be worth a try.

No-one here actually tried it?

I'm not sure how that helps me. I don't want to move any data I want my existing programs to be recognised and work within Win 7. They are already on the drive that Win 7 will be installed to. All my data is on a data drive the only stuff on C: is OS and programs.