What is ISO-IEC 19770-4:2017?

ISO/IEC 19770-4:2017 is an international standard that provides guidance on software asset management (SAM) processes. SAM involves managing and optimizing the purchase, deployment, maintenance, utilization, and disposal of software assets within an organization. This standard specifically focuses on the processes and procedures related to software identification and entitlement.

Key Features of ISO-IEC 19770-4:2017

The standard defines a set of requirements for effective software identification and entitlement management. It outlines the information that should be captured and maintained throughout the software lifecycle, including details about the software publisher, product version, installation location, and licensing terms.

By maintaining accurate and up-to-date information about software assets, organizations can ensure compliance with license agreements and optimize their software expenditure. The standard also provides guidelines on establishing effective license entitlement controls and identifying any gaps in license entitlements.

Benefits of Implementing ISO-IEC 19770-4:2017

Implementing ISO/IEC 19770-4:2017 offers several benefits for organizations:

1. License compliance: The standard helps organizations to effectively manage their software licenses, ensuring compliance with vendor agreements and avoiding legal issues.

2. Cost optimization: By accurately tracking and managing software assets, organizations can identify opportunities for cost savings, such as by reassigning underutilized licenses or negotiating better volume licensing agreements.

3. Improved efficiency: Having a standardized software identification and entitlement process enables organizations to efficiently manage software deployment, updates, and audits.

4. Risk mitigation: Effective software asset management reduces the risk of security breaches and the use of unauthorized or outdated software, minimizing cybersecurity vulnerabilities.

Conclusion

ISO/IEC 19770-4:2017 provides valuable guidance for organizations seeking to implement effective software asset management processes. By adhering to this standard, companies can optimize their software expenditure, ensure license compliance, improve efficiency, and mitigate security risks. Implementing the requirements outlined in the standard can bring numerous benefits and help organizations maintain control and oversight of their software assets throughout their lifecycle.