In this section you will find materials that you can use as you implement SAM, including presentations, fact sheets, templates, planning documents, and checklists which may be customized to match your organization’s needs.
Download documents related to the following topics:
SAM Basics
The Benefits of SAM
SAM Step-By-Step
Licensing Basics
Software Inventory Report
(XLS, 144KB)
This template is our Software Inventory Report, and is available to all customers participating or wishing to participate in the Microsoft Software Asset Management program. Download this spreadsheet and track your software inventory quickly and electronically.
SAM Quick Guide
(PDF, 267KB)
Get an overview of the SAM steps and Microsoft licensing in this one handy document.
The Benefits of SAM
(PDF, 224KB)
This document lists the major benefits that come with implementing SAM in your organization.
Testimonials
(PDF, 1.4MB)
Read how SAM has benefited other Microsoft customers.
The Business Value of SAM
(PDF, 765KB)
This robust document contains information on the business benefits of SAM, an “Are You at Risk?” quiz, and an overview of Microsoft licensing options.
Why Implement SAM?
(PPT, 67KB)
View this presentation on the benefits and steps of SAM.
SAM Checklist
(PDF, 752KB)
Check off each SAM step as you perform each task.
Step 1: Perform a Software Inventory
Use this when performing inventories on individual PCs.
Software Inventory Summary Report Template
(XLS, 18KB)
Compile all of your inventory information for all PCs into this one report.
Step 2: Match Software with Licenses
As you locate your license documentation, record the information in this report.
Software and License Summary Report Template
(XLS, 16KB)
Compile the information from your Software Inventory Summary Report and License Summary Report into this single report to see where you are over- and/or under-licensed.
Software License Documentation
(PPT, 74KB)
View this presentation on the different Microsoft license types and the associated licensing documentation.
Step 3: Review Policies and Procedures
This template will be helpful when developing your company’s own software use policies.
New Software Check-in Checklist
(PDF, 221KB)
Revise this checklist as necessary and distribute it to your IT Department to make sure all new software is recorded properly.
Software Acquisition Policy Template
(DOC, 48KB)
Use this example to write a Software Acquisition Policy for your own company.
Software Disaster Recovery Plan Template
(DOC, 44KB)
Make sure your overall Disaster Recovery Plan includes a section on recovering software in case of an unforeseen catastrophe.
Step 4: Develop a SAM Plan
Ask your employees these questions, either in person or through an email on online survey, to determine the software they really need to get their jobs done.
Tips on Reducing Support Costs
(PDF, 759KB)
Review this list to help your support team save time and your company save money.
Software and Hardware Spreadsheet Template
(XLS, 16KB)
Keep track of the hardware and software used at each workstation throughout your company with this spreadsheet. Note: similar information may be stored in a database instead.
Software and Hardware Map Example
(VSD, 264KB)
Creating a map of computer locations and software installed may be helpful for your software support team.
Microsoft Licensing Suggestions Table
(PDF, 463KB)
This handy table will help you work with your software reseller to determine which Microsoft licensing option is right for your company.
Myth and Fact About Microsoft Operating System Licensing
(PDF, 694KB)
Reading the information in this document will help you avoid common misunderstandings about Microsoft Operating System software licensing.
Microsoft Licensing Options
(PPT, 43KB)
This presentation will take you through the different types of Microsoft licensing.