A new ISO and IEC standard for managing software assets is expected to result in cost savings for users, whether large or small enterprises, as well as improved efficiency, risk management and customer (internal and external) satisfaction.

Published by ISO (International Organization for Standardization) and IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission), ISO/IEC 19770-1:2006, Information technology - Software asset management - Part 1: Processes will enable organizations to benchmark their capability in delivering managed services, measuring service levels and assessing performance.

Software asset management (SAM) principles apply to the media, installations, licenses, proof of license, and intellectual property associated with the software. Until now the application of these business processes has been arbitrary and relatively few organizations have been able to implement a comprehensive strategy. The implementation of ISO/IEC 19770-1:2006 will standardize the framework making it possible for companies to integrate SAM into their other compliance and best practice models.

"The standard will help companies better manage their software assets and their accompanying licenses," explains Roger Wittlock, Convenor of the working group that developed the document. "Companies who understand usage patterns, asset inventory and specific contract terms are potentially saving millions in licence costs and maintenance fees each year."

ISO/IEC 19770:2006, which is issued in two parts under the general title, Software asset management, will enable service providers to understand how to enhance the quality of service delivered to their customers, both internal and external.

• Part 1: describes the processes involved in SAM.
• Part 2: defines a product identification that will simplify the software inventory process*.

The standard is intended to align closely to, and to support, ISO/IEC 20000:2005, issued in two parts under the general title, Information technology - Service management.

ISO/IEC 19770-1 was developed by ISO/IEC JTC 1 subcommittee SC 7, Software and systems engineering. The standard costs 108 Swiss francs and is available from ISO national member institutes (see the complete list with contact details) and from ISO Central Secretariat.

*ISO/IEC 19770-2 is not yet published.