What is ISO 19770-3:2021?

ISO 19770-3:2021 is an international standard that provides guidelines for managing and optimizing the use of software assets within an organization. It focuses on the processes and practices that enable efficient software asset management (SAM), helping businesses effectively manage their software assets throughout their lifecycle.

The Importance of ISO 19770-3:2021

Implementing ISO 19770-3:2021 offers numerous benefits to organizations. First and foremost, it helps ensure compliance with software licensing agreements, reducing the risks of legal and financial penalties due to non-compliance. By providing a framework for effective SAM, it also enables organizations to optimize software usage, minimize costs, and drive better decision-making regarding software investments.

The Key Components of ISO 19770-3:2021

ISO 19770-3:2021 consists of various components that organizations should consider when implementing SAM practices. These include:

Policy and process documentation: Organizations need well-defined policies and procedures governing the acquisition, deployment, usage, and disposal of software assets.

Software inventory: Creating and maintaining an accurate and up-to-date inventory of all software assets within the organization is crucial for effective SAM.

Software deployment and usage data: Collecting data on software installation, usage, and access allows organizations to monitor and optimize software utilization.

Licensing and entitlement data: Proper documentation of software licenses and entitlements ensures compliance and avoids misuse of licensed software.

Verification and compliance assessment: Regular audits and reviews help assess compliance with software licensing agreements and identify areas for improvement.

Implementing ISO 19770-3:2021

Organizations intending to implement ISO 19770-3:2021 should consider the following steps:

Evaluate current SAM practices: Assess the existing software asset management processes and identify gaps or areas that require improvement.

Develop a SAM policy: Create a documented policy that outlines the organization's commitment to efficient SAM practices.

Inventory software assets: Conduct a thorough inventory of all software assets, including licenses, entitlements, and deployments.

Implement a SAM tool: Leverage specialized software asset management tools to automate data collection, manage licenses, and monitor usage.

Establish regular audits: Perform periodic audits to verify compliance, identify risks, and improve SAM processes.

In conclusion, ISO 19770-3:2021 plays a critical role in helping organizations effectively manage their software assets. By implementing this standard, businesses can optimize software usage, reduce legal and financial risks, and ensure compliance with licensing agreements. Embracing ISO 19770-3:2021 sets the foundation for sustainable and efficient software asset management practices.