Software Asset Management FAQ
What is software asset management (SAM)?
Software asset management (SAM) is a strategic initiative that enables organizations to achieve maximum value from their cloud and software investments.
What are the goals of software asset management?
The goals of software asset management are to reduce software license and cloud costs, minimize the time spent managing software and reduce the security and compliance risks to the organization.
How do you manage software licenses effectively?
An effective SAM program requires a combination of the proper people, processes, tools and knowledge to be successful.
What are the challenges of software asset management?
Management buy-in.
SAM requires cross-functional processes and support, and has both upfront and ongoing costs. Being able to tie your savings back to those costs is important.
Comprehensive.
You can only manage what you know. If your SAM tool and processes do not encompass the entire real estate you are basically ignoring or guessing at the remainder. Either way, make sure you have processes that, at a minimum, encompass your entire environment.
Must be flexible.
SAM is supposed to support the business, not stand in its way. To ensure controls are met while supporting business needs you need a cross-functional team and a SAM Manager who is able to successfully manage the moving parts.
Microsoft Agreement Negotiation FAQ
How do I determine the appropriate licensing for my organization’s needs?
Start first with understanding what you need.
What are your primary applications and who needs to access them? Is all access requirements the same or can some be web only, etc.?
Then understand your organization’s ability to track and manage consumption.
Do you need to buy as you go, or can you accurately manage an annual true-up?
Figure out your upgrade path and frequency.
Is this a one time need or will you use the software and future?
That will then lend itself to the best agreement type (or types, because you do not have to only stick with one).
What happens if a negotiation for a Microsoft Enterprise Agreement is unsuccessful?
There are many ways to purchase Microsoft software. If a negotiation is not garnering the results your business’s needs, we simply pivot to look at what is the best alternative. A Microsoft Enterprise Agreement is not always the best solution for an organization, sometimes it is a good fit for part of the organizations needs but not for others.
We don’t just negotiate Microsoft Enterprise Agreements; we help align the Microsoft offerings to what will best suit your needs.
We're here to help!
Ensure your software investment is managed appropriately
to curtail costs and manage risk.