The Usage consumption type of a resource
Original Publishing Date:
2021-03-23
Introduction
Starting from CloudBlue Commerce version 21.0 (version 20.5 with the installed BSS 20.5-2058 hotfix), a new Usage consumption type is introduced for a resource. This Usage consumption type does not allow you to change the additional limit of a resource in a subscription. It is always equal to zero.
It can be used for postpaid (measurable, usage-based) resources, as it allows you to set setup or recurring fees to zero, which in turn enables Flat Product Catalog features.
However, it is not the right solution for prepaid (non-measurable, limit-based) resources. The same effect can be reached by setting IncludedValue=MaximumValue in resource rates, which is not valid for postpaid resources, because it disables resource overuse.
Checking whether it is possible to set the Usage consumption type for a resource
-
From the technical point of view: check whether there are no subscriptions with a non-zero additional (or ordered) limit for a resource (resourceID).
If such subscriptions are found, correct them using downsizing orders.
-
From the business point of view: check whether a resource (resourceID) is not being sold or is available to be purchased as prepaid.
If such resources are found, check whether the subscriptions are billed correctly according to the specified resource and that you chose the right resource.
Such a resource was configured to be sold or was sold as prepaid in some resource rates, however, as mentioned above, it will not be possible to buy or increase an additional limit for such resource rates, making the configuration useless and confusing.
Note: You may leave such resource rates as is, however, the corresponding warning will always be displayed. This is often the best solution, if such resources are in EOLed plans or old subscriptions.
Setting the Usage consumption type for a resource
To set the Usage consumption type for a resource manually:
In the PCP or RPC, go to Billing > Products > Resources.
Select the required resource and set the Consumption Type to Usage.
Note: If you have many resources to be updated, contact your technical account manager or Ingram Micro support.