What is Software Assurance?
Posted by Nicole Senecal on Thu, Jun 18, 2009 @ 11:27 AM
This is a common question I get from Clients when I call to remind them that it is time to renew their Software Assurance. Software Assurance is a type of maintenance plan that allows Accpac Customers to run the latest version and services packs for Sage Accpac ERP without having to pay for the upgrade price when moving to the next version or applying the latest service pack. A common misconception is that labor is included in Software Assurance; SA is a contract strictly concerning Sage and your Accpac Software. It does not cover any labor for upgrading or installing the latest service packs.
There are a few other benefits to renewing your Software Assurance that most customers are not aware of. When renewing your S.A. you will receive one free Anytime Learning Training Session and a 25% discount off Anytime Learning Subscription packages. Anytime learning is product training on Sage Accpac core modules and is available on-demand. You also have access to view your online account information where you can view your product information, participate in product- specific forums, or join a user group where you can interact with other Accpac Users to discuss ways to better utilize and expand your software.
Unfortunately there are late fee and penalties if you choose not to renew on time. These fees will include a one-time flat rate fee charge of 15% (based on annual maintenance fee) charged to these who renew within the late renewal period and the service plan contract will be backdated to the original expiry date. If your service lapsed more than 90 days then clients must pay both the reinstatement back (lapsed) fees. These fees will include a 25% late fee for each year to the maximum of two years (based on the annual maintenance fee), plus lapsed time, and one year forward. Late fees are capped at two years back. The maximum a client will pay to get back on the plan, regardless of the number of years they have lapsed service, is 63% of the Service Level Plan, which includes one year of maintenance paid in advance. If you choose not to renew on time, it can be very costly and that is why Answers urges our customers to renew their S.A. on time every year. And please keep in mind that keeping your system up to date is investing in your business.