HP-1 is very easy to program/use
I just got the HP-1 about 2 weeks ago, and took it on a road trip through the midwest. Compared to the BCD996XT, the HP-1 is a piece of cake to program and use IMO. I had my HP-1 running on local frequencies within ~60 seconds of turning it on for the first time.... (It really was that easy to get up and going.)
Basic programming on the HP-1 can be not a lot more than entering your zip code from one of the user menus, since the entire RR database is already loaded. Once you do that the HP-1 builds your scan groups/frequencies/services/etc. based on your preferences.
You might want to select or avoid some services; easy to do from the menu. Or you might want to create some favorites; easy to do from the scanner itself or from the Sentinel software. If you have GPS tied into the HP-1, it will update the programming as your location changes, and even switch to the local favorites or services you are interested in as you travel.
Now having said that, having the 996XT caused me to understand what/how trunking systems work; how to program the scanner, use the software, etc. But I don't think you need to really delve into with this stuff nearly as deeply with the HP-1. I found the Sentinel software to be straight forward and easy to use.