Many software applications that have been developed for Windows XP don't seem to work well with Windows Vista. Fortunately, there is a solution for this. We need to install the program in compatibility mode for Windows XP. Here are the steps to do it.
Works On: All Versions
Step 1: Right click on the application you want to install and choose "properties".
Step 2: Choose the compatibility tab in the properties.
Step 3: Check or place a tick mark in the check box next to "Run this program in compatibility mode for:". Windows XP (Service Pack 2) would be the default option selected.
Step 4: Click OK to save the properties.
After doing this, all most all your applications should work well. There are a few applications which seem to not work even then. Hey, there is no harm in trying! Post your experience using the compatibility mode in the comments below.