In order to reduce the risk of being audited by the Business Software Alliance (BSA) or the Software and Information Industry Association (SIIA), organizations utilize a business practice that involves managing the purchase, maintenance and removal of software applications called Software Asset Management (SAM). The goal of SAM for most companies centers on balancing the number of software licenses purchased with the number of copies installed. This inventory process assists the organization in assuring that there are minimal occurrences of software piracy in the event of an audit by the Business Software Alliance or the Software and Information Industry Association.
There are a several types of technologies to help sustain SAM processes. One of the most crucial means for supporting SAM is software inventory tools. Sometimes called discovery tools, these programs “discover” software installed across an entire computer network, and collect software file information including title, the product ID and the version being used. A number of inventory tools compare software inventory data with purchasing information to expose any licensing deficiencies and any licensing compliance issues.
Since discovery tools are designed to search for a large array of different types of software, several different discovery tools may be necessary to obtain a complete picture of what software is being used in an organization. In addition, because there are so many types of software licenses, a great level of sophistication is necessary when creating inventory using discovery tools. In many instances, it is a better decision to seek outside assistance when conducting an inventory as part of an organization’s software asset management.
An effective SAM plan is critical in today’s business world. Software Asset Management is the most effective way to reduce the risk of being audited by the Business Software Alliance or the Software and Information Industry Association. The attorneys at Dorman Bell have worked with clients to develop Software Asset Management plans. With over twenty years of software development and software license experience, our attorneys can facilitate a software compliance audit that can maximize a company’s software licenses as well as minimize potential fines and future exposure to the BSA or the SIIA. For more information, call us at (214) 736-7168 or visit our contact page and we will get back with you as soon as possible. Our extensive background and experience will benefit you and we look forward to serving you!