Webinar

Elastic access is a flexible licensing model that allows software producers to sell prepaid consumption credits—often called metered tokens—that customers can use across a portfolio of technologies. Instead of purchasing specific products, customers buy tokens that are consumed based on usage. This model supports dynamic pricing and simplifies access to premium features. It’s ideal for hybrid deployments and helps reduce friction in the buying process.

Elastic access is designed to work seamlessly across cloud, on-premises, and hybrid environments. It enables software producers to offer consistent monetization strategies regardless of deployment type. By supporting both traditional and modern infrastructure, it helps bridge gaps between legacy systems and cloud-native services. This flexibility is especially valuable for companies transitioning to SaaS or managing complex portfolios.

Metered tokens are prepaid software credits that customers use to access features, products, or services. Each token has a defined value based on a rate table, which can be adjusted dynamically. Tokens are consumed in real time as software is used, and detailed usage data is captured for analytics and reporting. This model allows producers to monetize based on actual consumption rather than fixed entitlements.

Yes, elastic access is built to integrate with existing licensing systems through RESTful APIs. For example, when a traditional license server runs out of capacity, it can trigger elastic access to provide on-demand usage. This hybrid approach allows producers to maintain legacy models while introducing flexible, consumption-based options. It’s a practical way to modernize without disrupting current operations.

Elastic access uses rate tables that can be modified on the fly, allowing producers to adjust pricing without redeploying entitlements. This enables rapid experimentation with pricing models and packaging strategies. Producers can respond to market demand, seasonal usage, or customer behavior in real time. It’s a powerful tool for optimizing revenue and staying competitive.

Elastic access captures fine-grained, real-time data on every token consumption event. This includes which features or products were accessed, how often, and by whom. The data feeds into analytics dashboards that support renewals, upsell opportunities, and product development. It also helps customers allocate costs and maintain compliance with licensing agreements.

By allowing customers to consume tokens only when needed, elastic access eliminates the need for overprovisioning. This is especially useful during peak periods or for project-based work, where traditional subscriptions may be too rigid. Customers avoid paying for unused licenses, and producers can better match capacity with demand. It’s a win-win for cost optimization.

Elastic access lowers the barrier to entry for smaller customers by simplifying access to a broad software portfolio. Instead of committing to large contracts, SMEs can purchase tokens and use them as needed. This flexibility supports growth and experimentation, while also streamlining procurement. It helps producers reach new market segments without complex negotiations.

With friction-free access to premium features and real-time usage insights, producers can identify which customers are ready for upsell or cross-sell. Add-ons can be priced and delivered through the rate table, making it easy for customers to try new capabilities. This model encourages exploration and increases the likelihood of expanding customer relationships.

Successful implementation of elastic access requires collaboration between product management and sales teams. Multiple product managers may need to align on pricing and packaging, while sales must understand how to position the model. Early buy-in and clear communication are key to driving adoption. Elastic access supports a wide range of business scenarios, so cross-functional support is essential.