Mastering HCL Domino updates: How to effectively make the shift to subscription

In the fast-paced world of software licensing, HCLSoftware is shaking things up with transformative changes that redefine how organizations manage and optimize their application development environments.

While the new licensing model promises greater flexibility and simplified licensing management, it also necessitates more precise consumption monitoring, which will result in higher financial costs for users.

We’re here to help you delve deeper into the specifics of these changes and provide strategies to navigate this evolving landscape effectively.

Embrace the subscription advantage

HCL has been steadily moving towards subscription-based licensing models, a shift that became clear with the release of the Domino Complete Collaboration (CCB) Model last year. This change aims to simplify and consolidate HCL Domino licensing while phasing out perpetual licenses. With subscription-based licensing, you can easily access the latest updates, ensuring your licenses remain secure and up to date.

Below you’ll find a breakdown of the new user-based licensing options:

• HCL Domino Complete Collaboration Business Edition (CCB) – B2E and B2C users
• HCL Domino Complete Collaboration eXternal User (CCX) – B2B users
• HCL Domino Complete Collaboration Solution Partner Edition (CCS) – ISVs/solution providers

Cost implications of licensing changes

Transitioning to new licensing models involves significant financial implications. HCL has outlined substantial annual price increases, particularly for perpetual licenses. This affects Digital Solutions (Domino, Sametime, Leap, Connections, Volt MX Go) and Digital Experience (DX) products. Specifically, increases in the annual uplift are around 25% for perpetual licenses and 10% for subscription licenses, highlighting HCL’s clear preference for the subscription model.

Detailed information on these price adjustments can be found in the publisher’s price policy section.

Understanding new licensing metrics: CCB and CCX

The licensing model for Domino products is evolving, with “authorized user” as the new metric for CCB (internal) and CCX (external) contracts. An authorized user is an individual with access to use the software. They can be an employee, contractor, service provider, or representative of an affiliated organization, but must each have their own license. For external users, entitlements should be acquired with respect to the user status. Starting from an “author” status in the Domino Application Access (ACL), a CCX entitlement is required. This entitlement can be reassigned if a user exceeds an inactivity period of 30 days. The publisher provides a detailed documentation about roles and responsibilities in the ACL database.

Optimize your licensing strategy

To manage these changes effectively, it’s essential to closely monitor license consumption. HCL requires the use of its Domino Licensing Analysis Utility (DLAU) to track usage consumption. Mastering this tool is essential for optimizing usage and strengthening your position during renewal negotiations with HCL.

When using DLAU, focus on the following key areas:

• Person document: This section should only include users equivalent to authorized users. Misidentifying users, such as including functional mailboxes or known guests, can lead to additional costs.
• Managing authentication capacity: To prevent overconsumption, ensure that users with limited access do not possess HTTPPASSWORD or valid certificates. Complementary scans by third-party tools can help verify access limitations.
• Deny Access Group: Users in the Deny Access Groups should not appear in any other regular groups. Clean up any overlapping information to avoid unnecessary payments.

Shaping the future today

At SHI, we offer expert guidance to support your transition to new licensing models and efficiently manage your existing assets. Our IT asset management team is dedicated to helping you navigate these changes to optimize your license usage. By proactively understanding and adapting to these updates, your organization can effectively manage costs while taking full advantage of the benefits offered by HCL’s new licensing models for your digital solutions.

Our in-house licensing specialists are your go-to experts for interpreting and applying HCL’s new licensing policies. We ensure you’re accurately licensed and making the most of all available options. Through a comprehensive analysis of your current software usage and future needs, we craft a bespoke licensing strategy that boosts efficiency and cuts unnecessary expenses. Plus, SHI prepares you for HCL audits by ensuring all your licenses comply with contractual terms.

With our extensive experience and strategic insights, we enhance your negotiating position, securing favorable terms during renewals and new agreements.

Confidently navigate the evolving licensing landscape and maximize your organization’s potential today.