Oracle license reviews are critical to managing your organization’s software assets. However, they can be complex and challenging, especially for those unfamiliar with Oracle’s licensing policies and procedures.
Avoiding common pitfalls can help ensure a more accurate and efficient review process.
Here are some of the most common mistakes to avoid:
1. Not Working with an Oracle Licensing Specialist
Oracle licensing is a specialized field that can be incredibly challenging, even for professionals with a decade of experience. To ensure an accurate licensing review, it’s crucial to work with a specialist in Oracle license management, not a Software Asset Management (SAM) generalist.
An Oracle licensing specialist will have in-depth knowledge of Oracle’s licensing policies, terms, and conditions. They can provide valuable insights and guidance, helping you navigate the complexities of Oracle licensing and avoid costly non-compliance issues.
2. Not Using Oracle LMS Scripts
As far as we know, the only way to get an accurate licensing review is to use the same tools and methods as the Oracle audit team. This includes using Oracle License Management Services (LMS) scripts.
These scripts are designed to collect data about your Oracle software usage, essential for determining your licensing needs. By using Oracle LMS scripts, you can ensure that your review is based on the same data that Oracle would use in an audit, increasing the accuracy of your review.
3. Over-reliant on SAM Tools
While SAM tools can help manage your software assets, it’s important not to become overly reliant on them, especially regarding Oracle license reviews.
Don’t believe the marketing hype. Being “Verified by Oracle” only means the tool gets a copy of Oracle scripts, but the tool is not verified on how to analyze the outputs, and that’s where things often go wrong.
SAM tools can provide a good starting point but should not be your only resource. Supplementing the data from SAM tools with other information, such as data from Oracle LMS scripts and insights from Oracle licensing specialists, is essential.
4. Ignoring the Importance of Regular Reviews
Oracle licensing needs can change over time due to changes in your IT environment, updates to Oracle’s licensing policies, and introducing new Oracle products.
Regular license reviews can help ensure that your Oracle licenses remain aligned with your needs and that you’re not paying for unnecessary licenses.
5. Neglecting Documentation
Maintaining thorough documentation is crucial during an Oracle license review. This includes records of all your Oracle software purchases, licensing agreements, and any correspondence with Oracle or Oracle resellers.
This documentation can make the review process smoother and help resolve any disputes.
Conclusion
Avoiding these common pitfalls can help ensure a more accurate and efficient Oracle license review.
By working with an Oracle licensing specialist, using Oracle LMS scripts, not over-relying on SAM tools, conducting regular reviews, and maintaining thorough documentation, you can navigate the complexities of Oracle licensing and ensure your organization remains compliant
