Tag: Cubes

What is Software License Management?

Michelle

Do you know how many software licenses your business has? Do you know how many of those licenses are actually being used? If you don’t, you’re not alone. Many businesses struggle to keep track of their software licenses.

However, this can be a problem with a number of avoidable consequences. It is, therefore, important for organizations relying on multiple software to run their daily operations to have an effective software license management solution.

In this article, we will discuss Software License Management (SLM), its significance, and how it can help your business.

Are you looking for a software license management solution that is secure, scalable, and affordable?

If so, then CUBES is the perfect solution for you. Cubes is a cloud-based solution that is easy to use and manage, even for businesses with complex software licensing requirements. It is also scalable and affordable, so you can easily add or remove licenses as your needs change.

Here are some of the benefits of using CUBES:

  • Feature-rich: Cubes offers a wide range of features to help businesses manage their software licenses.
  • Secure: Your business data is always secured.
  • Constant license tracking:  Cubes tracks your software licenses in real time, so you always know how many licenses you have and where they are being used.
  • In-app license renewal: You never have to worry about missing a renewal deadline, as Cubes allow you to renew your software licenses directly from within the CUBES platform. 
  • Automated reporting:  You can easily generate automated reports with a few clicks and get a detailed overview of your software license usage.
  • Scalable: Cubes can be scaled to meet the needs of businesses of all sizes.
  • Affordable: Cubes is a cost-effective solution that can save businesses money on software licenses.
  • Easy to use: Cubes is a cloud-based solution that is easy to use and manage.

With Cubes, you will save costs and optimize your software license usage. Request a demo today!

What is Software Licensing?

Before we get into the realm of software license management, it’s essential to understand what software licensing entails. Software licensing is a legal agreement between the software vendor and the end user (you or your organization), granting the user-specific rights to use the software in accordance with the terms and conditions outlined in the End User License Agreement (EULA). These licenses define the scope, duration, and number of users authorized to use the software, safeguarding the rights of both the software creators and the end users.

Types of Software Licenses 

Software licenses come in various forms, each tailored to address specific needs and use cases. They are broadly classified into these:

1. Proprietary Licenses

This is also known as a closed-source license, and it offers exclusive ownership and control to the software vendor. In this model, the software’s source code is kept confidential and not accessible to end-users, and the vendor retains all rights to distribute, modify, and restrict usage according to the terms specified in the End User License Agreement (EULA). 

Proprietary software licenses often come with comprehensive customer support and regular updates, ensuring a reliable and polished user experience.

2. Free and Open-Source Software (FOSS)

Free and Open-Source Software (FOSS) stands as a symbol of the collaborative and communal nature of the software development community. In stark contrast to proprietary licenses, FOSS grants users the freedom to view, modify, and distribute the software’s source code freely. 

FOSS adheres to licenses such as the GNU General Public License (GPL), which ensures that the software remains open-source even when redistributed or modified. This fosters an ecosystem where developers across the globe contribute to the software’s improvement, making it more secure, efficient, and feature-rich over time. 

What is Software License Management?

Software License Management (SLM) refers to the processes, tools, and strategies used by businesses to monitor, control, and optimize the acquisition, deployment, and usage of software licenses. It ensures that organizations are compliant with license agreements, avoid legal risks associated with unlicensed software, and make cost-effective decisions regarding software investments.

It is a must-have for every business organization which relies on software usage, as it improves efficiency and makes the entire process seamless.

Features of Software License Management

Effective Software License Management incorporates several essential features to streamline the process and enhance outcomes. Generally, they should feature the following:

1. Centralized License Repository

The Centralized License Repository is a pivotal component of a high-quality Software License Manager, offering a unified platform to house all license-related information. By consolidating data in one location, you can easily access, update, and manage licenses, streamlining workflows and reducing administrative overhead. 

2. License Tracking and Reporting

Real-time License Tracking and Reporting are indispensable features that empower organizations to monitor license usage and compliance status in real-time. 

Through continuous monitoring, you gain valuable insights into software deployment and utilization patterns, ensuring compliance with licensing terms and avoiding potential violations. This facilitates data-driven decision-making, enabling proactive management of licenses and optimizing licensing costs.

3. Automated License Renewals

Automated License Renewals serve as a proactive mechanism to prevent license lapses and disruptions in software services. These features automatically notify you about upcoming license expirations, allowing sufficient time for renewal procedures. This feature streamlines the renewal process and helps you avoid inadvertent license expiration.

4. Integration with IT Asset Management (ITAM)

The integration of Software License Management with IT Asset Management (ITAM) delivers a comprehensive view of your organization’s software and hardware resources. This integration streamlines audits, facilitates compliance checks, and supports optimization efforts by identifying redundant or unutilized licenses, ultimately maximizing cost-effectiveness.

The Benefits of Software License Management 

Software License Management offers numerous advantages that can significantly impact your organization’s operational efficiency:

1. Reduce Costs

Effective SLM helps businesses eliminate unnecessary licenses, optimize usage, and negotiate better license agreements, resulting in substantial cost savings.

2. Improve Software License Compliance

By monitoring and enforcing compliance, SLM reduces the risk of legal penalties arising from non-compliance with software licensing agreements.

Why Your Business Needs to Prioritize Software License Compliance

You must prioritize using software licenses in accordance with the terms of the license agreement. It benefits you in the following ways:

  • Legal Obligation: Staying compliant with software licenses is a legal requirement to avoid potential lawsuits, fines, or reputational damage resulting from non-compliance.
  • Vendor Trust: Demonstrating commitment to license compliance builds trust with software vendors, leading to stronger relationships and potential benefits like discounts and improved customer support.
  • Positive Reputation: Operating with a reputation for integrity and ethical practices enhances your business’s image among clients, partners, and stakeholders, promoting brand loyalty and attracting new opportunities.
  • Risk Mitigation: Compliance reduces the risk of unexpected disruptions caused by license violations, ensuring uninterrupted access to critical software and preventing potential operational setbacks.
  • Security and Updates: Compliant businesses receive timely software updates and security patches, protecting their systems from vulnerabilities and cyber threats and enhancing overall data security.

With a good software license management system, you won’t have to worry about compliance issues.

3. Comprehensive Visibility and Management

SLM provides organizations with a clear overview of their software assets, facilitating strategic decision-making.

4. Automate Tasks

Automation streamlines SLM processes, saving time and reducing human errors in license management tasks.

5. Improve Software Management Efficiency

SLM enables businesses to manage licenses more efficiently, avoiding over-purchasing and minimizing the risk of audits.

6. Continuous Tracking and Risk Reduction

Ongoing monitoring of software usage helps identify potential compliance issues, minimizing the risk of unlicensed software usage.

How to Choose a Software License Management Solution

The right Software License Management Solution can be a game-changer, simplifying the entire process and unlocking a treasure trove of benefits for your organization. Here are some tips to help you choose the right one:

  • Consider your budget: SLM solutions can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars per year.
  • Choose simplicity: Find a solution that simplifies the complexities of different license types, ensuring you understand the terms and conditions as well as usage.
  • Scalability potential: Choose a solution that can grow alongside your business, accommodating new software additions and expanding licensing needs for your business.
  • User-Friendly Interface: You won’t have to hire a team of IT specialists to manage software licenses when you choose an intuitive one.
  • Centralized dashboard: Choose a solution that offers a clear view of your software assets, including expiration dates, and usage details, all from a single dashboard.
  • Smooth Integration: Choose a solution that seamlessly integrates with your current IT infrastructure.
  • Great customer support: There are times when you will need customer support from the platform managing software licenses, so it is important you know they’ll be there when you need them.
  • Secure framework: Ensure that the chosen SLM solution prioritizes data security to guarantee your safety from potential cyber threats.

Dangers of Not Keeping Up with Software License Management

Failure to implement proper Software License Management can lead to various adverse consequences for businesses:

  • Legal and Financial Risks: Non-compliance with license agreements can result in costly fines and legal disputes.
  • Wasted Resources: Improperly managed licenses can lead to unnecessary expenses on redundant software.
  • Reputational Damage: Being associated with unlicensed software can harm a company’s reputation.
  • Security Vulnerabilities: Unlicensed software may lack essential updates and security patches.

Common Mistakes in Software License Management to Avoid

For a smooth business operation and software usage all year round, here are common mistakes you must avoid:

  • Ignoring License Terms: Not paying attention to the terms and conditions of software licenses can lead to unintentional violations, resulting in legal and financial consequences.
  • Overlooking License Renewals: Forgetting to renew licenses on time may cause disruptions in software services, leading to productivity and operational disturbances.
  • Not Tracking Usage: Failing to monitor software usage may result in over-licensing, spending money on underutilized or unused licenses.
  • Inadequate Record-Keeping: Poor documentation of license information can make it challenging to keep track of licenses, leading to inefficiencies and potential compliance gaps.
  • Mixing Licenses: Combining licenses from different vendors or products without proper understanding can lead to violations and licensing conflicts.
  • Skipping Software Audits: Avoiding software audits may result in non-compliance discovery when it’s too late.
  • Neglecting License Optimization: Not optimizing license usage can result in unnecessary expenses, as businesses might be paying for more licenses than they need.
  • Not using a software license management solution. A good SLM solution can help you track your licenses, enforce your policies, and ensure that you are in compliance. 

Avoiding these mistakes and adopting a proactive approach to Software License Management will help you save costs, stay compliant, and ensure smooth software operations.

Get Started With Software License Management Tools Today

To streamline the Software License Management process for your business, you should leverage specialized Software License Management tools. These tools offer features like automated license tracking, compliance monitoring, and comprehensive reporting to optimize software usage and minimize risks.

For the best performance, intuitive dashboard and smooth operation, choose CUBES Software License Management Solution today!

Why You Should Choose CUBES 

CUBES is a leading Software License Management tool that offers several advantages, including:

  • Centralized software assets management for easy access and organization.
  • Real-time tracking and automated reporting to ensure license compliance.
  • Reliable notifications on expiring licenses.
  • Inapp license subscription renewals. 
  • License optimization for cost-effective decisions and much more!

Request a demo today to see the simplicity and excellence of Cubes!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Software License Management?

A: Software License Management is the process of monitoring, controlling, and optimizing the acquisition, deployment, and usage of software licenses to ensure compliance and cost-effectiveness.

Q: Why should my business invest in Software License Compliance? 

A: Software License Compliance builds trust with vendors, protects your business from legal risks, and ensures a positive reputation.

Q: What is the difference between software license management and software asset management?

A: Software license management is the process of tracking, managing, and optimizing the use of software licenses in an organization. Software asset management (SAM) is a broader term that encompasses software license management, as well as the management of other software assets, such as software applications, software documentation, and software training.

Q: How often should I review my software license management?

A: The frequency with which you should review your software license management depends on the size and complexity of your organization. However, it is a good idea to review your software license management at least once a year.

Q: What are the consequences of poor software license management?

A: The consequences of poor software license management can be significant. These consequences can include: Overpaying for software; Non-compliance with license agreements; Security risks, and Increased IT costs.

Final Thoughts

Proper Software License Management is crucial for businesses to optimize software usage and reduce costs. By implementing a software license management solution, your organization can gain a clear understanding of their software licenses, track software usage, and optimize the use of their licenses. This can lead to significant cost savings and improved compliance.

If you are looking for a software license management solution, CUBES is a great option. CUBES is a cloud-based solution that is easy to use and affordable. It offers a wide range of features for easy and secure usage.

If you are not sure whether CUBES is the right solution for your organization, you can sign up for a DEMO to test out all of the features of CUBES and see how it can help you to manage your software licenses.

We hope this article has helped you to understand the importance of software license management. If you have any questions, please call our sales team: +1 800 342 9388

software asset management made easy

Make Software License Management Easy

Michelle

In today’s technology-driven world, managing software licenses has become a critical aspect of business operations. As organizations grow and adopt various software applications, the task of tracking licenses, ensuring compliance, and optimizing costs can quickly become complicated. Almost hair-pulling complicated!

This is where software license management solutions come into play. In this article, we will explore the significance of software license management and introduce Cubes, an innovative product by Tangent that simplifies the process and maximizes efficiency.

Understanding Software License Management

Software License Management refers to the processes and tools used to track, monitor, and optimize the usage of software licenses within an organization. It involves maintaining an accurate inventory of licenses, ensuring compliance with vendor agreements and regulatory requirements, and optimizing software usage to minimize costs.

The Challenges of Software License Management

Managing software licenses can be a daunting task for organizations of all sizes. Some common challenges include:

  1. License Compliance: Ensuring compliance with licensing agreements and avoiding penalties or legal consequences due to unauthorized or expired licenses.
  2. Cost Optimization: Identifying unused or underutilized licenses to avoid unnecessary expenses and optimizing license allocation based on actual usage.
  3. License Tracking and Reporting: Maintaining an up-to-date inventory of licenses, tracking license usage, generating reports, and ensuring accurate audit trails.
  4. Vendor Management: Managing relationships with multiple software vendors, understanding complex licensing models, and negotiating favorable terms.

Cubes: Simplifying Software License Management

Cubes, developed by Tangent, is a comprehensive software license management solution designed to streamline and simplify the entire license management lifecycle. With its user-friendly interface and powerful features, Cubes offers organizations a centralized platform to effectively manage licenses, optimize costs, and ensure compliance.

Key Features of Cubes

  1. License Inventory and Tracking: Cubes provides a centralized repository to maintain an accurate inventory of software licenses. It enables organizations to track license details, including vendor information, contract terms, renewal dates, and deployment information.
  2. Compliance Monitoring: Cubes automates license compliance monitoring by alerting organizations about license expirations, usage violations, and potential compliance risks. This ensures proactive action to address compliance issues promptly.
  3. License Optimization: By analyzing license usage data, Cubes identifies underutilized licenses and opportunities for license optimization. It provides insights into license usage patterns, allowing organizations to optimize license allocation, reduce costs, and avoid unnecessary purchases.
  4. Reporting and Analytics: Cubes offers robust reporting and analytics capabilities, providing organizations with clear visibility into license utilization, compliance status, and cost-saving opportunities. These insights enable data-driven decision-making and proactive management of software assets.
  5. Vendor Management: Cubes simplifies vendor management by centralizing vendor information, contract details, and licensing agreements. It helps organizations understand complex licensing models, negotiate favorable terms, and maintain strong vendor relationships.
  6. Integration and Scalability: Cubes seamlessly integrates with existing IT infrastructure, such as software deployment tools and IT asset management systems. It supports scalability to accommodate the growing needs of organizations, ensuring long-term effectiveness.

Efficient software license management is crucial for organizations to ensure compliance, optimize costs, and streamline operations. Cubes, offered by Tangent, empowers businesses with a comprehensive solution that simplifies the complexities of software license management. With its robust features, centralized repository, and advanced reporting capabilities, Cubes enables organizations to maintain compliance, optimize costs, and make informed decisions regarding their software assets.

To learn more about Cubes and how it can enhance your software license management processes, visit Tangent’s website at Cubes. Elevate your license management practices with Cubes and unlock greater efficiency and cost savings for your organization.

Software License Management: A Guide to Saving Money

Software License Management: A Guide to Saving Money

Admin

Software license management plays a crucial role in optimizing costs for organizations. By effectively managing software licenses, businesses can identify cost-saving opportunities, avoid unnecessary expenses, and ensure compliance with licensing agreements.

Here are some strategies for software license management that can help achieve cost savings:

Inventory and Assessment:

Start by conducting a comprehensive inventory of all software licenses across your organization. This will help you understand what software is being used, who is using it, and whether it aligns with your business needs. Perform a thorough assessment to identify any unused or underutilized licenses that can be reallocated or canceled.

License Consolidation:

Look for opportunities to consolidate software licenses. Evaluate if multiple software applications with similar functionality can be replaced by a single integrated solution. Consolidating licenses can reduce costs and simplify license management.

License Optimization:

Analyze your software usage patterns to determine if you can optimize licenses further. Some software vendors offer flexible licensing models based on actual usage, such as concurrent or named user licenses. Consider switching to such models if they align better with your organization’s usage patterns, as it can lead to significant cost savings.

License Compliance:

Ensure that your organization remains compliant with software licensing agreements. Unauthorized or unlicensed software can result in financial penalties and legal issues. Implement robust license tracking and monitoring processes to avoid any compliance violations.

Renewal Management:

Stay proactive with software license renewals. Keep track of renewal dates and negotiate with vendors to secure favorable terms and pricing. Sometimes, vendors offer discounts or incentives for early renewals or longer-term agreements. Also, reassess your software needs before renewing licenses to avoid renewing unnecessary licenses.

Vendor Negotiation:

Don’t hesitate to negotiate with software vendors for better pricing and licensing terms. Research alternative vendors and their offerings to have leverage during negotiations. Additionally, consider exploring volume licensing agreements or enterprise agreements, which can provide cost advantages for large-scale deployments.

Cloud and Subscription Models:

Evaluate the feasibility of cloud-based software solutions or subscription models instead of traditional on-premises licenses. These models often offer flexibility, scalability, and cost savings, as you pay only for what you use.

Employee Awareness and Training:

Educate your employees about software license compliance and the importance of adhering to licensing policies. Establish clear guidelines and processes for requesting software, and ensure employees understand the implications of unauthorized software installations.

Software Asset Management Tools:

Consider implementing software asset management (SAM) tools to automate license tracking, software usage monitoring, and compliance management. SAM tools can streamline license management processes, provide accurate data, and facilitate cost-saving decisions.

Regular Audits and Reviews:

Conduct regular audits and reviews of your software license management practices. Periodically reassess your software needs, evaluate license usage, and identify further opportunities for cost optimization.

By implementing these strategies and maintaining a proactive approach to software license management, organizations can achieve significant cost savings while ensuring compliance and maximizing the value of their software investments.

Learn how you can maximize cost savings with Cubes: HERE

Manage Your Company’s Software and Subscriptions from One Place: Cubes, License Manager

Michelle

Keep track of your company’s software and subscriptions with Cubes, the comprehensive software license manager. Streamline your operations with ease!

As a business owner or IT administrator, you know how difficult it can be to keep track of all the software and subscriptions your company uses. From licenses to renewals, it can quickly become overwhelming. That’s where Cubes comes in – a comprehensive software license manager that helps you manage all your company’s software and subscriptions in one place. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of using Cubes and how it can streamline your operations.

What is a Software License Manager?

A software license manager is a tool that helps businesses manage their software licenses and subscriptions. It allows you to keep track of all the licenses and subscriptions you have, when they expire, and when you need to renew them. A license manager can help you save time and money by ensuring you’re not paying for licenses you don’t need and by avoiding penalties for using expired licenses.

What is Cubes?

Cubes is a comprehensive software license manager that can help your business manage all your software licenses and subscriptions in one place. It provides a centralized dashboard where you can view all your licenses and subscriptions, including their status, expiration dates, and renewal information. Cubes also provides detailed reports on license usage, which can help you optimize your software spend and avoid unnecessary costs.

How Cubes Can Benefit Your Business

  1. Centralized Management

One of the biggest benefits of using Cubes is that it provides centralized management of all your software licenses and subscriptions. You no longer have to search through different systems or spreadsheets to find the information you need. Cubes provides a single dashboard where you can view all your licenses and subscriptions, making it easy to manage and track them.

  1. Automated Renewals

Cubes can also help you automate the renewal process for your licenses and subscriptions. It sends you reminders when a license or subscription is about to expire, and it can even automatically renew them for you if you choose. This helps you avoid any gaps in your software coverage and ensures that your business is always up to date with the latest software.

  1. Detailed Reporting

Cubes provides detailed reporting on license usage, which can help you optimize your software spend. It shows you which licenses are being used the most and which ones are not being used at all. This can help you make informed decisions about which licenses to renew or cancel, saving you money in the process.

  1. Cost Savings

Using Cubes can help your business save money by ensuring you’re not paying for licenses you don’t need and by avoiding penalties for using expired licenses. It also helps you optimize your software spend by identifying which licenses are being underutilized and which ones can be canceled or downgraded.

How to Get Started with Our License Manager, Cubes

Getting started with Cubes is easy. Simply sign up for an account, and you can start adding your licenses and subscriptions right away. Cubes also offers a free trial, so you can test it out and see if it’s right for your business before you commit. Visit: https://softwarelicensemanagement.tangent.com/solutions/workplace-solutions/cubes

Managing software licenses and subscriptions can be a challenging task for any business, but it doesn’t have to be. Cubes provides a comprehensive software license manager that can help you manage all your licenses and subscriptions in one place. With centralized management, automated renewals, detailed reporting, and cost savings, Cubes is a must-have tool for any business that wants to streamline its operations and optimize its software spend.

Cut Business Expenses with a Software License Manager

Michelle

Discover how a software license manager can help your business save money and optimize your software usage. Learn more about its benefits here.

What is a Software License Manager?

A software license manager is a tool that helps businesses track and manage their software licenses. It provides an efficient way of managing licenses and helps businesses stay compliant with licensing regulations.

How Does a Software License Manager Help Cut Business Expenses?

By using a software license manager, businesses can cut their expenses in various ways. Here are some of the benefits of using a software license manager:

Avoid Overbuying Licenses: One of the most significant benefits of using a software license manager is that it helps businesses avoid overbuying licenses. It provides real-time information on license usage, allowing businesses to see which licenses are being used and which ones are not. This information helps businesses make informed decisions about purchasing new licenses, reducing unnecessary expenses.

Eliminate Manual Tracking: Manual tracking of software licenses is time-consuming and error-prone. A software license manager eliminates the need for manual tracking, reducing the risk of errors and saving time. This helps businesses avoid costly penalties for non-compliance with licensing regulations.

Reduce Audit Costs: A software license manager provides businesses with accurate information on software usage, making it easier to prepare for software license audits. This reduces the risk of non-compliance and lowers the costs associated with audits.

Optimize Software Usage: By providing real-time information on software usage, a software license manager helps businesses optimize their software usage. It helps businesses identify which licenses are underutilized, allowing them to reassign licenses to where they are needed. This helps businesses avoid unnecessary expenses while ensuring that they have the right licenses for their needs.

What Features Should You Look for in a Software License Manager?

When choosing a software license manager, there are several features that businesses should look for:

Automated Tracking: The software license manager should provide automated tracking of software licenses, eliminating the need for manual tracking.

Real-Time Reporting: The software license manager should provide real-time reporting on license usage, making it easy to identify underutilized licenses.

License Optimization: The software license manager should provide license optimization features, allowing businesses to reassign licenses to where they are needed.

License Compliance: The software license manager should help businesses stay compliant with licensing regulations, reducing the risk of costly penalties.

A software license manager is an essential tool for businesses that want to cut their expenses and optimize their software usage. By providing real-time information on license usage, eliminating manual tracking, and helping businesses stay compliant with licensing regulations, a software license manager can help businesses save money and improve their operations. When choosing a software license manager, businesses should look for features such as automated tracking, real-time reporting, license optimization, and license compliance.

Request a free demo: https://softwarelicensemanagement.tangent.com/solutions/workplace-solutions/cubes

software license manager and subscription manager

The Difference between a Subscription Manager and a Full Software License Manager

Michelle

Do you know what truly sets a software license manager apart from a subscription manager?”

A software license manager and a subscription manager may seem like similar entities, but in reality, they serve distinct purposes. A quote from Michael Feiner, a renowned management expert, puts it perfectly: 

“Good managers know how to delegate; great managers know when to delegate.” 

The same applies to software license and subscription managers – understanding the difference between them can make the difference between effective software management and costly software chaos.

So, what is a software license manager? Simply put, it is a tool that helps organizations manage and track the use of software licenses they have purchased. It ensures that only the authorized number of users can access the software and that the licenses are used in compliance with the terms and conditions set by the software vendor.

On the other hand, a subscription manager is a tool that helps organizations manage their software subscriptions. It allows organizations to keep track of the subscriptions they have taken and their renewal dates, as well as manage the subscription costs effectively.

Difference between a software license manager and a subscription manager

The difference between a software license manager and a subscription manager lies in their focus. While a software license manager focuses on the use of the licenses, a subscription manager focuses on the management of the subscriptions. A software license manager ensures that the licenses are used within the bounds set by the vendor, while a subscription manager ensures that the subscriptions are managed efficiently and cost-effectively.

The role of a software license manager is to monitor and enforce the use of software licenses within an organization. It ensures that only the authorized number of users can access the software and that the licenses are used in compliance with the terms and conditions set by the software vendor. A software license manager also helps organizations track the usage of the licenses, which can be useful in making informed decisions about purchasing additional licenses or upgrading existing ones.

The role of a subscription manager is to manage software subscriptions effectively. It helps organizations keep track of the subscriptions they have taken and their renewal dates, as well as manage the subscription costs effectively. A subscription manager also helps organizations make informed decisions about renewing or cancelling subscriptions based on usage patterns and costs.

Conclusions

In conclusion, a software license manager and a subscription manager serve distinct but complementary purposes. While a software license manager focuses on the use of the licenses, a subscription manager focuses on the management of the subscriptions. Understanding the difference between them can help organizations make informed decisions about software management and avoid costly software chaos.

“Are you ready to take your software management to the next level by understanding the difference between a software license manager and a subscription manager?”

software license manager

How Big Companies Manage All Their Software Licenses

Michelle

Have you ever stopped to think about the sheer number of software licenses a large company might have to manage? With hundreds, if not thousands of employees, each with their own devices, programs and applications, the task of keeping track of software licenses is a complex one. 

According to a recent survey, the average cost of a software license for a large company is around $100 per license. This might not sound like a lot, but with the sheer number of licenses a company might have, this cost quickly adds up. In addition to the cost of acquiring the license, there are also ongoing costs associated with maintaining the license, such as upgrades, support and renewal fees. These costs can run into the millions of dollars each year.

But why is it so important for businesses to keep track of their software licenses? 

There are a few key reasons:

Compliance: In order to comply with licensing agreements, a company needs to know exactly how many licenses they have, and for which programs. This information helps to ensure that the company is using software in the way that is permitted by the licensing agreement.

Legal implications: Not keeping track of software licenses can result in legal implications for a company. For example, if a company is found to be using software that they do not have the correct licenses for, they can be sued for copyright infringement.

Audits: Software vendors can conduct audits at any time to check that their software is being used in accordance with the licensing agreement. If a company is found to be using software without the correct licenses, they can be fined, or even have their license revoked.

So, How Do Big Companies Manage All Their Software Licenses? 

One solution is to use a software license manager.

A software license manager is a tool that helps companies to keep track of their software licenses. It can help to keep track of the number of licenses a company has, the programs they are licensed for, and when they need to be renewed. It can also help to manage the cost of licenses, by keeping track of how much each license costs, and when it needs to be renewed.

A software license manager can also help to ensure compliance by checking that the company is using software in the way that is permitted by the licensing agreement. It can also help to prevent legal implications by ensuring that the company is using software in accordance with the licensing agreement.

One of the biggest advantages of using a software license manager is that it can help to automate many of the manual tasks associated with managing software licenses. For example, it can help to keep track of when licenses need to be renewed, and send reminders to the relevant departments. This can help to avoid the cost and disruption associated with license renewals.

Closing words

In conclusion, managing software licenses is a complex and time-consuming task, but it is a crucial aspect of running a successful business. By using a software license manager, companies can reduce the cost of managing licenses, ensure compliance with licensing agreements, and avoid the legal implications of not having the correct licenses.

So, the question remains: is your company making the most of software license management tools to stay on top of software licenses?

Man using MacBook laptop with CUBES login page on the screen

4 Benefits from CUBES License Manager

Nina

Do you have a good handle on your software license budget? Are you wasting the money that goes towards that budget on unused licenses?

Many organizations have (or should have) a Software Asset Management (SAM) program in place as part of their overall business strategy. The goal of this is to help reduce costs, limit risks, and increase transparency around software license purchases and usage. That’s where software license optimization comes in.

How our License Manager CUBES Fits into Your SAM Program

If your organization is stitching together spreadsheets of outdated software license records or relying on each department to keep track of its licenses, it may be time for an upgrade. Using a comprehensive license management tool like CUBES License Manager allows you to quickly access information on all licenses within your organization – from the number of licenses purchased to expiration dates, and contract details to renewal alerts.

With a license manager, you can streamline your procurement process and minimize the efforts involved from other departments to report on license spending. Specifically, here are 4 invaluable benefits from a license manager that will save you money and time:

1. Cost Savings

CUBES helps organizations consolidate their software environment, giving IT managers more control over software spend across different departments. Knowing the exact type and number of software licenses purchases can lead to better financial planning.

2. Avoid Fines and Penalties

Automatic renewal alerts will notify designated members of expiring software licenses. This feature can be help organizations save a lot of money by avoiding expiration penalties or fees.

3. Improved Planning

CUBES is a centralized software license management platform, allowing IT managers the ability to keep accurate records of contract terms, renewals, and purchases.

4. Business Alignment

With a transparent view into existing IT investments, organizations can align those with their business objectives. Additionally, predictive and trend analysis allows management to forecast future IT spend and needs.

Ready to Cash in on the Benefits of Software License Management ?

Download our guide to help you with the decision-making process for CUBES. Or, sign up for a free trial and get started immediately.

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CUBES Release Notes

Nina

03.01.01 Alerts Management

Application:

  • New alerts management page
    • Easily manage all alerts in one location
    • Administrators can view all alerts while users can focus on alerts that pertain to them
    • Search using filters to drill down into specific details
  • Improved functionality of the licenses page
    • Select multiple licenses and set group alerts
    • Action icons change color based on status.
    • Toggle to show deactivated licenses
    • Track what filters are active in your current view
  • Updated alerts side panel slide-out
    • Pick when secondary alerts will be sent
    • Add notes to further customize alerts

Emails/Text alerts

  • Renew from email or text will bring you straight to the CUBES site
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Benefits of Software License Management Across Different Departments

Nina

With so many new technologies emerging on an almost daily basis, it’s important for organizations large and small, to understand exactly what software is being used. Managing software licenses has always been a challenge, and in today’s technologically advanced world, it has become increasingly difficult. However, saving money by avoiding duplicate software licenses, over-licensing, and over- or under-spending should be at the top of every organization’s list.

For those in information technology (IT), the necessity of a software asset management (SAM) program is obvious, but for other departments, it might not be as clear as to how they benefit from license management. Understanding what is and isn’t being used across all departments helps an organization make informed decisions, especially when it comes to rolling out new technologies to drive the business and increase productivity.

IT Department: Smoother Software Deployments

When we think of software installations and deployments, we automatically think of IT. However, not all IT teams actually manage the organization’s licenses. Keeping track of license count, expiration and renewal dates, license spend, etc. usually falls on the lap of a License Manager or SAM team. When working together, IT can better understand exactly what software is being used, allowing them to plan and execute software rollouts or uninstall unused software – thereby optimizing software license budgets.

Many license management tools, like Tangent’s CUBES License Manager, also have reporting capabilities that give deeper insight into an organization’s licenses, such as:

  • Number of licenses that are coming due or expired
  • Amount broken down by company, product, department, and type of license
  • Length of license or subscription agreement
Cubes License Record View

Furthermore, CUBES has a document repository that allows users to upload documents related to each license record, so important files such as quotes, contracts, and license details can all be digitized and easily accessibly within the record.

Finance Department: Better Opportunity to Manage Departmental Budgets

When it’s not clear where or on what money is being spent, overseeing and managing an organization’s budgets can become overwhelming, especially if that leads to over-spending. Understanding what software is being used gives the finance team the opportunity to cut necessary costs on unused or duplicate software.

Additionally, having the visibility that comes with a license manager prepares the finance department for renewals, so they’ll know exactly when to expect large payments. Ultimately, this instills confidence into the team when going into budget discussions with the administration team.

Administration Department: Greater Visibility into Software License Budgets

Engaging and persuading administration departments to invest in any software product has always been a difficult task across multiple industries. Once on board, though, stakeholders will find that the benefits of a license manager greatly outweigh the cost.

Having a license manager will show directors, administrators, managers, etc. exactly how much is being spent on software and help them identify areas for cost savings. The goal is to generate savings for the entire organization year over year.

Additionally, a license manager allows the admin team to see all of the organization’s software at a glance, which can be helpful in identifying outdated technologies. Ensuring that employees have the latest software enables them to be more productive, work efficiently, and communicate and collaborate effectively across the entire organization.

Whether your organization is large or small, a license manager brings peace of mind. Being able to gain full visibility of software deployments, licenses, and cost is essential in managing budgets while enabling your organization with the latest technologies. CUBES can take you there. Sign up for a free trial to just how easy it is to start managing your licenses.