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“37% of software installed on personal computers worldwide is unlicensed, representing a commercial value of $46.3 billion.”

— BSA | The Software Alliance, Global Software Survey | Source

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IT assets, including software and hardware, are an important asset for any company, and their proper management is compared to financial management. It requires adherence to strict rules, the involvement of qualified specialists and the support of appropriate tools. It is worth understanding that IT asset management is not only a technical issue, but also a strategic one, affecting the financial stability and legal compliance of the organization.

A key element of IT asset management is compliance with licensing laws. Software manufacturers often specify detailed terms of use for their products, and failure to comply can lead to serious financial and legal consequences. Proper software management policies and the use of Software Asset Management (SAM) tools are essential to ensure full license compliance and minimize the risks associated with unauthorized use of software.

The role of the SAM system in the organization

Definition of the SAM system

Software Asset Management (SAM) is a set of best practices and technologies that help organizations manage their software assets throughout their lifecycle. The goal of SAM is to optimize the use of licenses, minimize software-related costs and ensure compliance with manufacturers’ licensing requirements.

Why organizations need a SAM system

The implementation of the SAM system brings many benefits that directly affect the efficiency and operational security of the organization. Among the most important of these are:

  • **Cost reduction **: With better license management, organizations can avoid u

ecessary spending on redundant or unused licenses.

  • Identification and reduction of financial risks: The SAM system allows for ongoing monitoring of license compliance, which minimizes the risk of financial penalties associated with unauthorized use of software.

  • License compliance: Automated license audits ensure that the organization is always operating in compliance with the terms and conditions set by software manufacturers.

  • Optimization of IT resources: By accurately tracking and managing IT resources, organizations can better plan investments and avoid u

ecessary expenses.

**Examples of SAM system application **

In practice, the SAM system can be implemented in a variety of ways, depending on the specifics and needs of a particular organization. Examples of application include:

  • Manufacturing companies: Optimize CAD and ERP software licenses, which are critical to the manufacturing process.

  • Financial sector: manage accounting and analytical software licenses, ensuring compliance with financial regulations.

  • Government organizations: Monitor software usage to ensure compliance with security and privacy regulations.

Norms and standards in IT asset management

Overview of ISO 19770-1

ISO 19770-1 is an international standard that defines best practices for software asset management. The standard aims to ensure that organizations manage their IT assets in an efficient, legally compliant and secure ma

er.

How standards affect the quality of software management

ISO 19770-1 affects the quality of software management by requiring organizations to maintain accurate records, regularly audit IT assets and use automated license management tools. Adherence to these requirements helps organizations avoid problems associated with unauthorized use of software and ensures full license compliance.

**Examples of the standard’s requirements and their implementation **

ISO 19770-1 requirements include:

  • **License documentatio **: Organizations must maintain accurate records of all software licenses held.

  • Regular audits: Conduct regular license audits to ensure compliance with license terms.

  • **Process automation **: Use of tools to automatically manage licenses and monitor usage.

Implementation of these requirements can be achieved by implementing advanced SAM tools that automate most license management processes and ensure full compliance with ISO 19770-1.

Tools and technologies to support SAM

Overview of audit tools for pre-SAM

Pre-SAM audit tools are used to prepare an organization for the implementation of a full SAM system. They help assess the current state of IT asset management, identify gaps and develop an action plan. The most important pre-SAM tools include:

  • License Auditor: A tool to analyze license compliance with actual software usage.

  • Inventory tools: Automated tools for gathering information about all IT assets in an organization.

SAM tool description

Gartner Magic Quadrant

The Gartner Magic Quadrant is a report that ranks and evaluates SAM tools available on the market, helping organizations choose the best solution. The tools are evaluated on their functionality, ease of use and ability to integrate with other IT systems.

CMDB

CMDB (Configuration Management Database) is a central database that stores information about all IT assets in an organization, including software, hardware and system configurations. The CMDB makes it possible to track and manage all elements of the IT infrastructure, which is crucial for effective asset management.

**SAM process automation **

Automating SAM processes is key to effective IT asset management. With automation, organizations can:

  • Reduce the time and costs associated with manual license management.

  • Ensure ongoing compliance with licensing requirements.

  • Automatically generate reports on software usage.

**SAM system implementation **

SAM implementation is a process consisting of several steps, including:

  • Needs analysis: Assess the current state of IT asset management and identify implementation goals.

  • **Tool selection **: Selecting the appropriate SAM tools that best meet the organization’s needs.

  • Implementation planning: Develop a detailed implementation plan, including timeline, resources and responsibilities.

  • Implementation: Implement selected SAM tools and train staff.

  • **Monitoring and optimization **: regularly monitor the SAM system and make necessary improvements.

Integration of SAM tools with existing IT systems

Integration of SAM tools with existing IT systems is crucial to ensure full functionality and compatibility. SAM tools should be integrated with CMDBs, financial systems and other IT management systems to ensure data integrity and facilitate asset management.

SAM system implementation process

Implementation planning

SAM implementation planning begins with a thorough analysis of the organization’s needs. Key steps include:

  • Identify implementation goals: What does the organization want to achieve with the SAM system?

  • Analysis of the current state of IT asset management: What are the current problems and deficiencies?

  • Choosing the right tools: Which tools best meet the organization’s needs?

The role of the SAM team

The SAM team, consisting of qualified professionals (License Accountants), plays a key role in the implementation process. This team is responsible for:

  • Prepare and conduct a license audit.

  • **Develop an implementation pla **.

  • Monitor and report on implementation progress.

  • Training of staff in the use of the SAM system.

Best implementation practices

Best implementation practices include:

  • Change Management: Effective change management is key to ensuring the success of SAM implementation. It is important that all employees are aware of and involved in the implementation process.

  • Training and technical support: Regular training and technical support help ensure that staff are able to use the SAM system effectively.

  • Regular auditing and optimization: Regular auditing and optimization of the SAM system helps maintain its efficiency and compliance with licensing requirements.

Business benefits of working with ARDURA Consulting

Unique features of ARDURA Consulting in the SAM area

ARDURA Consulting has distinguished itself in the field of IT asset management with its SAM identity since its inception. This company has advanced tools that it transfers to organizations with the utmost care in execution and implementation.

Competencies of ARDURA Consulting

ARDURA Consulting has expertise in various SAM solutions. The company also has its own development department, which allows it to individualize the SAM systems it implements, which fully addresses the needs of organizations and complex IT environments.

Automation of the software management process

ARDURA Consulting offers advanced solutions to automate software management processes, allowing for significant cost reductions and improved efficiency in IT asset management.

ISO 19770-1 software management compliance

Implementing SAM with ARDURA Consulting guarantees software management compliance with ISO 19770-1, which provides licensing security and reliable reports on the IT environment.

Licensing security and low maintenance costs

ARDURA Consulting provides full licensing security and low maintenance costs for SAM, so organizations can focus on their business without worrying about license compliance.

Summary and conclusions

Managing IT assets using a SAM system is crucial to the effective operation of modern organizations. There are many benefits to implementing a SAM system, including reducing costs, identifying financial risks, ensuring license compliance and optimizing IT assets.

The ISO 19770-1 standard and advanced SAM tools, such as those offered by ARDURA Consulting, allow for professional software management and ensure full compliance with licensing requirements.

Working with ARDURA Consulting provides unique benefits, including advanced process automation tools, compliance and low maintenance costs. This allows organizations to focus on their business, confident that their IT asset management is in good hands.

We sincerely encourage you to contact and cooperate with ARDURA Consulting to gain full control over software management and enjoy all the benefits of a professional SAM system.