Oracle negotiations

Top 10 Tips for Oracle License Negotiations

Tips for Oracle License Negotiations

Top 10 Tips for Oracle License Negotiations

Oracle license negotiations can be complex and high-stakes, but with the right strategies, you can achieve substantial cost savings and favorable terms.

This advisory provides the top 10 tips for negotiating with Oracle, covering everything from understanding pricing and timing deals to avoiding common pitfalls such as shelfware and audit traps.

By preparing thoroughly, leveraging competition, and negotiating critical contract clauses, CIOs and procurement leaders can turn Oracle’s hardball tactics into an opportunity for better pricing and long-term contract protection.

1. Define Your Needs to Avoid Shelfware

Before engaging with Oracle, clarify the licenses and cloud services you need. Many companies overbuy “just in case,” only to end up with costly shelfware (unused licenses). Take an inventory of current Oracle deployments and project your needs for the next few years.

Keep your purchase scope tight:

  • Buy only what you’ll use in the near term. If you have 200 users, don’t license for 500 “just in case.”
  • Plan for growth sensibly – negotiate the right to add more licenses later at the same discounted rate, rather than over-committing now.
  • Match license types to usage. For example, if 30 named users will access an Oracle Database, it’s cheaper to license those 30 users (Named User Plus licenses) than to pay for a full processor license. On the other hand, if an application will have hundreds of users or an unknown demand, a processor-based license can be more economical. Real-world example: A single Oracle Database Enterprise Edition processor license costs approximately $47,500 (list price) and includes usage for any number of users on that server, which is roughly equivalent to 50 named-user licenses. If you have only 20–30 users, stick to named-user licensing; if you have 500 users, a processor license will save you money.
  • Architect wisely to avoid hidden license obligations. Oracle’s policies require licensing for every server on which its software can run. In virtualized environments (such as VMware clusters), this can mean having to license multiple servers if not properly controlled. Avoid surprise costs by isolating Oracle workloads to specific servers or using Oracle-approved partitioning technology. Even better, negotiate contract clauses that explicitly limit Oracle licensing to designated machines or environments so you’re not accidentally on the hook to license an entire data center.

In short, know your needs and usage patterns cold. This preparation prevents Oracle from selling you excessive capacity and ensures you choose the most cost-effective license metrics.

2. Start Early and Align Your Team

Don’t let Oracle’s timeline drive the deal. Begin internal planning 6–12 months before a renewal or new purchase. A long runway lets you set the agenda:

  • Align IT, finance, and procurement on goals and walk-away conditions. Oracle often exploits internal disconnects – for example, telling the CIO one thing and procurement another. Present a united front with clear requirements and budget limits.
  • Establish your negotiation team and roles. Determine who will lead discussions, who will address technical questions, and who will approve the final terms. This prevents Oracle from bypassing your negotiators and going straight to an executive with high-pressure sales tactics.
  • Initiate the conversation on your terms. If possible, reach out to Oracle early with your intention to renew or expand, and consider sharing a proposed deal framework. By going on offense, you force Oracle to react to your needs rather than simply pushing their agenda.
  • Control the timeline. Set reasonable internal deadlines for key steps (e.g., “we need the first contract draft by X date”) and communicate them to Oracle. If Oracle misses a deadline, calmly extend your timeline as well, signaling that delays on their side will push the deal past quarter-end if necessary. This flips the time pressure onto Oracle.

By starting well ahead of contract deadlines, you avoid the last-minute rush that typically favors Oracle. An organized, aligned negotiating team can confidently slow the pace or walk away, knowing they’ve done their homework.

3. Understand Oracle’s Pricing and Discounts

Oracle’s price list is famously steep, but almost nobody pays list price in a well-negotiated deal. Treat the official prices as a starting point.

Do your research on what similar organizations pay:

  • Oracle licenses and cloud services often receive 40–70% discounts off the list price for large deals, sometimes even more. Oracle expects customers to negotiate, so never accept the first quote they offer.
  • Benchmark against peers or use an advisory firm’s data if available. For instance, if Oracle quotes you $1 million based on list prices, you might counter at $ 500,000 because you know others have received ~50% off in comparable deals.
  • Anchor the negotiation with your target price. If you have solid pricing benchmarks, don’t be afraid to put a number on the table first. Oracle’s initial quote will likely be artificially high to “protect” their revenue. By offering a reasonable price you’re willing to pay, you force Oracle to negotiate upward from your anchor rather than downward from their sky-high list figure.

To illustrate the power of negotiation, here’s a hypothetical pricing comparison for an Oracle Database Enterprise Edition (EE) license:

Deal SizeTypical DiscountEffective Price per Processor (EE)
Small purchase (e.g. 50 cores)~20% off list~$38,000 (down from $47,500 list)
Large purchase (e.g. 500 cores)~50% off list~$23,750 per processor
Mega-deal (1000+ cores or ULA)60–70% off or more~$15,000 or less per processor

Note: Oracle’s standard support fee is 22% of the net license price annually, meaning the lower your negotiated license price, the less you pay in support. A big discount yields savings not just upfront but every year on support costs.

Practical tip: Oracle uses volume discount tiers and internal approval levels. Bigger, consolidated deals unlock bigger discounts. If you expect to grow your Oracle usage, consider consolidating your needs into a single negotiation rather than signing multiple small deals.

A multi-million-dollar, multi-product agreement can sometimes result in a total value reduction of 70% or more. Just be careful that a bigger deal isn’t stuffing in products or quantities you don’t need (see Tip #1 about shelfware).

The goal is an optimal unit price for what you will use.

4. Leverage Quarter-End Timing

Timing is one of your best negotiation levers. Oracle’s sales representatives have quarterly and annual targets, with the fiscal year-end on May 31 (quarters end on August 31, November 30, February 28, and May 31).

As these dates approach, Oracle becomes highly motivated to close deals:

  • Plan to negotiate toward the end of Oracle’s quarter/year. You’ll find reps suddenly able to offer “one-time” discounts as the deadline looms. The biggest concessions often come in Q4 (May) when hitting annual numbers is on the line.
  • Expect the pressure tactics. In these final weeks, Oracle might say, “This price only lasts until the end of the month,” or even subtly remind you of an upcoming audit. These scare tactics create urgency. Recognize this pattern: the urgency is real for the rep, but if you miss the quarter-end, Oracle will likely be back with a similar (or better) offer next quarter. Don’t let fear force a rushed signature.
  • Use Oracle’s urgency to your advantage. Make it clear you’re prepared to wait if needed. For example, if the discount isn’t good enough by the end of Q4, indicate that you’ll revisit it next quarter, which the sales team desperately wants to avoid. This stance often compels Oracle to improve the deal at the last minute rather than lose the sale.
  • Mind Oracle’s fiscal calendar for leverage. If you must close earlier in the quarter, try to coincide with any internal push Oracle has (e.g., if they’re promoting Cloud credits this quarter, you might receive an extra discount on other licenses by including a small cloud purchase that supports their initiative). Being aware of their incentive structure allows you to sweeten the pot in inexpensive ways to secure a better overall deal on your primary needs.

In essence, patience and timing can save you a significant amount of money. Negotiate like you have all the time in the world, even if Oracle’s clock is ticking.

5. Demand Transparency – No Bundled “Freebies”

Oracle sales often propose bundles or include “free” products and extra modules in your quote. The catch: every product incurs ongoing support costs, which can increase your deal. Avoid bundle traps that create shelfware.

Insist on transparent, line-item pricing for each component:

  • Ask for itemized quotes. You need to see the cost of each database, middleware, cloud service, and so on. If Oracle’s quote combines things under a single category (“Suite” pricing), break it down. This way, you can assess what’s truly needed.
  • Cut out unwanted components. Don’t accept a package that includes, say, additional cloud credits, Java licenses, or add-on tools you didn’t ask for. Oracle might say it’s “free” as part of the deal now, but remember you’ll pay maintenance on it later, or get pressured to expand usage. It’s not free if it bloats your support bill or complicates compliance.
  • Repurpose the value. If Oracle offers a bundle discount only if you take product X that you don’t need, negotiate to reallocate that value. For example, if they insist a set of unused software is worth $500K in your “discounted” deal, request that $500K be converted into additional discount on the products you do want. In other words, no paying for shelfware – any budget on the table should go toward real needs.
  • Watch cloud credits and promotions. Oracle sometimes adds a chunk of Cloud credits or trial services to on-prem deals. Those credits might expire unused or lead to a larger cloud commitment. It’s fine to accept free credits, but don’t let them justify a higher overall price. Treat credits as a nice bonus, not a reason to pay more for licenses.

By keeping a sharp eye on what you’re buying, you prevent Oracle from padding the deal with extras that sound generous but ultimately cost you. Every line in the quote should have a purpose and a negotiated price if it doesn’t, cut it out.

6. Be Cautious with ULAs and Big Commitments

Oracle may tempt you with an Unlimited License Agreement (ULA) or a large, all-you-can-eat-style deal.

These can offer short-term flexibility but often come with hefty costs and risks:

  • Only choose a ULA if it truly fits your strategy. A ULA is a fixed-price deal (often 3 years) where you can deploy unlimited licenses of specific Oracle products. It sounds great for growth, but consider this: if your usage doesn’t grow as expected, you may have overpaid. And at the end of the term, you must certify usage – a process where Oracle will audit you and often push hard to renew the ULA (or else pay for anything above your licenses). If you need a massive expansion of Oracle’s footprint, a ULA can save money; otherwise, it can become an expensive trap.
  • Negotiate ULA terms tightly. If you proceed, define exactly which products are included, what entities (subsidiaries, etc.) can use them, and how the exit works. Have a clear plan to document deployments throughout the ULA. When it ends, you want to certify and exit without surprise fees. Oracle might try to frighten you with huge compliance numbers to force a renewal, but if you’ve tracked deployments and the contract is clear, you can safely say “no thanks” at the end.
  • Beware of large upfront cloud commitments. Similar to ULAs, Oracle may push a big Cloud Universal Credits deal (commit now to a certain spend on Oracle Cloud). If you over-commit and don’t consume those cloud services, that money is wasted. Only commit to cloud subscription volumes you’re confident you will use. Negotiate flexibility, such as the ability to apply unused credits to other services or extend the term.
  • Leverage Oracle’s incentive programs. If you are investing in Oracle Cloud or a ULA, use every benefit. For instance, Oracle’s Support Rewards program offers credits toward support fees when you spend on OCI (Oracle Cloud Infrastructure). Ensure this is factored into your negotiation to effectively reduce your support costs through cloud use.
  • Have an exit strategy. For any big commitment (ULA, cloud, or multi-year enterprise deal), ask “What happens after it expires or if our needs change?” Consider adding options: the right to convert to perpetual licenses, carry over unused credits, or a price lock for renewal if desired. Don’t sign a mega-deal without clarity on the endgame.

The key is not to get locked in a deal you’ll regret.

Oracle loves ULAs and long-term commits because they secure revenue. Approach these offers with a skeptical eye and ensure they genuinely align with your business plans (with documented safeguards).

7. Negotiate Critical Contract Terms

The dollars and percentages receive the most attention, but contract clauses can significantly impact the value of an Oracle deal over time. Push for terms that protect you against surprises and extra costs:

  • Audit rights: Oracle’s standard audit clause is very broad – they can audit you at any time with little notice. Negotiate limits: e.g., “no more than one audit every 2 years with 60 days’ notice, and audits must be during business hours and not unreasonably disrupt operations.” Also, require Oracle to sign an NDA for any audit findings. This prevents Oracle from using fear of constant audits as leverage.
  • Clear definitions: Ensure that all key terms (such as processorcoreuserand installation) are explicitly defined in the contract or via reference to an official Oracle glossary. Don’t leave room for ambiguity that Oracle can later interpret against you. For example, if licensing by Named User, define that it counts only distinct human users with access to the system (not every employee). If you have disaster recovery or test environments, outline how those are licensed (often non-production servers can be licensed differently or not counted if they are truly standby — get it in writing).
  • Virtualization and cloud usage: If you run Oracle on virtualized infrastructure (like VMware, Hyper-V, or in a public cloud), include a partitioning clause or environment-specific clause. This should state that Oracle software is confined to specific servers or cloud instances, and only those instances require licensing. Without it, Oracle might argue you need to license an entire cluster or cloud region. Lock down the scope to avoid an unexpected bill. (Many companies have saved millions by negotiating this clause, ensuring they only pay for actual Oracle hosts in use rather than every server that Oracle could theoretically run on.)
  • Support fee caps: Maintenance fees (support) rise 3-4% annually by default and can skyrocket if you try to drop some licenses. Negotiate a cap on support increases (e.g., support prices can’t increase more than 3% per year, or are fixed for X years). Also, negotiate that if you retire some licenses, Oracle will not re-price the remaining support at a higher rate (commonly referred to as the “repricing” trap). Aim for language that any support fees are calculated from your discounted purchase price and will remain proportional if quantities change.
  • Price hold/most-favored pricing: If you expect future purchases, consider a price hold clause – Oracle guarantees the same discount or unit price for additional licenses for a specified period (typically 1-2 years). This protects you from paying full price if you need more later. Similarly, some negotiate a “most favored customer” clause, which states that if Oracle offers a larger discount to a similar customer, you will receive an adjustment. Although Oracle may resist this, it’s worth asking for.
  • Renewal and termination terms: For cloud subscriptions or any term-based licenses, negotiate renewal caps (e.g., renewal price increase capped at 5% or at the same discount level). Never allow auto-renewal at list price. Also, ensure you have the right to terminate or reduce the scope at renewal if needed. If you’re on-premises, while perpetual licenses don’t expire, make sure you can cancel support on unused licenses without penalty beyond losing support on those licenses.
  • Affiliates and acquisitions: Include a broad customer definition so all your current and future subsidiaries can use the licenses. If your company is acquired or you spin off a division, ensure that the terms allow for the transfer of licenses to the new entity or continued usage during the transition. Oracle’s default terms can be strict on transferability, so address it now to avoid needing Oracle’s permission (and fees) later.
  • Successor products: Technology changes – ask for clauses that if Oracle replaces a product you’re licensing with a new one, you get access to the equivalent successor product under your current deal. This prevents Oracle from discontinuing a product and trying to upsell you a new license.

These contractual points may seem detailed, but they directly translate into financial outcomes and leverage in the long run. Get every promise in writing.

If an Oracle rep says, “Don’t worry, we won’t audit you for that” or “We usually allow that use,” politely insist it be added as a contract term or amendment.

A well-negotiated Oracle contract will not only save money, but it will also give you peace of mind and legal clarity for years to come.

8. Prepare for Audits and Stay Compliant

One of Oracle’s strongest pressure tactics is the software audit. A surprise audit finding can scare organizations into quick (and costly) purchases.

Being audit-ready is your best defense:

  • Conduct regular internal audits. Know exactly what Oracle software you have deployed, and compare it against your entitlements (what you’ve paid for). Do this at least annually. Suppose you discover you’re out of compliance somewhere. In that case, you can address it on your terms (perhaps by phasing out a usage or by budgeting for additional licenses) rather than under Oracle’s spotlight.
  • Use Oracle’s tools (carefully). Oracle provides license measurement tools for some products. Use them to gather data, but be cautious about sending results to Oracle unless you’re prepared – you control the narrative of any usage data.
  • Keep meticulous records. Maintain a centralized record of your Oracle licenses, support agreements, purchase orders, and all communications related to usage rights. In an audit, having documentation (for example, an email from Oracle granting a specific exception or a contract clause you negotiated) can quickly shut down a non-compliance claim.
  • Manage the audit process. If you do get an official audit notice, engage your team (and consider third-party experts). Negotiate the scope and rules of engagement: for instance, insist on an NDA, agree on which products are in scope, and set a reasonable timeline. You don’t have to passively accept whatever Oracle’s auditors ask for.
  • Don’t let audit threats derail your negotiation. It’s not uncommon for Oracle sales to hint at potential compliance issues during a negotiation (“By the way, our records show you might be 20 processors short on Database licenses…”). This can be a bluff or a tactic. Respond by asking for specifics in writing and loop in your asset management team. If a compliance gap is real, treat it as just one part of the deal – for example, you might agree to purchase the necessary licenses within a new agreement at a negotiated price, rather than paying back penalties. Never panic and buy licenses at list price out of audit fear. Use the leverage you have to make any compliance true-up part of a bigger, discounted deal.

Staying compliant is ultimately the goal – it avoids unplanned costs and strengthens your hand. Oracle loses a lot of power when you can confidently say, “We’re licensed correctly.” Proactive compliance work may require a bit of time/effort now, but it can save millions and avoid huge headaches later.

9. Leverage Alternative Options

Oracle wants to believe you have no choice but to buy more of their stuff – prove them wrong. Identify and, if feasible, evaluate alternatives to create competitive tension:

  • If you’re negotiating Oracle Database licenses, mention that you’re looking at open-source or cloud database services (e.g., PostgreSQL, AWS RDS/Aurora, Azure SQL) for certain workloads. Even the possibility of migrating some systems off Oracle can make them more flexible in terms of price and terms.
  • For Oracle applications (such as ERP, CRM, etc.), consider competitor SaaS solutions (like SAP, Salesforce, and Workday) as part of your strategy. Oracle sales reps dislike the idea of losing market share to rivals and may counter with larger discounts or added value to retain you.
  • Explore third-party support if you’re mainly concerned about Oracle’s high support fees. Firms like Rimini Street offer support for Oracle products at ~50% of Oracle’s cost. Suppose Oracle knows you’re considering dropping their support in favor of a third party. In that case, they often become more willing to negotiate discounts or one-time credits to retain your support business. Even if you don’t switch, having that option on the table increases your leverage.
  • Consider hybrid cloud or modular adoption. Perhaps you’ll move some non-critical workloads to a cheaper database or cloud, while keeping core systems on Oracle. Communicate this plan – Oracle may give you a better deal to entice you to stay with them.
  • Use references and case studies. Internally, gather success stories of others who reduced Oracle spend. For example, if another company saved millions by migrating a portion of their systems away from Oracle or by resisting a renewal, share that with your stakeholders. It builds the case that you have viable options and can walk away from a bad deal.

The goal isn’t necessarily to replace Oracle entirely (which might be impractical), but to show that you have credible alternatives and are willing to use them.

This mindset shift turns the negotiation from “Oracle versus nothing” into “Oracle versus the competition,” which typically results in Oracle offering better pricing and conditions to sway your decision.

10. Control Information and Communication

Successful negotiators control the flow of information. Oracle’s sales teams are trained to find and exploit any weakness – a tight project deadline, a fixed budget approval, an executive who just wants a quick deal, etc.

You can prevent those vulnerabilities:

  • Keep your budget and timeline confidential. Never volunteer how much you’re prepared to spend or the latest date by which you must sign a deal. If Oracle knows you have a hard deadline (e.g,. a go-live date or fiscal year-end on your side), they may withhold concessions until the last minute, knowing you’re backed into a corner. Similarly, if they know your approved budget is $2 million, they’ll aim to take every dollar. Instead, let Oracle believe you have other options and plenty of time – even if you have an internal target deadline, don’t share it.
  • Centralized communications. All vendor communication should route through your negotiation lead or team. Oracle might try to bypass and reach an unprepared stakeholder; for instance, contacting your CIO or CFO with alarming messages like, “Your team is dragging this out, you’re risking compliance.” Prepare your executives for this possibility and set a protocol: if Oracle bypasses the chain, the exec should redirect them back to the designated team. This closes a common avenue Oracle uses to apply top-down pressure.
  • Manage meetings carefully. In negotiations, Oracle might bring a barrage of people (sales managers, technical specialists, even a VP) to overwhelm and get you to concede on something. Stick to your agenda. It’s okay to say, “We’ll take that under consideration and get back to you,” rather than agreeing on the spot. Keep a record of what’s discussed and promised.
  • Document everything. After calls or meetings, follow up with an email recap of key discussion points and next steps. This ensures there’s no “misremembering” of what was offered. It also signals to Oracle that you’re detail-oriented and won’t let verbal promises slide.
  • Stay professional but firm. Oracle negotiators can be personable one moment and hard-nosed the next. Maintain a calm, business-like demeanor. If the sales rep says, “This is the absolute final discount,” you can respond with, “Understood, but we still cannot proceed unless X, Y, Z conditions are met.” By showing you won’t be rattled or rushed, Oracle will realize standard tricks aren’t working and will come to a more reasonable position.

In summary, be the quarterback of the negotiation, not a passive receiver. Control the narrative – know what you share, with whom, and when.

When Oracle sees you running a tight process, they’ll adapt their approach and ultimately respect that they need to earn your business on your terms.

Recommendations

  • Do your homework first: Enter Oracle negotiations with a clear picture of your current usage, future needs, and what a fair price looks like. Knowledge is power.
  • Never accept the first offer: Oracle’s initial quotes are intentionally high. Counter with data-driven pricing targets and insist on significant discounts (50% or more for large deals).
  • Use timing to your benefit: Plan deals around Oracle’s quarter-end/year-end to squeeze the best pricing, but don’t let their deadlines force a bad decision. Be ready to walk if the terms aren’t right.
  • Avoid over-commitment: Don’t buy licenses “just in case.” If Oracle pushes big bundles or ULAs, ensure they align with your actual needs and include escape clauses. It’s better to start smaller with the option to expand later.
  • Protect yourself in the contract: Meticulously negotiate key terms – audit frequency limits, clear definitions, virtualization clauses, support caps, and rights to adjust or exit. A well-structured contract today prevents pain tomorrow.
  • Maintain compliance proactively: Regularly conduct self-audits and address any identified shortfalls internally. A clean compliance position removes Oracle’s strongest pressure point (the dreaded audit threat).
  • Leverage competition and alternatives: Remind Oracle you have choices – whether it’s other vendors, open-source technology, or third-party support. This keeps their demands in check and often opens the door to better deals.
  • Stay in control: Manage all communications and don’t reveal internal pressures. Keep Oracle dealing with your chosen team and process. A unified, disciplined approach will lead to a more favorable outcome.

FAQ

Q: What discount level can we negotiate off Oracle’s list prices?
A: Large enterprises commonly negotiate 50% or more off Oracle’s inflated list prices. Discounts of 60–70% have been achieved on big multi-million dollar deals (especially when the timing and competition are in your favor). The exact discount depends on your deal size, the products involved, and the amount of leverage you have (e.g., end-of-quarter timing, alternative options, etc.). The key is to always push beyond Oracle’s initial offer – significant savings are on the table if you ask and demonstrate that you’re prepared to find value elsewhere.

Q: When is the best time to negotiate an Oracle license deal?
A: The end of Oracle’s fiscal periods – particularly quarter-end and most of all year-end (late May) – is the prime time. Oracle reps face quotas and end-date pressures, making them far more flexible and generous as the deadline approaches. By targeting a deal to close around these times, you increase your chances of receiving Oracle’s most aggressive pricing and concessions. Just be sure to maintain your resolve – use the timing to get a great deal, but don’t cave in just because the clock is winding down.

Q: How can we avoid overpaying for Oracle licenses we don’t need?
A: It starts with a realistic assessment of your needs. Before signing anything, inventory your current usage and forecast near-term growth. Only purchase what you require now or very soon. One practical tactic is to negotiate the ability to add licenses later at the same discount, rather than buying everything upfront. Also, push back on any “extra” products in Oracle’s proposal that you didn’t request – those often lead to shelfware. In short, stay disciplined: license for current needs, and expand when justified, rather than buying based on hypotheticals that may never materialize.

Q: Which contract terms should we focus on most in Oracle negotiations?
A: Pay special attention to terms that can cause future cost spikes or operational headaches. Audit clauses are crucial – they limit how often and how broadly Oracle can audit you. License definitions and virtualization terms need clarity, so you’re not surprised by how Oracle counts usage (for example, make sure you’re not inadvertently agreeing to license an entire virtual environment). Also, prioritize support cost protections (caps on support fee increases, rightsizing if you drop some licenses) and flexibility clauses (like transfer rights for mergers, or price holds for future purchases). These areas – audits, definitions, virtualization, support, and flexibility – have significant financial implications throughout the life of the contract, so ensure they are addressed during negotiations.

Q: How should we prepare for an Oracle audit or compliance review?
A: The best approach is to be proactive. Regularly perform your audits of Oracle usage versus entitlements to ensure you are always aware of your compliance position. Keep detailed records of deployments and license documents. If an official Oracle audit notice arrives, don’t panic – establish ground rules (NDA, scope, timeline) and involve your internal asset management and possibly outside experts. During an audit, provide exactly what’s requested and nothing more, to avoid raising new questions. And remember, audit findings are subject to negotiation. If Oracle claims you’re out of compliance, you can often settle by purchasing additional licenses at a negotiated (discounted) rate rather than paying a straight penalty. Staying calm and informed is your best defense – when Oracle sees you know your stuff, the audit process becomes far less intimidating.

Checklist

Document everything: Keep a written record of all communications, proposals, and agreed-upon terms during the negotiation process. Draft contract changes in writing (ideally in an editable document) to ensure all agreed-upon points make it into the final contract.

Baseline your Oracle usage: Gather data on all Oracle products in use, how many users or processors, and compare it to what you’re licensed for. Identify any gaps or surpluses.

Organize a negotiation task force That Involves IT, procurement, finance, and legal early on. Define clear roles and a unified strategy before engaging Oracle.

Research pricing and options: Obtain Oracle’s price list and benchmark discounts. Explore alternative technologies or vendors for each Oracle product as a fallback.

Set negotiation goals and limits: Determine your target price, essential contract terms (e.g., audit limits, support caps), and “walk-away” conditions. Get executive buy-in on these parameters.

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  • Fredrik Filipsson

    Fredrik Filipsson brings 20 years of dedicated Oracle licensing expertise, spanning both the vendor and advisory sides. He spent nine years at Oracle, where he gained deep, hands-on knowledge of Oracle’s licensing models, compliance programs, and negotiation tactics. For the past 11 years, Filipsson has focused exclusively on Oracle license consulting, helping global enterprises navigate audits, optimize contracts, and reduce costs. His career has been built around understanding the complexities of Oracle licensing, from on-premise agreements to modern cloud subscriptions, making him a trusted advisor for organizations seeking to protect their interests and maximize value.

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