Historically, many Software Asset Management projects have failed to deliver value, in large part because they are reactionary in nature. That is, an audit has just been completed and the “we never want to go through that again” attitude develops. Or, notice of an audit has been received and vendor management is looking for data to support a renewal negotiation, and IT is pressed for information to support the process.

The problem is two-fold. This hasn’t been IT’s most pressing problem and the information is scattered throughout the organization, including vendor management itself! Many times the data is in systems IT may not have access to such as those developing from shadow IT trends, or worse, in the hands of outsourcers.

Whatever the reason, to begin to solve this challenge, it is important to not repeat the mistakes of the past, i.e. relying on silos of information with an attempt to force an integration strategy. Instead the challenge can be solved with a modern, fully unified and integrated SAM solution that operates on a continuous basis, delivering current information to each operating unit as required.

But, equally important is a tool strategy to support this important initiative. Many organizations make the mistake of starting at the end rather than the beginning. That is, “fix my Microsoft problem,” so I can get my renewal done. Or, “help me with my Oracle estate because I know I am not using all those databases.” The average corporation has 15 to 20 strategic software vendors. In the absence of an on-going SAM program, a piecemeal approach will just lead to the organization continuing to be on its back foot every time some concern about software raises its head. With software comprising anywhere between 20 and 30% of an IT organization’s cost, this problem is not insignificant.

To help solve this challenge, download the white paper, “How the 6 Key Elements of a Unified Tool Ensure SAM Success.” The paper outlines six critical elements that should be considered in a tightly connected and sequential fashion to improve the success of SAM programs. Enjoy it with our compliments!