Enterprise agreements
Enterprise agreements (EAs) are strategic, long-term contracts between organizations and software vendors that provide a flexible and cost-effective way to purchase, deploy, and manage software licenses.
Overview
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What is an enterprise agreement?
An enterprise agreement is a consolidated licensing contract that allows organizations to purchase software licenses and services at scale. An EA offers advantages such as:
- Simplified license management
- Cost savings
- Predictable costs
- Flexibility to add users or products as needed
- Access to the latest software versions and cloud services
What are the main benefits of an enterprise agreement?
Enterprise agreements offer several key advantages:
- Cost savings through volume discounting
- Simplified license management and compliance
- Predictable budgeting with standardized pricing
- Flexibility to adjust licensing as business needs change
- Access to the latest software versions and cloud services
How long does an enterprise agreement typically last?
Enterprise agreements usually have a term of three years. This longer-term commitment allows for the following:
- Better long-term planning and budgeting
- More significant cost savings compared to shorter-term agreements
- Stability in software licensing and management
Can enterprise agreements include cloud services?
Yes, many modern enterprise agreements include cloud services alongside traditional on-premises software. This hybrid approach allows organizations to:
- Transition to the cloud at their own pace
- Maintain flexibility in their IT infrastructure
- Access the latest cloud innovations
How do enterprise agreements handle software updates and new versions?
Enterprise agreements typically include software assurance, which provides:
- Rights to new versions of licensed software
- Access to beta versions of products
- Training and support resources
Are enterprise agreements only for large organizations?
While enterprise agreements are often associated with large organizations, they can benefit businesses of various sizes. Factors to consider include:
- The number of users or devices
- The complexity of your IT environment
- Long-term growth plans
How do enterprise agreements handle license compliance?
- Providing a clear overview of all licensed products
- Offering tools for license tracking and management
- Including regular true-ups to adjust for changes in usage
Can I customize an enterprise agreement to fit my organization's needs?
Yes, enterprise agreements can be tailored to your specific requirements. This customization may include:
- Selecting specific products and services
- Determining deployment options (on-premises, cloud, or hybrid)
- Setting up custom payment terms
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