FTSE 100 rolling, beginner questions. Help Pls

Iv decided to start spread betting on the ftse 100. I usually play poker and use various softwares such as holdem manager to aid me whilst playing.
I was wondering if there are any common software programs that people use to help decision making when spread betting on the ftse.
I have a friend who has been simply looking at news and current affairs and making decisions from there. I feel like he is just gambling (playing roulette) is this knowledge enuff to make a consistent profit from spread betting on the ftse 100.
if any1 could recommend any tips/techniques used to do so id appreciate it. thanks