For companies operating M3 on-premises and utilizing InforOS and XI Platforms, upgrading to Local Technology Runtime (LTR) is required by Infor by the end of 2024. Let’s discuss why upgrading as soon as possible is critical as well as what new features are included within LTR.

As Umesh Patil, Principal Consultant at Doppio, explains: “Infor is planning to phase out support for this current setup at the end of 2024, which will leave companies without critical updates and technical assistance. This makes upgrading not just necessary, but also a technological improvement, and an investment in the future of the business.”

Watch our Doppio Discussions episode: Upgrading Infor M3 On-Premise with LTR

The Current State of M3 On-Premises 

Companies using M3 on-premise have relied on the InforOS or XI Platform for efficient data storage and retrieval. However, the technology landscape has evolved significantly, and the traditional M3 on-premises and InforOS and XI Platform setup now faces several limitations. According to Umesh, “the traditional M3 on-premises and Infor OS or XI Platform setup now faces several limitations, such as security vulnerabilities, scalability issues, and the inability to leverage modern cloud-based features that enhance operational efficiency and agility.”

By contrast, LTR serves as a robust system component ensuring that critical business data is processed efficiently within the local environment. 

Challenges faced by businesses still running M3 On-Premise

As Matthew Smith, Doppio’s Director of Managed Services, points out: “Older systems struggle with efficient data management, leading to slow retrieval times and difficulties in handling large volumes of data. Maintenance overheads are also a significant issue, as maintaining legacy systems is both costly and time-consuming.” These challenges are detailed more thoroughly below:

• Data Management Issues: Older systems struggle with efficient data management, leading to slow retrieval times and difficulties in handling large volumes of data.
• Maintenance Overheads: Maintaining legacy systems is costly and time-consuming. Upgraded systems reduce maintenance overheads by automating routine tasks and providing intuitive user interfaces.
• Limited Support: Like all software companies, Infor phases out support for older versions so customers must update to stay current.

• Security Challenges: The prerequisite technology that InforOS on-prem is built on could become unpredictable and a possible security threat. With no additional releases or security patches being available from the vendors – if there is a new threat, or another zero-day threat – then there might not be remediation or even mitigation steps available. In the worst-case scenario, it leaves systems severely exposed and vulnerable to external bad actors.

Upgrading addresses these challenges by providing a modern, streamlined platform that enhances data management, reduces maintenance costs, and ensures continued vendor support.

Key Benefits of Upgrading to LTR

The main motivations for upgrading include scalability, security, overall performance, ease of integration, and adherence to compliance requirements. Our panelists expand on these drivers:

1. Scalability and Performance: As businesses grow, so do their data and processing needs. Matthew explains that “upgrading M3 on-premises systems allows companies to scale their operations efficiently” given that modern versions of M3 are optimized for performance, enabling faster data processing, improved system responsiveness, and better resource utilization.
2. Enhanced Security: One of the primary reasons to upgrade M3 on-premises systems is to bolster security. Umesh states that “cyber threats are increasingly sophisticated, and older systems are more vulnerable to attacks. Upgrading to the latest version of M3 ensures that companies benefit from advanced security features, regular updates, and patches that protect against emerging threats.”
3. Integration with Modern Technologies: The latest versions of M3 offer seamless integration with cloud-based solutions and other advanced technologies such as AI and IoT. Umesh explains how “this integration facilitates real-time data analytics, predictive maintenance, and enhanced decision-making capabilities. Companies that upgrade can leverage these technologies to gain a competitive edge.”
4. Regulatory Compliance: Compliance with industry regulations is critical for businesses. Upgraded M3 systems ensure that companies adhere to the latest regulatory standards, minimizing the risk of non-compliance penalties. This is particularly important for industries with stringent data protection and privacy requirements.

In addition to this, there are the strategic benefits of upgrading M3 on-premises systems. These include the following:

• Future-Proofing the Business: Upgraded systems are designed to adapt to future technological advancements, ensuring that companies remain agile and responsive to market changes.
• Cost Efficiency: While the initial investment in upgrading may seem significant, the long-term cost savings from reduced maintenance, improved efficiency, and enhanced productivity far outweigh the upfront costs.

Wrap Up

Doppio has already upgraded several Clients to LTR. Our Clients know that upgrading is a strategic step required when operating M3 on-premises using InforOS or XI Platform. In addition to the clear benefits of enhanced security, scalability, integration with modern technologies, and regulatory compliance, Infor’s support for the current setup ending in 2024 makes upgrading a priority.

By taking proactive steps to upgrade, companies can future-proof their operations, achieve cost efficiencies, and provide their employees with the tools they need to succeed in a competitive business environment. The time to act is now—upgrading M3 on-premises systems with LTR is not just a technological upgrade but a strategic investment in the future of the business. Given that the end of 2024 is the absolute deadline for this upgrade, fill out the contact form to get in touch so Doppio can help.