Why it pays to update Trace software

by Adam Mackay, Trace Solutions

You’ll have heard our message that, by using our latest software and letting your computers handle more of the routine tasks, you free up staff to handle the ‘exceptions’ that really need attention.

That’s true enough, but what we often forget to say is that you’ll also free up time to keep up with industry best practice, legislative changes, and the latest great new features in our software.

I was working recently with a client who wasn’t making use of our automation features, and indeed was ten software versions out of date. By my reckoning, that company was missing out on a thousand improvements to our software. Yes, you heard me correctly – 1,000 improvements.

The story goes they hadn’t had time to look at installing the new features, as they were just too busy dealing with the day-to-day.

That’s madness.

It’s like running a home boiler that’s 20 years out of date. Sure, it was state of the art when it was installed – but things have moved on. It’ll still work, but you won’t be able to take advantage of the latest efficiency improvements. Worst of all, it isn’t going to save you any money when the bill hits your doormat.

But that’s not the only trouble. Upgrading from a version that’s that old is effectively like taking on new software. There are just too many changes to get your head around and get the full benefit from.

And the longer you leave it, the harder it becomes.

There really shouldn’t be any reason to fall that far behind. Keeping reasonably up-to-date with upgrades will allow you to take small manageable steps to take full advantage of the benefits each upgrade brings. We’ve been working hard, through our seminars, website and release documentation to ensure these business benefits are clear.

We’ve also committed to providing clearer information to help you plan upgrades well in advance. For example, our Technical Profile document (available on this website to logged in users), gives you information on what platforms our software is supported. Not just for the currently supported versions – we look 18 months into the future as well.

And it doesn’t stop there. These days our property management software comes with some really cool features that make upgrading simple and straightforward. It’s pretty much a case of following the on screen wizards, which take you through the decisions you need to make.

It also – inevitably – automates a lot of the installation for you.

Upgrading has never been simpler. Keeping up to date, and making use of the latest features like Mojo, frees up time to improve and keep ahead.

It’s a virtuous circle.