Understanding Co-Term Support
Co-terming refers to the consolidation of various devices, services, or products into a single support contract. It can also involve combining products with different coverage start dates or varying Service Level Agreements (SLAs). Essentially, it eliminates the need to create a new support agreement for each device based on make, model, initial service date, coverage duration, coverage level, and other factors. This approach represents the latest evolution in multi-vendor hardware support.
Example: a company has a Cisco-branded switch in its data center that started receiving Next Business Day (NBD) support in June. The same company also has a NetApp network device that requires 7x24x4 coverage, which will be due for support a few months later. With co-term support, both of these devices can be covered under the same contract, despite their support starting at different times.
Co-term support becomes even more advantageous for devices that have reached their end of service life (EOSL). When hardware reaches EOSL, they no longer receive the same level of support, if any, from their OEM. This often forces companies to scramble to restructure contracts or purchase the latest products from OEMs, which can strain the company budget. Co-terming allows you to keep your devices under a simple contract that saves money over the long term.
Comparing Co-Term Support with Traditional Support Contracts
Understanding the differences between co-term support and traditional individual contracts can provide a clearer picture of the benefits of co-term support. Below, we’ve broken down the key aspects of each approach to help you make an informed decision.
| Aspect | Co-Term Support | Traditional Individual Contracts |
|---|---|---|
| Contract Management | All devices, regardless of manufacturer or service start date, are consolidated into a single contract. This simplifies management and reduces administrative overhead. | Each device or service has its own individual contract, which can lead to a complex web of agreements that require significant time and resources to manage. |
| Cost Efficiency | Co-term support often results in cost savings, as the support for all devices is bundled into one contract. This approach also allows for prorated fees, with all dues payable at the same time. | With individual contracts, you may end up paying more due to the lack of bundling. Additionally, payment schedules can be scattered throughout the year, complicating budget management. |
| Flexibility | Co-term contracts offer the flexibility to add or remove devices or services as needed, with adjustments made to the existing contract. | Changes to services or devices often require renegotiating contracts or creating new ones, which can be time-consuming and inflexible. |
| End of Service Life (EOSL) Support | Co-term support can continue to cover devices that have reached their EOSL, providing uninterrupted service and avoiding unnecessary equipment upgrades. | Once a device reaches its EOSL, the OEM may no longer offer support. This can force you to restructure contracts or purchase new equipment. |
| Support Coverage | Co-term support allows for varying levels of support under the same contract, catering to the unique needs of each device. | Individual contracts may limit you to a specific level of support per contract, which may not align with the needs of each device. |
By comparing these aspects, it’s clear that co-term support offers a more streamlined, cost-effective, and flexible solution for managing tech support across a range of devices and manufacturers.
The Impact of Co-Term Support on Your Business
Typically, a company might have one device under a support contract and another that doesn’t need extended support until a later date. In this scenario, the company would have to structure a separate agreement for the period of support they want on the second device. This process can be time-consuming and expensive.
With co-term support, all of your devices can be combined onto a single contract. The devices that most recently needed support are prorated to the initial service date, meaning all of your fees are due at the same time.
One of the main challenges for those managing company budgets is balancing savings and growth. It can be incredibly difficult to find room in a budget while prioritizing business expansion. In such situations, achieving peace of mind regarding your business and budget can seem impossible. However, co-term support is designed to make this possible.
Simplify Your Support Strategy
To successfully co-term your data center devices, you need a partner with experience. The goal is to provide you with the support you need for each of your data center assets and to make arranging this coverage as simple as possible. With a co-terming solution, flexible SLAs, and an online portal, getting the support you need has never been easier.
Reach out today and ensure you never have to worry about managing complicated hardware maintenance agreements ever again!
