Zoom
Video conferencing, webinars & events
- Collaboration & Communication
- Subscription
For · IT departments and HR teams at organisations with 50 to 5000 employees
Zoom has evolved from a video conferencing tool to a full communications platform with telephony, webinars, contact centre solutions, and AI capabilities. After explosive growth during the pandemic, many organisations were left with oversized Zoom contracts that have never been reviewed.
Zoom operates a user-based licence model. Most organisations pay for more hosts than they actually need. Additionally, add-ons like Zoom Phone and Zoom Webinar are often purchased separately without strategic consideration.
Procurement considerations
- Audit active hosts before renewal
Zoom provides insight into actual usage via the admin portal. Check how many hosts have been active in the past 90 days. In most organisations, 20-40% of seats are inactive.
- Bundle add-ons wisely
Zoom Phone, Webinar and Rooms are often purchased separately. Significant discounts can be negotiated through bundle deals. Always enquire about all-in suite pricing.
- Compare with Microsoft Teams
If the organisation already uses Microsoft 365, Teams may be a free alternative for some Zoom functionality. This creates leverage during negotiations.
Compliance risks
- Data storage outside the EU
Zoom stores recordings and chat logs by default in US data centres. For GDPR compliance, additional settings and contractual agreements are required.
- Ghost users after reorganisations
During reorganisations, Zoom accounts are rarely deactivated immediately. Licences continue for employees who have long since left.
Frequently asked questions about Zoom
Frequently asked questions about Zoom licences and procurement.
Can I downgrade my Zoom contract mid-term?
Mid-term downgrades are generally not possible under most Zoom contracts without penalty clauses. However, you can adjust volumes at the next renewal. SoftVaro supports this process and negotiates an earlier exit where possible.
What is the difference between Zoom Business and Enterprise?
Business is suitable for organisations up to 300 employees. Enterprise offers unlimited hosts, dedicated customer success, and better SLAs. Beware: Enterprise often requires a minimum commitment that is not always necessary.
Relevant knowledge base articles
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