In April 2022, IBM announced the discontinuation of support for older versions of maintenance solutions, such as Maximo 7.6.1. As of September 30, 2025, regular base support for [...]

Sigrid Walzl

Author

Sigrid Walzl Senior Content Writer

Cloud softwareDigitalizationMaintenance management software/CMMS

In April 2022, IBM announced the discontinuation of support for older versions of maintenance solutions, such as Maximo 7.6.1. As of September 30, 2025, regular base support for Maximo Asset Management 7.6.1.x will end. With the termination of Level 3 support for existing Maximo installations and IBM’s announcement that they will no longer fix bugs or provide updates, customers face the challenge of maintaining their systems without necessary assistance. This creates a massive risk of IT security vulnerabilities and other issues impacting operational continuity.

Of particular concern is the fact that there is no direct replacement for the IBM Maximo version 7.6. This situation challenges companies to find a solution that meets their Level 3 support requirements. The IBM Maximo Application Suite (MAS) is being introduced as a successor to IBM Maximo. However, this transition enforced by IBM comes with significant costs and efforts for the customers.

What options do IBM Maximo customers have?

When it comes to the future use of IBM Maximo, companies have various options that they must carefully consider:

Option 1: Stay with Maximo 7.6 and maintain the current amount of users

Pros:

  • Continued use of Maximo 7.6 until the support end date.
  • IBM subscriptions and support extensions are available until September 30, 2025.

Cons:

  • No new licenses for additional users after April 19, 2024.
  • For extended IBM support after September 30, 2025, an upgrade to version 7.6.1.3 and migration to Maximo Application Suite (MAS) is required.

Option 2: Stay with Maximo 7.6 and convert licenses to App Points

Pros:

  • Continued use of Maximo 7.6.
  • Additional users can be added by purchasing App Points.
  • IBM support extensions are available until September 30, 2025.

Cons:

  • Possible increase in costs due to differences between App Points and traditional licenses.
  • It requires upgrading to version 7.6.1.3 and migrating to Maximo Application Suite (MAS) for extended IBM support.

Option 3: Upgrade to Maximo Application Suite On-premise and convert licenses to App Points

Pros:

  • Modern CMMS system with updated user interface and Maximo Mobile.
  • Access to the Red Hat OpenShift platform.

Cons:

  • New hardware and software required.
  • Additional training and downtime during migration.

Option 4: Upgrade to IBM Maximo Application Suite SaaS Cloud

Pros:

  • Access to the latest CMMS system and improved features.
  • IBM support and extension are possible through the purchase of App Points.

Cons:

  • Monthly fees are between USD 3,000 and USD 7,000, with usage restrictions.
  • Requires training for the team and potential costs for data transfer between regions

Option 5: Alternatives to IBM Maximo

An alternative to IBM Maximo’s Enterprise Asset Management (EAM) system is the introduction of a Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS). While an EAM system concentrates on managing enterprise assets and their lifecycle, a CMMS focuses on the maintenance and upkeep of facilities and equipment. A CMMS can be a more cost-effective option, especially for companies primarily looking to enhance the efficiency of their maintenance processes without the need for a comprehensive asset management solution.

Elara stands out with its multitude of advantages, including unlimited users and storage space. This feature fosters seamless cross-departmental collaboration, ensuring teams can work together effortlessly. Moreover, Elara’s commitment to regular updates and continuous improvement ensures that users always have access to the latest features and enhancements. Coupled with robust customer support, Elara prioritizes customer satisfaction at every turn. And with its cloud-based infrastructure, users can enjoy the flexibility and accessibility of accessing their data from anywhere, anytime.

From Maximo to Elara: How companies successfully managed the transition

Discover how companies like BEUMER Group, FedEx, and Adidas successfully transitioned from IBM Maximo to Elara—without data loss or functional setbacks. And all this while halving acquisition costs.

Start your success story with Elara today and schedule a free demo today!

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Sigrid Walzl

Author

Sigrid Walzl Senior Content Writer

Sigrid Walzl is Elara's Senior Content Writer. She writes about industrial maintenance software topics. Sigrid believes that writing helps shape the world we live in. When she's not working, you can find her hiking in the mountains or reading.