Upgrading Software
Newer versions of popular software applications are constantly being offered to consumers; some companies upgrade their products every couple of years while others may do so more frequently. The many benefits to upgrading existing software packages to newer versions include correcting minor bugs (such as printing errors), compatibility with other software, greater stability, and newer features.
Many companies offer discounted prices — up to half off — on an upgraded version of their software. Some companies will also offer "competitive upgrades," offering an upgrade price for their software if you switch from their competitor's software.
Before deciding to upgrade, however, consider if it’s worth the cost. Will the new fixes or features be valuable to you? If the version you have now is serving your needs, you may benefit from waiting until the next upgrade opportunity.
Steps for a Successful Upgrade
Performed correctly, an upgrade can be a quick and easy procedure. Follow these steps to ensure that your upgrade proceeds smoothly:
- Back up your important data – It's always a good idea to back up your data when performing software upgrades or making any big changes on your computer. Simply copy your data onto a CD or external hard drive.
- Have your information ready – Installation processes often require a serial number before allowing you to proceed to the next step. Have on hand both the serial number for the upgrade and for the software currently installed on your computer — just in case you need to supply this information.
- Have the CDs ready - Have both the upgrade CD and the installation CD for your existing version nearby. Upgrading often requires that you insert the original CD for verification purposes.
- Check your computer - An increase in features often means an increase in system requirements and memory needed to run the software. Ensure that your computer can handle the upgrade and meets the necessary system requirements.
Finding Software
Tech Soup is a popular website where nonprofits may purchase software at deeply discounted prices. Many software companies (including Microsoft) have partnerships with Tech Soup Stock. (Note: There is a limit on how many times a nonprofit can order annually, so gather all of your software requests together and plan on making one purchase.)
