This is the most common mistake in licensing the Adobe Creative Suite or its components; installing the software on a second PC for a coworker under the same license. By doing so (on purpose or by mistake) customers violate the licensing terms of the Adobe product.
Here is what the licensing terms (Creative Suite 6) say:
‘… may install a second copy of the Software for his or her exclusive use on either a portable Computer or a Computer located at his or her home, provided that the Software on the portable or home Computer is not used at the same time as the Software on the primary Computer.’
Yes, indeed, you may install a second copy, but only for use by yourself on a secondary computer which you will use when not working on the primary device. This is done so to enable people who work with the software to be able to work from home. And there is the second to one most common mistake: installing the software on you home computer for your personal (i.e. non business) use. For example, to make a brochure for your sons soccer team. This is strictly forbidden. Licensing terms (regarding Volume Licensing, mostly used for businesses):
‘…, then the second copy of the Software made under Section 2.1.3. must be used solely for the benefit and business of that volume licensee.’
Actions to be taken:
1. Make an inventory of all Adobe (Creative Suite or its components) within your business
2. Make an inventory of the licenses held
3. Compare installs versus licenses
4. Might there be a shortfall, this is your moment to fix it (don’t wait for the auditor)
Do you need more information on Adobe licensing? Contact us!
Here’s some more information about Actions to be taken (Software Asset Management) and Pre-Audit scans (just for you to be sure you are operating legally)