Achieving solid ROI through incremental SAM tool implementation

Implementing a Software Asset Management (SAM) tool across an entire organisation can be a complex and resource-intensive process. Throughout our career as consultants we’ve seen way too many failed tool implementations, and have seen companies effectively loosing money instead of saving it. Taking on this challenge all at once may not be the most effective way for your particular use case. In many cases it may be more effective to start off small, demonstrate success and ROI on a restricted vendor or risk scope, and obtain incremental buy-in from management based on smaller successes. This approach not only minimizes risk but also increases the likelihood of achieving long-term success.

Minimising risk and complexity

Starting with a smaller scope reduces the risks associated with a SAM tool implementation. It allows organizations to test the effectiveness of the tool on a limited scale before committing to a full-scale deployment. This minimizes potential disruptions to existing processes and enables the organization to learn from the initial experience, making necessary adjustments before expanding the scope.

Focusing on high-impact areas

For most organisations the top 3 or top 5 vendors represent more than 90% of the investment and risk associated to licensing. Therefore it is ineffective to implement a generic “all-in-one” solution as the results won’t be meaningful in any way.

By focusing on a restricted vendor or risk scope, organizations can target areas with the highest potential for cost savings and efficiency improvements. This may include targeting software vendors that are particularly expensive, prone to compliance issues, or difficult to manage. By demonstrating tangible results in these areas, the organization can build a strong case for expanding the SAM tool to other areas.

Building trust and credibility

Starting off small allows for the demonstration of quick wins, which can build trust and credibility among stakeholders. As management sees tangible results, such as reduced costs, improved compliance, and better resource allocation, they are more likely to support the expansion of the SAM tool across the organization. This incremental buy-in can also foster a culture of continuous improvement, with stakeholders actively participating in the process and driving further enhancements.

Easing the learning curve

A smaller initial scope allows employees to become familiar with the SAM tool and its associated processes on a more manageable scale. As they gain experience and confidence, they will be better prepared to handle the challenges that may arise during the full-scale implementation. This can lead to a smoother, more successful rollout across the organization.

Adapting to organizational needs

An incremental approach provides the opportunity to refine and adapt the SAM tool to better suit the organization’s specific needs. As successes and challenges are encountered, the tool can be customized to address these issues, ensuring a better fit and improved effectiveness in the long term.

---

For most organisations, SAM is seasonal. In Q1 you may be audited by Oracle and maybe in Q3 you need to cut costs on Microsoft or prepare for a renewal true-up.

Our modular app ecosystem allows companies to chose the functionality they need and pay for it only when they use it. You no longer have to pay for full feature sets, all year round, when you’re only paying attention to specific risk areas, in specific periods of the year.

We’ve also observer how most organisations have specific needs and how it’s always painful to adapt their business processes to fit the SAM tool. Licenseware’s app factory allows companies to build custom SAM apps that fit their needs exactly, without any compromise when it comes to cost and execution times.

---

TLDR

Starting off small, demonstrating success and ROI on a restricted vendor or risk scope, and obtaining incremental buy-in from management based on smaller successes can lead to more effective implementation of a SAM tool. This approach minimizes risk, focuses on high-impact areas, builds trust and credibility, eases the learning curve, and allows for adaptation to organizational needs. By taking this approach, organizations can maximize their chances of achieving long-term success with their SAM tool implementation.

If you find our articles useful, register for our monthly newsletter for regular industry insights 👇