SAMS Europe 2024 – SES Secure’s Top 3 Takeaway Points

The SES Secure team recently attended the annual SAMS Europe event in Amsterdam. From the multiple discussions that we had with industry leaders and professionals, we identified 3 key takeaway points.

SAMS Europe 2024 - 3 Key Takeaways

1. Software Escrow CAN be used for SaaS/Subscription/Hosted/Cloud-based software.
2. Liquidation/ceasing to trade is not the only scenario for failure or release.
3. Escrow is used for any software/data that is business critical, not just niche SME vendors.

Software Escrow CAN Be Used for SaaS/Subscription/Hosted/Cloud-Based Software

SaaS Escrow is specifically designed for important 3rd party developed applications delivered through a hosting partner or ASP using a Software as a Service model (SaaS). The need for Escrow is more prevalent for SaaS.

Should the software developer or ASP suffer business failure, the end user has little control over the continuation of the service and just as importantly, will lose critical data as the service becomes unavailable.

When SaaS developers enter financial difficulty, the first indicator can be complete loss of service.

Since SES developed the industry’s first SaaS Escrow solution in 2012, 78% of our Escrow agreements have been for SaaS systems.

“SaaS Continuity Escrow from SES is a managed recovery service designed to provide complete and rapid accessibility to mission critical software systems. If a disruption event or stressed exit makes your software developer no longer able to provide the service, whether on a temporary or permanent basis, SES steps in to ensure your operations can continue.”

Liquidation/Ceasing to Trade Is Not the Only Scenario for Failure or Release

Typical examples of a “Relevant Event” include the following situations:

• The Licensor is in material breach of its obligations.
• The Licensor assigns the copyright in the Licensed Programs and the assignee fails to enter an agreement for escrow services with the Licensee on identical or similar terms as this Agreement without materially increasing the cost to the Licensee.
• Suspension, or threats to suspend payment of debts or be unable to pay debts as they fall due.
• An order is made, for or in connection with the winding up of the Licensor.
• The Licensor ceases to carry on its business.

Escrow Is Used for Any Software/Data That Is Business Critical, Not Just Niche SME Vendors

Software Escrow protects organisations from “what if?” scenarios.

When a software application is being utilised by a SME or Global Corporate, if it is important to business operations then a continuity plan or stressed exit plan should exist.

When your data is important to business operations, whether held in a software application provided by a SME or Global Corporate, then a continuity plan or stressed exit plan should exist.

Reflecting on a Fantastic Event

It’s safe to say that our team left Amsterdam with fresh ideas, new connections, and plenty of inspiration for how we can continue to evolve, adapt, and provide the best possible solutions for our clients.

The team had a brilliant time networking, building meaningful connections, sharing experiences with other industry professionals, and gaining insights on how others are shaping the current business and technology landscape.

A huge thank you to SAMS Europe and we.CONECT for putting together such an amazing event.

Until next time!