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. Companies often have older computers in use.  Often these systems are out of warranty.  It costs money and resources to upgrade each computer.  Carefully consider how much time and money to spend on an older computer.  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 have new look, feel, and functionality.  There is a very real cost in getting your staff retrained. Oftentimes this cost is difficult 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 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 function properly.  Discuss migration issues with your software vendors before making the switch.
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.

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.  Talk to a reputable Michigan 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. Put in the appropriate time and resources with a trusted technology partner and you will find the potential headaches of making this major change will be minimal.

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