Just as Liverpool FC strategizes its gameplay for each match, organizations must carefully consider their licensing options when it comes to software.
Here, we will compare two licensing approaches, drawing inspiration from Liverpool FC’s winning strategies, and analyze the advantages and disadvantages of a perpetual license with Software Assurance and a subscription-based license with Office 365 for SharePoint Server.
So, let’s kick off the match and find the winning strategy for your organization’s licensing needs.
Perpetual License with Software Assurance – The Evergreen Strategy
Advantages:
Perpetual Use: Like Liverpool FC’s iconic anthem, a perpetual license with Software Assurance allows you to use SharePoint Server indefinitely, even if you choose not to renew Software Assurance.
It’s a commitment for the long haul.
Licensing Flexibility: Just as Liverpool FC adapts to changing game dynamics, Software Assurance offers version upgrade rights, ensuring you have access to the latest SharePoint Server versions during the coverage period.
It keeps your organization up to date.
License Mobility: Liverpool FC’s players exhibit agility on the field, and with license mobility, your SharePoint VMs can move between hardware seamlessly.
In case of hardware failure or disaster recovery scenarios, no additional licenses are required.
It’s a flexible defense.
Control Over Costs: Liverpool FC’s manager strategically plans for the long term, and with a perpetual license, you have control over long-term licensing costs.
No recurring subscription fees means a steady and predictable budget.
Disadvantages:
Higher Initial Cost: Just as Liverpool FC invests in star players, perpetual licenses come with higher upfront costs.
You need to purchase the licenses outright, making it a significant financial commitment.
Maintenance Renewal: Liverpool FC’s players require continuous training and support, and the same goes for Software Assurance.
Ongoing renewal is necessary to continue receiving benefits like version upgrades and support, adding additional costs over time.
Subscription-Based License with Office 365 E5 – The Agile Play
Advantages:
Lower Initial Cost: Similar to Liverpool FC’s tactical agility, a subscription-based license with Office 365 offers lower upfront costs.
Instead of a large upfront investment, you pay a recurring fee over a specific period, such as annually or monthly.
Access to Latest Versions: Just as Liverpool FC embraces new strategies and techniques, a subscription-based license with Office 365 grants access to the latest versions of SharePoint Server.
You stay up to date with new features, security enhancements, and bug fixes, keeping your organization at the forefront.
Integration with Office 365 : By replacing the CAL with Office 365 Subscription, you unlock a suite of advanced features, including Microsoft Teams, advanced security capabilities, cloud-based productivity tools, and more.
It enhances collaboration and productivity across your organization.
Scalability and Flexibility: Liverpool FC adjusts its lineup based on opponents, and with a subscription license, you have the flexibility to scale license counts up or down.
As your organization’s needs change, you can easily adapt the license counts accordingly.
Disadvantages:
Long-Term Costs: While the initial costs may be lower, subscription-based licenses accumulate costs over time.
It’s important to assess the long-term financial implications before committing to a subscription-based license.
Dependency on Subscription: Just as Liverpool FC relies on its squad for success, you need to maintain an active subscription to Office 365 to continue using SharePoint Server.
Failure to renew the subscription could result in a loss of access to the software.
Compliance Monitoring: Similar to Liverpool FC’s adherence to fair play, subscription licenses require ongoing monitoring to ensure compliance with user counts and license terms.
Exceeding the licensed user count may result in additional costs or licensing violations.
Conclusion
Choosing the right licensing strategy for your organization is crucial, just as selecting the right players and tactics is for Liverpool FC.
While a perpetual license with Software Assurance offers long-term stability and control, a subscription-based license with Office 365 provides flexibility, access to the latest features, and integration with the powerful Office 365 suite.
Consider your organization’s needs, budget, and future growth aspirations to make an informed decision.
Remember, with the right licensing strategy, you’ll be on your way to securing a win for your organization’s software landscape.
Peace out!
