Software Asset Management (SAM) is a subset of IT Asset Management (ITAM) that focuses on the optimization of software usage, procurement, deployment, maintenance, and disposal in an organization. SAM includes the management of software assets, product versions, licenses, and the media used to deliver the software. Aside from license cost optimization SAM also manages the lifecycle of a software product and determines the software’s function in the organization. Common objectives of Software Asset Management include: • Reducing the complexity of technology in the organization • Reducing the lifecycle costs of a software product • Creating a strategic plan for managing new and existing software in the organization Software License Management (SLM) is a subset of SAM. It focuses on the optimization of software licenses used within an organization. The goal of SLM is to reduce costs by reducing the amount of unused licenses, optimizing the use of existing licenses, and consolidating redundant licenses. SLM also refers to the optimization of related costs associated with customer support and product maintenance. Common objectives of Software License Management include: • Reducing costs directly associated with licenses such as over-licensing/under-licensing, maintenance costs, and support costs. • Ensuring that the correct licenses are available (e.g. product version) • Reducing software deployment costs by determining the legitimate licensing needs of the organization and consolidating/expanding as needed