Negotiating a Better Microsoft Deal in 2025

Microsoft's Q1/2025 has been relatively quiet without radical licensing changes. It's the less visible moves that will have a dramatic effect on your budgets.What will you do about it?In today's episode:Azure's complete ban on crypto mining, what it means for blockchain applications, Azure Local's new installation options, good news for flexibility and cost savings, Azure OpenAI data residency loophole, And actionable negotiation tips to keep your Microsoft spending in check.

In this episode, Alexander Golev and Daryl Ullman discuss the critical challenges and strategies for Microsoft Enterprise Agreement (EA) renewals in 2025. They expose the reasons behind rising costs, the impact of Azure and Copilot AI, and Microsoft's aggressive push to block EA renewals and force clients towards CSP and MCA-E agreements.Daryl, a seasoned negotiation expert, provides valuable insights on:Securing discounts in the current EA climateLeveraging Azure and Copilot to your advantagePreparing for Microsoft's forced transition from EA to CSP or MCA-ETools for negotiating effectively with MicrosoftThis episode equips you with the knowledge and actionable advice to optimise your Microsoft investments, control costs in 2025, and avoid overspending on Microsoft licenses and services.

In this episode, Alexander Golev provides an expert analysis of the November 2024 Microsoft licensing updates. Key updates this month include the release of Windows Server and System Center 2025, the introduction of a pay-as-you-go option for Windows Server with Azure Arc, and Windows 10 Extended Security Updates.Listeners will gain insights into the ambiguities of the new pay-as-you-go licensing and the importance of relying on official Product Terms.

In this podcast episode, Daryl Ullman advises listeners to approach negotiations by crafting a compelling story. He emphasises the importance of thorough research, including understanding the individuals involved and their cultural backgrounds. Daryl highlights the significance of building rapport, emphasising shared interests, and recognising the role of emotions in negotiations.Characters: Identifying the key players and understanding their motivations.Setting: Considering the market conditions and business environment.Conflict: Acknowledging and addressing the challenges and disagreements.Resolution: Setting a clear vision for a mutually beneficial outcome.Theme: Establishing an overarching message that guides the negotiation.Daryl encourages listeners to apply this storytelling approach to their future negotiations to foster trust, build relationships, and achieve better outcomes.

This Q&A session features Alexander Golev addressing common questions about licensing SQL Server with Azure Arc for service providers. Topics covered include:Overview of Azure Arc and its benefits for service providers and end clientsLicensing models: SPLA, BYOL, Azure Arc with BYOL and pay-as-you-goClarification on using Azure Arc in a service provider contextAddressing security concerns with Azure ArcDetermining when Azure Arc is the right licensing solutionThe future of SPLA and upcoming developments like Azure Stack HCI for HostersUsage and limitations of SPLA, CSP, and AWS for service providersThe session aims to provide clarity and guidance for service providers who are learning about SQL Server licensing with Azure Arc.

Incorrect or mismanaged Microsoft licensing can expose your IaaS business to financial and operational risks. Complex licensing rules and the potential for non-compliance due to BYOL create challenges for IaaS providers. In addition, the core Microsoft licensing for hosting – SPLA – was not designed for IaaS and has serious flaws.Overspending on licenses, audit anxieties, and the upcoming changes to the Listed Provider program in October 2025 add to the stress.We give you a comprehensive yet simple system of managing Microsoft licensing for IaaS providers, offering strategies to optimise costs, ensure compliance, and mitigate risks.

Inaccurate billing for SPLA can cost your service provider business thousands in lost revenue, create friction with your clients, and expose you to compliance risks.Manual billing processes, complex licensing rules, and ever-changing Microsoft policies make it difficult to ensure your invoices are always accurate and up-to-date.Alexander Golev is sharing his knowledge and strategies to master SPLA billing, ensuring accuracy, transparency, and, ultimately, increased profitability for your business.Key topics covered:Understanding SPLA billing requirements and best practicesIdentifying and rectifying common billing errorsImplementing tools and processes for data accuracy and complianceCreating transparent and client-friendly billing modelsUsing billing data to drive strategic decision-making

In this podcast episode, Alexander Golev from SAMexpert discusses Microsoft licensing updates for September 2024, including new product availability, changes to extended security updates support, and a promotional discount on Copilot for Microsoft 365. He also addresses frequently asked questions about SQL Server CAL audits, Windows 11 licensing for hosted environments, SPLA usage for providers with Linux virtual machines, and licensing implications of disabling cores on a physical server.

Alexander Golev and Daryl Ullman discuss the latest developments in Microsoft licensing and cloud cost management. They cover topics such as the upcoming Windows Server 2025 release and Microsoft's financial results for FY2024. Stefan Denk, Head of Cloud, joins the discussion to provide insights into Azure Cost Management features including the new FinOps Open Consumption and User Specification (FOCUS) standard for Azure.

This episode focuses on preparing for and potentially preventing Microsoft compliance audits. The host, Alexander Golev, emphasises the importance of understanding your services, documenting infrastructure, and maintaining detailed client records. He provides real-world examples and highlights common pitfalls to avoid. The episode also features a discussion on contractual compliance, BYOL scenarios, and managing relevant records. Alexander's business partner, Daryl Ullman, adds his insights on how audit readiness can improve a company's financial stability and uncover additional revenue opportunities.