The initial costs of operating software vary widely both by cost and capability. In addition, most manufacturers tier costs based upon the size of the processor or number of users. Factors to be considered include capabilities needed that are not included, and the cost of adding the needed capabilities from the vendor or a third party. Continued operation of the system being replaced can be a significant cost that should be factored into any acquisition analysis. The length of operation of dual environments can be a major cost factor which must be considered when choosing from various system alternatives.
Most systems go through a series of upgrades during their ownership.
Vendor pricing policies and packaging largely determine the impact of upgrades. When acquiring a system, one of the factors that should be included is the cost of upgrading components at various levels of growth. Factors analyzed should include separate estimates for memory, disk capacity, work station attachments, communications facilities, etc. Both hardware and peripherals maintenance should be priced. Hardware maintenance can be a major on-going cost.