In many organizations, software life cycle management is often overlooked and not integrated into broader IT management practices. This oversight can lead to missed opportunities for productivity gains, increased operational challenges, and heightened cybersecurity risks.

How should an organization determine the appropriate life cycle for its software? For Software as a Service (SaaS) solutions, life cycle management is typically handled by the service provider, which minimizes the burden on the organization. However, when it comes to internally developed applications or commercially procured off-the-shelf software, implementing a structured life cycle management strategy becomes essential. Doing so ensures better governance, improved outcomes, and enhanced risk mitigation.

With the rise of agile development methodologies, software release cycles have become significantly shorter. In the past, major software updates were released every 3 to 5 years. Today, new versions are often introduced every 1 to 2 years—or even as frequently as every six months. This rapid pace presents challenges for organizations trying to establish and adhere to a defined software life cycle.

One practical approach is to adopt an “N-2” software versioning strategy. In this model:

• N refers to the latest version currently available on the market.

• N-1 is one version prior to the latest.

• N-2 is two versions behind the latest release.

By standardizing on the “N-2” model, organizations can continue to use software up to two versions behind the most current release. This approach allows businesses to optimize the value of their software investments while maintaining sufficient support and addressing security considerations.

Staying within the “N-2” range ensures compatibility with newer features, access to vendor support, and the application of critical security patches. Using software that falls too far behind the latest release may result in loss of functionality, lack of technical support, and increased vulnerability to security threats.

Timely updates are essential, especially for security. Software vendors frequently release patches to address newly discovered vulnerabilities. Failure to apply these updates can expose the organization to significant data and operational risks.

Additionally, software vendors typically provide advanced notice—usually around 18 months—before designating a version as End-of-Life (EOL) or End-of-Support (EOS). It is crucial for IT and business leaders to monitor such announcements, plan transitions early, allocate budgets, and manage upgrades effectively.

Unfortunately, many organizations neglect to act on these vendor notifications, resulting in last-minute scrambles, increased upgrade costs, and potential disruptions. Incorporating life cycle management into overall business planning helps avoid these pitfalls and supports long-term operational resilience.

Software life cycle management is not just a technical exercise—it is a fundamental aspect of modern business strategy. Adopting a structured approach such as the “N-2” model can help organizations stay secure, compliant, and future-ready while maximizing return on software investments.

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