Microsoft launches Business benchmarking for Software Asset Management
Microsoft has always led the field in software asset management and license compliance from a software vendor perspective and their latest offering consolidates this position.
Their SAM Optimization Model, announced at their Worldwide Partner Conference in Houston this week, offers organisations an opportunity to benchmark themselves against a Software Asset Management maturity model.
The SAM Optimization apparently works along the same lines as the existing Optimization framework; that is; Basic, Standardized, Rationalized and Dynamic. Customers can work with their business partner to assess how they are doing in managing their software assets.
“The end goal of the evaluation is to assess the SAM Optimization level of the organization based on a set of consistent, established and objective criteria. Once customers know their level of optimization they can work to transition from one stage of optimization to the next, thereby maximizing their software assets and reaping the benefits of doing so” said Michael Beare, Director of License Compliance at Microsoft .
“This model enables the partner and the customer to have a structured conversation about the level of proficiency and maturity in a customer’s management of it’s software assets, approaching it from a management process perspective”.
The best news of all with this new initiative, is that Microsoft have wisely chosen to release the model openly into the partner community and benefit of all those working in the license management field, which will undoubtedly lead to an increase in maturity and professionalism with SAM professionals and consultants.
Microsoft Software Asset Management (SAM) Site
SAM Optimization Model Helps Move Customers Toward Dynamic IT
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About Martin Thompson
Martin is also the founder of ITAM Forum, a not-for-profit trade body for the ITAM industry created to raise the profile of the profession and bring an organisational certification to market. On a voluntary basis Martin is a contributor to ISO WG21 which develops the ITAM International Standard ISO/IEC 19770.
He is also the author of the book "Practical ITAM - The essential guide for IT Asset Managers", a book that describes how to get started and make a difference in the field of IT Asset Management. In addition, Martin developed the PITAM training course and certification.
Prior to founding the ITAM Review in 2008 Martin worked for Centennial Software (Ivanti), Silicon Graphics, CA Technologies and Computer 2000 (Tech Data).
When not working, Martin likes to Ski, Hike, Motorbike and spend time with his young family.
Connect with Martin on LinkedIn.