Top 5 Pitfalls to Avoid When Upgrading Workplace Software
A cautionary checklist.
Upgrading workplace software—whether it’s Archibus, Esri, ServiceNow WSD, or another system—can bring major benefits. You might gain new features, improve security, and make everyday work easier. But if you’re not careful, an upgrade can cause more problems than it solves. It can lead to downtime, frustrated users, or even data loss. At IMS Consulting, we’ve helped many organizations upgrade smoothly. We’ve also seen the mistakes that can derail a project. Here are the top five pitfalls to avoid.
1. Skipping the Plan
Going into an upgrade without a plan is risky. You need to know the goal, the timeline, and the resources. Without a plan, you might forget key steps like making backups or scheduling training. A solid plan helps keep the project on track and reduces stress for your team.
2. Forgetting to Back Up
Never upgrade without a full backup. If something goes wrong, you could lose important data. Make sure your backup works, store it safely, and know how to restore it. This step protects your work and gives you peace of mind.
3. Not Training Users
Even if the upgrade works perfectly, it can fail if people don’t know how to use it. Skipping training means more help desk calls and slower adoption. Give your team short, clear training sessions. Share quick reference guides so they can adjust with ease.
4. Ignoring Compatibility
An upgrade can affect other systems. If you skip compatibility checks, you may break workflows or lose data connections. Test the upgrade in a safe environment first. This helps you find and fix problems before they impact the live system.
5. No Post-Upgrade Support
Many teams focus on the upgrade day but forget what comes after. Users often need extra help as they adjust. Plan to have support ready in the days and weeks that follow. This makes the transition smoother and builds confidence in the new system.
Avoiding these pitfalls comes down to preparation, training, and ongoing support. At IMS Consulting, we guide organizations through every step of the process. From planning and testing to training and post-upgrade support, we help you get the most from your workplace technology. Ready to start your next upgrade with confidence?
About IMS Consulting:
For over a decade, IMS Consulting has been at the forefront of delivering comprehensive services across multiple platforms, including Archibus, ServiceNow, and ESRI, to our diverse clientele in both public and private sectors. As a dedicated small business, we offer personalized attention from experienced and certified consultants. Our experts collaborate closely with clients to gain a deep understanding of their operational processes, identify unique requirements, and uncover opportunities for enhanced management of their infrastructure. We are committed to helping you make informed capital budgeting decisions that yield benefits today and sustainably into the future.
