How to take advantage of the latest GIM Suite version, sooner

In May acQuire launched the latest version our geoscientific data management software – GIM Suite 3.

GIM Suite 3 introduces new tools to simplify and improve the efficiency of your data management processes. You can now automate tasks, such as data imports and exports, with ease. See all the benefits in our latest release webpage.

With each new GIM Suite release it’s a great time to upgrade your software. This ensures you continually get the most out of your investment and improve the way you use your data management technology.

While there is significant value in using the latest version of GIM Suite, acQuire is aware that for some sites, such as larger, more complex operations, you can face challenges when upgrading. It can be logistically challenging to update all your devices in the office and out on site. Organising software updates in line with your IT infrastructure and policies can sometimes be complicated.

Make your upgrade smoother

To make the journey from an older version of GIM Suite to the latest version as smooth as possible, we recommend putting an upgrade plan in place.

Start planning early

Large or complex sites have many field devices and the cost of taking them out of service for software upgrades can be high, especially if they still need to be used while upgrades are happening.

Giving the IT team sufficient time to schedule the upgrade and test the system is critical. Make sure testing time is included at your site to ensure upgrades function with other systems and allow yourself time to talk with acQuire’s technical support team for any issues that arise.

Combine upgrades with other maintenance

Work out if any other complementary software systems need upgrading as well. If you’re taking time to bring your devices in from the field and disrupting your work then kill two birds with one stone, reducing your down time. Keeping IT in the loop about when you need to make upgrades and flagging other software changes that could happen at the same time, can make it easier to justify the change.

Plan for future upgrades

Potential staff turnover in your IT teams, whether they are internal or outsourced, means you might find yourself working with new staff for your next upgrade.  Rather than starting from scratch each time, make sure you document your upgrade process so it’s easier for new staff to follow.

Take into account seasonality

Knowing the optimal time when site is going to be most quiet makes upgrading easier. For example, sites in tropical climates need to have their site running at full capacity during dry season. In this case, planning upgrades for slower periods of the year can reduce impacts on operations. Work with the various teams on site to ensure impacts are minimised.

Upgrade earlier for long term benefits

Along with being able to use your software investment to its fullest potential, upgrading early also means we receive important product feedback faster. Even customers who start testing the release before choosing to upgrade helps provide valuable feedback back to our product team, ultimately leading to an improved product experience for all customers.

To upgrade to our latest release, head to our Downloads page. If you need advice for your upgrade please contact our Support Team – they’ll be happy to help you with any questions you may have.