Globus subscriptions have changed. Based on feedback from, and discussions with, existing subscribers we have moved away from a usage-based model to unlimited-use subscriptions with access to different sets of premium features. This change was motivated primarily by two recurring themes that came up in our conversations:
- The usage-based model creates disincentives for adoption. Without knowing the level of usage that a new endpoint may experience, many will err on the side of not adding it to their Globus subscription which goes counter to the goal of making Globus broadly available for all researchers. This also results in a proliferation of unmanaged endpoints which is equally undesirable from the perspective of system administrators.
- It is difficult for subscribers to forecast the rate of Globus adoption within their institution, and hence they cannot budget for the subscription with any level of predictability.
The new subscriptions are priced based on the institution’s Carnegie Classification. We use the level of research and development activity as a proxy for Globus usage that may be expected and, hence, the value that may be derived by researchers.
What does this mean for your institution? Many existing Globus subscribers will see no change in their subscription amount, while enjoying the benefits of unlimited use; some will need to budget for a higher amount; and a few will actually see their subscription cost go down. Any changes will only take effect when subscriptions come up for renewal - we will contact individual subscribers prior to renewal to discuss the best option, and encourage you to contact us in the meantime if you have any questions or concerns about this change.
As always, we greatly appreciate the support of our subscribers in helping to make Globus self-sustaining and hope that the new subscription structure will encourage at least some of the many thousands of "free" users to subscribe.