User interface is the way we interact with software. This is one of the reasons it is difficult for iPhone users to switch to an Android and vice versa. Once people become comfortable with something, it can be difficult to change. Hanging on to outdated software can lead to issues with support and productivity. Here are three things to know about software lifecycle.
1. Experiment with Onboarding
People can be resistant to change especially if they feel it will mess with their productivity. If you want to introduce new software into our office, you should experiment with different ways of getting people onboard. Everyone has different learning styles and paying attention to what will work best for individuals will make the process all the smoother. Training, webinars, and manuals are excellent for people who like to ingest information and then work through it on their own. For others, consider more of a ‘play’ like atmosphere. Let them try it out and explore the software to see how they can use it to improve their projects.
2. Outdated Support
When software becomes outdated, it can become more challenging to find solutions when it malfunctions. If you’re dealing with server hardware, you run into the problem that manufacturers no longer make parts for older items. Updating your software will relieve your office from dealing with any nuisances that arise from lack of support.
3. Use a Phased Approach
A managed network solutions service will advise you include hardware replacement in your budget to avoid a massive bill. The same can be said for updating your software. Prepare your budget to handle downloading new software to keep the office workflow running. It’s more cost-effective to upgrade software in phases, meaning you can skip a version or two but no more than that.
Keeping up with what parts of your network can be overwhelming. Managed network solutions is a service that will handle your IT network allowing you to focus on business-critical tasks. To learn more, call us today!