Microsoft SAM: SAM For Management

How SAM Works for Your Role

As an IT manager, ultimate responsibility for Software Asset Management (SAM) rests with you. You’ll need to prepare a business case for SAM and ensure the process is handled and maintained properly, by your own staff or a contractor. You can do this with the tools and resources available on this website and with the help of qualified Microsoft SAM Partners. You’ll also need to show your employees how SAM will streamline their work and keep the office running smoothly.

How SAM Benefits Managers

SAM can help control costs as well as bring managers peace of mind. Benefits include:

•A clear understanding of required updates makes software buying more efficient
•Limiting the legal liability that can stem from poor licensing procedures
•Being able to present cost savings to your management team
•Faster, smoother mergers and acquisitions due to a thorough, organised licensing system
•Faster time-to-market through streamlined software
•Increased employee morale and motivation, thanks to legitimate, reliable software applications.

How to Build a Business Case for SAM

Start by building a business case for SAM to present to senior management. You’ll need to include:

1. A summary of your current SAM level
2. A summary of your proposed plan with alternatives
3. The case for outsourcing SAM, keeping it in-house or combining both approaches
4. A timeframe for implementing SAM
5. The necessary requirements and expected benefits
6. Final recommendations
7. What to expect when it's finished

Selling the Business Case for SAM

Key tips to help you gain final approval once you’ve prepared your case:

•Think about potential objections from the outset and have solutions and benefits at hand
•Keep budgetary concerns in mind at all times. Consider how much your company may be prepared to spend
•Find a senior-level SAM advocate who will help you sell your case.

How SAM Benefits the Purchasing Department

If you are responsible for buying software, SAM can help you save money and be more efficient. Its advantages include:

•Better negotiations and relations with vendors due to a better awareness of the software and licences your organisation needs
•Reduced costs, thanks to a clear understanding of software requirements
•Ability to place bulk orders, resulting in discounted prices
•Reduced likelihood of acquiring too many licences, saving your organisation money
•Reduced training for new personnel, saving money.

SAM Toolbox

If you find aspects of SAM challenging, you may want to turn to an experienced and qualified SAM Partner.


Need More Help?

If you find aspects of SAM challenging, you may want to turn to an experienced and qualified SAM Partner.