There are a few other things going on here that I haven't mentioned yet:
- We've already pulled one client from the brink of not renewing a contract by developing a much simpler, web based version of our main offering. IMO this should be the general direction of the product but some users would legitimately miss some features.
- Management is well aware that the software is problematic. I believe they've been resting on their laurels for a while due to monopoly position. Things are changing though; competitors are catching up.
- it bears repeating that users are not happy with the product at all, but they are forced to use it by our true customers: their bosses. Those higher-ups do recognize that without ROI, however, the investment is simply not worth it. Now, the actual value of the product itself is another thing entirely...