Transferring files, preserving installs?

[UsernameTaken]

I am in the process of switching out computers. I have a 120GB external drive which I will use to transfer files to the new computer from the old one.

In an effort to conserve time, is it possible to transfer the files from an installed program and then place it on the new computer and have it work? Or do I just have to re-install?

 

[Osiris]

some program will, some wont, its a trial and error basis....id just go ahead and reinstall them