The often costly, complicated, and sometimes overlooked aspect of today’s technology-enabled workflows is software licensing.
Over the years, software licensing models have evolved considerably in scope and scale from the premium plans typically designed for large global accounts with hundreds of users to the subscription-based models for more focused applications.
For many contractors and companies, budgeting for software licensing can be a moving target with unexpected fees, uncertain overhead costs and limited ability to adapt or adjust to strategic business directions.
Let’s break down the various licensing types here as we compare and contrast the most prevalent licensing solutions.
There are three licensing types that most firms are familiar with. Each is designed to accommodate organizations of any size.
Perpetual license
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Cloud service |
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Pay as you use |
One of the biggest challenges is that regardless of which licensing type you choose, there is still that additional expense of training and often technical support. The costs all start adding up.
The newest and most modern licensing model is the practitioner license, which is a 12-month software license for a named user. This licensing model offers flexibility, affordability, and eliminates unexpected licensing costs.
Virtuosity, a Bentley company, has created a unique licensing model that allows companies to quickly buy, learn, and utilize a product.
Virtuosity offers online sales of the Virtuoso Subscription which includes a practitioner license paired with expert training. The Virtuoso Subscription has an emphasis on flexibility, cost assurance, and enhancing productivity.
The Virtuosity Subscription includes:
Werner Felber, Managing Partner at engineering firm, Boley Geotechnick GmbH, Beratende Ingenieure, especially likes the unlimited usage and access to the software products across international offices. “As a result, we can support projects with an international team more effectively and by constantly applying the latest developments of Virtuosity’s products, we ensure our competitiveness in the market and the best results for our customers.”
In Summary
Types of Licensing | Good for… |
Perpetual License (with annual maintenance) |
Long term commitments |
Quarterly Term License | Accommodating short term projects that closely monitor usage |
Cloud Service Subscription | Companies with small or prescribed budgets that closely monitor usage |
Practitioner License (Virtuoso Subscription) |
Companies that require lower upfront costs and access to expert training to get started quickly |
Every company has different needs and a license type that suits one company does not necessarily suit another. So, choose what's right for you and consider the latest license type offered through Virtuosity, the Practitioner License. Through Virtuosity, you will get a 12-month software license, for a named user, unlimited usage and no unexpected fees, plus you get the training you need to get started quickly!
Related articles:
Are you a small or medium business looking for the most practical licensing option? Read this article to learn about the new licensing trend for small and medium businesses that helps you get the most out of your software investment. Best Software License Option for Small and Medium Engineering Firms.
Are you using your software to its max potential? Get the most out of your Bentley software with Virtuosity. Learn more in this article about the Virtuoso Subscription and your "key" to success.
Contact us if you have questions. Our software experts are here to help!