I just tried installing SQL Server 2016 Enterprise but I noticed that Management Studio was not installed by default. I also noticed there is a separate link to SSMS in the installation guide which points to https://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/mt238290.aspx
What was the reason for this decision?
The following is noted on the above URL:
This generally available release of SSMS is free and does not require a SQL Server license to install and use.
Perhaps, this is it?
Welcome to our generally-available release of SQL Server Management Studio! This release of SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) is a stand-alone install outside of the SQL Server release. Our goal is to update this frequently with new functionality, fixes, and support for the newest features in SQL Server and Azure SQL Database [...]
This generally available release of SSMS is free and does not require a SQL Server license to install and use.
Team responsible for SMSS got separated and works with its' own development cycle. That means SMSS gets updated/released more often, and is independent from SQL Server releases.
Licencing You've mentioned is probably another reason behind that (and a reasonable one, if You think about it), but what's the most important is that SMSS has got some much needed attention at last.
SSMS is now a stand-alone product. Like most stand-alone product it will receive regular updates. This should ensure stability & give options to evolve the product over time.
