As the deadline for Windows 10's end of life approaches, a staggering 90% of businesses are found to be carrying "technical debt" associated with Microsoft products. This means they may be relying on outdated systems and software, which can lead to security risks, inefficiencies, and potential compliance issues. - WYENS News

# Technology Update for Business Owners: Don't Let Microsoft Technical Debt Hold You Back **What's Happening:** As the deadline for Windows 10's end of life approaches, a staggering 90% of businesses are found to be carrying "technical debt" associated with Microsoft products. This means they may be relying on outdated systems and software, which can lead to security risks, inefficiencies, and potential compliance issues. **Why this matters to your business:** Continued use of outdated software can hinder your operations, increase costs, and negatively impact customer satisfaction. If you’re stuck on older versions of Windows, you could be facing increased vulnerability to cyber attacks, higher maintenance costs, and a lack of support for new applications and technologies. **Industry Impact Examples:** - **Retail:** Retailers still using Windows 10 may struggle with payment processing and inventory management systems, risking customer service delays and lost sales. - **Manufacturing:** Outdated systems can disrupt production lines and supply chain management, causing delays and increased operational costs. - **Healthcare/Professional Services:** For healthcare providers, using unsupported software can compromise patient data security and regulatory compliance, leading to potential fines and reputational damage. - **Small Business:** Small businesses might find themselves facing unexpected costs related to tech support or security breaches due to outdated systems, diverting funds from growth initiatives. **Bottom line:** - **Opportunity:** Upgrading to newer systems can streamline operations, enhance security, and improve customer experiences, ultimately driving revenue growth. - **Risk:** Failing to upgrade could lead to operational disruptions, increased costs, and lost customers due to poor service. - **Timeline:** With the end of life for Windows 10 approaching, businesses should act quickly—ideally within the next 3 to 6 months—to ensure a smooth transition. **Action Steps:** 1. **Immediate action:** Conduct an audit of your current software and systems to identify any instances of Windows 10 or other outdated technology. 2. **Medium-term consideration:** Develop a budget for upgrading your systems and explore options for training staff on new technologies. 3. **Resource or expert to consult:** Consider reaching out to an IT consultant who specializes in digital transformation to guide you through the upgrade process. **Questions to Consider:** - Are you aware of the current software versions in use across your operations? - How prepared is your team for a potential transition to new technology, and what training might they need? --- *Stay informed about technology trends that impact your business.*

By: WYENS