Introduction to Support Revolution
In the ever-evolving landscape of software support, the emergence of third-party vendors like Support Revolution has reshaped the dynamics of traditional support systems.
Oracle, a behemoth in the software industry, offers its own set of support services. However, the rise of third-party support alternatives has given organizations a choice.
This article delves deep into Support Revolution and Oracle, highlighting third-party support’s benefits, risks, and critical considerations.
Who is Support Revolution?
Support Revolution, founded in 2012, specializes in providing top-tier software support and maintenance for Oracle and SAP customers.
The company has grown significantly, with a rich history dating back to 1998 when its precursor, PDG Consulting, was established. They have international offices in the UK, Dubai, and India.
Their primary service is to offer clients substantial savings on support costs, with an average protection of 64% reported for their Oracle and SAP customers.
Benefits of Choosing Third-Party Support
Third-party support has gained traction for several compelling reasons:
- Cost-effectiveness: One of the primary attractions is the potential for significant cost savings. Organizations can often reduce their support expenses by up to 90% when transitioning from an official vendor to a third-party provider.
- Extended Support for Legacy Systems: Vendors like Oracle might cease support for older versions as software evolves. On the other hand, third-party vendors often support these legacy systems, ensuring that organizations don’t have to rush into upgrades.
- Personalized Solutions: Third-party vendors tend to provide a more tailored approach. With a focus on customer-centric solutions, they often go the extra mile to address specific organizational needs.
Top 5 Recommendations for Opting Third-Party Support
When considering third-party support, it’s crucial to make an informed decision. Here are our top recommendations:
- Expertise is Key: Ensure the vendor has a proven track record with the specific software. For instance, if you’re seeking support for Oracle, the vendor should deeply understand Oracle’s suite of products.
- Customer Testimonials: Always check for customer reviews and testimonials. They provide invaluable insights into the quality of service you can expect.
- Understand the Contract: Review the support contract terms thoroughly before signing the dotted line. It’s essential to know what’s included and what’s not.
- Timely Updates: Ensure the third-party vendor provides timely updates and patches. This is crucial for maintaining the security and functionality of your software.
- Beware of Hidden Costs: While third-party support can be more affordable, always look for hidden fees or additional charges.
Risks and Considerations
Opting for third-party support is not without its challenges:
- Compatibility Issues: There’s always a risk of compatibility and integration issues, especially if the third-party vendor doesn’t have access to official patches from the primary vendor.
- Lack of Official Updates: One significant drawback is the potential lack of official updates. This can pose security risks, especially if vulnerabilities are discovered in the software.
- Potential Security Concerns: Without official patches, there might be potential security loopholes that malicious actors can exploit.
FAQs
What's the difference between Oracle's support and third-party support?
Oracle provides official product support, including updates, patches, and direct resource access. Third-party support, like Support Revolution’s support, offers an alternative, often at a reduced cost, but might not have access to official resources from Oracle.
How much can I save with third-party support?
Savings can vary, but many organizations report up to 70% cost reductions when switching to third-party support.
Are there software limitations with third-party support?
There might be limitations, especially concerning access to official patches and updates. It’s essential to discuss these potential limitations with the third-party vendor before making a decision.
Conclusion
The decision to opt for third-party support, such as Support Revolution, over Oracle’s official support is multifaceted. While there are undeniable benefits, including cost savings and extended support for legacy systems, there are also inherent risks.
Organizations must weigh the pros and cons, armed with comprehensive knowledge, to make an informed decision that aligns with their operational needs and budgetary constraints.
