Don’t Overlook Post-Go-Live Support: Why Lifecycle Services is a Vital Part of Automation Planning
Planning Beyond the Install
Guest blog by MHI member Sayove
Investing in automation is no longer just about installing the latest equipment—it’s about making sure that the equipment and the overall system performs reliably for years to come. This is where Lifecycle Services plays a key role. Whether you’re managing a high-volume warehouse or planning a system expansion, focusing on the long-term health of your automation infrastructure is essential for maximizing return on investment (ROI) and reducing total cost of ownership (TCO).
Let’s break down why Lifecycle Services are critical — and how to plan for aging systems without disrupting your operation.
What Are Lifecycle Services?
Lifecycle Services cover the full lifespan of your automation systems — from planning and installation to ongoing maintenance, upgrades, and eventual replacement. Think of it as a long-term relationship with your automation partner, rather than a one-time transaction.
Understanding TCO (Total Cost of Ownership)
While the upfront cost of equipment is often the focus during planning, TCO includes:
• Installation & integration
• Regular maintenance
• Downtime costs
• Energy usage
• Spare parts and repairs
• System upgrades
Without a proper lifecycle plan, unexpected failures and outdated or obsolescent equipment can quickly increase your TCO — and eat into your ROI.
The ROI of Ongoing Support
The benefits of automation don’t stop after go-live. Ongoing support plays a key role in protecting your investment and maximizing system performance over time. With proactive support, companies experience reduced unplanned downtime, faster issue resolution, and timely access to software updates and security patches. More importantly, planned upgrades replace the need for costly emergency overhauls.
Bottom line: preventive care is always cheaper than emergency surgery—even in automation.
How to Build an Upgrade Roadmap for Aging Warehouse Systems
Even the most robust systems eventually need an upgrade. But how do you know when it’s time — and how do you manage it without disrupting daily operations?
When Is It Time to Upgrade?
Here are some red flags to watch for:
• Increased downtime or maintenance calls
• Limited availability of replacement parts
• Software no longer supported
• Growing operational demands your current system can’t meet
If your system is showing any of these signs, it’s likely time to start planning an upgrade.
How to Phase Improvements without Disruption
Upgrading your operations doesn’t have to mean bringing everything to a halt. With the right approach, improvements can be phased in strategically to minimize disruption. Start by assessing the current health of your system using diagnostic tools and expert insight to identify what’s performing well and where the gaps are. From there, prioritize the most critical upgrades—focusing first on the areas where downtime would have the greatest operational or financial impact.
Next, develop a phased roadmap that breaks the upgrade into manageable stages, addressing one section of the system at a time. Align implementation with low-impact windows, such as off-peak hours, weekends, or seasonal lulls, to reduce business interruption. Most importantly, keep your team in the loop. Clear communication and proper training ensure everyone is prepared, which significantly reduces the risk of disruption during the transition.
Final Thoughts
Automation is a long game. It’s not just about getting systems in place — it’s about keeping them reliable, efficient, and adaptable over time.
Lifecycle Services help protect your investment, reduce costs, and ensure you’re ready for whatever the future brings. Whether you’re planning an upgrade or just getting started with automation, think long-term — your uptime (and your budget) will thank you.
