System compliance is a decision that belongs in the boardroom
Summary
The article argues that software upgrades should be treated as a board-level risk decision rather than routine IT maintenance. It highlights the security, compliance and operational risks of running unsupported systems, and suggests that cloud platforms can reduce the burden by keeping firms continuously updated.
Why it matters
Residential property surveyors increasingly rely on digital systems to store client data, manage instructions and support day-to-day operations, so unsupported software can create security and continuity risks. The article is also relevant because it links system currency to compliance expectations around data protection and vulnerability management.
Key points
- Deferring upgrades increases exposure to security vulnerabilities and cyberattack.
- Out-of-date systems can create compliance issues under ISO 27001, Cyber Essentials and UK GDPR.
- End-of-support software leaves firms without vendor fixes or assistance.
- Operational problems can include downtime, poor performance and broken integrations.
- Leadership should own upgrade decisions as part of business risk management.
This is an RPSA summary of a publicly available article. The full content remains with the original publisher.
