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End of support for IBM Maximo version 7.6.1.x in 2025

30 March 2023 | Patrice Duchesne

Version 7.6.1.x: End-of-sale of licenses in 2024, end of support in 2025 and end of extended support in 2028. The migration to version 8.x MAS licenses is possible as of now using Mobile access despite not being fully migrated. Change of server type from Windows to OpenShift.


Version 8.x, named Maximo Application Suite (MAS), has been on the market for many months now and that is why IBM recently issued a press release regarding the end of the development and support (EOS) for version 7.6.1.x for September 2025 (see a related article defining what is included in Maximo 8). Stability for version 7.6.1.x will be ensured between now and then but no major development can be expected over the next few years; efforts being focused on version 8.x. In the same press release, IBM announced the end of licence sales in April 2024 and the end of extended support in 2028.

Regarding the announcement’s three dates:

2024: End-of-sale of licenses

Existing clients will be able to add new users until April 19th, 2024 – when part number will be removed from the IBM catalogue. To add more afterwards, clients will have to migrate their license management to AppPoints (more details below – see What to Expect).

September 2025: End of standard support (S&S)

September 2024 will be the last annual renewal period (leading to Sept. 2025). Ulterior renewal dates will be fractioned monthly until the end-of-support date.

2028: End of extended support

To be eligible for the extended support period, client must demonstrate that they are preparing their upgrade to Maximo 8.x. The extended support period will cover questions such as “how to”, user problems as well as new and old defects. Extended support avoids service interruptions and provides additional time for migration and improves budgetary planning. Prolonged service is billed at a “premium” price.

What to Expect

Considering these dates, Maximo 7.6.1.x users are faced with three choices:

  1. Continue to renew support for their 7.6.1.x version until 2025 and decide at that time if they will migrate to version 8.x.
  2. Migrate to 8.x MAS licenses but continue to use 7.6.1.2 until a more opportune time presents itself for migration (e.g.: changing from local to cloud-based servers).
  3. Start planning the migration to MAS 8.x as of today.

All those who have purchased 7.6.1.x perpetual licenses (100% of our clients) will be able to continue using their licenses without interruption even if they do not wish to or cannot renew. The only important risk would be a security failure that would be left unfixed if it were to occur after support ends (by expiration or non-renewal).

In the case of option 2, where licenses are migrated to AppPoints, the client can continue to use version 7.6x only if version 7.6.1.2 is rolled-out and user traceability is installed. The client gains access to the MAS disconnected mobility application (Mobile) without additional licenses.

Conclusion

The current 7.6x version of IBM Maximo expires in 2025 and its future will be built on a new IT platform to ensure better performance and guarantee compliance to current and future standards. STI Maintenance can support your organisation with this transition and answer all your questions regarding your current situation and what to expect. We have a team of 30 Maximo specialists that will accompany you in the utmost professional manner.

For precise questions on your 7.6x licenses or the migration to version 8.x, please do not hesitate to contact our sales department.

References

Annoncement by IBM