Install XP

Given the official release of Microsoft Windows 7, you may be considering an operating system migration for your company. Every 2-4 years, Microsoft decides to launch its latest and greatest version of Windows and moving to these new environments is never as quick or easy as they market to the user.

There is almost never a time when migrations go 100% according to plan.  Some of the major aspects of consideration before migrating are:

1. Cost vs. Value. It is very common for businesses to have older computers in place.  Many times these systems are end of life or out of warranty.  It costs money and resources to upgrade each computer.  Be careful how much time and money you spend on an older system.  Buying a new computer with the new operating system may be a better investment.
2. End user training.  A typical soft-cost that is often overlooked is the time involved in retraining staff and loss of productivity during this process.  New operating systems mean new look, feel, and functionality.  Training is a very real cost. Oftentimes this cost is hard to estimate since some users are more technically savvy than others.  Many users are resistant to change – especially on their systems.
3. Application compatibility. Software writers like to take their time in making sure they have a version of their product that is compatible with the latest version of the operating system.  Just because a new version of Windows is out, doesn’t mean your business applications will work on it.  Take care to discuss these issues with your software company and IT provider before making the move.
4. Licensing costs. Make sure to discuss with your IT provider the best ways to purchase your operating systems and licensing as there are many cost-saving programs available.

With appropriate planning in place, a successful OS migration can be done in as little as a weekend with minor support required starting Monday morning.  Without the proper planning, however, you will experience major business interruptions, loss of time, money, and productivity.  Talk to a reputable Michigan computer services firm before taking the dive.  Performing upgrades to your operating system is something you can’t put off forever. Use the services of a trusted business IT partner and you’ll discover potential headaches can be kept to a minimum.