IBM Floating Licenses are:
- Shared License Pool: Allows multiple users to share a pool of software licenses.
- Central License Server: Managed by a server where users “check out” and “return” licenses.
- Cost-Effective: Reduces the need for individual licenses by covering only peak concurrent usage.
- Flexibility: Ideal for organizations with varying software usage patterns.
Introduction to IBM Floating Licenses
IBM Floating Licenses are IBM licenses that provide flexibility in how software is accessed and used within an organization.
Instead of assigning a license to each user, floating licenses are managed by a central license server that controls a pool of licenses. Here’s how it works:
- Central License Server: The license server is the hub for managing floating licenses. It tracks the number of available licenses and handles user requests to access the software.
- Check-Out Process: When users need to use the software, they “check out” a license from the pool. The license is temporarily assigned to the user while using the software.
- Check-In Process: Once the user finishes using the software, the license is returned to the pool, making it available for others to use.
This model is particularly beneficial for organizations where not all users must use the software simultaneously. By allowing licenses to be shared, floating licenses reduce the total number of licenses needed, helping to optimize costs.
Key Advantages of IBM Floating Licenses
- Cost-Efficiency: Since floating licenses are shared, organizations can purchase fewer licenses based on the peak number of concurrent users rather than the total number of potential users.
- Flexibility: Floating licenses are ideal for environments where software usage is intermittent. Users who need the software only occasionally can access it without the organization needing to purchase a dedicated license.
- Scalability: As the organization grows or software usage patterns change, floating licenses can be scaled up or down to meet current needs.
How to Calculate the Number of Floating Licenses Needed
One of the most critical aspects of using floating licenses is determining the correct number to purchase. The goal is to ensure enough licenses to meet peak demand without overspending on unnecessary licenses.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to calculating the number of floating licenses needed:
- Identify Potential Users: Start by identifying the total number of users needing access to the software. This includes all potential users, even if they do not need concurrent access.
- Estimate Concurrent Usage: Next, estimate the maximum number of users who are likely to need the software at the same time. This is often referred to as “peak concurrent usage.”
- Example: If your organization has 100 potential users, but only 20 are expected to use the software simultaneously, you would only need to purchase 20 floating licenses.
- Monitor Usage Patterns: Monitor actual software usage over time to refine your estimate of peak concurrent usage. This can help ensure that your organization is not under-licensed (leading to potential access issues) or over-licensed (leading to unnecessary costs).
- Consider Future Growth: Factor in any anticipated growth in software usage or changes in user behavior that could affect the number of concurrent users.
Example Calculation
Let’s say a company has 150 employees, 80 needing access to a specific IBM software. However, based on past usage data, the company determined that only 25 employees use the software simultaneously. In this case:
- Total Potential Users: 80
- Peak Concurrent Users: 25
- Floating Licenses Needed: 25
By purchasing 25 floating licenses, the company can ensure that all employees have access when they need it without overspending on licenses that would go unused.
IBM Products with Floating Licensing
IBM offers floating licenses for various products. These licenses provide the flexibility to manage software access efficiently across an organization.
Below are some IBM products that support floating licensing:
1. IBM Rational Software
IBM Rational Software products are widely used for software development and systems engineering. Some examples include:
- IBM Rational DOORS: A leading requirements management tool that supports floating licenses, allowing multiple users to share access as needed.
- IBM Rational Rhapsody: A model-based design tool that can be licensed floatingly for systems engineers and software developers.
2. IBM Engineering Lifecycle Management (ELM) Products
IBM’s ELM suite provides comprehensive tools for managing the entire software development lifecycle. Products that support floating licensing include:
- IBM Engineering Workflow Management: This tool supports project planning, task management, and change management. Floating licenses allow teams to access the tool as needed without requiring a license for each team member.
- IBM Engineering Test Management: Used for managing test plans, test cases, and test execution, floating licenses make it easier for large teams to collaborate without incurring high licensing costs.
3. IBM Maximo Products
IBM Maximo is a leading asset management software used across various industries. Depending on the specific offering and deployment model, some Maximo products support floating licensing.
- IBM Maximo Asset Management: This product can be deployed with floating licenses, enabling organizations to manage their assets efficiently without over-licensing.
Important Considerations for Floating Licensing
While floating licenses offer significant benefits, there are several important considerations to keep in mind:
- License Server Requirements: To use floating licenses, you need a reliable license server system that is properly configured and maintained to ensure smooth operation.
- Monitoring and Compliance: Regularly monitor license usage to ensure compliance with IBM’s licensing terms. Exceeding the number of purchased floating licenses can lead to compliance issues and potential penalties.
- Product-Specific Terms: The availability and conditions of floating licenses can vary by product. Always check the specific licensing terms for each IBM product to understand how floating licenses can be used.
FAQs
What is an IBM Floating License?
An IBM Floating License allows multiple users to share access to a software application from a central pool of licenses. Instead of purchasing individual licenses for each user, the license is checked out when needed and returned to the pool when the user is done.
How do IBM Floating Licenses work?
A central license server manages floating licenses. When users need to access the software, they check out a license from the server. Once they finish, the license is returned to the pool, making it available for others.
What are the benefits of using IBM Floating Licenses?
Floating licenses provide flexibility and cost savings by allowing multiple users to share a limited number of licenses. This is ideal for organizations where not all users need access to the software simultaneously.
Which IBM products support Floating Licenses?
Several IBM products support floating licenses, including IBM Rational Software (e.g., Rational DOORS, Rational Rhapsody), IBM Engineering Lifecycle Management products, and some IBM Maximo products. It’s important to check the specific product documentation for details.
How do I determine the number of floating licenses needed?
To determine the number of floating licenses required, estimate the maximum number of concurrent users needing access to the software simultaneously. Purchase licenses based on this peak usage rather than the total number of potential users.
What happens if all floating licenses are in use?
If all floating licenses are currently checked out, additional users must wait until a license is returned to the pool. This setup requires careful planning to ensure the number of licenses purchased meets the organization’s peak usage demands.
Can floating licenses be used across different locations?
Yes, floating licenses can be used across different locations as long as all users can connect to the central license server. This makes floating licenses suitable for organizations with distributed teams.
What is a license server, and why is it necessary?
A license server is a central system that manages the distribution of floating licenses. It tracks license availability and handles user requests to check out and return licenses. The server is essential for ensuring that licenses are used according to the licensing terms.
How can I track and manage floating license usage?
Floating license usage can be tracked using license management tools provided by IBM or third-party vendors. These tools monitor which users have checked out licenses, how many are available, and can generate reports to help with planning and compliance.
Are floating licenses more cost-effective than individual licenses?
Floating licenses can be more cost-effective for organizations where not all users need simultaneous access to the software. Costs can be reduced by purchasing licenses based on peak usage rather than individual licenses for each user.
What are the limitations of IBM Floating Licenses?
One limitation is that if the demand for the software exceeds the number of available licenses, users may have to wait for access. Additionally, setting up and maintaining the central license server requires technical resources.
Can I convert my licenses to floating licenses?
Converting individual licenses to floating licenses may be possible, but it depends on the specific terms of your IBM license agreement. It’s advisable to consult with IBM or your licensing representative to explore available options.
How does IBM enforce compliance with floating licenses?
IBM may conduct audits to ensure compliance with floating license terms. The license server logs usage data, which can be reviewed during an audit. Maintaining accurate records and ensuring that the number of users does not exceed the licensed amount is crucial.
What should I do if I need more floating licenses?
Due to increased usage, you can purchase more floating licenses through IBM or an authorized reseller if you need more floating licenses. Assess your peak usage before buying to ensure you have enough licenses to meet demand.
Can floating licenses be used with virtualized environments?
Yes, floating licenses can be used in virtualized environments, but it’s essential to configure the license server to track usage accurately. Ensure that your setup complies with IBM’s licensing terms for virtualized deployments.
