A patch set is a collection of fully tested and integrated product fixes created to update, fix, or improve a piece of software.
To make sure that all product defects or bugs are fixed and to enhance functionality, Infor periodically issues maintenance releases for SunSystems in the form of patch sets.
As a Sun user, it is advised for you to keep up to date with the latest patch set releases for the system.
One reason to do so is security. By keeping up to date with the latest patch sets, you can be sure that your system is secure against any potential attacks. The other reasons are more focused on improving performance and usability.
Here are the benefits of having the latest patch sets for Infor SunSystems:
1. Functional fixes and enhancements
When updates are released, they include both functional fixes and enhancements. Updates to fix bugs will help improve the software’s performance.
Any new features or enhancements will help improve the user experience and empower your finance team to do more.
To ensure that your software is fully functional, it’s a good idea to regularly review with your account manager and discuss applying updates as appropriate to your environment.
2. Continued support from the latest Windows updates, Open JDK and .Net Frameworks which enhances security
Keeping up to date with the latest Infor SunSystems patch sets will allow you to keep your operating system and software fully patched and up to date, which is crucial for your business security.
We regularly remind customers, in our and account management meetings, that if your IT department is considering upgrading their hardware or software, to ensure you consult with your support provider to ensure you do not run into a situation where an IT upgrade occurs and SunSystems or Q&A stop functioning due to incompatibility.
3. Simplify your next upgrade path
Falling behind on patch sets can in some cases mean your next upgrade will require interim upgrade steps, which can add to your overall upgrade costs.
Upgrading to the latest SunSystems patch sets will not only help you cut down on those future costs but will also help you avoid negative IT issues and maintain a secure and compliant software environment.
4. Vendor support efficiency
It’s often the case that the latest patch set is required to get the most out of the support process.
In some cases, the latest patch set may even contain fixes for the product that is not working as intended. Therefore, it’s important to regularly review what patch sets are available to you to benefit from the best possible support.
5. Improved overall performance
You will also be able to have access to new enhancements that could really improve your business processes and financial operations. Whether it be database or software enhancements, the latest patch sets can often bring end-user benefits.
Are there any cons?
The only snag we could think of is the potential for business disruption. But there is a solution to this: out of hours or weekend consultancy.
Given that FinanSys operates globally, we have resources available to work outside of UK working hours or even over the weekend.
Next steps?
We recommend that customers regularly review the latest patch sets available to them to stay current with all security and functional fixes and to benefit from the enhanced functionality and performance.
Patch sets are typically released on a monthly release cycle for the most current versions of SunSystems and one prior version (currently 6.4 and 6.3).
If you would like to discuss patch sets application or upgrading SunSystems or Q&A more broadly, please reach out to us today for support.
