BSA debuts asset management standard

Government technology professionals now have a standardized template for moving to or managing a cloud computing model using best practices and processes.

The Washington, D.C.-based Business Software Alliance, a trade association of software developers, recently released a software asset management program and certification backed by industry and developed according to International Organization of Standards ISO/IEC 19770-1 software asset management standards.

The vendor-neutral and globally applicable guidelines were developed by software developers, including Microsoft, Adobe, Symantec and other member firms of the association.

SAM Advantage is a self-paced online training system for effective management of IT assets. Identifying what hardware and software versions are in an agency’s network and analyzing active and unused software licenses can ultimately help reduce operating costs, improve efficiencies and reduce risks, said Peter Beruck, senior director of compliance marketing for BSA.

Individuals completing the program are recognized as Certified Software Management Professionals. CSMP certification, in addition to providing a structure to manage an organization’s software, “can also increase an individual’s value within the industry and enhance their credibility as a software asset manager," said David Bicket, Convener of ISO/IEC JTC1 SC7 WG21, responsible for SAM standards.

The certification is the first global, standards-based SAM program, said BSA executives. The program is geared for management of multiple software platforms across a range of industries yet allows participants to tailor their program to their unique needs.

The program follows a four tiered approach. The first tier focuses on obtaining accurate SAM data and facilitating license requirements. Tier two, practical management, is geared for quick win cost optimizations and creating a structured control environment for software assets. Tier three, operational integration, centers on improving efficiencies and effectiveness of the organization’s existing operations and services. Tier four, ISO compliance, ties SAM to an organization’s business needs and foci by training IT professionals to cost effectively create a compliant license progam. Tier four also covers more complex asset types and deeper embedded operations. 

The program is currently available in English; BSA plans to offer it in multiple languages in 2011.

Separately, last month President Obama appointed BSA’s President and CEO Robert Holleyman to the president’s Advisory Committee for Trade Policy and Negotiations.