Reducing software maintenance cost

Yesterday I mentioned that 70% of total cost of software products over its lifetime is maintenance, so how can you reduce this cost, Using open-source software components and keeping them up-to-date in the projects can ward off creeping technical debt which can become unsurmountable quickly if left alone.

Are you aware of all the dependencies your product depend upon ?

Do you have a plan to update these dependencies in timely fashion ?

Do you have a good process to assess the health of these dependencies over lifetime of product ?

Are you ready to participate in keeping these dependencies in good shape ?

A little effort now can result in huge benefits in longer run.

Treating software like a living organism can have many benefits.

What is your software product maintenance plan ?