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The need to contemplate an "end of life"-process for Software products

   

The trend to shorten the lifecycle of products is also becoming noticeable in the software business. The time distance of introducing new versions are becoming shorter.

As a result, almost all companies without exemption are confronted more often and more clearly with the issues and aftereffects of "end of life" for their cherished software products.

The process of End-of-Life for software products have diverse objectives, which would normally involve various personnel of the company. On one side, there is the need to consider the technological aspect:

What are the existing dependencies on other software? Does changing software A means automatic change of software B and C? What processes are affected? What are the procedures in place, where necessary to train the employees about the new Technology? To what extent is the exchange of data with partners and customers electronically possible? Is a migration of the existing hardware and software platforms at all possible? When is the right time to negotiate, in order to avoid a security risk? Is it possible to generate more value for the company due to an active technological change?

 

 

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On the other side, the technological considerations eventually lead to the financial, licensing and regulatory questions. Are the existing software coupled with maintenance, so that a version upgrade is possible at no additional license costs? Were these procurements forecasted and already included in the budget? What other license needs may arise in the short, mid or long-term? What contract structures or license models present the best alternative negotiations?

These questions above are just samples of other additional diverse and complex objectives.It is clear, that the End-of-Life does not only mean the mere end of a particular software product, but also involves profound processes that should be well thought-out and agreed upon before announcing or embarking on an "end of life"-process.

A cross company SAM process can help in the identification of inevitable questions, related to the End-of-Life process, and provide answers to these questions. Do you have any questions? Contact us, we will be glad to help.

Written by Christopher Brune, SAM consulting GbR