In what is regarded as the one of the largest deals of its kind in SA, IT systems and communications distributor Comztek - in conjunction with systems integrator, Symetrix - has signed a Microsoft OSL licensing deal with a well-known insurance provider.
The OSL (open subscription licence) agreement was concluded by Symetrix, which has handled the client`s hardware and software requirements for several years.
The nationwide deal is an agreement that will run for the next three years.
The insurance provider recognised the value in Symetrix`s suggestion to rent its software through Microsoft`s OSL programme as this would give it access to the latest software in the most cost-effective manner.
Microsoft OSL licensing includes Software Assurance for the three-year period of the agreement.
"Software Assurance allows companies to get the most value from Microsoft products, with several key benefits that can save time and money. With Software Assurance, companies can access training and deployment resources that enable their employees to work more efficiently. Organisations also acquire tomorrow`s technology at today`s prices and have the ability to spread payments annually instead of paying upfront," explains Calvin Van Wyk, Comztek Microsoft product manager.
He points out that resellers are increasingly approaching Comztek to assist with licensing recommendations because of the company`s proven expertise and experience in this arena.
"Licensing can often become a highly complex issue. Comztek`s expertise will ensure the client`s software, and that of other end-users whose service providers partner with Comztek, remains up-to-date and legal. Not only does OSL ensure the legality of software used, but it also makes it affordable for companies to keep their business software current," he says.
"We listened carefully to our customer`s requirements and decided that the OSL option would fulfil their needs best," says Craig Munitz, Sales Director at Symetrix.
"By opting for an OSL agreement instead of purchasing its software outright, the client is now covered for its IT requirements well into the future," he adds.
Van Wyk believes that renting software makes more sense from a cost saving perspective. "Why would a company want to own its software? After all, most businesses rent their office space, so why not do the same with your software?" he asks.
"With OSL, companies pay a fixed annual fee for their software which depends on the number of desktops and servers in use. An OSL agreement is scalable and allows businesses to adjust their payments when scaling up or down: new users can be added to the business as required, and the company only pays for those new users at the anniversary of the licensing agreement," Van Wyk concludes.
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