Starting with SPIDAcalc and SPIDAsilk v8.0, we are compatible with the Bentley Subscription Entitlement Service (SES) licensing technology. There are many benefits to this new licensing, but there are a few steps to get you and your company transitioned to it, especially if you don't already use other Bentley products.
Benefits of Bentley Licensing
The new licensing system offers account-based access rather than individual licenses with API tokens. There will no longer be a need to submit a SPIDA support ticket to reset licenses or reassign users. Other benefits include:
- Account administrators will have increased visibility and control of license usage.
- New licenses can be purchased quickly and easily through Bentley's e-commerce website.
- Accounts with multiple Bentley products can manage all their licenses in one place.
- Enterprise customers can participate in Bentley's E365 pay-per-use model.
Learn more about SES and Virtuoso licensing.
Glossary
With the new licensing system, it will be helpful for you to familiarize yourself with the following terminology:
- Bentley Account Administrator: The person/people in your company or organization responsible for managing the access and use of software and resources provided by Bentley.
- Bentley Support Portal: The new home for support cases as well as the SPIDA knowledge base, which includes user manuals, FAQs, and other product documentation.
- CONNECT Center: Bentley's web-based platform for accessing a user's software products, projects, and services. This includes account administrator tools and resources, software downloads, service requests, and LEARN content and training.
- CONNECTION Client: A desktop application that is now installed along with SPIDA software. Users and administrators will log in using the credentials they create to access SPIDA and other Bentley software products. Bentley also provides cloud services, user portals, and user analytics through CONNECTION Client. More information here.
- E365 (Enterprise 365 Program): A program offered to subscribers that provides usage-based pricing with pre-defined rates and terms.
- Entitlement: Refers to an organization's claim or ownership of Bentley licenses and services.
- Identity Management Service (IMS): The way in which your login information is tied to your account, entitlements, and licenses.
- License: A software license to which a user or an organization is entitled. "License" and "entitlement" are often used interchangeably.
- SELECT Agreement: Bentley's standard terms and conditions for the purchase and use of Bentley products and services. It replaces the SPIDA Software End User License Agreement.
- SES (Subscription Entitlement Service) Licensing: Bentley's licensing technology that replaces the SPIDA Account Portal.
For a more complete list of terms, click here.
Next Steps - What Do I Do Now?
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is SPIDA licensing changing?
As a part of our integration into Bentley Systems, we've updated our licensing technology to better serve our customers. This upgrade to Bentley's Subscription Entitlement Service (SES) will provide new ways of accessing, managing, and using SPIDA software.
What is Bentley's Subscription Entitlement Service (SES)?
License entitlements, which are granted and maintained through user management in the Bentley CONNECT Center, replace the API tokens used in previous versions of SPIDAcalc and SPIDAsilk. Your sign-in to the Bentley CONNECTION Client validates your use of the software and provides enhanced security for your Bentley licenses and subscriptions.
How can I have SPIDA added to my company's E365 subscription?
Account administrators will need to contact their Enterprise Success Manager or their Account Manager to have their SPIDA licenses added to their E365 program.
Is there a way to bulk upload users in User Management?
Yes; follow the steps to perform bulk operations outlined here.
Can I see who is currently using licenses?
Account administrators will be able to see the names of users who are running licenses. Users will not be able to see this information.
I logged into my Bentley account but did not see my SPIDA entitlements. What should I do?
Additional steps or corrections may be required to complete the account setup. Please submit a case to get assistance.
What version do users need to be on?
Users are required to be on at least v8.0 to utilize SES licensing, and they must also have the CONNECTION Client installed. We always recommend that users upgrade to the latest version to take advantage of new features and defect fixes.
Why don't users have access to online analysis anymore?
Users will need to be set up in the SPIDA Account Portal and then authorize SPIDAcee in SPIDAcalc to utilize online analysis. Instructions for both account administrators and users can be found here.