User:Cetrus/entry for editing

Cetrus
Cetrus offers a unique on-demand licensing solution for software publishers and the independent software vendor (ISV). It consists of a pay-per-use licensing platform whereby the end user natively installs the application on the PC, but usage is metered and charged in real-time through the user's internet connection. This allows the user to avoid paying for a traditional license, download to unlimited PC's at no cost and pay as you go.

The technology is similar in nature to software as a service (SaaS) or an application service provider (ASP) insofar as the applications can be accessed anywhere, on any PC with an internet connection. The clear distinction however is that the applications are not remotely hosted: Cetrus-enabled applications can be installed on the users workstation like any other software while Cetrus continually licenses the application via the internet.

This provides a more robust user experience as large complex applications can rely on the computing power and resources of the PC, and there is no delay or slow "spawn" times typically associated with remotely hosted applications. Software files and libraries can also be stored and accessed natively. On Demand is widely considered the next generation in software distribution where on-premises software or "shrink wrapped" applications are noticeably being phased out.

Origins
Cetrus was developed by engineers in 1999 who were convinced that there was a better way to license analytical and design applications specifically for the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) business. They realized that it is far more effective for a company to conserve capital by renting equipment, hiring subcontractors and generally running the business on a cost plus markup basis. The internet was the first tool that allowed them to run their analytical applications, licensed via a browser, hence providing them with the flexibility and mobility that became essential in this competitive field. Cetrus developed and still uses billing technology called Expense-to-Project (E2P), whereby the consultant can submit software usage costs to their projects or customers as a reimbursable expense.

Current Status
Cetrus LLC is headquartered in San Ramon, CA. Cetrus' publisher partners as well as it's customers can be found globally. The latest platform was completed in March 2008 and is the current system used by Cetrus customers. Cetrus has expanded it's market breadth beyond the AEC industry as a solution to any software publisher who's install-base may find on demand meets their unique licensing needs.