Microsoft tweaks Open Value

SME license programme gets facelift

Software giant Microsoft has made several changes to its Open Value license programme for SMEs.

Microsoft’s Desktop Deployment Planning Services (DDPS) are now included in the programme, which combines various software licenses into a single agreement. DDPS provides customers with vouchers in which they can cash in for training or advice from Microsoft partners about deploying the vendor’s software – the more software the more vouchers the customer receives.

Microsoft has also introduced a one-year contract option for Open Value Subscription for Government customers. The Open Value agreements are typically for three years but the vendor is now offering a one-year option for government organisations that need more flexibility in their software licensing.

Customers can now mix and match their software applications using just one license. Previously if an end user needed Office Professional then all PCs had to have the application installed due to license restrictions.

Another change is that businesses can now use multiple language versions of software for no extra cost, whereas previously customers had to pay for additional language functionality when setting up their Open Value license agreement.

Microsoft has also added several Enterprise products to its Open Value programme including Office Enterprise, ECAL Suite, Microsoft Desktop Optimisation Pack and Essential Business Server solution.

Zak Virdi, managing director of Microsoft LAR SoftwareONE UK, said: “This represents a huge opportunity for VARs in the upper mid market. The increased flexibility and product mix available with the enhanced programme will mirror the value provided by the classic Microsoft Enterprise agreements.

“This is also great for SoftwareONE UK as we can provide assistance to VARs that are looking to broaden their own portfolio of services into their clients.”