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What is SAM?What is SAM

Software Asset Management (SAM) is a best practice incorporating a set of proven processes and procedures for managing and optimising your organisation's IT assets. Implementing SAM protects your software investments and helps you recognise what you have, where it's running, and if your organisation is using your assets efficiently.

SAM can help you:
Control costs and business risks for a stronger, healthier financial position.

Optimise existing investments, so that you can do more with what you already have.

Grow with your company's expanding needs in size and maturity through increased flexibility and agility.

Learn more about SAM

Find out more details about the UK Microsoft SAM Programme


Implementing SAMImplementing SAM

You can implement SAM in your organisation by following four basic steps:

Take inventory. Find out what you already have.

Get organised. Organise all your software licenses and documentation.

Create policies and procedures. Establish new standards and guidelines for all phases of the software life cycle.

Maintain your SAM plan. Keep your SAM plan current through spot checks, inventories, and employee training.

Learn more about implementing SAM


Getting Started

A good SAM plan is essential in today's business world. Implementing SAM is easy, and we are here to help.

Use the tools and materials here to learn about the benefits of SAM and how you can get started developing your own SAM plan.

Download templates and guides

Find SAM tools

Find a SAM partner

Learn about the SAM Optimisation Model

Microsoft Pinpoint
Asset Inventory Service (AIS) 2.0 Open Beta

Want to try out the beta version of AIS 2.0? We've updated this service to better support your SAM efforts, improving title normalization and support for virtualization in software reporting—but we want to hear what you think! Optimizing your desktops starts right here.

SAM Optimization Kit