Subscription versus MSP |
  
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Subscription versus MSP |
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The software industry is moving toward the concept of software as a service, as opposed to software for purchase. This is beneficial to the user for reasons such as:
•Eliminates relatively large upfront costs associated with software purchase/upgrade
•Makes software expenditures more uniform and predictable for budgeting purposes
•Helps to ensure that the current build/version is always in use
•Ensures continual support
If a user is working with a piece of software for which they have purchased a license, then a Maintenance & Support Plan is a good option to ensure that updates and technical support continue to be available. The MSP is an option, because the software WILL continue to operate without an MSP, since it has been purchased. It's important to understand that a piece of software that is not covered by an MSP is also not receiving repairs, updates, or technical support. It's a lot like running your car without ever changing the oil or rotating the tires.
If a user is working with an application through a subscription, then the software is automatically eligible for updates and the user is automatically eligible for technical support. If the subscription is terminated, access to the application ceases. The analogy here is leasing a vehicle versus purchasing one. The subscription allows you to "lease" the latest build of the software for the desired term, without having to make a big down payment.
