The more businesses invest in enterprise software, the harder it can become to control what happens next. Upgrades, migrations, and licensing changes can cost millions, consume valuable resources, and divert investment from other priorities.
So why are organizations spending so much on changes they wouldn't otherwise choose?
Drawing on research with 2,018 CIOs and senior IT decision-makers, The Software Tax examines why businesses have so little control over the terms of change, the consequences for their organizations, and what it will take to restore greater choice.
Authored by Tomás O’Leary and Marshall Van Alstyne and published in partnership with Thinkers50, the report draws on research commissioned by Origina and conducted by Censuswide.
What the research reveals
The research exposes how the balance of power shifts after businesses invest in enterprise software, and asks a fundamental question: who really benefits from change?
The hidden costs add up
See where enterprise software budgets are going and why the financial impact of upgrades and migrations extends beyond the initial expense.
Why walking away is so difficult
Understand how switching costs and software dependencies can weaken an organization's negotiating position, even when it's a major customer.
A stronger position is possible
Explore practical approaches to preserving flexibility, creating alternatives, and making software decisions that serve your business.
