What is EN ISO 19970-2:2019?

EN ISO 19970-2:2019 is an international standard that defines the requirements for software asset management. It provides guidelines and best practices for organizations to effectively manage their software assets throughout their lifecycle, from procurement to disposal.

Why is Software Asset Management Important?

Software has become an essential part of modern businesses and organizations. Proper management of software assets ensures compliance with legal and licensing requirements, reduces costs, and enhances security.

Effective software asset management helps organizations optimize their software usage, avoid unnecessary purchases or renewals, and minimize risks associated with non-compliance or software vulnerabilities.

Key features of EN ISO 19970-2:2019

1. Assessment and Planning: The standard emphasizes the importance of conducting a comprehensive assessment of existing software assets, including licensing information, usage data, and maintenance records. This enables organizations to develop a strategic plan for managing their software assets.

2. Procurement and Deployment: EN ISO 19970-2:2019 guides organizations in selecting appropriate software licenses, negotiating contracts, and ensuring compliance during the deployment phase. It also encourages the use of centralized software repositories and automated deployment tools.

3. Compliance and Audit: The standard provides guidance on maintaining compliance with software licensors' terms and conditions, as well as preparing for software audits. It emphasizes the need for proper documentation and record-keeping to facilitate audit processes.

4. Retirement and Disposal: EN ISO 19970-2:2019 addresses the end-of-life stage of software assets. It outlines considerations for retiring or disposing of software licenses, ensuring data security, and managing potential intellectual property rights infringements.

Benefits of Implementing EN ISO 19970-2:2019

Implementing EN ISO 19970-2:2019 brings various benefits to organizations:

- Improved license compliance, reducing the risk of legal and financial penalties

- Enhanced control over software assets, leading to cost savings and optimal resource utilization

- Enhanced security through effective management of software vulnerabilities and updates

- Streamlined processes for procurement, deployment, and retirement of software assets

- Facilitated software audits and easier access to accurate documentation

- Increased awareness and understanding of software asset management across the organization

Overall, EN ISO 19970-2:2019 provides a framework for organizations to establish effective software asset management practices, ensuring compliance, reducing costs, mitigating risks, and optimizing software usage.