What is EN ISO 19770-4:2014

EN ISO 19770-4:2014 is a technical standard published by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) that focuses on software asset management. It provides guidelines for the effective management and control of software assets throughout their lifecycle.

Key Components of EN ISO 19770-4:2014

The standard outlines several key components that organizations should consider when implementing software asset management practices:

1. Identification and classification of software assets: EN ISO 19770-4:2014 emphasizes the importance of accurately identifying and classifying software assets to enable efficient management and tracking. This includes maintaining an inventory of all software assets, including installed copies and licenses.

2. Entitlement and evidence: The standard requires organizations to maintain records of software entitlements and evidence of license ownership. This ensures compliance with software licenses and helps prevent unauthorized use or overuse of software.

3. Verification and audits: EN ISO 19770-4:2014 recommends implementing regular verification processes and audits to ensure the accuracy of software asset information and compliance with licensing agreements. Audits help identify any discrepancies or potential license violations.

4. Reporting and documentation: The standard highlights the need for clear and comprehensive reporting and documentation of software asset management activities. This enables organizations to track and analyze usage, costs, and risks associated with software assets.

Benefits of Implementing EN ISO 19770-4:2014

1. Cost savings: By effectively managing software assets, organizations can avoid unnecessary purchases, reduce license non-compliance penalties, and optimize software usage to eliminate waste.

2. Legal compliance: EN ISO 19770-4:2014 helps organizations ensure compliance with software licensing agreements, reducing the risk of legal issues and associated penalties.

3. Risk mitigation: Implementing the standard helps identify potential risks, such as unauthorized or unmanaged software, and enables organizations to take proactive measures to mitigate these risks.

4. Enhanced decision-making: Accurate software asset information provided by EN ISO 19770-4:2014 enables organizations to make informed decisions regarding software procurement, maintenance, and retirement, ensuring optimal resource allocation.