Keeping track to stay on track
Software publishers reserve the right to make changes to their licensing policies. You are responsible to keep track of these changes and ensure that you comply with them. However, you need to know where to look to find the changes that might affect you.
So, what do you need to track and where do you have to look? Once again, it comes down to knowing what you own. For example, it doesn’t make sense to check all the policy updates for all Oracle products; but it definitely makes sense to monitor everything related to Oracle Database, if you’re using Database programs. To find the relevant updates, you want to start by looking at your contracts, where you will find references to URLs that will direct you to the programs related pages on the software publisher’s website. Keep in mind that the list of referenced URLs may not be a comprehensive one. Most times you will have to browse through the software publisher’s website and perform a thorough search to ensure you capture all the information you need. For example, if you’re using Oracle, you have to go to docs.oracle.com to find all the documentation on Oracle programs.
Once you know what licensing policies have changed, you need to understand how these changes will impact your current situation and future direction. Some questions to ask yourself: do you need to purchase more licenses? Does it make sense to trade in unused licenses, or will that ultimately prove to be more costly than buying additional ones? If you understand your requirements; you will know what actions to take.