Software subscriptions pile up quietly. Over time, businesses pay for accounts that nobody uses, or discover too late they’ve been under-licensed.

What is software asset management (SAM)?

The practice of tracking what software you own, who uses it, what it costs, and when it renews.

Common problems

– Shelfware: licenses assigned to former employees or never used

– Duplicate tools across departments

– Surprise renewals at higher prices

– Compliance risk: using more installations than licensed

– Shadow IT: apps bought on credit cards with no oversight

How to get started

1. Inventory installed and subscribed software across devices, cloud, and departments

2. Match to licenses: what do you own vs. what’s in use?

3. Identify waste: unused accounts, duplicates, oversized plans

4. Right-size by downgrading, consolidating, or canceling

5. Track renewals with calendar alerts 60 to 90 days ahead

6. Assign ownership for each application

Tools that help

– Microsoft 365 admin center usage reports

– RMM and Intune software inventory

– SaaS management platforms

– A simple, well-maintained spreadsheet is far better than nothing

Tie to processes

– Add license removal to your offboarding checklist

– Require IT approval for new software purchases

– Review licenses quarterly

The payoff

Many organizations save a meaningful percentage of software spending just by eliminating unused licenses.

DBR Soft can run a license review and help reduce your software costs. Contact us for more information.