Obsolescence theory
Introduction
Obsolescence is the state of being that occurs when an object, service or practice is no longer maintained or required even though it is still in good working order.[1][2].
Obsolescence often occurs because a replacement is available that has, in short, more advantages compared to the disadvantages incurred by maintaining or repairing the original. Obsolete also refers to something that is already out of use, discarded, or outdated.[3] Obsolescence is usually preceded by a gradual decline in popularity.
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Obsolescence is the condition or state of a product that has already expired or has been scheduled to continue working. The recognized types of obsolescence are:[4].
Technical obsolescence: products become technically obsolete from an engineering point of view (the product is no longer state-of-the-art) and from a usability point of view (the product is not comfortable to use).[5] When new substitutive technologies leave one product obsolete in favor of the next, as in the case of the slide rule and the electronic calculator, the telegraph and the telephone, cassette tapes and compact discs, the video system VHS vs. DVD, etc. It is also a direct consequence of the research and development activities that allow, in a relatively short time, to manufacture and build improved equipment with capabilities superior to those of the previous ones. The paradigm, in this case, is computer equipment capable of multiplying its power in a matter of months.
Ecological obsolescence: products become ecologically obsolete when they contaminate the environment according to technical possibilities.[5] Regarding obsolescence we have to consider environmental aspects. On the one hand, obsolescence can help save energy/water consumption and, on the other hand, obsolescence leads to greater use of resources and more waste by shortening the life cycle of products.[4] This last category is highly related to corporate greenwashing.
Economic obsolescence: Products become economically obsolete when their value for money is lower compared to a new product (for example, the total cost of ownership, including purchase, installation, operation, maintenance and disposal costs)[5].
Obsolescence due to compatibility: Products also become obsolete when replacement parts are no longer available. Due to the impossibility of finding spare parts, as in the case of automobiles or consumer electronic products. The absence of suitable spare parts is due to the increase in production costs as these are short series.