What is the primary focus of Tier 1 in Software Asset Management (SAM)?

The primary focus of Tier 1 in Software Asset Management (SAM) is to establish a foundational understanding of the software assets an organization possesses. This involves maintaining an accurate inventory of all software applications, licenses, and associated entitlements. By knowing what software is available, organizations are better equipped to manage these assets effectively, ensuring compliance with legal requirements, optimizing usage, and supporting other SAM processes.

At this tier, the emphasis is on collecting and organizing detailed information about software inventories, which serves as the backbone for further analysis and decision-making in SAM practices. By having a clear picture of software assets, organizations can identify redundancies, manage renewals, and prepare for audits, thereby creating a solid platform to build upon in more advanced tiers of SAM.