With the official public release of Windows 7, IT providers get asked repeatedly on the practicality of making the switch to this new operating system. Migrating your entire company is never quick and easy.

Being personally been involved in migrating environments from Windows 95 all of the way to up to the current evolution of Windows (Windows 7), there has never been a time where it went 100% transitionally smooth.  Consider the following before migrating to a new operating system:

1. Cost vs. Value. It is very common for businesses to have older computers in place.  Often these systems are 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.  Many businesses often overlook this soft cost.  New operating systems have new look, feel, and functionality.  There is a very real cost in getting your staff retrained. 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 computers.
3. Application compatibility. Software writers like to take their time in ensuring 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.  Discuss migration issues with your software vendors before making the switch.
4. Licensing costs. Be 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.

If you plan appropriately, a successful operating system migration can be performed in as little as a weekend with only minor support required on Monday morning.  If you do not plan properly, you are setting yourself up for business interruptions and down time.  Speak to a reputable computer services firm before taking the dive.  Executing operating system upgrades is a requirement for any business and you can’t put them off indefinitely. Use the services of a trusted business IT partner and you'll discover potential headaches can be kept to a minimum.

The Data Calendar data calendar software is now available for free trial.
————————————————————————–
Thanks for stopping by the software topics blog. I hope you found something of value in these pages.

Get your registry in top condition: registry mechanic download. Latest release is available for this PC Tools registry cleaner.

Other Helpful Posts From Around The Net
• My credit card balance is over 50%. How long will it take my...
  Casey asked: Hi. I recently just got my first credit card ever and used it to make a $1600 purchase. The credit limit is $3000, so obviously...