The Old ERP Dilemma: How Long Should You Pay Maintenance?
Olin Thompson - February 8, 2002

Introduction

I recently had the privilege to sit with a group of about a dozen IT executives. What they shared was a common ERP system. Most people would think their ERP system was old” (it was introduced in the 80’s and the average length of time that these companies had been using the product was approximately eight years). Over the last few years, most of the individuals in the group had faced the issue of replacing their existing ERP system (see <a href="/Research/ResearchHighlights/Erp/2002/01/research_notes/TU_ER_XOT_01_29_02_1.asp" target="_blank"><b>The "Old ERP" Dilemma: Replace or Add-on</b></a>) and each had decided to keep their existing system. These individuals were now facing a new decision, how long should they continue to pay the vendor for maintenance? Although our group of IT executives was discussing their individual but common situation, their discussion can provide some valuable insight to others facing the same question...