1 . Management Summary
This white paper makes the commercial case for CodeMeter as a technology for protecting software and intellectual property . Its key findings are based on realistic Return on Investment ( ROI ) calculations , with the underlying data drawn from interviews with Wibu-Systems ’ clients of different sizes .
Key results :
• Investing in the CodeMeter software protection and licensing solution has generally paid off for all respondents within a period of a year or less .
• The ROI at three years after launch varies between 350 % for larger and 750 % for smaller software businesses .
The study underlines the commercial potential and effectiveness of CodeMeter for a range of use cases in different sectors of industry . Choosing CodeMeter means more than just investing in a premier licensing and software protection solution . It also ensures a proven means towards commercial profitability and success .
2 . Introduction
This white paper provides a viable answer to the “ Make or Buy ” question when it comes to selecting and integrating a software licensing solution . It addresses the financial implications of ineffective licensing as well as the impact of an effective licensing strategy for long-term revenue growth . Additionally , the white paper points out the many advantages of automated licensing technology for software developers , which can range from improved efficiency in internal processes to the creation of flexible licensing models and positive impacts on the sales process .
A licensing system protects software and other contents , allows the introduction of innovative licensing models to help monetize software IP , and thereby create new potential revenue streams . The ROI analyses presented here distinguish between the initial investments required , the operating costs moving forward , and the benefits to be expected over time , including added revenue , the prevention of piracy , and greater internal efficiency . A positive ROI is proof of the commercial sense of investing into software protection and licensing as a smart business decision .
2.1 The Problem
Today ’ s businesses are facing a multitude of challenges when it comes to protecting and licensing their software . These have a direct impact on profitability , but also on more intangible factors like the reputation and integrity of system and software providers . This chapter covers the basic problems that companies can expect to encounter .
2.1.1 Software Piracy Software piracy and ineffective licensing have a direct financial impact for businesses : Unauthorized copies and unlicensed use mean significant losses in revenue , while poorly enforced licenses can mean lost revenues and lost control . Cracking tools are easy to come by and illegal copies are easily shared over the Internet . Recognizing and averting attempted piracy needs effective technologies and strategies to make sure that only legitimate users can access their software .
2.1.2 IP Protection A key challenge for innovative enterprises is finding the right means to protect their intellectual property . Protecting copyrights and patents is paramount , not least to secure one ’ s financial integrity and ability to keep innovating . Without adequate protections , creative ideas and other intellectual assets are at risk of theft , emulation , and unauthorized use . The danger is not just financial in nature ; companies also stand to lose their good name and reputation in the worst case . Protecting intellectual property therefore needs robust technologies and strategies to ensure that digital assets are safe from theft and manipulation .
2.1.3 Software Security Today ’ s digital life has put software security in the spotlight . This means more than protection against unauthorized use or piracy . Far more importantly , it means preventing manipulation and cyberattacks . Important industry standards like IEC 62443 , the EU NIS-2 standards , and the EU Cyber Resilience Act all underline how important it is to secure software products against such threats .
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