Naming Reliable Contacts

Although it may seem like a formality to put a contact name on a volume licensing agreement or enrollment, it is, in fact, a critical decision.

Microsoft will use the contact information to send notices, such as the need to meet a purchase forecast or to renew an agreement. If the contact person leaves the organization, or if the contact information is incorrect, important messages could go astray.

Some organizations see the contract as a legal document and make their general counsel the contact. However, the general counsel is not likely to be aware of the IT department’s software purchase and upgrade plans, and if this contact does not pass the information on to IT or purchasing personnel, the organization could find itself with unexpected bills or the need to pay full price for an upgrade if Software Assurance was allowed to expire.

Customers should make sure the contact is someone, such as an IT or purchasing manager (or both), who cares about the status of the organization’s volume licensing plan.