Software asset management (SAM) is the business field that looks at how software is managed within a company. The field of software management takes into account all of the backend infrastructure and pieces of software that inform the sale, maintenance, and possible discarding of all software packages and applications. This way you can be sure that you have the right number of licenses so you don’t waste money on unnecessary software.
Risks Associated with SAM
Software asset management is not without risks. Considering the fact that software asset management is part of a larger information technology infrastructure in an organization, many of the same goals and liabilities apply to IT as software asset management.
The overarching aim behind software asset management is to lower the amount of risk and cost associated with information technology inherent to a company or organization. When providing IT support for San Diego businesses, our consultants always say that a well-organized software asset management infrastructure will be able to streamline the use and dissemination of software within an organization.
Typical Liabilities Associated with SAM
Software asset management comes with some unique risks that many business owners are unprepared to navigate. Since software asset management encompasses the dissemination and discarding of software packages, there are legal liabilities associated with the software’s expiration date and its proper disposal.
A well-oiled software asset management initiative as part of an overarching IT business strategy would keep tabs on software licenses and ensure that only authorized users interface with the software. In other words, hefty legal fees can be sidestepped when a software asset management strategy takes into account the proper use of licenses and other compliance issues.
How to Maximize SAM
Software asset management should primarily take into account software licenses and their expiration dates. It’s important to investigate any unethical uses of software while minimizing avoidable legal and managing costs associated with piracy or misuse.
If you have additional questions about SAM, don’t hesitate to reach out to our IT consultants in San Diego. We’re here to help and can answer any questions you may have regarding your business technology. Call 760-650-3300 and schedule a consultation today.