Introduction Pros and Cons of Oracle SAM Program for Partners
- Objective: This article aims to provide a balanced view of Oracle’s Software Asset Management Program for partners.
- Pros Explored: We’ll discuss the advantages, such as reduced audit risks and better compliance.
- Cons Unveiled: We’ll also explore the drawbacks, including higher costs and compromised negotiation positions.
What is Oracle’s Software Asset Management Program?
Oracle’s Software Asset Management Program is designed to help Oracle partners manage their software assets more effectively. This program is mainly aimed at companies with formal partnership agreements with Oracle.
Pros of Oracle Software Asset Management Program for Partners
Reduced Risk of Audits
- Audit Likelihood: Being a part of this program means you are less likely to face audits, mainly if your Oracle partner consistently provides Oracle with details about your license deployments.
Direct Access to Oracle Licensing Expertise
- Licensing Queries: You can directly ask Oracle licensing questions through your Oracle licensing partner, which can be a valuable resource.
Higher Chances of Compliance
- Periodic Reviews: Regular licensing reviews can significantly increase your chances of staying compliant with Oracle’s licensing policies.
Cons of Oracle Software Asset Management Program for Partners
Increased Licensing Costs
- Oracle’s Interpretation: You will likely pay more in license fees as the interpretation will align with Oracle’s views on licensing and policies.
Weaker Negotiation Position
- Information Asymmetry: Oracle will have more information about your licensing estate than you do, weakening your negotiation position. Remember, Oracle discounts can range from 0-90%, determined through negotiations and specific circumstances.
Higher Service Costs
- SAM Provider Fees: You will likely pay more for the Oracle SAM provider’s services.
Biased Advice
- Vendor Influence: The advice you receive will not be independent; the firm’s relationship with Oracle will highly influence it. If the firm certifies its employees to qualify for the Oracle SAM Program, they likely have a significant Oracle-centric business model.
FAQ
What is the Oracle Software Asset Management Program?
It’s a program to help Oracle customers manage their software assets effectively using Oracle partners.
Who is eligible for this program?
Only companies that have formal partnership agreements with Oracle are eligible.
Can this program help me avoid audits?
Participating in this program can reduce your likelihood of facing an Oracle audit. But there are other means that you can accomplish this.
Will I pay more in license fees if I join this program?
It’s likely, as the interpretation of licensing will align with Oracle’s views.
Can I negotiate better discounts through this program?
Probably not, as Oracle will have more information about your licensing estate, weakening your negotiation position.
Conclusion
The Oracle Software Asset Management Program for partners has its own pros and cons.
While it offers benefits like reduced audit risks and direct access to Oracle’s licensing expertise, it has drawbacks like higher costs and compromised negotiation positions.
Therefore, weighing these factors carefully before deciding to join the program is crucial.
