What is a software asset manager job?
A software asset manager is a key role in many companies that operate with software. The job of a software asset manager is to ensure that the company has the right software licenses, and that they are being used effectively. They help the company to manage its software assets by making sure that the licenses are being used in compliance with the terms and conditions of the software vendor. They also help the company to optimize its software usage, so that they are getting the most out of their investment.
What do they usually do in this position?
A software asset manager will have a variety of responsibilities, including the following:
- Managing the company's software licenses. This includes tracking how many licenses are available, how many are being used, and ensuring that the company stays in compliance with the terms and conditions of the software vendor.
- Optimizing software usage. This means working with other departments to ensure that software is being used effectively and efficiently, and identifying areas where improvements can be made.
- Managing software procurement. This includes working with vendors to negotiate contracts, and ensuring that the company is getting the best possible deal.
- Managing software inventory. This includes keeping track of what software is installed on company computers, and ensuring that it is up-to-date and secure.
- Developing and implementing software asset management policies and procedures. This includes creating policies that ensure that the company stays in compliance with software vendor terms and conditions, and developing procedures for managing software licenses, inventory, and procurement.
Top 5 skills for the position:
- Strong understanding of software licensing and compliance.
- Excellent communication and negotiation skills.
- Highly organized and detail-oriented.
- Experience with software asset management tools.
- Ability to work well with others and manage cross-functional projects.
How to become a software asset management specialist:
To become a software asset management specialist, you will typically need a bachelor's degree in a related field, such as computer science or information systems. You may also need to have several years of experience working with software asset management tools and processes. Many software asset management specialists also hold certifications such as the Certified Software Asset Manager (CSAM) or the Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP).
Average salary:
According to Glassdoor, the average salary for a software asset management specialist in the United States is around $80,000 per year. However, salaries can vary widely depending on factors such as location, experience, and the size of the company.
Roles and types:
There are a variety of roles and types of software asset management positions, including:
- Software Asset Manager
- Software License Compliance Manager
- Software Procurement Manager
- Software Asset Analyst
- Software Asset Consultant
Locations with the most popular jobs in the USA:
According to Indeed, the top 5 cities in the United States with the most software asset management job openings are:
- New York, NY
- Chicago, IL
- San Francisco, CA
- Washington, DC
- Atlanta, GA
What are the typical tools?
There are a variety of software asset management tools available, including:
- Snow Software
- Flexera
- ServiceNow
- Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager
- IBM BigFix
These tools can help software asset managers to manage software licenses, track software usage, and optimize software usage.
In conclusion:
Software asset management is a critical role in many companies, and it requires a combination of technical expertise and strong communication skills. By managing software licenses and usage effectively, software asset managers can help companies to save money and maximize their investment in software. With the right skills and experience, you can build a successful career in this field.