Why Software Asset Management (SAM), you asked? Well for starter, your entire organization runs better with SAM. SAM lets you focus on running your business and takes your mind off things like unsupported programs, viruses and security problems stemming from a lack of patches or updates. A good SAM program also gives you financial security from unexpected licensing costs as well as providing tax benefits associated with software depreciation.

Further more, thorough software reconciliation, one important step in any good SAM plan, will show software that’s not being used but is still being maintained. That software can then be removed and used elsewhere along with its associated license.

Here are some other benefits a business can enjoy from a sound SAM program:

• SAM will improve relations with your software resellers and give you an advantage in future negotiations. A better knowledge of your software needs can enable you to buy in volume and let you take advantage of the price benefits associated with bulk purchases.
• Remotely diagnoses alerts before they turn into problems.SAM gives you a better understanding of how many and what types of licenses are needed. Should you buy on a per-person, per-PC basis, or look into volume license acquisition? Your SAM plan will tell you exactly what you need and save you money when it comes to purchasing your licenses.
• Software that functions as it should, and is trouble free, will result in better overall employee morale. A centralized SAM program will also cut down on individual training for managers and lower the costs associated with it.
• A proper SAM program limits your legal liability due to poor licensing practices and helps prevent any potential damage to your reputation that could arise from a lawsuit.
• SAM gives you better insight into your future software needs. Instead of buying all the newest software and updates available, you’ll be able to decide exactly what software is needed and when you’ll need it. With SAM you can plan for your future software needs now. This can also help you when deciding if new hardware is needed as well.
• There are two basic steps used to ensure good corporate governance: identifying the risks, and controlling and mitigating these risks. SAM can help you identify and control your software risks.

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