Microsoft created the Software Asset Management (SAM) Optimization Model to provide guidance for implementation of a SAM program aligned with the ISO 19770-1 standard. If you are looking for a tactical framework to evaluate your SAM policies without having to interpret and adapt ISO 19770-1, Microsoft SAM Optimization can help.
The Microsoft SAM Optimization Model leverages specifically defined tipping points to establish an organization’s SAM maturity, as well as to plot a path for ongoing improvement. Consistent with the Core Infrastructure Optimization Model, organizational maturity is measured and ranked in one of four levels (Basic, Standardized, Rationalized and Dynamic) across 10 competencies. The SAM Optimization Model Key Competencies are aligned and mapped to the key categories and requirements from the ISO 19770-1 framework: Assessing (i) management policies, and improvement plan; (ii) Inventory and its accuracy; (iii) License entitlement records and evaluation periods; (iv) Operational use of the information, and; (v) The asset lifecycle process, including acquisition, deployment and retirement.
Some of the key areas of assessment are highlighted below in their Microsoft SAM Optimization maturity categories:
1) Basic SAM (Ad Hoc)
Organizations are categorized as basic if they maintain little in the way of policy and control of their software assets. These organizations tend to overspend, and under license, and are constantly in a crisis mode with respect to their software assets.
Percentage of assets tracked, software purchased through central procurement, and software reuse: >68%
2) Standardized SAM (Tracking Assets)
Organizations with a Standardized SAM Maturity will have some processes and controls in place, but are not using the information in any meaningful way. These organizations will have implemented tracking tools, and centralized data repositories, however may not have fully reliable information. Audit is annual.
Percentage of assets tracked, software purchased through central procurement, and software reuse: 68-96%
3) Rationalized SAM (Active Management)
Organizations with a Rationalized SAM maturity will be leveraging their data ant tools, and will be actively managing their software assets. Policies and procedures will be in place, proving support for decision making with accurate information however in a reactive format. Audits are quarterly.
Percentage of assets tracked, software purchased through central procurement, and software reuse: 96-99%
4) Dynamic SAM (Optimized)
Organizations with Dynamic SAM maintain near real-time insight into their software assets, and are able to leverage the information for long term planning and proactive decision making, and continual audit processes.
Percentage of assets tracked, software purchased through central procurement, and software reuse: 99%+
The Microsoft SAM Optimization model will help you to benchmark your organization along an established set of criteria to allow you to chart you progress in optimizing your software assets. Based on demonstrable specific category definitions and objective criteria, the model will allow for clear roadmap to visualize your benefits and return on investment.
For more information on the Microsoft SAM Optimization Model, please see http://www.microsoft.com/sam/en/us/default.aspx
