Friday, May 12, 2006

ISO/IEC standard benchmarks provision of software asset management

A new ISO and IEC standard for managing software assets is expected to result in cost savings for users, whether large or small enterprises, as well as improved efficiency, risk management and customer (internal and external) satisfaction.

Published by ISO (International Organization for Standardization) and IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission), ISO/IEC 19770-1:2006, Information technology - Software asset management - Part 1: Processes will enable organizations to benchmark their capability in delivering managed services, measuring service levels and assessing performance.

Software asset management (SAM) principles apply to the media, installations, licenses, proof of license, and intellectual property associated with the software. Until now the application of these business processes has been arbitrary and relatively few organizations have been able to implement a comprehensive strategy. The implementation of ISO/IEC 19770-1:2006 will standardize the framework making it possible for companies to integrate SAM into their other compliance and best practice models.

ISO/IEC 19770:2006, which is issued in two parts under the general title, Software asset management, will enable service providers to understand how to enhance the quality of service delivered to their customers, both internal and external.


  • Part 1: describes the processes involved in SAM.

  • Part 2: defines a product identification that will simplify the software inventory process*.


The standard is intended to align closely to, and to support, ISO/IEC 20000:2005, issued in two parts under the general title, Information technology - Service management.

If you think it is time to audit your existing Software Assest Management ("SAW") process / practise and amend same to reflect the latest standard, then contact van Gaalen Attorneys who will be able to:-

  1. Execute a SAW audit;
  2. Provide a GAP analysis (incl. recommendations);
  3. Deliver and assist with the implementation of the required process flows, policies, notices etc.to ensure that your organisation is compliant with the ISO/IEC standard

Contact van Gaalen Attorneys for more information: info@vangaalenlaw.co.za or tel: 011 782 9511/2 or fax: 0866318898

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