Software licensing might not be the most exciting topic, but it can be when it saves you money. The current licensing model introduced with Act! Premium Cloud does just that.
Act! Premium
Previously, Act! Premium software was licensed at $450 per seat, and you were responsible for deployment. While straightforward, this model often required significant technical assistance, especially for remote employees needing a Cloud or sync deployment. Each user could activate the software twice, but hosting your database could increase your annual costs by 20-40%, depending on the provider.
Act! Premium Cloud
Act! Premium Cloud simplifies things. When you purchase a seat, you get web access to your database within hours of uploading it. They handle all technical cloud deployment details, so you just respond to the Welcome email and start logging in shortly after.
Plus, fast and secure hosting is included in the price, which is only $360 per user per year—$90 less than the Act! Premium model. You get more for less with APC.
Act! Desktop Sync Upgrade
For those who prefer the Act! desktop client, APC offers a Desktop Sync upgrade, as well. This upgrade is priced per activation, saving you money by only upgrading users who need it. The Act! software might be necessary for administrative features, add-ons, or custom integrations. Whatever the reason, deployment is easy: Act! sends a link to the software and a ready-to-unpack copy of the syncing database. Just install the software, restore the database, and start syncing.
Summary
The old Act! Premium model was DIY—you bought the license and managed everything yourself. APC, however, is based on consumption, and is much more user-friendly. You get immediate access to your data and the CRM features you need without any installation or configuration. Just open a browser, log in, and start working from day one. If some users still need the Act! Desktop software, you only pay for those who need the upgrade.