Microsoft licensing
So that all licenses work correctly.
And more.
We accompany you from data analysis through evaluation and negotiation to the contract and ordering process.
Microsoft license optimization
Sustainable results instead of short-term savings
● License optimization requires more than just tool evaluations.
● Quality and experience determine actual success
● Superficial analyses often lead to missed potential.
● Negotiation results depend on manufacturer knowledge and strategy.
● Joint review of technical requirements and negotiation options
● Structured needs analysis forms the basis for sound decisions
Success factors
Sustainable results instead of short-term savings
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Transparent analysis of usage, contracts and future planning
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Extensive experience in Microsoft licensing and contract models
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Manufacturer and program-related negotiation know-how
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Strategic linking of needs, costs and contract design
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Sound decision-making basis through specialized analysis tools
The three phases of the licensing process.
An Overview of the Phases
Phase 1:
Kick-off & Data Analysis
Inventory analysis: Extract of license holdings, review of contract history and existing license models, evaluation of results of SAM projects and inventory scan (if available), detailed user and usage analysis.
Needs analysis: Review of usage and license profiles in coordination with IT managers, comparison of actual needs.
Development and comparison of optimization scenarios including recommendations for action: Development and comparison of several optimization options, evaluation of the respective opportunities and risks, derivation of concrete recommendations for action.
Result: Derivation of a decision basis for Phase 2.
Phase 2:
Evaluation & Negotiations
Definition of negotiation levers and strategies: Derivation of a targeted negotiation strategy based on the results from Phase 1.
Supplier audit and selection: Identification and evaluation of alternative suppliers for sub-packages to create targeted incentives for negotiation with Microsoft.
Obtaining comparative quotes: Market comparison for partial and complete packages to increase transparency and strengthen the negotiating position.
Negotiation with manufacturers and license suppliers: Conducting structured negotiations over several rounds based on a clearly defined negotiation roadmap, a coordinated playbook, and a consistent negotiation strategy.
Phase 3:
Contract & Ordering Process
Ensuring the implementation of all negotiated conditions and adjustments in the final offer (e.g., supplementary agreements)
Support during the ordering process
Microsoft True-Up Check
Optimize licensing costs during the contract term
● Analysis of actual Microsoft 365 usage
● Review and validation of existing license numbers
● Support in determining the actual licensing requirements
● Identification of over-licensing and potential savings
● Greater transparency and security in True-Up reports
● Fast analysis by independent experts and proprietary testing tool
Your benefits:
● Avoiding unnecessary licensing costs
● Independent cross-checking of internal evaluations
● Optimization already during the contract period
● Solid foundation for True-Up and contract extension
Microsoft license optimization explained in a video:
ECS Managing Director Jan Schneider discusses Microsoft license optimization, pitfalls and traps to be aware of.