Software Asset Management Governance

Governance across the Software Asset Management (SAM) program relates to consistent management, cohesive policies, guidance and processes. Governance is performed at many levels within your SAM program from the business as usual activities in procuring software licences right through to executive forum SAM steering committees. Due to the significant financial, legal and reputational issues that are involved in SAM, a strong governance program is mandatory to ensure that the benefits, budgets, risks, probity and business support functions are well known, understood, monitored and reported on.

1. Introduction to Financial Management

Financial management is critical to a successful Software Asset Management (SAM) program. It provides critical financial data around software and related assets that supports business decision making. It is essential for calculating total cost of ownership and return on investment, but most importantly it enables an organisation to report on the financial savings the SAM program brings. There are a number of key aspects that need to be considered when implementing financial management process and controls for software. To request this article click on the appropriate button for members and non-members.  

2. Introduction to Policy

Having specialised SAM policies defined within an organisation is critical to achieving the objectives of the SAM Plan. They can be used to avoid the negative ramifications of a poor SAM implementation, seek to provide a positive benefit or a mechanism to instigate disciplinary action in the case of serious breaches. Generic Information Technology or Financial policies whilst effective, fail to provide the focused lens on an organisations management and use of software. To request this article click on the appropriate button for members and non-members.