Re: Oracle DB and Compiere

(Disclaimer on the following discussion: it is based on my experience and is not binding on Oracle Corporation. Things may have changed since my last purchases, so you are encouraged to do your own research.)

Oracle database pricing does not care about 'client machines', and you do not purchase 'client' software. It's usually only based on either CPU or User.

My general steps and thoughts for purchasing Oracle database software are:

1. Determine, probably by asking Compiere, whether their product requires any Oracle Database Enterprise Edition features. If not, you may be able to use Standard Edition. Otherwise license Enterprise Edition and skip to step 3).
2. If you do not need Enterprise Edition features, then (based on the Compiere's performance and capacity information, or that which you determine by testing),
3. if the server software can be installed on a machine with 1 or 2 CPU, consider purchasing license for Standard Edition One;
4. else, if for 2-4 CPU (on 1 to 4 machines) consider purchasing licenses for Standard Edition;
5. else (if more than 4 CPU are needed) you must purchase Enterprise Edition.
6. Chose a license model - CPU or named user plus:
7. count CPU for all the servers (no client machines included;
8. or by the names of the users who can get information into and/or out of the database. This is real people users, not just userids - if there are automatic devices such as sensors, consider them users as well;
9. or contact an Oracle office and discuss other options.
10. Chose a duration -
11. perpetual (you can use that version of the software forever);
12. or term (license for a specific time, such as 1 or 2 years).

Only some term licenses are offered, and these change with Edition. Term licenses, when available, are a lot less expensive but do expire and need to be replaced or renewed - over time, there is often no savings.

5) Look at http://oraclestore.oracle.com for list pricing. The price lists are generally translated to local language and currency.

With few exceptions, you can purchase directly from the online store. You can also contact the Oracle sales people by phone or email (see http://www.oracle.com) to start the sales process.

While not guaranteed, there is a possibility to negotiate a discount, or get a non-standard discount. But you will rarely get a non-standard discount without asking an Oracle Sales representative in your area - before you buy. If you do get a discount, do NOT plan on that discount being extended to additional purchases or renewals.

6) Get Support and Media based on the license you purchased above. Do this at the time of buying the license.

Hope that helps

-- 
Hans Forbrich                           
Canada-wide Oracle training and consulting
mailto: Fuzzy.GreyBeard_at_gmail.com   
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