10 Software Asset Management Tools Comparison
Managing software assets is a growing challenge for businesses, with unused licenses, compliance risks, and rising costs being major pain points. Here’s what you need to know about Software Asset Management (SAM) tools and how they help:
Key Benefits of SAM Tools:
- Save Money: Up to 30% of software licenses are unused, and SAM tools help identify and reallocate them.
- Ensure Compliance: Avoid non-compliance fines, which can reach $150,000 per unlicensed software copy.
- Improve Security: Over 75% of cyberattacks exploit outdated software vulnerabilities.
- Optimize SaaS Usage: Many companies underutilize nearly 50% of their SaaS subscriptions.
Top Features to Look For:
- License Management: Track and optimize software licenses to cut costs.
- Usage Monitoring: Identify underused apps and reclaim wasted spending.
- Compliance Tracking: Stay audit-ready and avoid penalties.
- Cost Reporting: Analyze software spending for better budget decisions.
- Vendor Management: Negotiate smarter contracts with usage data.
Top 10 SAM Tools:
- Flexera: Ideal for hybrid IT environments, offering advanced license optimization and compliance tools.
- Euladox: Focuses on discovery and recognition of hardware & software on-premise, cloud and SaaS.
- ServiceNow SAM Pro: Integrates with ITSM systems for enterprise-level license tracking and SaaS management.
- Aspera (USU): Designed for large enterprises to manage compliance risks and cloud costs.
- Ivanti: Real-time discovery and cost-saving features powered by its Neurons platform.
- ManageEngine AssetExplorer: A practical tool for smaller businesses with strong compliance monitoring.
- SoftwareONE: Combines ITAM services with expertise across 7,500+ software vendors.
- Lansweeper: Centralizes IT, OT, and IoT asset data for better decision-making.
- Eracent: Focuses on continuous license reconciliation and audit preparation.
- Snow Software: Focuses on SaaS management and hybrid IT visibility with its Snow Atlas platform.
Quick Comparison Table:
| Tool | Best For | Key Features | Rating (Out of 5) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flexera | Hybrid IT environments | License optimization, vendor-specific tools | 4.5 |
| Euladox | SAM As A Service | Multi-segment discovery, advanced contract tracking | 4.4 |
| ServiceNow SAM Pro | Enterprise-level needs | ITSM integration, automated license tracking | 4.5 |
| Aspera (USU) | Large enterprises | Cloud cost control, compliance tools | 4.3 |
| Ivanti | Real-time discovery | Neurons platform, cost-saving analytics | 4.2 |
| ManageEngine | Small to mid-sized businesses | License tracking, compliance monitoring | 4.2 |
| SoftwareONE | Vendor expertise | ITAM services, SaaS optimization | 4.4 |
| Lansweeper | IT/OT/IoT asset discovery | Network visualization, vulnerability management | 4.3 |
| Eracent | Audit readiness | Continuous license reconciliation, risk management | 4.3 |
| Snow Software | SaaS & hybrid IT visibility | SaaS management, spend optimizer | 4.2 |
How to Choose the Right Tool:
- For Enterprises: Consider advanced tools like Flexera, ServiceNow SAM Pro or Euladox (if you want a full fledged service).
- For Smaller Businesses: ManageEngine AssetExplorer or Euladox offers essential features at a lower cost.
- For Cloud Optimization: Snow Software or Aspera’s cloud-focused tools are ideal.
- For Vendor-Specific Needs: Tools like Euladox and SoftwareONE excel in managing complex vendor licenses.
SAM tools help businesses save money, stay compliant, and improve software efficiency. Choose based on your organization’s size, software portfolio, and specific needs.
What Makes a Good SAM Tool
With companies now using as many as 254 SaaS applications and global software spending hitting $856 billion in 2023 [1], it’s clear that managing software effectively is more important than ever. A good SAM (Software Asset Management) tool should handle licenses, track usage, ensure compliance, and control costs. These numbers highlight just how critical precision and efficiency are in these tools.
Key Features to Look For
| Feature | What It Does | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| License Management | Tracks and optimizes software licenses | Avoids compliance issues and cuts waste |
| Software Inventory | Catalogs all software assets | Gives full visibility across the organization |
| Usage Monitoring | Tracks how software is actually used | Spots underused licenses and saves money |
| Compliance & Auditing | Ensures licensing agreements are followed | Prevents expensive penalties |
| Cost Reporting | Analyzes spending patterns | Cuts spending on unused software [1] |
Advanced Features
Today’s SAM tools need to go beyond the basics. Features like real-time dashboards allow quick compliance actions, while seamless integration with existing IT systems helps streamline workflows and improve data accuracy [2].
Evaluating Performance
Performance metrics are another way to separate the best SAM tools from the rest. Look at how well a tool has handled complex enterprise needs in the past. For instance, ServiceNow Software Asset Management, rated 4.5/5 [1], is a standout option that combines robust functionality with high user satisfaction.
Cost-Saving Tools
The best SAM tools do more than just track software – they actively help save money. They can identify redundant apps, monitor usage to adjust allocations, predict future needs based on past trends, and even automate compliance with real-time alerts.
A great SAM tool blends these features with easy-to-use interfaces and detailed reporting. Knowing what to look for will help you better understand the strengths and weaknesses of different tools as you evaluate them.
1. Flexera
Flexera offers a SAM solution that helps manage hybrid IT environments and cut IT expenses by 20–30% [3].
Core Capabilities
| Feature | Purpose | Result |
|---|---|---|
| License Position Optimization | Automates license need calculations | Lowers compliance risks and overspending |
| Vendor-Specific Tools | Tailored for major vendors | Simplifies enterprise software management |
| Discovery & Normalization | Recognizes 98%+ of 970,000+ applications | Provides nearly full visibility in complex setups |
| Effective License Position Reporting | Creates effective license positions | Reduces audit risks and noncompliance costs |
Enterprise Cost Savings
Flexera excels in managing costly enterprise software like Microsoft SQL Server, Oracle Database, and SAP. Its entitlement library supports data-driven decisions. For example, AstraZeneca saved $2 million in a single year using Flexera [3].
Compliance and Risk Management
In just five months, Flexera enabled the creation of an Effective License Position, helping a client avoid a settlement worth hundreds of millions. Its certifications for IBM ILMT integration and Oracle verification highlight its dependability [4][5].
Real‑World Success
“We have driven a significant amount of value in the company, both in green dollars and what we call brown dollars or cost avoidance. We optimize license positions, remediate noncompliance, etc., and we now have this tracked on a near-daily basis. At the foundation of all that has been the successful implementation of Flexera. It’s core to everything we do globally from a software asset management perspective.”
– VP, Global Asset Management, Global insurance company [3]
Flexera’s results speak for themselves. Sasol saved $34 million, while Christchurch City Council discovered 236 previously unknown SaaS applications [3].
Advanced Features
Flexera blends ITAM and FinOps capabilities, offering full visibility across hybrid environments. Its integration with major vendors and advanced data enrichment ensures accurate CMDBs, empowering better software investment decisions. These integrations pave the way for other tools to deliver strong SAM functionalities.
2. Euladox
Euladox provides an ITAM solution that complies with ISO19700 and ISO20770 standards [30]. Its platform offers a centralized database for managing software assets, serving as the foundation for the features outlined below.
Core Capabilities
| Feature | Description | Business Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Discovery Methods | Agentless and agent-based scanning across multiple protocols | Broader asset visibility |
| Native Adaptors | Direct integration with key platforms like VMware, Oracle, and IBM | Easier ecosystem management |
| Software Normalization | Standardizes software titles and versions | Better license accuracy |
| Contract Management | Tracks contracts with email alerts and reminders | Lowers compliance risks |
Advanced Discovery Features
Euladox uses WMI for Windows, SSH for Linux/Unix, and SNMP for network devices to enhance its discovery capabilities. Its hardware catalog includes detailed information for servers built after 2001, covering Intel, AMD, and RISC architectures [30]. This ensures accurate asset identification without needing third-party tools.
Cost Savings
According to Rythium, Euladox helps clients reduce their license exposure costs by anywhere from 30% to 100% [31].
Enterprise Integration
Euladox’s integration capabilities extend its discovery and cost-saving features to key enterprise systems:
| Category | Supported Platforms |
|---|---|
| Virtualization | VMware, Hyper-V, Xen Server, OVM |
| Databases | Oracle, IBM DB2, MS SQL Server |
| Directory & Middleware | Active Directory, Oracle Technology Products, IBM MQ |
Its multi-segment discovery operates in both online and offline modes, ensuring thorough coverage across distributed networks [30].
3. ServiceNow Software Asset Management Pro
ServiceNow’s SAM Pro expands on its ITSM platform to provide advanced tools for managing software assets. Since its launch in January 2018, it has become a go-to solution for enterprises looking to ensure license compliance and control costs.
Core Capabilities
| Feature | Description | Business Impact |
|---|---|---|
| License Tracking | Automates the reconciliation of software installations and usage | Helps avoid non-compliance issues |
| SaaS Management | Tracks cloud applications and spending | Improves SaaS investment efficiency |
| FinOps Integration | Manages cloud costs (available in Enterprise edition) | Keeps cloud expenses under control |
| Vendor Management | Tools tailored for Microsoft, VMware, Citrix, and Oracle | Simplifies compliance with major vendors |
Enterprise Integration
ServiceNow SAM Pro uses its Discovery tools to maintain an up-to-date inventory of software assets. With around 1,100 customers managing more than 200 million configuration items [12], the platform shows it can scale for large organizations.
Cost Management Features
- Automated License Reconciliation
Tracks software installations against purchased licenses automatically, identifying unlicensed or underused software. This ensures better visibility into where cost savings can be made. - Usage Analytics
Monitors how applications are used, helping businesses make smarter decisions about license renewals and redistributing underutilized licenses.
These tools help organizations streamline how they manage software assets and costs.
Implementation Insights
Gartner notes that effective IT asset management (ITAM) is “80% about process and governance, and 20% about tooling” [11]. This highlights the need for thorough planning, including training for the key users and administrators of SAM Pro.
Technical Setup
ServiceNow employs a dual-repository system, keeping ITAM and CMDB data separate while maintaining their connections. This setup allows for better management of complex IT environments.
Potential Drawbacks
Despite its strengths, SAM Pro has a few limitations:
- Does not include a built-in software recognition database
- Relies on external software catalog providers
- Requires manual effort for recognizing some applications
- Needs manual input for managing software suites and downgrades
Handling Enterprise Scale
On average, ServiceNow customers manage about 187,000 configuration items in their CMDB [12]. This demonstrates the platform’s ability to tackle the demands of large-scale software asset management.
4. Aspera
USU Software Asset Management, previously known as Aspera, provides tools designed for large enterprises to manage compliance risks and control rising cloud costs. Their main product, SmartTrack, oversees software across servers, desktops, cloud platforms, and mobile devices. Here’s a closer look at how SmartTrack and its add-on modules help organizations cut costs and maintain compliance.
Core Platform Features
| Feature | Capability | Business Impact |
|---|---|---|
| SmartTrack | License compliance and optimization | Save up to 30% on software licenses [14] |
| LicenseControl for Cloud | Cloud service cost management | Predictive analytics for cloud spending |
| SmartCollect Inventory | Asset discovery and usage tracking | Better inventory management |
| Vendor Optimization | Tools for Oracle and SAP | Lower audit risks and compliance costs |
Designed for Enterprise Needs
SmartTrack is built to handle complex licensing models and works well in large-scale deployments, especially for businesses dealing with multiple vendors.
Managing Cloud Costs
LicenseControl for Cloud addresses the challenges of managing cloud services by:
- Tracking real-time cloud resource usage
- Analyzing spending trends across providers
- Offering insights to optimize costs during contract renewals
- Highlighting opportunities for resource consolidation
These tools fit seamlessly into the broader asset management framework.
Asset Discovery and Tracking
SmartCollect Inventory automates the collection and analysis of deployment data, ensuring accurate records that support compliance and cost management.
Vendor-Specific Tools
USU’s platform also includes specialized tools for vendor management. The Oracle Optimization module simplifies Oracle’s complex licensing rules, while SAP Management ensures compliance with SAP licenses.
With a 4.56-star rating from 398 reviews on ProvenExpert.com [13], USU’s solutions have earned solid user feedback. The platform’s modular design allows businesses to adopt only the components they need, with the flexibility to expand as their requirements grow.
5. Ivanti
Ivanti’s SAM solution is powered by its Neurons platform, which combines real-time discovery with advanced license management. It excels at offering instant visibility into complex IT setups while automating many tedious tasks.
Core Platform Components
| Component | Key Features | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Neurons for Discovery | Active and passive scanning, third-party connectors | Cuts asset data aggregation time from weeks to minutes [15] |
| License Optimizer | Server and data center license management | Simplifies enterprise license management [17] |
| Asset Repository | Centralized asset tracking | Consolidates IT asset data in one place [16] |
| Google Integration | Chrome Enterprise connector | Streamlines the import and reconciliation of Google OS devices [18] |
The sections below detail how each component contributes to business efficiency.
Advanced Discovery Capabilities
Ivanti Neurons automatically identifies users and endpoints, offering instant insights into software installations and usage. This real-time monitoring ensures accurate inventory records and supports quick action on compliance risks.
License Management Innovation
“The complexity of the data center just got easier. Ivanti License Optimizer takes asset management to the next level by transforming the way we understand the data center and other server side applications. With this solution, we’re enhancing our current ITAM offering and providing advanced functionality to enable our customers to better manage their software and generate effective license positions.” [17]
Cost-Saving Features
Ivanti’s platform doesn’t just manage licenses – it also identifies opportunities to save money, including:
- Automating usage tracking
- Reclaiming unused licenses
- Reviewing cloud spending
- Forecasting future resource demands
Integration Capabilities
The platform integrates smoothly with existing enterprise systems, making it ideal for complex IT environments. Its Chrome Enterprise connector simplifies managing Google Workspace by importing and reconciling Google OS devices [18].
Security and Compliance
Ivanti Neurons works with ITSM and security processes to tackle vulnerabilities. By normalizing inventory data, it provides a complete view of software usage, contracts, warranties, patches, and compliance. This ensures optimization throughout the entire asset lifecycle, from procurement to disposal [16].
sbb-itb-4bfa64b
6. ManageEngine AssetExplorer
ManageEngine AssetExplorer is a software asset management tool with over two decades of expertise in IT asset management (ITAM) [19]. It provides complete visibility into the software asset lifecycle while helping businesses stay compliant with licensing and regulatory requirements.
Core Capabilities
| Feature | Function | Business Impact |
|---|---|---|
| License Management | Tracks various license types like OEM, CAL, and more | Prevents over-licensing and ensures compliance |
| Software Discovery | Automates detection and tracking of installations | Saves time and improves accuracy |
| Usage Analytics | Monitors software usage patterns | Supports better license allocation |
| Compliance Monitoring | Real-time tracking with visual flash charts | Simplifies audits and compliance checks |
Advanced License Management
AssetExplorer simplifies license tracking for multiple software license types. Its visual flash charts use color coding to highlight:
- Software that is under-licensed and needs attention
- Over-licensed applications that may be wasting money
- Properly licensed software that meets compliance standards [20]
Automation and Integration
With no-code and low-code automation, AssetExplorer streamlines asset management tasks. It integrates with popular tools like:
- Microsoft 365
- Zoho Analytics
- SolarWinds
- Lansweeper
- Zapier [19]
Real-World Impact
Lenskart’s General Manager of IT, Gaurav Pandey, shared their success with AssetExplorer: “With AssetExplorer, these challenges [asset tracking, managing asset life cycles, and maintaining an accurate inventory] were effectively addressed, providing us with a streamlined, automated approach to managing our IT assets” [19].
Security and Compliance Features
The platform actively monitors for unauthorized software and alerts IT teams to potential risks [20]. This helps organizations:
- Detect unlicensed or illegal software
- Track compliance in real time
- Stay prepared for audits
- Minimize security vulnerabilities
Cost Optimization
AssetExplorer’s usage monitoring identifies underused licenses, helping businesses make smarter decisions about:
- Reallocating licenses
- Planning renewals
- Optimizing software deployment
- Managing resources [20]
Available in both cloud and on-premises versions, AssetExplorer also offers a free edition for environments with up to 25 nodes [19], making it a flexible solution for businesses of all sizes.
7. SoftwareONE
SoftwareONE combines proprietary technology with over 30 years of experience to offer a range of services in software asset management (SAM) [21].
Core Features and Capabilities
| Feature | Description | Business Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Digital Workplace Services | Optimization of Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace | Improved workplace efficiency |
| ITAM Services | Visibility into software and cloud assets | Better cost management |
| Publisher Advisory | Expertise with 7,500+ software publishers | Improved vendor negotiations |
| FinOps Integration | Financial operations management | Controlled spending |
| Global Support | 800+ specialists in 60 countries | Reliable service delivery |
Advanced Asset Management
SoftwareONE’s ITAM services provide a clear view of software and cloud usage. This is especially important considering Gartner’s report that 60% of enterprises underestimate cloud and infrastructure costs [22].
Cloud and License Optimization
Using PyraCloud, the platform helps track software usage, allocate licenses efficiently, maintain compliance, manage vendors, and control cloud-related expenses.
Industry Recognition
SoftwareONE has been consistently recognized for its leadership in SAM managed services:
“Being recognised as a Leader in SAM managed services for the fifth consecutive year by Gartner is, we feel, an important acknowledgment that SoftwareOne’s strategy and approach is resonating with the market. We continue to invest in and evolve our offerings to provide leading SAM capabilities as our clients transform their portfolios to subscription and cloud models. FinOps, SaaS management, cloud cost optimisation, data management and AI are at the forefront. Our SAM services provide the transparency and control essential in today’s dynamic IT environment.” [24][25]
Enterprise Scale
With 9,300 employees and 65,000 business customers [23][25], SoftwareONE supports:
- Vendor management
- SaaS usage optimization
- Cloud cost efficiency
- AI-powered insights
Compliance and Risk Management
The platform enhances compliance with governance frameworks, license tracking, and risk assessments. Its expertise spans AWS, Google Cloud, Microsoft Azure, SAP, and ServiceNow, making it a strong choice for managing complex multi-vendor environments. As businesses grow their software portfolios, SoftwareONE’s integrated services address the challenges of modern SAM needs.
8. Lansweeper
Lansweeper stands out for its ability to identify and consolidate IT, OT, and IoT assets into one centralized system.
Core Asset Discovery Features
| Feature | Capability | Business Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Network Discovery | Cross-platform scanning without agents | Fewer blind spots |
| Asset Intelligence | Centralized inventory with standardized data | Better decision-making |
| Vulnerability Management | Integration with the NIST catalog | Improved security measures |
| Network Visualization | Visual topology mapping | Easier infrastructure management |
| Custom Workflows | Automated IT operations | Higher operational efficiency |
These features integrate smoothly into IT ecosystems, helping organizations manage assets more effectively.
Integration Ecosystem
Lansweeper connects with over 35 enterprise applications, including ServiceNow, Jira, and HaloITSM. This allows companies to sync asset data across platforms. For instance, Rentokil Initial used Lansweeper with ServiceNow to simplify CMDB compliance tracking and reporting processes [26]. Such integrations lead to measurable operational improvements.
Real-World Impact
Lansweeper’s value is evident in enterprise use cases. Ben Vrijsen, Manager IT Field Services EMEA at Radisson, shared:
“The time and cost savings we realize from using Lansweeper to collect and consolidate all of the IT asset data across all our properties is substantial. We gain unprecedented insights that will help us optimize IT spend and performance across the enterprise.” [28]
Enterprise-Grade Capabilities
Trusted by over 18,000 brands globally [26][27], Lansweeper is built for complex IT setups. Jesse Myers, Director of World Wide IT Infrastructure and SaaS Operations at Imprivata, highlighted:
“Compared with other solutions we evaluated, Lansweeper provided the widest coverage across all types of devices. The speed of deployment and immediate ROI was impressive. Lansweeper has helped us reign in asset sprawl across our infrastructure.” [28]
Beyond asset discovery, Lansweeper offers detailed reporting tools, including vulnerability assessments through its NIST catalog integration. These features help identify security risks early, optimize costs, and ensure compliance.
9. Eracent
Eracent provides effective license management through its Continuous License Reconciliation (CLR) suite, helping businesses cut costs and minimize audit risks.
License Management Features
| Feature | Capability | Business Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Continuous License Reconciliation | Automated license position reporting | Lower compliance risk |
| Installation Tracking | Real-time software deployment monitoring | Better license utilization |
| Purchase Record Integration | Automated license reconciliation | Reduced costs |
| Product Use Rights | Automated compliance checking | Simplified audit preparation |
| Modeling Templates | Tools for scenario planning | Smarter decision-making |
Integration Ecosystem
Eracent connects seamlessly with key enterprise systems using its specialized Data Extractors (EDEs). These integrations include:
- Cloud services: AWS, Microsoft Azure, Citrix Cloud
- Mobile device management: BlackBerry Enterprise, IBM MaaS360, Microsoft Intune
- IT management tools: ServiceNow, BMC Remedy, Ivanti
- Security tools: Software Bill of Materials (SBOM) vulnerability scanning
Advanced Optimization Features
Eracent stands out with its detailed license position reporting, which matches installations against purchase records. Robert MacKnew, Sr. Engineer, highlights this strength:
“Eracent’s robust Lifecycle Management capabilities allow them to quickly respond to internal and external audits confidently” [29]
Enterprise-Grade Security
The platform enhances security through web service integrations, secure two-way data sharing, SCANMAN™ data normalization, and SBOM vulnerability assessments.
Real-World Application
Eracent proves its value with real-world results:
“Eracent helps its customers meet the challenges of managing software licenses and computing assets in today’s complex and evolving IT environments…reduce their audit and security risks, and establish more efficient asset management processes.” [29]
This makes it especially useful for organizations with complex IT setups and frequent compliance needs. Its automated modeling templates allow businesses to make informed choices when planning system updates or expansions. These features position Eracent as a strong player in the software asset management (SAM) space, ready to compete with other top-tier solutions.
10. Snow Software
Acquired by Flexera on February 15, 2024 [9], Snow Software provides a cloud-native platform called Snow Atlas for managing software licenses and SaaS applications. It helps businesses gain better visibility across hybrid IT environments.
Core Features and Capabilities
| Feature | What It Does | Business Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Snow Spend Optimizer | Tracks usage for over 700,000 apps | Potential ROI exceeding 400% [10] |
| SaaS Management | Detects shadow IT and controls usage | Reduces vendor sprawl and waste |
| ITSM Enhancer | Builds and maintains a CMDB | Improves CMDB data accuracy |
| Risk Monitor | Identifies vulnerabilities | Strengthens security measures |
Saving Costs with Precision
Investec successfully cut down costs by managing licenses more effectively. Nathan Snyman, Microsoft SAM Manager at Investec, shared:
“Thanks to Snow, we will be able to reduce our Adobe footprint and costs by 15%, and our spend with Microsoft by 12%, when we come to renew licenses” [7].
Enterprise-Level Implementation
Panasonic Information Systems Company Europe highlights Snow’s ability to meet enterprise needs. Ulf Kuetemeyer, Senior Manager of Contracting & Procurement, said:
“We chose the Snow SAM solution because it covers all our functionality requests, from the DIS [Data Intelligence Service] to the management of both installed and web browser software, without compromising data privacy” [8].
Snow’s enterprise-ready features also ensure strong security and compliance.
Security and Compliance Standards
Snow Atlas aligns with stringent security requirements, including:
- SOC 2 Type 2 certification
- ISO/IEC 27001 compliance
- Cloud Security Alliance: STAR verification [7]
It also offers global data storage options in the United States, Australia, and Europe, ensuring adherence to regional data regulations.
Proven Results
Max Life Insurance achieved a 10% reduction in its top five enterprise software expenses using Snow Spend Optimizer [6]. Additionally, Snow’s Data Intelligence Service addresses an 85% CMDB failure rate caused by poor data quality [8]. By normalizing and enriching IT asset data, Snow ensures businesses maintain accurate software inventories for better decision-making.
Real-Time Monitoring
Euladox also includes an Omni-Channel Incident Management system. This feature continuously monitors the environment, providing real-time reports on discovery progress and errors, enabling quick troubleshooting.
Tool Comparison
Here’s a look at how these SAM tools address enterprise challenges:
- USU (formerly Aspera) focuses on streamlining software portfolios.
- ServiceNow SAM Pro integrates seamlessly with IT service management systems.
- Euladox stands out in handling Oracle license compliance [32].
Cost Impact Overview
- Companies waste an average of $17 million annually on unused SaaS tools [1].
- Enterprises spend over $224 million on SaaS subscriptions, yet only utilize about 50% of their licensed capacity [1].
- In 2023, 70% of SaaS contracts were renewed despite major underutilization [1].
These numbers highlight the financial consequences of inefficient software usage. While all SAM tools cover basic needs, solutions like ServiceNow SAM Pro and Flexera are better suited for complex setups. On the other hand, ManageEngine AssetExplorer is a practical choice for smaller organizations. Euladox is the best in case you want a SAM Tool + Managed Service that provides discovery, contract management & always audit ready status.
How to Choose the Right SAM Tool
Picking the right SAM tool starts with understanding your organization’s specific needs and existing infrastructure.
Understand Your Organization’s Scale
The size of your organization will largely determine the SAM tool you need. For example:
- Large enterprises often benefit from tools like ServiceNow SAM Pro (rated 4.5/5) or FlexNet Manager (rated 4.0/5), which can handle complex environments.
- Smaller organizations might find ManageEngine AssetExplorer (rated 4.2/5) more aligned with their simpler requirements.
- Any organization that wants a full fleded SAM tool + service will find Euladox (4.4/5) to be the best option.
Integration Capabilities
Check how well the tool integrates with your current systems. For example, Zluri’s platform is known for integrating smoothly with existing setups, improving overall workflow efficiency [33].
Key areas where integration matters:
- IT Service Management (ITSM) platforms
- Configuration Management Databases (CMDBs)
- Service desk tools
- Cloud monitoring solutions
Vendor Support and Expertise
Look for vendors with a strong track record in your specific software ecosystem. For instance, if managing Oracle licenses is a concern, tools like Euladox specialize in Oracle license audits and optimization.
Compare Core Features
Different organizations have different priorities. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Feature Focus | Large Enterprises | Mid-Sized Businesses |
|---|---|---|
| License Management | Advanced tools for optimization | Basic compliance tracking |
| Integration Depth | Works across multiple systems | Limited to essential systems |
| Reporting | Customizable analytics | Standardized reports |
| Vendor Support | Round-the-clock support | Support during business hours |
Budget Considerations
Factor in:
- Total costs, including implementation, training, and long-term ownership
- The value of insights and reporting for reducing expenses
Choose a tool that provides clear data on software usage and helps you manage costs effectively.
