When To Replace Old Business Software
Many of us cling to old software out of familiarity. Migrating to new system may seem like a hassle. However, there are times when it can be necessary for the continued success of your business. Below are just a few signs that it could be time to replace your old software with something new. How long have you been using the business software system that you are now using? Does it satisfy your present requirements? Should it be replaced, do you think? These are really good questions before deciding to replace old business software.
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But, are you certain without a shadow of a doubt that you need to make some kind of adjustment? If you are like the majority of businesses, the symptoms are not so evident until you question yourself and the people who work for your company. If you are like the majority of companies, you have been trudging along and making do with the Business Software System that you have been using. The majority of people have a tendency to embrace reality as the standard. You get used to the Business Software System that you already use and do your job according to the limitations imposed by the capabilities of the system you currently have.
Consequently, it may be time to consider Technology Evaluation Centers to assist you in the evaluation of the capabilities of your current Business Software System. It can objectively review the existing software system and recommend improvements or upgrades. Additionally, they can assess the market for other software systems that might better suit the needs of your business.
Your current software is about to lose support
Most applications eventually lose support. This is when developers stop maintaining it- you’ll no longer receive any updates and you may no longer be able to seek out customer support.
You should never continue using the samwe system once it becomes unsupported. Once it stops receiving updates, it can become vulnerable to new viruses and cyber threats. On top of this, bugs may develop which will not be patched up.
The best time to migrate is before it loses support. Developers will usually announce in advance when software is coming to the end of its life. For example, Adobe Search and Promote will be coming to the end of its life this year on September 1st. Any companies that are still using this software will have to migrate to a new application before this date. An AI-powered search application like SearchBlox could be the perfect solution to migrate to.
Failure of Vendor, Product, or Reseller of Business Software
This may be the simplest indication that it’s time to upgrade your business software system, and it also calls for the fastest response from you. It may be a symptom of either the vendor’s own financial troubles or their decision that their business management system can no longer compete if the vendor is not regularly upgrading their business software system or is not offering enough assistance. If this is the case, you must acknowledge the need of change.
If your local reseller isn’t providing you with the assistance you need but the product itself seems reliable (i.e., it’s still competitive), you may need to look for another one. This is your fundamental right, but you shouldn’t necessarily throw out your present Business Software System if you can find a skilled reseller who really wants to work with you. This does not imply that you should keep using your present business management system. Perhaps now is a chance to consider some alternatives.
Your current business software is too basic for your needs
Another great reason to replace old business software could be because it is too basic for your needs. Many very old applications were not built with the features that are available now. By continuing to use old basic software, you could find that you’re being left behind by your competitors.
What are some of the new features that your business software should have? Ideally, your software should be:
- Cloud-based: If your software requires you to store data onto a hard-drive or local server it could be time to update it. Cloud-based software is typically more powerful, more secure and more flexible.
- Compatible as a mobile app: Can you access your software as a mobile app? Many old applications are only available as desktop applications, which means that you cannot access them on the go. A mobile-compatible solution could enable you to work from any location.
- Full of handy AI and automation features: Modern business applications can help you to save time by learning from your behavior and giving you the option to automate repetitive manual tasks. If you feel that your old software is lacking many handy shortcut functions, it’s likely that it’s time to migrate to something newer.
Your current business software is not compatible with other software/new hardware
Old one may not be compatible with certain types of new hardware and software. While it’s common for competitor applications to not play nicely with each other, you should be able to easily export data to large non-competitor applications where it is helpful. For example, your sales software should be able to link up with your accounting software. Modern hardware from respected brands should also be able to work with your software where necessary. If this is not the case, it’s likely time to migrate to a recent software.
Your marketing and sales initiatives are not effectively supported by the CRM system
Most people think of “sales and marketing,” yet that perspective is really rather outdated. You must first entice “fresh blood” and then maintain that connection. Sales is about completing the transaction and keeping the deal closed. Whereas marketing is about generating prospects. Both must work by your CRM system. It may be time for you to either find a CRM system that integrates with your Business Software System or find a Business Software System that integrates with your current CRM system if your CRM system is not seamlessly integrated with your Business Software System or if it does not help you attract and retain customers.
Ananya Prisha is an enterprise level Agile coach working out of Hyderabad (India) and also founder of High Level PM Consultancy. Her goal has been to keep on learning and at the same time give back to the community that has given her so much.
