It has been way to long since I’ve posted anything. There have been a lot of changes with work (I’m still employed) and been busy spending time with my family. The summer goes by too fast.
A few weeks ago, SolidWorks launched their beta program. I’ve been a beta tester in the past and I recommend it to everyone. It’s a great way to get a sneak peak at the upcoming release and provide feedback. The one thing I hate about the beta program is the way it’s set-up for users on SolidNetwork licenes. Basically, you have to download a temp license, save it on your PC and for through 12 steps to get SolidWorks up and running. And the funny thing is, at the end of the instructions it says….and i quote…”Try to launch SolidWorks 2010 Beta.” I love that. Every time SolidWorks says “try” i get a little nervous!!
What I would like to see is SolidWorks issue a temp serial number that would expire after the beta program. SNL customers already get a home use license, why not a beta license? Or better yet, use the SolidWorks on a stick concept from a few years ago at SolidWorks World. For anyone that isn’t familiar with SolidWorks on a stick, it was a USB drive that had SolidWorks loaded on it. It was all concept and after 90 days it was invalid. The great part about this was you didn’t have to LOAD any software on your PC.
So, will I be beta testing? I don’t think so. I’ll look at the What’s New document (which anyone can download from the customer portal) and that’s about it.
I’d love to hear your comments on the beta program.
The beta team tells me that they’ve changed the process for SNL users this year. They say that you don’t have to do the file thing anymore, and that it uses the “activation” process. You should check it out.
Thanks Matt.
I was looking at it yesterday and it’s a step in the right direction that’s for sure.
Rob,
I manage the install team here at SolidWorks.
Matt’s comment is correct. We have added SNL activation to 2010. Our goal is to eliminate the various ‘SNL provisioning’ issues customers have had in the past (such as finding their license file, loading it up, etc.). We believe that for the vast majority of SNL users, setting up SNL now will be a point-and-click exercise.
We know that the beta website is not entirely clear on this issue, and I’m working to iron that out.
Let me know if you have any issues. I’d be glad to help.
Jim Cashman
Director of Integration, Installation, and Licensing Technology
Dassault Systemes SolidWorks Corp.
Thanks Jim.
What I would really like to see is being able to beta test with a home use license, since that’s were I do most of the testing anyway. In the past, i know that was a limitation.
Thanks for the comments!!
Rob,
I just saw on the Beta web site that you can now beta test with a home use license serial number.