Today, software has become an integral part of our lives but we have not yet grown familiar with the concept of software licensing. Along with software licensing, it is equally essential to have a 360 degree tour of it because this helps to improve software innovation.
To learn it better, we need to develop good understand of the basics. Here’s a way out-
What is software innovation?
Software innovation process begins by re-visiting the process of software development. It is mainly to re-collect all set norms that the software follows and its data programming. This allows the innovator to determine existing features of the software.
A successful creation of a new software based on its existing features combined with new idea or feature is commonly coined as software innovation. The process of software innovation comprises of innovative computer instructions, data program and other allied programs. Apart from these, the developer has to take into account evaluation of software, its development, its functionality and performance.
There are three key factors which formulates software innovation-
o Determine how to develop software
o Evaluation of software
o What software you should develop
Tech developers are currently grappling with the situation of understanding client’s requirements. They are unable to determine a key attribute which coincide with client’s requirement.
It is possible that you may need additional funds to complete the process of software innovation. For this purpose, you can source alternative finance via commercial business firm as they have financial expertise just like any bank. The additional leverage that you acquire from these firms is that they have variety of funding options according to nature of your business.
What is software licensing?
In simple words, software license is a legal instrument which allows installers either to use them or redistribute the software. Usage of software without the license agreement is considered to be an offence as you violate copyright law. License agreement basically explains end-users the basic method to use the software.
Therefore, it is necessary to ensure that you have licensed software before you install and start using them. Licensing can be confusing for many because they are available in varied types and the rights attached to them also vary.
Different Methods for Licensing Software
As mentioned above that there are different types of software licenses and clauses, norms, rights, etc. vary in each of them. Here, we have discussed more information on licensing with respect to specific type of software.
An end-user license agreement is one of the types as the name suggests and is commonly referred as EULA. This is one approach where the seller has the right to license their software. This is a bond between the purchaser and licensor thereby giving the purchaser the right to use that particular software.
The agreement comprises of different techniques in which the software can be used and all the rights pertaining to the software which the buyer has received by legally purchasing it. You can say that this is the most common and elementary way to license software.
Another type is Software as a service which is also known as SaaS. The full form clearly describes purpose of this software. The application is usually cloud based and license is also on the basis of subscription. This means each and every user has to pay specific amount on a monthly basis. The subscription period varies depending upon the software, its usage and demand.
Software as a service is more flexible. Also, you get the advantage of paying for what you need and not for any allied unwanted services. This also gives you the liberty to scale your business without any consequences.
However, it is important to get in touch with a reliable and experienced firm. There are several outsource IT firms in the city which can guide you through this process and suggest the best based on the nature of your business. They also offer data security, cloud solutions and other IT solutions which are beneficial for your business.
The next question that pops in your head is whether you can re-sale your software license? Well, it depends on the clauses mentioned in your agreement. Some software allow re-sale after a stipulated span but others don’t. So, you have to refer guidelines mentioned in the license or you can always consult your IT Company to help you out with it.
You can also check EULA as it mentions terms and conditions entitled to the user. White labelling is yet another licensing software method. This is a method wherein the product is created by a specific firm and then re-branded by another firm. This product belongs to the firm that created it. The product comprises of software license which permits the re-branding company to take advantage of white label and use the software.
Importance of software licensing
If the business is not consulting a trust-worthy company for guidance then they must gain sufficient knowledge about the software before purchasing it. They should know about all software legal formalities and license pattern. There is no need to research about all available software but a few which suits your business.
This will help you to save time, money and resources. You can also search software based on a license agreement that you find apt for your company. This way, you will not be eloped in any legal turmoil.
With the increasing use of software, the need for licensing has become very essential to avoid mis-use of it. There are several IT companies which provide you knowledge about the latest software in the market so that potential consumers can invest in them.
Additionally, if you are interested in personally knowing about them, you can always visit tech-exhibitions and trade-shows held in your city throughout the year. They enhance your knowledge about the field and will enable you to make better decisions.