Several users are seeking recommendations for free finite element analysis (FEA) software, noting that commercial options like NASTRAN can be expensive. The discussion highlights the importance of considering the specific types of problems, such as vibrational and stress analysis, when selecting software. While a Wikipedia list of FEA packages is referenced, participants emphasize the value of personal experiences and recommendations over generic searches. The subjective nature of software quality, including user interface preferences, is acknowledged, suggesting that users may need to try multiple options to find the best fit. Ultimately, personal insights are deemed more helpful than broad lists.