If your business is running older or outdated software, it might be time to implement new software solutions with the help of a decommissioning process. This involves shutting down existing business software applications and moving to new solutions.
But what exactly is decommissioning and how does it work? In this article, we take a detailed look at what the software decommissioning process is and what it entails.
What is Software Decommissioning?
The decommissioning of software applications or systems refers to removing or retiring software that is no longer useful or needed within an organisation. Simply put, it is moving your business over to new software solutions.
This typically happens when an application has reached the end of its useful life, or when it is being replaced by a newer, more advanced application.
How the Decommissioning Process Works
The decommissioning process for a business has several phases:
- Initiation – This is where a team is appointed, and communication channels are set up.
- Analysis – The analysis phase involves setting up the goals of the project.
- Planning – During the planning phase, key milestones are put in place to ensure measurable KPIs.
- Communication – This relates to the design and development of the process, as well as employee involvement with the planned changes.
- Decommission – This phase involves details about the change including the date and time when the change will take place.
- CAB – This important part of the process is designed to drive change management and take note of risks.
- Execute – This is where the decommissioning of the current system starts in line with the plan as set out in the planning phase.
- Post-implementation – In this phase, the changes are reviewed with key stakeholders and all milestones are completed.
Overall, the application decommissioning plan needs to ensure that an organisation’s IT assets are efficiently and effectively managed, and that legacy applications are removed from the environment in a way that minimises risk and cost.
What Should Be Considered?
There are important considerations when it comes to software decommissioning. The impact of software decommissioning on the business processes that rely on it must be assessed. This includes identifying any downstream applications that may be affected and determining if alternative solutions need to be implemented.
Proper planning for the migration process is also necessary so that all data will be retained and transferred. This includes identifying the data that needs to be migrated, determining the format in which it needs to be migrated, and ensuring that the migration process is tested and validated.
The costs associated with decommissioning the software should be carefully considered. This includes the cost of any data migration, as well as any costs associated with implementing alternative solutions.
Finally, consider the compliance requirements. If the software being decommissioned is subject to regulatory compliance requirements, it is important to ensure that these are met during the process, including that all data is securely deleted or archived according to regulations.
Fourier IT – a Specialist in Decommissioning as a Service (DaaS)
Depending on the software or systems being replaced, the decommissioning process can be complicated and time-consuming. That’s why it’s recommended to enlist a reputable provider to handle the entire process.
Fourier IT specialises in Decommissioning as a Service (DaaS). Contact us today at +27 12 667 3232 so that we can address your decommissioning requirements.