Updates based on cloud standards and subscriber license model ease adoption for hosted and self hosted installations

NEW YORK, March 1, 2012 — (PRNewswire) — The Cram Group, a Microsoft Certified Hosting and Development partner announces Version 5 of their suite of award winning software for the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) Industry.  Updates to Application Management, Support Services, Electronic Invoicing, and The OBA Store applications deliver on TCG's Same or Higher Quality, Same or Lower Cost mindset and cloud standards.

Key technology enhancements include standardization across native Operating System browsers such as Internet Explorer and Safari as well as support for iPads.  Web services and modern architecture modeled in line with Microsoft SharePoint are also included.

"TCG software is engineered with a focus on satisfying the 5 cloud characteristics of Self Provisioning, Programmability, Scalability, Broad Access and Resource Pooling," says Wes Smith, Cloud Executive Officer,  The Cram Group.  "We are also making all of our software available for use in Public, Private and Hybrid clouds, satisfying the standard cloud deployment models," says Smith.

Key licensing enhancements include subscriber based licensing allowing service delivery methods based on cloud standards without requiring proprietary hosting services.  Subscriber licensing in monthly increments reduces the costs associated with traditional pay up front licensing bundled with annual Software Support and Maintenance (SSM) contracts.

"The traditional model of paying 60% of a 3 to 5 year software investment up front before you kick the tires has been in need of revision for years," says Vijay Jayaram, Vice President, The Cram Group.  "This shift is not really a question of 'if' the AEC industry providers get there, but how and when.  We understand the importance of both license models and a balance, so we are helping forge the way internally and externally," says Jayaram. 

"By adopting proven license models set forth by Microsoft SPLA and Citrix CSP programs, we are using ourselves an example, further forcing delivery of consistently high quality over time or we risk losing the customer," says Smith.  "With this model the software sale becomes a relationship vs. a transaction and there is no more vendor lock in from a software investment perspective," says Smith.

About The Cram Group Software Team

With more than 40,000 hours a year focused on software development and R&D, the TCG software team is one of the largest operated by a consultant focused on the AEC Industry.  Working side by side with TCG hosting and service operations makes them a unique part of one of the largest customer focused Cloud IT departments serving the AEC space.

About The Cram Group

Since 2001, The Cram Group is a leading Consulting, Hosting, and Software Development services provider focused on the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) Industry. TCG is a pioneer and continuing leader focused on cloud hosting and application management technologies for the AEC space.  Offerings related to 25+ vendor applications and suites are available direct and through a nationwide Certified Reseller Partner Network. For more information, call 212-505-0381, or visit http://www.thecramgroup.com.

SOURCE The Cram Group