Cisco's Unified Communications Licensing offers a comprehensive suite of collaboration tools designed to meet the diverse needs of organizations, regardless of their size or operational structure. This licensing framework is built on the understanding that collaboration requirements vary across different organizations and individual workers.

Licensing Options

Cisco provides two primary licensing options:User Connect Licensing (UCL)

• Per-user based licensing for individual Unified Communications applications
• Includes application server software, user licensing, and a soft client
• Available in four tiers: Essential, Basic, Enhanced, and Enhanced Plus Unified Workspace Licensing (UWL)
• Offers a package of popular Cisco Collaboration applications and services
• Available in two editions: Standard and Professional
• Professional Edition includes unlimited participant video conferencing with Personal Multiparty video at no extra cost

Both licensing options provide soft clients, application server software, and per-user licensing, enabling a more robust unified communications experience compared to the UCL licensing alone

Key Features

Flexible Collaboration Tools Users can collaborate across organizational and geographical boundaries at any time and from any location. This flexibility allows employees to work where they are most effective, using either personal or company-issued mobile devices

External Communication The system facilitates communication with external organizations, enabling easy information sharing and real-time interaction, which helps build trust between parties

Unified Platform Cisco's licensing provides a single platform that offers visibility into communications infrastructure and applications, allowing for efficient tracking of usage

Scalability The licensing structure is designed to accommodate organizations of various sizes, providing solutions that are appropriately sized and priced for each organization's specific needs

License Administration

• Cisco offers a License Administration Portal, which provides self-service tools for reporting and license administration. For issues not resolvable through the portal, Cisco's Global Licensing Operation (GLO) is available 24/7 through multiple channels:Online case submission (preferred method for non-urgent issues)
• Phone support for urgent situations
• Troubleshooting resources for common licensing issues, including documentation for both PAK-based and Smart Licenses

This comprehensive licensing approach aims to empower users to improve communications, foster relationships, and accelerate decision-making processes through face-to-face video and web conferencing capabilities