The best SAM tools in 2025 are:
- Flexera: Advanced optimization and license compliance, ideal for large IT estates.
- ServiceNow: Integrates SAM within IT service management, which is best for existing ServiceNow users.
- USU: Specializes in license management and software spend analysis for complex environments.
- Lansweeper: Offers IT asset discovery and inventory, great for asset visibility.
- Eracent: Provides comprehensive ITAM/SAM solutions for in-depth setup and customization.
- Each tool caters to different organizational needs, from detailed asset management to license compliance and IT spend optimization.
Introduction to Software Asset Management Tools
Software Asset Management (SAM) tools have become indispensable to efficient business operations in today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape.
These tools offer many advantages, from optimizing software expenditure to ensuring compliance with licensing agreements. We recognize these tools’ critical role and have conducted a comprehensive comparison to guide your choice. In this article, we focus on:
- The Significance of SAM Tools: Understanding why SAM tools are crucial in managing software assets effectively.
- Key Features and Functionality: Highlight the essential attributes defining a top-tier SAM tool.
- Comparison Criteria: Outlining the parameters used in our evaluation, including user-friendliness, cost-effectiveness, and support services.
Overview of Top Software Asset Management Tools
1. Flexera
- Key Features: Advanced software optimization, license compliance, and IT spend reduction capabilities.
- Pros: Offers deep insights into software and hardware assets and is strong in identifying savings.
- Cons: It might be complex for smaller organizations without dedicated IT asset management teams.
2. ServiceNow
- Key Features: Integrates SAM within a broader IT service management framework, automating lifecycle management and compliance.
- Pros: Seamless integration with IT operations, enhancing overall IT service delivery.
- Cons: It requires substantial investment and is best leveraged by organizations already using or planning to adopt the ServiceNow platform.
3. USU (formerly Aspera)
- Key Features: Specializes in software license management, compliance assurance, and software spend analysis.
- Pros: Strong support for complex enterprise environments and licensing models.
- Cons: The full spectrum of capabilities may require a mature ITAM/SAM process to be leveraged fully.
4. Lansweeper
- Key Features: Provides IT asset discovery and inventory, offering detailed insights into software and hardware assets.
- Pros: Agentless scanning capability, making it less intrusive and easier to deploy.
- Cons: Focuses more on asset discovery and inventory and may need integration with other tools for complete SAM functions.
5. Eracent
- Key Features: Delivers ITAM/SAM solutions that improve IT cost control, risk management, and operational efficiency.
- Pros: Comprehensive feature set including discovery, usage tracking, and license management.
- Cons: The breadth of functionality might require significant setup and customization effort.
These tools represent a broad spectrum of capabilities within the SAM domain, from license tracking and compliance to asset discovery and operational efficiency.
Choosing the right tool depends on your organization’s specific needs, the complexity of your IT environment, and your existing IT infrastructure.
Read which Software asset management tool is best for large enterprises.
Top 10 Software Asset Management Tools
Selecting the right Software Asset Management (SAM) tool is critical for organizations looking to optimize software usage, ensure compliance, and control costs. Below is a detailed comparison of the top SAM tools based on the key criteria for choosing a SAM solution:
1. Flexera
Overview: Flexera is a leading SAM tool known for its robust capabilities in managing complex enterprise environments.
Strengths:
- Comprehensive Coverage: Supports various software and licensing models, including cloud and SaaS.
- Integration: Seamlessly integrates with ITSM, CMDB, and ERP systems.
- Analytics: Offers powerful dashboards and trend analysis for decision-making.
Challenges: - It has a steep learning curve due to its extensive feature set.
- Higher cost compared to other tools.
2. USU
Overview: USU provides a modular SAM solution tailored for enterprises seeking flexibility and scalability.
Strengths:
- Automation: Offers excellent automation for license discovery and compliance monitoring.
- Scalability: Designed to handle large, multi-location organizations.
- Vendor-Specific Support: Strong capabilities for IBM, SAP, and Microsoft licensing.
Challenges: - Reporting could be more user-friendly for non-technical stakeholders.
3. ServiceNow
Overview: ServiceNow integrates SAM into its broader ITSM ecosystem, providing a unified platform for IT management.
Strengths:
- Integration: Works seamlessly with ServiceNow ITSM and other enterprise systems.
- Ease of Use: Intuitive interface and role-based access.
- Compliance: Built-in features for compliance tracking and audit readiness.
Challenges: - Limited support for vendor-specific licensing compared to specialized tools.
4. Snow Software
Overview: Snow Software is known for its focus on software intelligence and cloud management.
Strengths:
- Cloud Management: Strong capabilities for SaaS and cloud-based applications.
- Automation: Automatic discovery of on-premise and cloud assets.
- Analytics: Provides detailed insights into software usage and cost optimization.
Challenges: - Requires customization to fully align with complex environments.
5. Eracent
Overview: Eracent specializes in enterprise-level SAM, focusing on compliance and cost control.
Strengths:
- Compliance Monitoring: Advanced features for tracking license entitlements and usage.
- Scalability: Handles large-scale environments with ease.
- Integration: Supports integration with ITSM and procurement systems.
Challenges: - Limited user interface updates; less intuitive for non-technical users.
6. Certero
Overview: Certero offers a unified SAM platform that includes discovery, license management, and cloud optimization.
Strengths:
- Ease of Use: An intuitive interface is designed for quick adoption.
- Cloud Optimization: Excellent support for managing Azure, AWS, and Google Cloud assets.
- Analytics: Real-time dashboards for actionable insights.
Challenges: - Vendor support may not be as robust for niche software products.
7. Xensam
Overview: Xensam focuses on delivering an easy-to-use, data-driven SAM solution.
Strengths:
- User-Friendly Interface: Designed with simplicity in mind for quick deployment.
- Compliance Features: Strong capabilities for audit readiness and tracking license compliance.
- Integration: Compatible with major IT systems for seamless workflows.
Challenges: - Limited scalability for highly complex or global enterprises.
8. Lansweeper
Overview: Lansweeper is a versatile tool known for its robust asset discovery capabilities.
Strengths:
- Discovery: Automatically identifies hardware and software assets across networks.
- Integration: Works well with ITSM and other enterprise tools.
- Cost-Effective: Affordable for small to mid-sized businesses.
Challenges: - Focuses more on asset discovery and less on advanced compliance features.
Comparison Table
| Tool | Comprehensive Coverage | Scalability | Integration | Automation | Analytics & Reporting | User Interface | Cost-Effectiveness | Compliance Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flexera | ✓✓✓ | ✓✓✓ | ✓✓✓ | ✓✓ | ✓✓✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓✓✓ |
| USU | ✓✓ | ✓✓✓ | ✓✓ | ✓✓✓ | ✓✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓✓✓ |
| ServiceNow | ✓✓ | ✓✓ | ✓✓✓ | ✓✓ | ✓ | ✓✓✓ | ✓✓ | ✓✓ |
| Snow | ✓✓✓ | ✓✓ | ✓✓ | ✓✓✓ | ✓✓✓ | ✓✓ | ✓ | ✓✓ |
| Eracent | ✓✓ | ✓✓✓ | ✓✓ | ✓✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓✓✓ |
| Certero | ✓✓✓ | ✓✓ | ✓✓ | ✓✓✓ | ✓✓ | ✓✓ | ✓✓ | ✓✓ |
| Xensam | ✓✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓✓ | ✓ | ✓✓✓ | ✓✓ | ✓✓ |
| Lansweeper | ✓✓ | ✓ | ✓✓ | ✓✓ | ✓ | ✓✓ | ✓✓✓ | ✓ |
Conclusion
Each SAM tool has unique strengths tailored to specific organizational needs.
- Large enterprises with complex environments may benefit from Flexera, USU, or Eracent for their comprehensive features and scalability.
- Small to mid-sized businesses looking for cost-effective solutions may find Lansweeper or Xensam a better fit.
- Organizations heavily invested in ITSM platforms might prefer ServiceNow for seamless integration.
By aligning your organization’s requirements with the features offered by these tools, you can make an informed decision and optimize your software asset management strategy.
Read which SAM tools are the best for SMEs.
Criteria for Choosing a Software Asset Management (SAM) Tool
Selecting the right Software Asset Management (SAM) tool is critical to effectively managing software assets, ensuring compliance, and optimizing costs.
Below are the key criteria to consider when evaluating and choosing a SAM tool:
1. Comprehensive Coverage
The SAM tool should support all your organization’s software and licensing types.
- Broad Compatibility: Ensure the tool supports on-premise, cloud, and hybrid environments.
- Vendor-Specific Support: Look for tools that cater to complex licensing models from major vendors like Microsoft, Oracle, IBM, and SAP.
Example: If your organization uses SaaS tools extensively, ensure the SAM solution can effectively track and manage SaaS licenses.
2. Scalability
The tool must accommodate your organization’s current size and growth trajectory.
- Flexibility: It should be capable of managing a growing number of software assets as your organization expands.
- Multi-Location Support: The tool must handle multiple geographies and time zones for global organizations.
3. Ease of Integration
A good SAM tool should integrate seamlessly with your existing IT infrastructure.
- Integration with ITSM and CMDB: The SAM solution should work well with tools like ServiceNow or Configuration Management Databases (CMDB).
- Procurement and Financial Systems: Integration with ERP and procurement systems ensures smooth workflow automation.
4. Automation Capabilities
Automation reduces manual effort and ensures accuracy in tracking and compliance.
- License Discovery: Automated discovery of installed software across devices.
- Compliance Monitoring: Real-time tracking of license usage against agreements.
- Renewal Notifications: Automated alerts for expiring licenses or contracts.
5. Robust Reporting and Analytics
The tool should provide insights into software usage, compliance status, and cost optimization opportunities.
- Customizable Dashboards: Tailored reports for different stakeholders.
- Trend Analysis: Identify underutilized licenses or over-provisioning.
- Audit Readiness: Generate reports that simplify responding to vendor audits.
6. User-Friendly Interface
An intuitive interface is essential for encouraging adoption across teams.
- Simple Navigation: Non-technical staff should be able to use the tool effectively.
- Role-Based Access: Customizable user access for different departments or roles.
7. Compliance and Audit Management
Ensure the tool offers robust features for managing and demonstrating compliance.
- Audit Trail: Maintain a detailed record of changes and updates to software usage.
- License Validation: Match license entitlements to actual usage automatically.
8. Cost-Effectiveness
Consider the total cost of ownership (TCO) of the SAM tool.
- Transparent Pricing: Look for clear pricing models without hidden fees.
- Return on Investment (ROI): Assess whether the cost savings and compliance benefits outweigh the tool’s expense.
9. Vendor Support and Training
Reliable support and training resources are crucial for successful implementation and ongoing use.
- Customer Support: Ensure the vendor offers responsive and knowledgeable support.
- Training Resources: Look for comprehensive training programs and user documentation.
10. Security and Data Protection
The SAM tool must align with your organization’s security requirements.
- Data Encryption: Ensure sensitive software and licensing data are encrypted.
- Access Controls: Role-based permissions to secure sensitive data.
Best Practices in Software Asset Management
Efficient software asset management requires more than just the right tools; it demands a disciplined approach to processes and practices. Below are essential best practices to help organizations optimize SAM tools effectively:
1. Maintain Accurate and Up-to-Date Inventory
Update your software inventory regularly to ensure all assets are accounted for. An accurate inventory provides visibility into deployed software and helps identify unused or redundant licenses.
Example: Use discovery tools to automatically track installations across your network and flag unauthorized software.
2. Optimize Software Licenses
Continuously review license usage to align with actual needs. This prevents overspending on unused licenses and ensures compliance with vendor agreements.
Key Tip: Conduct usage analysis to reclaim underutilized licenses and redistribute them to departments in need.
3. Enforce Clear Software Usage Policies
Implement and communicate well-defined policies regarding software usage and licensing. Ensure employees understand the importance of adhering to these policies.
Example: Restrict downloading unauthorized software by deploying role-based access controls.
4. Monitor Compliance Continuously
Stay ahead of compliance requirements to avoid costly fines or legal consequences. Use SAM tools to automate compliance tracking and generate reports.
Pro Tip: Establish a compliance calendar to track license expirations and renewal deadlines.
5. Strategically Manage the Software Lifecycle
Plan software procurement, deployment, and retirement strategically. This minimizes waste and ensures timely updates or replacements.
Key Steps:
- Evaluate software needs during procurement.
- Schedule updates to avoid end-of-support scenarios.
- Decommission outdated software systematically.
6. Leverage Analytics for Data-Driven Decisions
Use the analytics and reporting capabilities of SAM tools to uncover trends, predict future needs, and inform decision-making.
Example: Analyze usage data to identify opportunities for volume discounts during vendor negotiations.
7. Invest in Training and User Adoption
To maximize the SAM tool’s functionality, ensure your team is proficient. Provide regular training sessions and user guides.
Best Practice: Appoint a SAM champion to drive adoption and address user queries.
8. Cultivate Strong Vendor Relationships
Maintain transparent and positive relationships with software vendors. This can lead to better negotiation opportunities, flexible terms, and early access to updates.
Example: Schedule quarterly reviews with vendors to discuss licensing changes and explore cost-saving options.
9. Integrate SAM Tools with IT Systems
Integrate SAM tools with IT systems like IT service management (ITSM), procurement, and financial tools for a holistic view of software usage and costs.
Pro Tip: Use integrations to automate workflows, such as triggering a procurement process when licenses are near capacity.
10. Conduct Regular Audits and Assessments
Perform periodic audits to evaluate the effectiveness of your SAM strategy. Use these insights to fine-tune processes and address any gaps.
Example: Audit usage data against licensing agreements to ensure full compliance and avoid unnecessary renewals. Software licenses, ensure compliance and improve overall efficiency in managing software assets.
Different Types of SAM Tools
Agent-less SAM Tools: Agent-less SAM tools scan networks for software assets without installing agents on target devices.
- Pros:
- Ease of Deployment: Simplifies setup as it doesn’t require installation on individual devices.
- Lower Impact on System Performance: Minimizes network and device performance impact since no software runs on the assets being managed.
- Cons:
- Limited Depth of Data: This may not collect as detailed information as agent-based tools, potentially missing out on granular usage statistics.
- Network Dependency: Relies heavily on network accessibility, potentially missing assets not connected to the network during scans.
Agent-Deployed SAM Tools: These tools require the installation of software agents on each device to monitor and manage software assets.
- Pros:
- Detailed Asset Information: Directly monitoring devices provides comprehensive software usage, installations, and configuration data.
- Real-Time Monitoring: Offers up-to-date information on software changes and usage patterns.
- Cons:
- Deployment and Management: Installing and maintaining agents across all devices requires time and effort, especially in large or distributed environments.
- Potential Impact on Performance: The agent software may consume device resources, affecting system performance.
Selecting the right SAM tool and deployment type depends on an organization’s specific needs, size, regulatory environment, and IT infrastructure. Factors like cost, scalability, data sensitivity, and the level of detail needed from software asset data should guide the decision-making process.
Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid in Software Asset Management
Navigating the complexities of software asset management can be challenging. Being aware of common pitfalls can significantly enhance the effectiveness of your strategy.
Here are the top five mistakes to avoid:
- Neglecting Regular Software Audits: Failing to conduct regular audits leads to discrepancies in software inventory and compliance issues. Solution: Schedule periodic audits to ensure accurate software usage and compliance tracking.
- Overlooking the Importance of User Training: Underestimating the need for proper training on SAM tools can result in underutilization and inefficiencies. Solution: Invest in comprehensive training programs for users to ensure they can use the tools effectively.
- Ignoring Software Compliance: Overlooking software licensing agreements can lead to legal and financial consequences. Solution: Regularly review and adhere to licensing agreements to stay compliant.
- Inadequate Documentation and Record Keeping: Poor documentation of software purchases, licenses, and renewals can cause confusion and non-compliance. The solution maintains thorough records of all software assets, licenses, and renewal dates.
- Failing to Plan for Scalability: Not considering the future growth of your organization can result in inadequate software asset management. Solution: Choose SAM tools that offer scalability to accommodate your business’s evolving needs.
Different Types of SAM Deployments
On-Premise SAM Tools vs. Cloud-Based SAM Tools
Software Asset Management (SAM) tools can be broadly categorized into two deployment types: on-premise and cloud-based. Each deployment type offers unique advantages and challenges, catering to different organizational needs and preferences.
On-Premise SAM Tools:
- Pros:
- Control and Security: This option offers organizations complete control over their SAM infrastructure and data, and it is often preferred for sensitive or highly regulated data.
- Customization: More room for customization to tailor the tool to specific organizational requirements.
- Cons:
- Initial Costs: Higher upfront costs due to necessary hardware, software licenses, and implementation services.
- Maintenance: Requires in-house IT resources for ongoing maintenance, updates, and troubleshooting.
Cloud-Based SAM Tools:
- Pros:
- Scalability: Easily scales with organizational growth, allowing for the addition of licenses or features as needed.
- Cost-Efficiency: Reduces upfront costs with a subscription-based model and minimizes the need for extensive in-house IT infrastructure.
- Cons:
- Dependence on Internet Connectivity: Requires reliable internet access to ensure uninterrupted service.
- Data Security Concerns: While cloud providers implement robust security measures, some organizations may have concerns about storing sensitive data off-premise.
Other Notable Software Asset Management Tools
In addition to the tools previously discussed, there are other significant players in the Software Asset Management (SAM) space. Flexera and USU stand out for their unique features and capabilities.
Here’s an overview of these tools, focusing on their pros and cons:
Flexera
Flexera is a well-established SAM industry name known for its comprehensive asset management solutions.
Pros:
- Comprehensive Coverage: Flexera offers an extensive range of functionalities, covering software license optimization, application readiness, and vulnerability management.
- Integration Capabilities: It integrates well with various platforms and systems, enhancing its versatility in different IT environments.
- Advanced Reporting and Analytics: Flexera’s strong reporting tools offer deep insights into software usage, expenditures, and compliance, aiding in strategic decision-making.
- Automated License Optimization: It automates the process of license optimization, ensuring efficient software use and compliance with various licensing agreements.
Cons:
- Complexity: Flexera’s extensive range of features can make navigating challenging, especially for new users.
- Cost Factor: It tends to be on the higher end of the pricing spectrum, which might be a consideration for smaller organizations or those with limited budgets.
- Learning Curve: Implementing and getting the most out of Flexera’s advanced features may require significant training and adaptation investments.
USU (Formerly Aspera)
USU (formerly known as Aspera), is another prominent player in the SAM market, offering solutions for large and complex enterprise environments.
Pros:
- Robust License Management: USU excels in managing complex software licenses, especially in large-scale enterprise settings.
- Strong Compliance Management: It provides robust tools for ensuring compliance with software licenses, reducing the risk of non-compliance penalties.
- Customization and Flexibility: USU offers a high degree of customization, allowing businesses to tailor the tool to their needs.
- Strategic SAM Planning: It supports strategic planning in software asset management, aiding businesses in long-term asset optimization.
Cons:
- Focus on Large Enterprises: USU’s features and pricing model are primarily geared towards large organizations, which may not be as suitable for smaller businesses.
- Complex Implementation: Setting up and configuring USU to fit specific organizational needs can be complex and time-consuming.
- Resource Intensive: The tool may require considerable personnel and time for effective management and operation.
Flexera and USU are powerful tools in software asset management, each bringing distinct advantages to the table.
The choice between them would depend on the specific needs, size, and complexity of your organization’s software assets.
FAQs
What is a Software Asset Management tool?
A Software Asset Management (SAM) tool helps organizations manage and optimize the use of software assets, ensuring compliance with licensing agreements and reducing IT costs.
Which tool is used for asset management?
Asset management tools like Flexera, ServiceNow, and Lansweeper are commonly used. These tools offer various features for tracking and optimizing software and hardware assets.
What is an example of Software Asset Management?
An example of a Software Asset Management tool is Flexera, which provides comprehensive visibility into software licenses, usage, and compliance.
What is EAM software?
Enterprise Asset Management (EAM) software is designed to manage the lifecycle of an organization’s physical assets to maximize their use, save money, improve quality and efficiency, and ensure compliance.
What are the four types of software licenses?
The four types of software licenses are proprietary, open-source, free, and copyleft. Each license defines how software can be used, modified, and distributed.
What is CMMS in asset management?
Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) in asset management is software that centralizes maintenance information and facilitates maintaining an organization’s assets.
What is Sam’s use in ServiceNow?
In ServiceNow, SAM (Software Asset Management) automates the lifecycle of software assets, helping businesses manage software licenses, compliance, and optimization within the ServiceNow platform.
What is SAM in software engineering?
In software engineering, SAM refers to software asset management, which focuses on managing and optimizing the purchase, deployment, maintenance, utilization, and disposal of software applications within an organization.
What are the three main asset management types?
The three main types of asset management are physical asset management, financial asset management, and IT asset management, each focusing on different asset categories.
What are the three tools of asset management?
Three asset management tools are EAM (Enterprise Asset Management) software, CMMS (Computerized Maintenance Management System), and SAM (Software Asset Management) tools.
Is asset management part of ERP?
Asset management is often a component of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems, providing integrated management of a company’s assets.
Is SAP an asset management system?
Yes, SAP offers an asset management system, SAP Enterprise Asset Management (EAM), as part of its ERP solutions. This system is designed to manage and maintain a company’s physical assets.
How will you handle software asset management?
Software asset management involves implementing a SAM tool, conducting regular audits, ensuring license compliance, optimizing software usage, and maintaining accurate records of software assets.
What is the lifecycle of Sam?
The lifecycle of SAM includes planning, procurement, deployment, maintenance, optimization, and retirement of software assets, ensuring efficient and compliant use throughout their lifecycle.
