SOFTWARE LICENSING

Get the Most Out of Your Licenses with Software License Optimization

By Robbie Pleasant, TMCnet Contributor

Are you getting the most out of your software? Considering how much you’re probably spending on it, odds are you’re still paying too much for what you’re getting. What you need is not only software license optimization tools, but processes that make sure software is used to its fullest.

The traditional way one attempts to manage their software assets is through compliance-based software asset management programs, which obtain a hardware/software inventory, get license entitlement data and determine a license compliance snapshot. This, however, can be time consuming and does little to reduce unnecessary expenses.

Instead, Kirk Clauson of Flexera Software advises software license optimization. After obtaining an accurate inventory and license entitlement data, he advises putting tools and processes in place that can constantly keep inventory and licenses up to date. Then, take advantage of software product use rights to make sure you’re getting the licenses you need and not anything unnecessary and costly. Business intelligence can then be used to predict future software needs in order to keep up with the curve and calculate future budgets accordingly.

By approaching software management in this manner, users can ensure their licenses are up-to-date and they’re getting exactly what they need. It strikes a balance between expenses and usages, ensuring you’re getting what you need and paying for no more than that.

Of course, this is a suggestion, but a good one. It helps keep expenses low but usage high, so companies and users can make the most out of their investments. When you spend money on software licenses, don’t just manage your assets, make the most out of them.

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