The South West Regional Development Agency saves $40,000 by implementing Software Asset Management

The South West RDA leads the development of a sustainable economy in South West England, investing to unlock the region’s business potential. With a core strategy focused on creating the conditions for productivity–led growth, South West RDA works in partnership with public and private sector organizations.

Within the discipline of Information Communication Technology (ICT), South West RDA (SWRDA) aims to lead by example by using the infrastructure available within the South West region, new technologies and adopting best practice whenever possible.

South West RDA – the need for Software Asset Management

The in–house ICT team at SWRDA was established at the end of 2006. One of the team’s first objectives following a small technical refresh was tackling Software Asset Management (SAM). While the team had been using Microsoft’s Systems Management Server (SMS) to track software within the organization, it soon became clear that they would have to take additional measures to establish greater control over their IT environment to ensure they were managing their software licenses effectively. At this stage, without the necessary skills in house, they approached IT Consultants Softcat for their professional advice on Software Asset Management products and processes.

Previously, software had been allowed to roam with users which meant that whenever a user logged on to a computer that didn’t have the same software that they were used to using, the system would automatically install it for them. This resulted in an increase in the number of software installations across the organization which had to be managed effectively without compromising the user experience.

At the same time SWRDA was undergoing a comprehensive spending review which meant the IT team also needed to keep a close eye on cost.

“Our project had three goals� says Andrew Hammett, ICT Operations Manager, SWRDA. “With the ongoing spending review it was important that we reduce the administrative overhead of managing our deployed software to reduce costs. It was also critical that we achieve full license compliance for all of our software and demonstrate our commitment to SAM. And lastly, we wanted to improve the management of those licenses owned by the Agency.�

Finding the right solution

The South West RDA engaged software licensing, hardware and security solutions provider Softcat to deliver SAM consultancy. Having initially established the Agency’s current situation, in–house skills and project goals, Softcat set about putting processes and technology in place to help them get compliant and ensure better ongoing software management.

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