Succeeding with SAM: How to Uncover Significant Savings in Software Spend

In today's digital landscape, efficient management of software assets is crucial for organizations seeking to maximize value and minimize costs. Software Asset Management (SAM) involves understanding software usage, optimizing license positions, and ensuring compliance. SAM aims to strike a balance between avoiding legal consequences due to overuse and eliminating unnecessary costs from underuse.

SAM's primary goals encompass compliance, risk mitigation, and cost optimization. By proactively managing software assets, organizations can optimize investments, avoid security breaches, and make informed decisions about software procurement and usage.

SAM brings significant potential for savings. On average, organizations waste around 30% of their software spend1. Key strategies for uncovering savings include optimizing large software renewals or renegotiations, identifying and addressing underutilized resources like "zombie" servers, optimizing Software as a Service (SaaS) usage, eliminating waste in shadow IT, and leveraging cloud services efficiently1.

In a world where software expenses account for a substantial portion of budgets, mastering SAM is essential. By adopting effective practices, organizations can achieve better financial control, compliance, and operational excellence in managing their software assets.