Likewise, they want to make the improvements which will allow them to hold on to their existing clients. In fact, the size of the installed base of a software product is crucial to the future success of most programs. Developers also see upgrades as an effective way to keep the installed user base from straying away to a competitor. In reality, upgrades represent the effort of software companies to track the changing interests, values and needs of both the existing and future customer. The cost of upgrades is another fascinating aspect of this story.
Upgrades represent a new paradigm for buyers.
The same tool remained equally productive in the 20th year on the job. Now fast forward to today. Typewriters are largely irrelevant. The new tool of choice is the PC-based word processor. You can almost budget from the day of purchase the date when you will consider replacing or updating your software.