As I navigated the vast fields of IT Service Management and IT Project Management, I came across the terms “update” and “upgrade” being used almost interchangeably. It’s intriguing how people often treat these terms as synonymous, but are they interchangeable in every context? In this insightful article, we delve into the nuances between these two terms, aiming to untangle where the boundaries lie and pinpoint the distinctions within their definitions. Let’s embark on this journey to unravel the subtle yet significant differences that delineate where one term concludes, and the other commences, exploring the depths of their meanings.
Deconstructing the terms
Update
When you deconstruct the term “update,” you break it down into the words “up” and “date.” Essentially, this activity involves enhancing the freshness of something or someone. It’s about more than just bringing something up to date; it’s also about potentially improving features or the overall quality of what was previously within the update’s scope. This process can encompass updating existing elements and refining and optimizing them for better performance and relevance.
Upgrade
You break down the components when deconstructing an upgrade to understand them better. It involves elevating the level or quality of something or someone. In this particular context, the term “grade” signifies a degree of advancement, a level of proficiency, or the overall utility of the subject at hand.
What does “to update” mean?
When you engage in the process of updating, whether it’s a system or an individual, you are essentially aligning it to the most suitable or relevant state for that specific day. Updating software involves considering incremental changes, such as modifications to data or fixing bugs. Additionally, updating can encompass adjusting data to accurately represent its current status. For instance, updating can involve tracking the progress of individuals or revising documentation. Failure to update may become outdated, as there is typically no formal procedure for reverting to an older version, known as “downdating.”
What does “to upgrade” mean?
When considering an upgrade involves expanding the functional capabilities of something. This expansion may entail incorporating additional features, enhancing quality, or boosting performance in various ways. In the realm of software, an upgrade typically signifies a significant version change, offering new avenues to achieve more, achieve faster, or achieve better results. On the hardware front, upgrades usually involve enhancements in technical specifications and overall performance. Notably, the concept of upgrading does not extend to people in terms of their knowledge. Improving individuals’ skills is distinct from an upgrade. The term “upgrade” typically does not pertain to human resources. Conversely, while upgrading is common, there are instances where downgrading occurs due to practical or financial considerations.
The difference between an update and an upgrade
If you wanted to explain to someone now the difference between updating and upgrading in a short sentence, you could describe it like this:
An update refreshes a product or fixes a problem and an upgrade adds functions or improves quality and performance.
Let’s stay realistic
Just because we have authored this article does not guarantee a shift in the usage culture of these terms. When a culture is deeply ingrained, and there is widespread buy-in, the likelihood of change is minimal. If you concur with this perspective, you are encouraged to adopt the suggested terms, yet it is important to recognize that not everyone may conform to the new definitions. To minimize potential conflicts, providing context regarding your intentions and the implications of any proposed changes is advisable.
Terminology battle:
An update is to make something newer.
An upgrade is to make something better.
[Opinions welcome]— Chris Isak (@ChristopherIsak) April 11, 2016
We conducted a Twitter poll earlier today, seeking the community’s input on whether they align with the provided definition. Currently, a robust consensus has emerged, yet we welcome your participation. Kindly cast your vote, and feel free to express your views through a tweet or engaging in the comment section below. Thanks to all who participated; the poll is now closed. Most of the voters agreed to the proposed definitions.
Photo credit: Mark Hoy / JD Hancock
