What should be part of the preparations for a software audit?

Keeping accurate records of software licenses is essential as part of the preparations for a software audit because it ensures that an organization can demonstrate compliance with software licensing agreements. Accurate records provide concrete evidence of what software has been purchased, its current usage, and how it correlates with licensing requirements. This documentation is crucial during an audit, as it allows the organization to verify against licensing agreements and prove that they are utilizing their software within the terms provided by the software vendor.

Having these records in order not only helps in compliance but also aids in managing software assets more effectively. Organizations can identify underutilized or unutilized licenses and make informed decisions about future software purchases, leading to cost savings and a more efficient IT environment. This proactive approach to record-keeping establishes a solid foundation for audit readiness, minimizing potential legal and financial risks associated with non-compliance.

In contrast, options like updating software without prior audits, disregarding internal software usage, or consolidating software data into one system do not directly support proper preparation for an audit and could potentially lead to complications during the auditing process.