Microsoft has weighed in with Software Assurance - its radical new
software licensing policy. Novell, too, has introduced a new
user-based licensing scheme as an alternative to its existing mix
of platform, server and CPU-based schemes. Meanwhile, open source
supplier Red Hat is bringing in a licensing scheme for enterprise
customers for the first time.
It's enough to make the poor user reach for the bottle. But is it
all as bad as it may seem? The articles in our Special Report will
help you understand the issues and make the most of the available
options.
Seven ways to pay
What is the simplest and
most cost-effective way to pay for software? This article helps you
find the solution which best matches the needs of your
organisation.
Read article >>What you should know about Microsoft's Software Assurance
Programme
The questions you should ask Microsoft
before you sign on the dotted line, together with an overview of
common beliefs - some true, some false - about what the new regime
means to the user.
Read article >>Microsoft: Why we need Software
Assurance
Microsoft chief executive Steve Ballmer
explains why he saw a need for the company's radical change in
software licensing and what the company learned from trying to push
through the new programme too quickly.
Read article >>Microsoft's licence to Bill
A detailed look
at the steps users should take to protect themselves as the
Software Assurance scheme takes effect, with some handy tips on
upgrading.
Read article >>The hidden costs of usage-based licensing
The
theory is the pay-for-what-you-use approach will save you
unnecessary expense. Here AMR Research looks at whether such deals
offer value in the real world.
Read article >>