Pre-Owned Software Offers Flexibility and Fast Implementation

Purchasing pre-owned software licenses can save companies and other organizations between 30 and 80 percent compared to buying new licenses. This makes it an attractive option for organizations looking to optimize their IT budgets without sacrificing software functionality.

“All the licenses we offer fully comply with European legislation, particularly the ruling of the Court of Justice of the EU, which allows the resale of perpetual software licenses,” says Barbara Perković Ivanković, Country Manager for Croatia and Slovenia at Forscope, in an interview with ICTbusiness Media. She adds, “We ensure compliance by sourcing only perpetual licenses that have been fully paid for by the original purchaser, are no longer in use, and were originally sold within the European Economic Area.”

According to her, companies can optimize their software licensing by using pre-owned licenses to fill gaps in their infrastructure flexibly and cost-effectively. For example, many organizations operate in hybrid environments where some systems require older software versions for compatibility reasons—pre-owned licenses are ideal in such cases, as these versions are often no longer available directly from vendors.

What are the main advantages of buying pre-owned software licenses for companies?

One of the main advantages is cost efficiency. Pre-owned software licenses allow companies to significantly reduce their IT expenditure, in many cases by 50% or more compared to buying new licenses, without compromising on functionality or compliance.

Another key benefit is legal reliability. All licenses we provide are fully compliant with European legislation, especially with the Court of Justice of the EU’s ruling that allows the resale of perpetual software licenses. This means companies can legally buy and use these licenses with confidence.

Scalability and flexibility are also important. Many organizations need to upgrade or expand their IT infrastructure quickly, and pre-owned software can be deployed fast, without long procurement processes or mandatory subscriptions.

Lastly, it’s a sustainable choice. By reusing software, companies contribute to reducing electronic waste and extending the life cycle of digital products, which aligns with many firms' ESG goals.

How is the legal validity and compliance of these licenses ensured?

Legal validity and compliance are at the core of our business model. At Forscope, we strictly follow the legal framework set by the Court of Justice of the European Union, particularly the 2012 ruling (C-128/11), which confirmed that the resale of perpetual software licenses is fully legal within the EU, as long as specific conditions are met.

We ensure this compliance by sourcing only perpetual licenses that have been fully paid for by the original buyer, are no longer in use, and were initially sold within the European Economic Area. Each transaction is backed by full documentation, including declarations of origin and previous ownership, so our clients can confidently present their licenses during audits.

In short, any company that works with us can be assured that they are making a legally secure and transparent IT investment.

How can companies achieve significant savings by purchasing used software?

Buying pre-owned software licenses can save businesses and other organizations between 30% and 80% compared to purchasing new licenses. This makes it an attractive option for organizations looking to optimize IT budgets without sacrificing software functionality.

These savings can be particularly impactful for organizations undergoing digital transformation, expanding their teams, or upgrading outdated systems. By reallocating the budget normally spent on high-cost licensing, companies can invest more in cybersecurity, employee training, or infrastructure improvements - all without compromising on the quality or legality of the software they use.

Additionally, used software licenses offer predictable, one-time costs, unlike subscription-based models that often lead to rising operational expenses over time. This financial transparency supports long-term planning and helps IT departments stay within budget while still meeting technical and compliance requirements.

In essence, choosing pre-owned software is not only a cost-saving measure - it’s a strategic decision that supports smarter, more sustainable IT spending.

How can companies optimize their software licenses through used licenses?

Companies can optimize their software licensing by using pre-owned licenses to fill gaps in their infrastructure in a flexible and cost-efficient way. For example, many organizations have mixed environments where some systems require older software versions for compatibility reasons - used licenses are ideal in such cases, as they are often no longer available directly from vendors.

Pre-owned licenses also allow businesses to standardize their software environment across departments without the financial strain of buying entirely new licenses. This is especially useful during mergers, expansions, or restructuring efforts when aligning systems quickly and affordably is critical.

Furthermore, by combining pre-owned perpetual licenses with existing software assets, companies can reduce dependency on long-term subscriptions, gain more control over their licensing strategy, and avoid unnecessary renewals. This level of flexibility makes license optimization both a financial and operational advantage.

Ultimately, pre-owned licenses help IT managers tailor their licensing portfolio to actual business needs, rather than being locked into predefined vendor bundles.

What consulting and support services are available when selecting used licenses?

When selecting used licenses, companies don’t just benefit from cost savings — they also receive comprehensive consulting and support to ensure they make the right choices for their specific needs.

At Forscope, we begin by offering a detailed assessment of the client’s current software infrastructure. Based on this, we provide tailored recommendations that take into account legal compliance, version compatibility, and long-term scalability. This helps organizations avoid over-licensing or purchasing software that doesn’t align with their actual requirements.

In addition to the initial consultation, our team offers support throughout the procurement process, including guidance on documentation for audits, license management best practices, and post-sale technical assistance where needed.

Our goal is not just to sell software, but to act as a long-term partner, helping clients make informed, secure, and cost-effective IT decisions.

How are the specific needs of companies for software solutions assessed?

Every sale at Forscope is unique – our representatives discuss the needs with the client and offer the best solution available, be it a combination of pre-used software licenses and new licenses, on-premises or cloud licenses, or something else. This includes analyzing their existing IT assets, uncovering hidden licensing options, and recommending alternatives beyond vendor-promoted solutions.

We can even provide a range of current and older software versions if needed, allowing customers to maintain compatibility with existing systems or implement hybrid licensing models. We do not sell licenses via click-and-buy approach, as we believe this would negatively impact the benefit that clients get from doing business with us. This makes the process somewhat longer, but delivers the solutions optimized to the last detail of client needs.

We also assist businesses in identifying redundant or unused licenses, facilitating their resale or transfer, and turning them into financial returns instead of discarding them. This helps organizations optimize their IT asset portfolios and recover value.

We offer webinars, virtual roundtables, and expert-led sessions for IT leaders, procurement teams, and C-suite executives. These sessions cover licensing best practices, cost management, cybersecurity, and regulatory compliance and are aimed at our existing but also our future customers.

Can you explain the process of buying and selling used software licenses?

The process of buying and selling used software licenses is well-structured and fully compliant with European legislation.

It starts with the identification and verification of the licenses being sold. These must be perpetual licenses, originally acquired within the European Economic Area (EEA), fully paid for, and no longer in use by the previous owner. Forscope ensures that all these conditions are met and thoroughly documented.

Once verified, the licenses are transferred to the buyer, along with all necessary legal documentation, including declarations of origin and prior ownership, which is essential for passing internal or external software audits.

On the buyer’s side, the process is seamless. After consultation to identify the right products, clients receive the licenses in digital format, along with clear installation instructions and support where needed. If requested, we also assist with compliance documentation and audit preparation.

Overall, it’s a straightforward, legally sound process that delivers real value, especially for companies looking to optimize their IT investments without unnecessary costs.

What are the key steps that companies need to take when selling their unnecessary licenses?

The resale of used software licenses is legal in the EU, based on the “principle of exhaustion” established by the European Court of Justice. It is important to note that only perpetual licenses (not subscriptions or SaaS) that were originally purchased within the EU/EEA and have been fully uninstalled by the seller can be resold.

The process usually begins with the seller reviewing their software inventory to identify licenses that are no longer needed and meet legal resale criteria (perpetual, purchased in the EU, uninstalled). This includes gathering all necessary documents, including original proof of purchase, license agreements, and documentation of the license’s history (chain of ownership if applicable).

Our experts will then carefully review this documentation to ensure that the sale is legal. We will not proceed with the process if the documentation is incomplete, out of order or if we have any doubt about the software origin. When we are satisfied that everything is in order, the seller will sign the agreement transferring the rights and documentation to us. The software is usually already de-installed by the seller by this point.

When selling these licenses to our customers, we will also transfer the necessary documentation and proof of authenticity with a written guarantee of license validity. We also offer liability insurance to our clients, which covers any potential damage that may occur in connection with the purchase of used software from Forscope, ensuring our customers are protected if issues arise related to the legality or validity of the licenses they acquire from us.

How are different legal regulations in countries within the European Economic Area dealt with?

Although the resale of used software licenses is governed by EU-wide legislation, we are aware that enforcement practices and familiarity with the legal framework can vary from one EEA country to another. That’s why Forscope works closely with both its legal experts and local partners to ensure that every transaction is not only compliant with European law but also aligned with any specific national procedures or requirements.

A key foundation of our approach is the European Court of Justice (ECJ) ruling C-128/11, which confirmed the legality of reselling perpetual software licenses. Importantly, the ECJ ruling explicitly states that the principle of exhaustion must be interpreted uniformly across the EU, not left to differing national interpretations. This creates a harmonized legal framework throughout all EU/EEA jurisdictions, ensuring that the same legal principles apply regardless of the EEA country where the transaction takes place; software originally placed on the market in any EU/EEA country can be legally resold across the entire area; licenses first sold in one EU country can be transferred freely to users in another, without legal obstacles.

In short, this EU-level harmonization provides Forscope’s clients with the confidence that their purchase is not only cost-effective but also fully compliant with both European and local legal standards.

What role do partnerships with software manufacturers play in providing solutions?

Partnerships with software manufacturers play an important strategic role in how we provide solutions to our clients. While our core business focuses on pre-owned software, we also work closely with authorized distributors and software vendors to offer hybrid licensing solutions - combining both new and pre-owned licenses based on the client’s actual needs.

These partnerships enable us to offer greater flexibility and broader product availability, especially in cases where certain software versions or editions are only available directly from vendors. They also allow us to provide clients with accurate, up-to-date licensing information, ensuring that any solution we propose is both technically sound and legally compliant.

In many cases, especially with public institutions or large enterprises, our ability to combine cost-effective pre-owned options with vendor-backed support or cloud integrations results in a more customized and scalable solution than they could achieve through a single licensing channel.

Ultimately, these partnerships help us serve as a trusted advisor, not just a software reseller - guiding clients through complex IT and licensing decisions while maximizing both value and compliance.

How do partnerships with manufacturers like Microsoft affect the product and service offering?

Partnerships with manufacturers like Microsoft enhance our ability to offer clients more complete, flexible, and compliant solutions. While Forscope specializes in pre-owned software, our cooperation with official distributors and vendors allows us to combine used and new licenses, creating hybrid licensing models that align with each client’s operational and legal needs.

For example, a client might use pre-owned Microsoft Office or Windows licenses across most of their workstations but still require new licenses for cloud services, software assurance, or specific integrations. In these cases, our relationship with Microsoft partners ensures that we can source and implement the right mix of products.

These partnerships also enable us to stay up to date with licensing changes, helping clients navigate evolving Microsoft policies, particularly around topics like cloud migration, perpetual vs. subscription licensing, and audit readiness.

Ultimately, the impact is clear: our clients benefit from cost-effective, technically compatible, and fully compliant solutions, made possible through our strong industry partnerships.

How are products from different software companies combined to meet customer needs?

It is important to understand that manufacturer consent is not legally required for license resale under EU law.

However, our partnerships with software manufacturers enable us to deliver customized solutions to our clients, combining new and resold licenses when needed, combining cloud and on-premises solutions at the best price level for our customers, and helping ensure that licensing, distribution, and support are handled in compliance with local laws and regulations.

We combine products from different software companies when needed, providing optimized solutions for our clients. What licenses are needed and what type of licenses, is determined during the pre-sale process.

How do you approach the needs of different sectors, such as public administration or SMEs, when providing used software solutions?

We take a sector-specific approach when providing used software solutions because the needs of public institutions and SMEs can differ significantly in terms of budget constraints, compliance requirements, and infrastructure complexity.

For the public sector, legal compliance and transparency are paramount. We ensure that every license we provide comes with complete documentation to support audits and procurement requirements. Our team is well-versed in public procurement regulations and we offer consulting to help institutions find cost-efficient, audit-proof solutions that often allow them to modernize IT systems without exceeding budget limits.

In the case of SMEs, the focus is often on flexibility, scalability, and fast implementation. Many smaller businesses are looking to optimize their resources while maintaining software reliability. Used software allows them to access well-established, fully functional tools at a fraction of the cost of new licenses, helping them grow without the burden of high IT expenses.

In both sectors, our goal is the same: to deliver legal, tailored, and financially smart solutions that support long-term operational efficiency.

What specific services are offered to public institutions compared to private companies?

At Forscope, we tailor our services to address the distinct needs of public institutions and private companies, as they operate under different priorities and legal frameworks.

For public institutions, our focus is on ensuring regulatory compliance, transparency, and audit readiness. We provide detailed licensing documentation, such as declarations of origin and de-installation, to meet the strict requirements of public procurement processes. We also offer guidance on how pre-owned software can be lawfully included in public tenders, in full alignment with EU and national legislation. Additionally, we support public institutions in optimizing their IT budgets, helping them modernize legacy systems within financial constraints while maintaining legal and operational integrity.

In the case of private companies—particularly SMEs and larger enterprises—the emphasis is often on flexibility, speed of implementation, and maximizing return on investment. We help these clients quickly deploy licenses at scale, often combining pre-owned and new software in hybrid licensing models tailored to their operational needs. Our ongoing consultation ensures that businesses optimize their software usage, reduce costs, and are prepared for any internal or vendor-led audits.

In both sectors, our mission remains the same: to deliver legally compliant, cost-efficient, and effective software solutions that support long-term IT strategy.

How are solutions tailored to the needs of SMEs?

At Forscope, we recognize that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) require solutions that are not only affordable but also flexible and tailored to their actual usage. Our approach starts with a thorough assessment of the company’s infrastructure, goals, and software environment during the pre-sale process. We proceed with the sale only when the customer is fully satisfied with the solution offered, both in terms of functionality and value.

For example, while a large public organization or financial institution might need many licenses for a previous version of an operating system or office software to ensure compatibility with its existing ERP system on new hardware, a small organization might take a different approach. Many SMEs look to combine the most cost-effective pre-owned licenses with a few cloud-based licenses to balance affordability with modern functionality. This hybrid model helps them optimize IT costs while maintaining operational flexibility.

By tailoring each solution to the client's specific needs - whether it's version compatibility, scalability, or licensing model - we enable SMEs to make smart, legally sound software investments that support long-term growth without overextending their budget.

What are the plans for future expansion in the CEE markets in the context of used software trade?

Forscope is actively pursuing expansion across Central and Eastern Europe, driven by the growing demand for cost-effective and legally compliant software solutions. Since its foundation, the company has established a strong presence in the region, with operations in multiple EU countries and a clear focus on providing tailored software strategies for businesses, public institutions, and IT partners.

The expansion strategy is built on offering value through pre-owned software licenses, helping organizations reduce IT costs while maintaining full compliance with European regulations. As digital transformation accelerates across the CEE region, more institutions are seeking sustainable and budget-friendly ways to modernize their infrastructure — a need that Forscope is well-positioned to meet.

Looking ahead, the company plans to deepen its presence in existing markets while entering new ones, guided by its commitment to transparency, flexibility, and client-focused service. By continuing to develop hybrid licensing models, support for cloud integration, and sector-specific consulting, Forscope aims to become the go-to partner for smart software procurement across the region.

How do you plan to respond to the growing market need for software solutions?

We are based in Brno, Czech Republic and we operate primarily in Central and Eastern Europe and maintain a strong local presence in nine countries across the region - Czech Republic, Slovakia, Poland, Hungary, Croatia, Slovenia, Romania, Bulgaria and Greece.

As a managing director for Croatia and Slovenia, I oversee the Forscope operations in these two countries, supported by a strong central team which provides sales support and high-level legal and tech expertise.

We are actively considering the expansion to other markets in the region. The timing and locations of any future expansion will be determined by our management according to the opportunities and specific conditions of each market.

How do you see the future of the software license resale market in Central and Eastern Europe, given the increasingly rapid technological changes?

We see a great opportunity to expand the business, as companies look to optimize their costs and as the software use and the number of licenses is increasing.

The process of digital transformation, moving the business away from paper documents to digital storage and exchange, will drive the increase in software use among both large and small customers, as will the upcoming legal changes requiring e-invoicing in B2B transactions.

How does the company adapt to cloud technologies?

We do not see cloud as a “Holy Grail”, nor do we run from it. At Forscope, our approach to cloud technologies is balanced, pragmatic, and client-focused. We recommend the cloud solutions - or hybrid on-premises/cloud licensing models – only when they are the right fit for the client’s technical and operational needs.

In many cases, particularly for organizations with specific compliance requirements or legacy infrastructure, a fully cloud-based model may not be suitable or cost-efficient. That’s why we work closely with each client to assess their current environment, budget, long-term strategy, and internal capabilities before making any recommendations.

When cloud solutions offer clear advantages - such as scalability, remote access, or integration with modern tools - we incorporate them into our proposal, often alongside cost-effective pre-owned on-premises licenses. This hybrid model allows clients to benefit from the flexibility of the cloud while maintaining control over licensing costs and infrastructure.

Our goal is not to push a one-size-fits-all solution, but to offer a realistic, sustainable path forward, where technology genuinely supports business outcomes. In short, we help clients navigate cloud adoption on their own terms - aligned with their goals, compliance needs, and budget expectations.

What are the main obstacles you face in business, and how do you overcome them?

One of the main obstacles we face in the used software business is misconception and lack of awareness, both around the legality of pre-owned licenses and their technical reliability. Many potential clients, especially in the public sector or large enterprises, are initially hesitant because they’re unfamiliar with the EU legal framework that supports software license resale.

To overcome this, we invest heavily in client education and transparent communication. We provide clear legal documentation, explain the relevant rulings - such as the European Court of Justice decision on license resale - and offer full support during audits or procurement processes. Once clients understand the legal clarity and financial value, trust builds quickly.

Another ongoing challenge is the rapid evolution of licensing models, especially with cloud services and subscription-based offerings. Vendors often adjust their licensing terms, which can create confusion or uncertainty for clients. We address this by staying deeply informed on vendor policy changes and by offering flexible, hybrid licensing strategies that allow clients to adapt gradually, rather than being locked into one model.

Finally, public procurement frameworks can sometimes be rigid or unclear about how to include pre-owned software. We support institutions by helping them structure tenders properly and by providing all the required documentation to ensure compliance.

In all cases, the key to overcoming these challenges is a consultative approach, legal transparency, and long-term client support. It’s not just about selling software - it’s about helping organizations make smarter, more sustainable IT decisions.

How do you deal with competition in the market?

We respect all competitors who operate within the legal framework and contribute to raising awareness about the value of pre-owned software licenses. Healthy competition helps drive the market forward and ultimately benefits customers.

What sets Forscope apart is our long-standing presence in the industry, combined with deep technical and legal expertise. Over the years, we've built a reputation for reliability, transparency, and compliance, which is critical in a sector where trust and documentation are key.

In addition, our partnerships with software vendors and our ability to offer hybrid licensing models — combining pre-owned and new solutions — allow us to address a wide range of client needs. Whether it’s a small business looking for affordable software or a large institution managing complex compliance requirements, we are confident that Forscope offers the most well-rounded and future-proof solution for optimizing software licensing across any sector.

How do you ensure the constant growth and development of the company?

We ensure the constant growth and development of the company by focusing on three key pillars: customer trust, market adaptation, and internal expertise.

First, we place a strong emphasis on long-term relationships with our clients. By offering legally compliant, cost-effective, and tailored solutions - along with full transparency and post-sale support - we build trust that leads to repeat business and client referrals. This stable foundation allows us to grow sustainably.

Second, we closely monitor market trends and technology shifts, including the increasing role of cloud services, subscription models, and digital procurement standards. Rather than resisting change, we adapt our service offering - for example, by integrating hybrid licensing strategies or expanding into underserved sectors - to stay relevant and valuable.

Lastly, our growth is powered by a strong team of professionals with deep knowledge in licensing, legal compliance, IT, and sales. We invest in ongoing training and process improvement, ensuring that we remain agile, informed, and capable of supporting clients in a fast-evolving digital landscape.

In short, our growth is the result of delivering real value, staying flexible, and consistently maintaining the high standards our clients rely on.