Graphisoft has announced what many in the industry see as the evolving trend in software licensing: subscription-based software licensing. The company today offers subscription licensing options but will be moving to what the Nemetschek daughter company has labeled a “future-proof subscription model.”
Subscription Models
So what exactly does that mean?
Archicad perpetual and SSA/Forward licenses will be available for new customers through 31 December 2024, and to existing customers through 31 December 2025.
Beginning in 2026, Archicad will be available only through subscription, so for new customers, the only perpetual version they can likely acquire and use for a few years will be whatever version is available later this year (the next version is Archicad 28, but there has been no announcement on its release). Existing customers can obtain a perpetual license up to a year later, likely obtaining version 29 at that time.
Graphisoft has announced its transition away from Perpetual software licensing to full subscription models.
Active SSA/Forward contract users will continue to be serviced beyond 2025; however, they can convert to Archicad Collaborate subscriptions at the same price as SSA/Forward.
Graphisoft would like SSA/Forward customers to take full advantage of Archicad Collaborate subscription, which combines Archicad with BIMx and BIMcloud SaaS for fast, efficient, secure, real-time access to shared projects.
“Technology in the AEC industry is evolving at lightning speed,” said Daniel Csillag, Graphisoft CEO. “Shifting our product delivery model to subscription allows users to take advantage of agile, responsive, and up-to-date software solutions — as soon as they hit the market,” he added.
Nemetschek Group Changes
The Nemetschek Group and its daughter companies have been slowly introducing and moving to subscription-based software licensing for a while. The transition has not been as abrupt as it has been with its biggest rival, Autodesk, where customers have famously pushed back.
“With the most advanced tools available at a predictable cost, our subscribers can grow their business and their competitive advantage — even during challenging economic times,” Csillag said.
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