Why SAM?

Software licences are assets and should be managed as such. Software Asset Management (SAM) is a best-practice way for you to analyse what software you have, so you can determine what licences you need and manage your software more efficiently.

At Microsoft, we want to work with you openly and honestly on SAM, advising on the processes, tools and resources you’ll need to take full control of your software assets and licences.


SAM Optimization Model

In July Microsoft launched a new SAM evaluation framework aligned with Infrastructure Optimisation (IO). The SAM Optimisation Model (SOM) allows partners and customers to evaluate SAM effectively and objectively. Microsoft implemented this model to provide an established set of criteria which partners can follow with customers to make consistent SAM assessments and recommendations. The model also provides a framework to help customers understand and subsequently improve the state of their software asset management. The levels of SAM maturity: Basic, Standardized, Rational and Dynamic are the same as those of the IO framework. Using the Optimisation model, SAM Specialization Partners can offer guidance and create a roadmap to visualize benefits and savings at each stage of SAM Optimisation.

    For more information please visit the Microsoft Optimisation Partner Kit site


New SAM Optimization Kit

To help you understand SAM and how it can benefit your organisation a comprehensive SAM Optimisation Kit was developed. It provides fully documented evidence to help you communicate the value of SAM to management, legal, purchasing, and IT professionals in your organisation. In addition, it contains a step-by-step tutorial and several specialized tools to help you with your own SAM implementation.

    Download it here

Below are links to downloadable guides, webcasts, case studies and to Microsoft SAM Partners who can help you implement SAM within your business. These resources are provided by Microsoft to help you take the steps necessary to successfully implement a SAM plan within your organisation.