Software Updates – What’s the point?
Jordan Burrough
Let’s be honest, no one likes spending money when they don’t have to. One question that I’m sure many of you have asked is ‘Why do I need to update my software? What will I get and what will happen if I don’t?
In the past, I’ve responded with, ‘You don’t have to, it’s optional!’ Which is true, but is it the best answer? Will the software work without updating? The simple answer is yes, so why should you update at all?
When ‘peace of mind’ isn’t a good enough answer, we need to take a spin through the real reasons.
- Support: When software is kept updated, support is easier. If there is ever a software issue, the first item our support team will check is what version of software the customer is running. Older software will eventually run into problems. We can all relate to this: has your iPhone ever been slow after skipping a few updates? What about that laptop from 2010? So, if you’re running a five-year-old software version and you have a problem, our support and the manufacturers’ support is limited. Updates are a good thing!
- Access & Growth: Even if a software license will technically work without updating, this doesn’t mean that you aren’t missing out. Software licenses that are kept up to date have access to not only the latest software versions and strategies, but also new material and implant libraries. Even if the software is performing perfectly, the new software and strategy improvements will ensure consistency is maintained, allowing you to stay reliable for your doctors and grow your business.
- Cost: On average, keeping a CAD or CAM software license updated costs between $900.00 – $3,000.00 annually, which I know is a lot of money for some folks. However, if you break this down, it’s about $200.00 a month on the high end. Ask yourself, ‘What is my plan if this software stops working?’ If the plan is to update when you really need to, there will be added costs involved.
- Added Costs: If the choice is not made to update, what is the cost when you want or must do it? The truth is, there is an added cost when you skip updating. On average, skipping a year or more on updating will cost between $1,000.00 -$3,000.00 more than updating annually.
To wrap this up, one of the best qualities of Nowak is our ability to meet our customers where they are at. We strive to be open and honest in a way that proves we have your back, and keeping you informed on software updates (and payment plans) is simply another way we show up.
—Jordan