Computer Associates announces new Master License Program available through worldwide reseller channel

Computer Associates International, Inc. (CA) today announced the worldwide launch of its far-reaching Master License Program (MLP) - a volume-based software licensing program that grants large organizations immediate discounts on all CA Workgroup and Advanced Edition IT solutions.

Available exclusively through CA`s global channel partners, MLP provides a streamlined, flexible purchasing approach that offers rapid delivery of more than 100 products and services in the areas of CRM, security, storage, network, desktop and information management.

Like CA`s highly successful Open License Program (OLP), MLP simplifies and expedites the traditionally complicated software licensing process. However, instead of determining discount rates based on the size of a client`s initial order, MLP bases discount levels on a client`s projected two-year investment in CA Workgroup and Advanced Edition IT software. The MLP discounts become active immediately upon the client`s initial purchase.

"CA`s MLP program revolutionizes the way customers license software," said Christopher Hickey, CA vice president, channel sales. "Through MLP, clients are able to immediately install on numerous PCs and servers and can fully deploy CA solutions in less time than it takes for most software vendors to simply write up a contract and site agreement. Fast turnaround and implementation times, combined with sizable MLP discounts, will provide a key competitive advantage for enterprises competing in the global eBusiness marketplace."

MLP clients receive their software on CD, along with accompanying license agreements. In many cases the client is able to immediately install numerous PCs and servers at multiple locations around the world, reducing time before deployment and eliminating the need for shrink-wrapped, boxed products.

"CA`s Master License Program provides great advantages for our large customers," said William Rutledge, CA product champion at Software Spectrum Inc. "With MLP, they can choose virtually any solution for their organization and immediately receive a substantial discount." MLP also eliminates much of the cumbersome paperwork associated with ordinary contract licensing programs. By accepting a simple electronic agreement, clients can conveniently accept the terms and conditions of MLP and avoid having to contend with excessive administrative details, or manage large numbers of standalone licenses.

Through MLP, a client`s designated license administrator can centrally order, manage and administer the procurement of MLP licenses across the organization -- including those for remote and regional sites. Other MLP benefits include a free, periodic eCompliance report of CA purchase activity to help clients better manage the entire product procurement process and ensure their two-year licensing commitments are fulfilled on-time. MLP enables clients to further leverage and protect their software investments by taking advantage of various service options. To supplement free 90-day product technical support, they can purchase Enterprise Support in either one-year or two-year increments. In addition, optional Upgrade Protection agreements give clients the opportunity to save on future product versions.

Remote Deployment, another optional support offering, provides a fast and cost-effective means to professionally installing software, without assuming the substantial costs of maintaining on-site technical personnel for extended time periods. Computer Based Training helps reduce total costs of ownership even more by educating clients on the most efficient ways to utilize the solutions they have purchased.

Further information on the Master License Program can be found at: http://www.ca.com/mlp