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Technology Operations

Why every business should document its software systems

Undocumented software creates hidden dependency, hidden cost and hidden risk. Here's why every business should keep a documented register.

Most businesses don't know how many software systems they use. Estimates are almost always low.

What "documented" actually means

  • Every recurring system has a name, provider and owner
  • Every system has a contract reference and a renewal date
  • Every system has a business criticality rating
  • The record is maintained centrally — not on one person's laptop

What happens without it

  • Duplicate tools live side-by-side
  • Nobody catches the renewal until it arrives
  • Departing staff take institutional knowledge with them
  • New starters can't pick up ownership cleanly
  • Costs quietly grow

The move

You don't need a project. You need one register, one afternoon and one named owner. The Business Technology Register Template is enough to start.

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