Upgrading software can be both painful and expensive: the learning curve of new features can slow you down and the monetary outlay can make you scratch your head!
There are the costs: of purchase, the consultant, the training, the training materials, the resulting upgrades of software that work WITH this software such as add-ins, etc.
Upgrading as you go means you are not left behind and future upgrades are incremental instead of horrific.
So what to do?
I recommend you always upgrade mission critical programs that run your business. Examples might include your CRM system, tax software or your planning software. Optional upgrades might include email software or office applications such as word processors.
However, make sure you upgrade anything that is no longer supported by the authoring company.
I am a big fan of staying as current as possible, but you might consider waiting for the first round of patches or hot fixes so you stay away from the “bleeding edge.”
Also evaluate the competitors’ products during an upgrade cycle. If you are not really happy with your current tool, then it is time to consider changing vendors.
Guide: Software upgrades are generally a positive, adding capability and productivity.
Action Item: Strongly consider upgrading carefully. Mission critical applications are usually a must purchase.
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