System Sustainability Part 1: Planning for Maintenance
Technology moves at 200 mph – it seems like as soon as something is released, it’s out of date! We’ve all bought a top-of-the-line camera or laptop, only to have a new model with 10 new features released the next week that blows our model out of the water. The good news is that it’s easier to keep software up to date because you usually don’t have to throw away your old model – you just have to spend some time tweaking the code to make sure it is keeping pace with the technology it relies on.
When we build web applications for clients, we encourage them to plan for system maintenance in their yearly budget. We then set aside time in our schedule to perform routine maintenance activities, such as:
- Researching, developing and installing code patches for compatibility with web server, database, operating system and web browser upgrades.
- Working with internal technical support staff to coordinate system security, communicate and plan server upgrades/moves/changes and monitor/coordinate backups.
- Communication with client IT representatives to coordinate compatibility and compliance with security, data, and technology standards.
- Annual Sustainability Check Meeting to plan for system upgrades, review & revise maintenance plan recommendations, etc.
Like getting the oil changed on your car, it’s important to continue to make small investments in the upkeep of your electronic systems so they continue to hum along smoothly. If you don’t, you’re likely to find yourself stuck by the side of the road, watching helplessly as your competitors speed by you on the information superhighway!
Read More — System Sustainability Part 2: Planning for Evolution