This article explains the different Adobe software license buying programs used at Drake and available to faculty and staff. Adobe software orders must be processed through ITS to ensure the best pricing and allow for centralized software management.
NOTE: We cannot guarantee full ITS technical support for Adobe software not ordered through ITS.
Adobe License Program Overview
ITS manages the Drake Creative Cloud master license agreement to maintain compliance with the annual subscription renewal. We can easily transfer licenses to a different user as needed. Here are a few options to consider before requesting an order.
Named-user License:
- All Apps – this is a full suite of 20+ applications, including Photoshop, Illustrator, Acrobat, and more.
- Single App – includes access to only one application and is cheaper than the All Apps suite.
- Acrobat Pro – this is best for a user that only works with Acrobat files.
A user license is assigned to a specific person with rights to install on up to two computers for work and home use. The license is assigned to the person’s Drake email address.
Device License:
A device license is installed on a shared computer for use on classroom or lab computers only. Departments typically purchase the All Apps full suite license for lab computers.
Recent Change to Perpetual License:
Adobe will stop providing core support for Acrobat version 2020 perpetual licenses on June 1, 2025. They will not release a new Acrobat version in the perpetual format. All new purchase requests for Acrobat are required to switch to the subscription-based license as of March 2024.
How to Get a Quote and Place an Order
Once you’ve determined what you want to order, the Software Request can be used in a two-step process.
Quote Request (Step 1)
- Submit your Software Request through the IT Service Portal.
- ITS will respond with a vendor quote.
- If you decide not to order, the request will be closed.
Standard quotes are valid for 30 days, with some exceptions. Pricing for Creative Cloud subscriptions change monthly because the license is pro-rated to align with Drake's annual expiration date.
Order Request (Step 2)
After you receive the quote, you can submit an order request using the same ticket number assigned to your quote request.
- Fill out the Adobe Software Order Form (linked to the Software Request service and this article).
- Upload the order form to the Software Request ticket.
- ITS will order the Adobe software.
Installation
For named-user licenses: The user will receive an email from Adobe confirming they have access to Drake's license membership. The user then installs the software. Before attempting to download any apps, it is important that users follow the steps to authenticate to the correct account (see the linked article on this page).
For device licenses: An ITS technician will install the license on the designated computer.
FAQ:
How do employees renew their annual Creative Cloud subscription?
Licenses are renewed annually in June before the July 3 expiration date. ITS will review each department's license summary with a budget manager. Renewals will be processed by ITS and the cost will be charged back to each individual department.
What happens to a Creative Cloud subscription license if an employee leaves Drake?
The license will remain active through the remainder of the subscription term. A license can be transferred to a different user. Submit a Software Request through the IT Service Portal for assistance with the transfer.
How do students get access to Adobe Creative Cloud software?
Adobe Creative Cloud is not available for free to students. However, Drake partners with On the Hub to offer a discounted price to the Adobe Creative Cloud for the first year of a student's subscription. Visit drake.onthehub.com and select Students, then Adobe.