What is ISO 19970-2:2019?

ISO 19970-2:2019 is a technical standard that provides guidance for organizations involved in software asset management (SAM) and manages the risks associated with software licensing. This standard focuses on the processes and controls required to effectively manage software assets throughout their lifecycle.

The Purpose of ISO 19970-2:2019

The primary purpose of ISO 19970-2:2019 is to help organizations gain control over their software license inventory, optimize software usage, and mitigate legal and financial risks associated with non-compliance. By following the guidelines outlined in this standard, organizations can improve their SAM practices and achieve maximum value from their software investments.

Key Features and Benefits

ISO 19970-2:2019 covers various aspects of software asset management, including software identification, license entitlement, acquisition, deployment, and retirement. It provides organizations with a structured framework to establish and maintain an effective SAM system.

Some key features and benefits of ISO 19970-2:2019 include:

Standardizes SAM practices across organizations, ensuring consistency and reliability.

Helps organizations reduce the risk of being audited for software license compliance.

Provides guidance on establishing clear roles and responsibilities within the organization.

Offers a systematic approach for managing software licenses, reducing the likelihood of overspending or unnecessary purchases.

Enables organizations to optimize software usage and minimize the risk of using unlicensed or unauthorized software.

Supports the implementation of effective control measures to protect against software piracy.

Implementing ISO 19970-2:2019

Implementing ISO 19970-2:2019 requires organizations to assess their current SAM practices, identify gaps, and develop an implementation plan. The standard provides a roadmap for organizations to align their practices with best industry standards and establish a robust SAM framework.

Successful implementation of ISO 19970-2:2019 involves:

Designating responsible individuals or teams to oversee the SAM process.

Performing a comprehensive software inventory to gain visibility into the software assets owned and used.

Developing documentation and procedures for software acquisition, deployment, and retirement.

Establishing controls to monitor software usage and compliance.

Regularly conducting internal audits to ensure ongoing adherence to the standard.

Continuously improving SAM processes based on feedback and changing business needs.

In conclusion, ISO 19970-2:2019 is a valuable standard for organizations looking to effectively manage their software assets. By implementing this standard, organizations can achieve better control over their software license inventory, optimize software usage, and mitigate legal and financial risks associated with non-compliance.