Introduction to Microsoft Enterprise Agreement vs Open Value
Microsoft offers a range of licensing agreements to suit different organizations, each with unique features and benefits.
This article will dissect two popular agreements: Microsoft Enterprise Agreement and Open Value. As an IT professional with years of Microsoft experience, I’ll guide you through the pros, cons, and best applications of each, enabling you to make an informed decision for your organization.
- 1. Understanding Microsoft Licensing: The Basics
- 2. Microsoft Enterprise Agreement: An Overview
- 3. Microsoft Open Value: What is it?
- 4. Microsoft Enterprise Agreement vs Open Value: Key Differences
- 5. FAQs on Microsoft Enterprise Agreement vs Open Value
- 6. Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for Your Organization
1. Understanding Microsoft Licensing: The Basics
Before delving into Microsoft Enterprise Agreement and Open Value, let’s understand Microsoft’s licensing schemes. Microsoft’s licensing programs are designed to cater to businesses of all sizes and types, offering flexible options to acquire Microsoft software and services.
2. Microsoft Enterprise Agreement: An Overview
Microsoft Enterprise Agreement is designed for large organizations with 500+ users or devices. It offers the best value for organizations that want a manageable volume licensing program that allows them to buy cloud services and software licenses under one agreement.
Key benefits of the Microsoft Enterprise Agreement include:
- Cost-effectiveness: Significant upfront cost savings for large-scale deployments compared to other licensing agreements.
- Simplicity: The agreement covers all users or devices, simplifying license management.
- Flexibility: Add and adjust products and services throughout the agreement term.
3. Microsoft Open Value: What is it?
Microsoft Open Value is ideal for small to mid-sized organizations with five or more desktop PCs. It offers simplified license management, better control over IT costs, and a clearer view of their overall IT infrastructure.
Highlights of Microsoft Open Value are:
- Predictable Cost Management: Organizations can better manage their IT budget with spread payments.
- License Tracking: The Microsoft Volume Licensing Service Center (VLSC) allows easy tracking and management of licenses.
- Software Assurance: This program includes Microsoft Software Assurance, providing access to training, deployment planning, software upgrades, and product support.
4. Microsoft Enterprise Agreement vs Open Value: Key Differences
The decision between Microsoft Enterprise Agreement and Open Value depends largely on the organization’s size, the volume of Microsoft products required, and IT budget and needs.
The scale of Operation: Microsoft Enterprise Agreement is ideal for larger organizations with 500+ users or devices. In contrast, Microsoft Open Value suits small to mid-sized businesses with five or more desktop PCs.
Payment Structure: Enterprise Agreement requires an upfront payment, whereas Open Value offers the flexibility of annual payments over a three-year term.
Flexibility: Enterprise Agreement offers greater flexibility in adding and adjusting licenses during the agreement term.
Software Assurance: While both programs include Software Assurance, it’s a significant aspect of Open Value, which focuses more on value-added services.
5. FAQs on Microsoft Enterprise Agreement vs Open Value
Can a small business benefit from a Microsoft Enterprise Agreement?
While small businesses can use the Microsoft Enterprise Agreement, the cost savings are more significant for large-scale deployments. Smaller organizations may find more value in the Open Value program.
Can I switch from Open Value to Enterprise Agreement as my business grows?
Yes, as your business grows, you can transition from Open Value to an Enterprise Agreement to take advantage of the cost benefits for large-scale deployments.
6. Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for Your Organization
Choosing between Microsoft Enterprise Agreement and Open Value involves considering the size and needs of your organization, your IT budget, and your future growth projections. Remember
