When companies decide to buy SOLIDWORKS, a common mistake is assuming that every engineer automatically needs an individual license. In reality, the right number depends on how your team works, how often each person uses the software, and whether several employees need access at the same time.
Taking a closer look at actual usage can help you control costs without creating unnecessary bottlenecks.
Start With Your Number of Regular Users
First, identify employees who use SOLIDWORKS as a core part of their daily work. Engineers and designers who spend most of their day creating models, assemblies, and drawings will usually need reliable access.
Occasional users should be considered separately. A project manager who opens CAD files once a week, for example, may not require the same licensing arrangement as a full-time mechanical designer.
Consider Simultaneous Usage
The number of employees who can use SOLIDWORKS at the same time is often more important than your total team size.
Imagine a department with 15 employees, but only eight normally use the software simultaneously. Depending on the licensing setup available to your business, purchasing a license for every employee may not be necessary.
Review typical working patterns as well as peak periods. Saving money on licenses is not worthwhile if engineers regularly have to wait for access during important projects.
Look at Different Roles
Not every employee requires identical capabilities. Some users may need advanced engineering functions, while others only require standard design tools.
Before you buy SOLIDWORKS, separate your team according to responsibilities. This can help you select suitable packages instead of giving every user the most advanced option.
Plan for Growth and Project Peaks
Your current headcount should not be the only consideration. Upcoming recruitment, larger projects, temporary contractors, or expanding design operations can all change software demand.
Leave enough flexibility to accommodate realistic growth without purchasing far more capacity than you are likely to use.
Base Your Decision on Real Usage
The best licensing strategy comes from understanding how your team actually works. Review user roles, daily software usage, simultaneous access requirements, and future expansion plans.
Before you buy SOLIDWORKS, discussing these factors with an authorised reseller can help you determine an appropriate number of licenses while avoiding unnecessary software expenditure.