INFORMATION for YOU about OBSOLESCENCE:
Obsolescence is the unavailability of electronic components, technologies or software that has occurred, for example, due to component discontinuation, manufacturer bankruptcy or outdated process technology.. In the software area, this can concern both standard software (commercial off the shelf software), as well as individual software and embedded software (firmware). Embedded software obsolescence does not only occur due to the direct connection with the obsolescence of electronic components for example when adapting customer or product requirements or a changed product strategy. Due to an increasing degree of “digitization”, obsolescence is increasingly caused by topics such as licenses, safety and security.. HIGH COSTS, DELIVERY AND QUALITY PROBLEMS often arise from all types of obsolescence, especially for manufacturers and operators of durable assets. Depending on the type of software, the software system concerned and the product in which the software is integrated (e.g. durable assets vs. short-lived goods), different strategies may be necessary to prevent software obsolescence.
Possible implementation strategies of obsolescence management:
- PROACTIVE software obsolescence management by considering the software obsolescence risk starting in the concept phase of a software development project,
- REACTIVE software obsolescence management by porting the existing software to new target platforms and software redesign,
- LONG-TERM SUPPORT of development and test environments,
- LONG-TERM MAINTENANCE of firmware-software.
- When implementing obsolescence management, WE work according to the standard DIN EN 62402.