Why some merchants force the clients to upgrade to new versions of their software? (rant)

If the software works fine, then stick with that version. The problems arise, where security patches are required over time and/or versions of the base operating systems change such as revised versions of Windows, Linux, PHP, MySql and so on. Then you have to take some sort of action, or risk major problems.

When I had a JOB, I sometimes got involved in developing specifications for software applications (not the detail of the coding, operating, LAN or WAN issues) and the associated tender and evaluation processes. These ranged from small projects of £30,000 or so to projects of many hundreds of thousands of pounds (sterling).

One thing (of many) that was always built into any contract was an escrow agreement. A copy of the original source code had to be lodged with a trusted third party. This meant that whatever happened to the Company, the original code was available to all purchasers of the software.

Yes, you can run with trusted suppliers, I do that now, as I can't personally justify spending the sums of money that companies I worked with spent, as I mentioned above. There is always the danger though that the trusted supplier could go out of business, suffer ill health (if they are a 'one man band'), or be bought out by another company who will not honor your 'gentleman's agreement' with the former owner.

All this probably appears irrelevant, but what I am trying to say is that if your business absolutely depends upon specific software, then you should have a proper contract in place. Not just terms and conditions of use that you except/agree to as provided by the vendor (which usually only protect the vendor), but a legally enforceable contract that protects all parties.

These sort of areas can be very difficult for the small business enreprenur, I know.

Bear in mind though, that you will almost certainly need support and upgrades for your software/scripts, whatever path you decide to take.

Just my thoughts and the very best of luck with your current predicament.

Regards,

Jeff Henshaw.

If that was the case I'd happily upgrade. 5 years back I bought it for 100.00 > after two years (means 3 years back) I paid 250.00 + start paying yearly support. This is after I am promised free upgrades at initial buying. > Now another 300.00 + yearly fee.

I am not saying don't charge 20% per year or so. Like vbulletin does. But every couple of years around 250.00 and 50% of yearly support fee???


Not 20% anymore ...

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