Why is change management important in SAM?

Change management is crucial in Software Asset Management (SAM) because it involves systematically managing changes to software assets, which includes tracking software usage changes. This tracking is essential for ensuring compliance with licensing agreements and regulations. By monitoring how software is used, organizations can assess whether they are adhering to the terms of their licenses, identify areas where they may be over- or under-licensed, and make informed decisions regarding renewals and purchases. Compliance posture is key for avoiding penalties and optimizing software investments, which aligns with best practices in SAM.

While enhancing software features, eliminating vendor relationships, and simplifying purchases may be related to different aspects of software management or procurement strategies, they do not capture the primary function of change management within the context of SAM. Change management primarily focuses on the governance of software asset lifecycles and usage, which directly ties into compliance and risk management efforts.