Software Asset Management Professionals

How SLIM 360 Slashed Office 365 Costs by $300k.

Posted on July 27, 2023June 7, 2024 by Ben Tight

Optimizing costs for software and cloud contracts is a pressing challenge faced by organizations worldwide. Astonishingly, many businesses still need to recognize the significant savings that lie untapped within their Office 365 environment.

While many businesses have embraced the advantages of Office 365, they often miss out on potential opportunities for substantial savings. These overlooked opportunities for cost efficiency can profoundly impact their bottom line.

Introducing SLIM 360, a revolutionary Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) tool designed to unlock maximum cost efficiency for Office 365 users. Organizations strive to optimize software and cloud contracts while maximizing savings.

Are you ready to experience the transformative power of SLIM 360? Embark on enhanced cost efficiency and improved productivity in your Office 365 environment. Let us explore how SLIM 360 empowered a mid-sized enterprise to reveal hidden cost savings, revolutionize operations, and reduce annual expenses by an astounding $300k.

What is SLIM 360?

SLIM 360 offers a comprehensive solution, empowering businesses to uncover hidden cost-saving opportunities and revolutionize their operations. SLIM 360 enables organizations to slash expenses by an astounding $300k per year with powerful features like the following:

Tagging engine for effective categorization
Identification of unused licenses
Streamlined license assignments
Proactive software asset management

Learn more: SLIM 360: Spend 40% Less on Microsoft Licensing

What Case Study Has Been Done With SLIM 360?

Our featured company, an ambitious mid-sized enterprise, had already implemented some cost-cutting measures. However, they suspected that there was still untapped potential for further improvement. Seeking an innovative solution, they turned to SLIM 360 for guidance.

What are the Benefits of Using SLIM 360?

The Tagging Engine: the Power of Effective Categorization

One of SLIM 360’s standout features is its powerful tagging engine, which played a pivotal role in identifying cost optimization opportunities. Leveraging this tool, the company’s IT team swiftly identified services exclusively used by contractors.

These users, responsible for managing the SAP environment, required email access solely for multi-factor authentication (MFA). With SLIM 360’s recommendation, the company seamlessly transitioned from E3 to Exchange Online and Azure AD for MFA purposes only, significantly reducing costs without compromising security or functionality.

Uncovering Unused Licenses

In an eye-opening revelation, the company discovered that it had been paying for several unused Visio, Project, and Power BI licenses. With SLIM 360’s powerful insights, they swiftly identified these dormant licenses and took decisive action to either reallocate them to active users or terminate them altogether. This proactive approach resulted in trimming excess costs and optimizing license utilization, generating substantial savings.

Streamlining License Assignments for Efficiency

SLIM 360’s meticulous analysis also revealed instances of service accounts with improperly assigned licenses within the Office 365 environment. By rectifying these license assignments, the company significantly reduced unnecessary expenses. This streamlined approach reduced costs and ensured that every user had the appropriate level of access and functionality, enhancing overall productivity.

Proactive Software Asset Management

Beyond the specific strategies employed, SLIM 360 instilled a proactive software asset management mindset within the company. The organization maintained ongoing cost efficiency by continuously monitoring and optimizing Office 365 costs. SLIM 360 provided regular reports, identified potential areas for improvement, and offered actionable insights to drive further optimization.

Through the intervention of SLIM 360, our featured company achieved remarkable results, slashing costs by a staggering 15%, amounting to an annual savings of $300k. This case study serves as a testament to the vital importance of proactive software asset management in achieving optimal cost efficiency. By harnessing the power of SLIM 360’s robust features, organizations can unlock hidden savings, streamline their Office 365 expenses, and revolutionize their operations.

Learn more: 5 Tips for Controlling Your Microsoft 365 Budget

If your organization seeks to enhance cost efficiency within your Office 365 environment, SLIM 360 is the definitive solution. Experience the transformative power of SLIM 360 and unlock untapped savings today. For more about SLIM 360 and its capabilities, visit our website.

In an increasingly competitive business landscape, every penny counts. Embrace the possibilities of cost optimization with SLIM 360 and embark on a journey of substantial savings, improved efficiency, and enhanced productivity. Empower your organization with the tools to thrive in the modern digital era.

Revolutionize Software Asset Management

Posted on June 15, 2023March 13, 2025 by Ben Tight

Organizations rely on software assets to drive return on investment. Which software tools do companies depend on to make light work?

Productivity tools.
Communication platforms.
Content management.
Email systems.
Operating systems.
Telecommunication tools.
Video conferencing.
Marketing campaign dashboards.
CRMs, and so much more!

Software asset management is an integral part of daily operations. But managing software assets can be a daunting task for many organizations. There are so many software licenses, vendors, and changing compliance regulations. So, managing software assets can be time-consuming and expensive.

Tech execs are often left at odds when negotiating software asset contracts. The rising software licensing and maintenance costs burn a hole in your IT budget. Did you know? You can negotiate software licensing while staying on top of software usage compliance.

Don’t worry; you’re not alone. Many enterprises face these challenges and need help finding a solution. But what if there was a way to revolutionize software asset management? MetrixData 360 offers a solution that could change the game for your organization.

That is where Software Asset Management (SAM) comes into play. SAM is the practice of managing and optimizing software assets throughout their lifecycle. That takes place to reduce costs, improve security, and ensure compliance.

How Can You Simplify Software Asset Management?

MetrixData 360 is a leading SAM solutions provider revolutionizing software asset management. No one else makes software asset management this easy for every business to access. MetrixData 360 bridges several barriers for their target customers, including:

Transparency:

MetrixData 360 offers total transparency to support software usage policies. That lets companies see where they can either merge or drop licenses.

Customization:

Software asset intelligence can adapt to fit an organization’s specific needs. That enables flexibility to manage their software assets optimally.

Cost Savings:

Some licenses can be cross-functional across various operations. Why have Microsoft OneDrive, Google Workspace, and Dropbox managed file storage? Cost-effective time-saving tools are the only safe option. It is vital to reduce wasted storage.

Compliance:

Metrix Data 360 ensures license compliance by tracking usage. We ensure that you only pay for licenses without which they cannot work.

Reporting:

Here, companies access comprehensive reporting capabilities. That lets them generate detailed reports so they can optimize intelligent decisions easily.

But it wasn’t always this easy! The old and outdated manual process has undoubtedly put many businesses through the backburner. Some of these critical aspects of software asset management include:

Software Discovery

Back in the day, you could only check installed software by one-by-one. Also, did you know some companies are still relying on end-user reports? Metrix Data 360 automates instant scanning of all synced devices on a network. You can also get real-time version control updates.

Inventory Management

Spreadsheet-based inventory management involves the manual entry of each device and software application.

Now, Metrix Data 360 speeds up inventory management tools. That includes tracking all of the following:

Software licenses.
License types.
License register.
Expiration dates.
Real-time metrics.

License Compliance

Before, relying on manual audits was the only way to ensure software asset compliance.

New standards allow advanced algorithms to detect the overuse or underuse of licenses. You can receive live notifications and reports to stay up to date.

Usage Tracking

Old methods relied on end-user reports and manual checks to prevent software abuse. Often, updates would be too late.

Today, usage tracking tools provide live company-wide data about overuse and license statuses.

Reporting

Years ago, manual data capture from various sources to generate reports was the norm.

Now, automated reporting tools that provide real-time data on:

Software inventory
Usage.
Compliance.
Version control
And any specific need.

Overall, new standards for software asset management streamline business operations. Automated tools enable accurate and real-time insight. That reduces the risk of wastage and immeasurable loss and increases competitive edge.

Learn More: IBM Licensing Costs: Tips for Lowering Costs and Maximizing ROI

How to Lead Software Asset Management

Establish Clear Policies:

CIOs should establish clear policies for software asset management. Outline the company’s procedures for acquiring, tracking, and disposing of software. These policies should be regularly reviewed and updated as needed.

Use Automated Tools:

CIOs can leverage automated software asset management tools to simplify tracking software licenses, usage, and compliance. These tools can reduce the time and effort required to manage software assets while improving accuracy and reducing the risk of non-compliance.

Conduct Regular Audits:

Regular software asset audits help CIOs identify areas of non-compliance or inefficiency and make informed decisions about software purchases and licensing. These audits should be conducted regularly and include an analysis of usage data to identify any areas of over- or under-licensing.

Implement Training and Awareness Programs:

CIOs should implement training and awareness programs to ensure employees understand the importance of software asset management and their role in maintaining compliance.

By implementing these strategies, CIOs can gain greater control over their software assets, reduce the dangers of non-compliance, and achieve optimal software asset management.

Learn More: How to Simplify your Microsoft 365 License Management

Why Choose MetrixData 360’s SAM Tools?

MetrixData 360’s SAM tool is an essential part of IT excellence.

We guard an organization’s software assets, enabling them to manage its licenses efficiently.
We deliver accurate and up-to-date information about software licenses and usage.
We ensure compliance with licensing agreements, avoiding costly penalties and legal issues.
Plus, MetrixData 360’s SAM tool provides insights into software usage. We help organizations make informed decisions about software procurement and deployment.

In conclusion, MetrixData 360’s SAM tool is a game-changer for organizations looking to revolutionize software assets and how they work. Contact us to book a consultation.

2023 Microsoft Office 365 Price Increases

Posted on June 8, 2023August 6, 2024 by Ben Tight

In 2023, Microsoft announced that it would be increasing the prices of its Office 365 plans for commercial customers. The new pricing structure will take effect on October 1, 2023, impacting businesses of all sizes.

What Does The Microsoft 365 Price Change Entail?

The new prices will vary depending on the plan and region, but some businesses could see their monthly costs rise by as much as 15%. The price increase is attributed to Microsoft’s ongoing investments in its cloud services, including Office 365. The company is adding new features and expanding its global infrastructure to meet the growing service demand.

Office 365 remains a cost-effective solution for many businesses despite the price increase. The suite offers many tools and features to help businesses improve their productivity and collaboration. Plus, it provides security and data protection that is hard to match with other solutions.

With Office 365 Price Increases, What Are The Alternatives?

For businesses looking to save money, a few options are available. First, Microsoft offers a free version of Office 365, called Office 365 Business Basic, which includes a subset of the features found in the paid versions. Additionally, businesses can save money by buying multiple years of Office 365 at once, as the company offers discounts for customers who pay for multiple years in advance.

The price increase for Microsoft Office 365 in 2023 reflects the company’s continued investment in its cloud services. While it may be disappointing for some businesses, the cost increase is necessary to ensure that Office 365 remains a top-performing and secure solution. Businesses looking to save money on Office 365 have options like Office 365 Business Basic and buying multiple years in advance. Businesses need to reassess their Office 365 plans and consider adjusting their subscriptions to accommodate the new pricing structure.

Optimize Your Office 365 Spend with SLIM 360

In addition to the options mentioned above, businesses can also use tools like MetrixData 360’s SLIM 360 to optimize their Office 365 spend. SLIM 360 is a software tool that helps businesses manage and optimize their Office 365 subscriptions.

With SLIM 360, businesses can clearly understand their Office 365 usage and identify areas where they can cut costs or improve efficiency. The tool can also help businesses optimize their Office 365 licenses, ensuring that they only pay for the features and services they need.

Key Features of SLIM 360

Some of the key features of SLIM 360 include:

Usage tracking and reporting: SLIM 360 can track and report the usage of different Office 365 services and features, giving businesses insight into which services are being used and which aren’t.
License optimization: SLIM 360 can help businesses optimize their Office 365 licenses by identifying which users need which services and features and assigning the appropriate licenses.
Cost savings: By optimizing their Office 365 licenses and usage, businesses can reduce their Office 365 spending and save money.
Security and compliance: SLIM 360 can also help businesses ensure compliance with security and data protection regulations by providing visibility into their Office 365 environment.

When There’s a Microsoft 365 Increase, Make Use of Metrixdata 360’s SLIM 360

In conclusion, businesses facing the price increase of Microsoft Office 365 in 2023 can use MetrixData 360’s SLIM 360 tool to optimize their Office 365 spend. The tool can help businesses track and report on using different Office 365 services and features, identify areas where they can cut costs or improve efficiency, and ensure compliance with security and data protection regulations. With SLIM 360, businesses can ensure that they are only paying for the features and services they need and reduce their Office 365 spending. For more information on our SLIM 360. For other services, visit our website at www.metrixdata360.com.

Software Contracts and Negotiations: The Importance of Ringfencing for Licensing and Compliance

Posted on June 6, 2023May 16, 2024 by Ben Tight

Software contracts are binding agreements that define the terms of use and access to software systems. Negotiating a software contract and software license management itself can be complex, particularly regarding licensing and compliance requirements. That’s where ringfencing comes in as a key strategy for managing licensing and compliance requirements in software negotiations.

What is Ringfencing in Software Contracts?

Ringfencing isolates access to specific portions of a software application from the rest of the system. There are many ways technically you can ringfence access to an application. For example, you can limit the access to certain types of users or restrict the type of access they receive (say, by giving them reduced functionality). This is done to help businesses manage licensing and compliance requirements in software contracts by excluding certain users or groups from the licensing requirement.

For example, in a software contract requiring all users to be licensed with maintenance, certain workers may not need access to the software. This could include shop floor employees, retail employees, or healthcare workers, who may not require the same functionality or access as other users. In such cases, ringfencing can exclude these users from the licensing requirement, helping businesses avoid unnecessary costs and complexity. You would negotiate a clause to exclude these users from needing a license.

Why is Ringfencing Important in Software Contracts and Negotiations?

There are several key benefits to using ringfencing in your software contracts and negotiations for licensing and compliance:

Cost savings: By using ringfencing to exclude certain users or groups from the licensing requirement, businesses can achieve significant cost savings over time. This is particularly important for companies with large workforces or complex software systems, where licensing costs can quickly increase.
Compliance: Ringfencing can help businesses comply with industry regulations and standards by limiting access to sensitive data or functionality and providing better control over user access and permissions. It can also help you maintain compliance with the terms and conditions of your software contract.
Flexibility: Ringfencing provides businesses with greater flexibility in managing their software systems and licenses, allowing them to tailor access and functionality to the specific needs of different user groups.

Ringfencing is an important strategy for managing licensing and compliance requirements in software contracts and negotiations. By using ringfencing to exclude certain users or groups from the licensing requirement, businesses can achieve cost savings, improve compliance, and gain greater flexibility in managing their software systems.

Consider Ringfencing Today

So if you’re negotiating a new software contract, need help with software license management, think about ringfencing options, and negotiate with your vendor to find a solution that meets your needs and helps you manage your licensing and compliance requirements effectively. For more guidance on Ringfencing, speak to our team at MetrixData 360. Find out more here: https://ukl.cmh.mybluehost.me/. If you’re looking for guidance on other matters like software licensing, Microsoft Office license, Microsoft Office lifetime license, end user license agreements, or software license management, get in touch with us too.

What You Need to Know About Oracle Java License Audits

Posted on June 1, 2023June 22, 2023 by Hailey Austin

Understanding Oracle’s Java Licensing Policies

If you are a business or organization using Oracle Java in your operations, it’s crucial to be aware of Oracle’s policies on Java licensing. Recently, there has been a significant uptick in Oracle sales teams approaching companies and asking for use data around Oracle Java. These requests are often an Oracle Java license audit in disguise or quickly turn into an audit when the results aren’t favorable to the sales rep.

What is an Oracle Java License Audit?

An Oracle Java license audit is a review of your organization’s use of Oracle Java to ensure that you comply with the terms and conditions of your Java license. This may include examining your organization’s Java usage, including the number of users, the types of applications being run, and the number of Java-based servers being used.

Why Might Oracle Conduct a Java License Audit?

There are several reasons why Oracle might choose to conduct a Java license audit. These could include:

Your organization has never purchased Java licenses
Oracle sees downloads of Java, but no purchases associated with your account
Ensuring that you are using Oracle Java following the terms of your license
Verifying that you have the appropriate number of Java licenses for the number of users and servers in your organization
Detecting unauthorized use of Oracle Java
Identifying opportunities to upsell additional Java licenses or support
What to Expect During an Oracle Java License Audit

If Oracle decides to conduct a Java license audit of your organization, you will receive a letter or email from Oracle requesting information about your Java usage. This may include a request for documentation such as inventory lists, user counts, and application lists. Alternatively, an Oracle salesperson may contact you to request the same type of audit information. Be aware that this is essentially an Oracle Java license audit in disguise.

Oracle may also request deployment data to review your Java infrastructure and usage. It’s important to note that even if they say it’s a simple process, the audit process can take several months to complete.

How to Prepare for an Oracle Java License Audit

To prepare for an Oracle Java license audit, it’s crucial to clearly understand your organization’s Java usage and the terms and conditions of your Oracle Java license. Here are a few steps you can take:

Review Oracle Java licensing rules to understand the terms and conditions of your usage.
Conduct an inventory of your Java usage, including the number of users, the types of applications being run, and the number of Java-based servers being used.
Make sure you have the appropriate number of Java licenses for your organization’s usage.
Keep documentation of your Java usage and licenses organized and readily accessible.

What Happens if You Are Found Non-Compliant During an Oracle Java License Audit?

Suppose Oracle finds that your organization needs to comply with the terms and conditions of your Java license during an audit. In that case, you may be required to purchase additional licenses or pay for any unauthorized usage. In some cases, Oracle may choose to terminate your Java license entirely.

To avoid these potential consequences, it’s crucial to stay up to date on your Oracle Java license’s terms and ensure that your organization complies. This may involve purchasing additional licenses as needed or making changes to your Java usage to align with the terms and conditions of your license.

Oracle Java license audits are common for businesses and organizations using Oracle Java. By understanding the audit process and taking steps to ensure compliance with your license, you can minimize the risk of any issues arising during an audit.

Unpacking BYOL: Bring Your Own License

Posted on May 30, 2023May 17, 2024 by Ben Tight

Did you know that BYOL stood for “Bring Your Own License?” It is a concept that is gaining popularity in the world of software asset management.

What is BYOL?

Essentially, BYOL allows the use of existing software licenses for a product. That solution erases the need to buy new licenses for the same product.

But BYOL is not without its challenges. One of the biggest challenges is ensuring license compliance. Customers have more responsibility in this case. They must ensure they use the product according to the terms of their existing licenses.

That can be challenging, as license terms can be complex and difficult to interpret. Also, customers must ensure they have the right to transfer their licenses. But before we dive too deep into BYOL, let’s first learn why tech execs love it so much.

Learn More: Bring Your Own License (BYOL) Rules on Third-Party Cloud Providers

What are the benefits of BYOL?

Some of the key benefits of implementing BYOL with MetrixData 360 include the following:

Cost savings:

BYOL can save organizations significant amounts of money. It lets them use their existing software licenses rather than purchasing new ones. With MetrixData 360’s expertise, companies can optimize BYOL strategy and maximize cost savings.

Improved software asset management:

BYOL can be challenging to implement! But with MetrixData 360’s tools and expertise, organizations can gain greater visibility. Getting into their software licenses and ensuring compliance with licensing agreements is easier. That can result in improved software asset management and reduced risk of non-compliance.

Reduced risk:

Non-compliance with software licensing agreements can result in expensive penalties – not to mention the profound damage to your company’s reputation! With BYOL, organizations can look like the top dogs of the industry.

BYOL has several benefits for both customers and software vendors.

For customers:

BYOL can lead to significant cost savings. Customers can leverage their existing investments in software licenses to access new capabilities. They can also expand their use of a particular product. Plus, BYOL can simplify the procurement process. Customers do not need to negotiate new license agreements. They also can skip the process of purchasing new licenses.

For software vendors:

BYOL can increase customer satisfaction and loyalty. It narrows the divide between customers and personalized value. They access more from their existing investments in the vendor’s products. Did you know that BYOL can ease the adoption of a vendor’s products? It removes barriers for customers who might resist buying new licenses.

View Our Services

Metrix Data 360 Makes BYOL a Your Best Friend

BYOL can be an effective way for organizations to save on software licensing costs. But software licensing agreements and tracking license usage can be overwhelming!

MetrixData 360’s software asset management solutions help organizations do the following:

Optimize their BYOL strategy
Maximize cost savings
Ensure compliance with licensing agreements.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you with your BYOL strategy. MetrixData 360 is a leading provider of software asset management solutions, such as BYOL.

Demystifying Oracle’s Virtualization Policy: A Guide for Compliance

Posted on May 25, 2023June 19, 2023 by Hailey Austin

As more organizations move towards virtualized environments, it’s important to understand how Oracle’s virtualization policy applies to different technologies and licensing models. Failure to comply with these guidelines can result in license non-compliance and potential financial penalties. This blog will guide you through the specifics of Oracle’s virtualization policy, including hardware and software virtualization, popular virtualization technologies, and licensing requirements.

Understanding Hardware and Software Virtualization: How Oracle’s Guidelines Differ

Oracle’s virtualization policy specifies different guidelines for hardware and software virtualization technologies. Hardware virtualization involves running multiple operating systems on a single physical machine, while software virtualization allows multiple applications to run on a single operating system. Understanding these differences is crucial to ensuring compliance with Oracle’s virtualization policy.

The Role of VMware, Hyper-V, and VirtualBox in Virtualization

Popular virtualization technologies such as VMware, Hyper-V, and VirtualBox play a crucial role in virtualization environments, but it’s important to note that Oracle’s virtualization policy treats each technology differently. For example, Oracle has specific guidelines for using its products in a VMware environment. These guidelines require that customers have a valid license for each Oracle product used in the VMware environment and that the VMware environment is configured according to specific requirements outlined in the Oracle VMWare Support Policies.

Similarly, if you’re using Hyper-V to run Oracle products, you must ensure that you have a valid license for each product used in the Hyper-V environment. You must also follow specific guidelines for configuring the virtual environment and the hardware it runs on, as outlined in Oracle’s Hyper-V Support Policies.

In the case of VirtualBox, Oracle’s virtualization policy specifies that it can only be used for personal, non-commercial use and that any use for commercial purposes requires a commercial license.

Oracle Licensing and Virtualization: What You Need to Know

Regarding virtualized environments, Oracle’s licensing policy can be complex and confusing. Oracle has specific requirements and rules for licensing its products in virtualized environments, and failure to comply with these policies can result in financial and legal consequences. Here are some key things to keep in mind when it comes to Oracle licensing and virtualization:

Oracle’s licensing policy considers each virtual machine (VM) a separate physical server, regardless of the underlying hardware. This means that organizations must ensure they have the appropriate licenses for each VM running Oracle software.

Oracle has different product licensing models, such as per-user or per-core licensing. Organizations need to understand the licensing model for each product and ensure they have the appropriate licenses to cover their usage.

Virtualization technologies such as VMware, Hyper-V, and VirtualBox are subject to different licensing requirements from Oracle. Organizations must understand the terms and conditions outlined in Oracle’s virtualization guidelines for each product used in these environments.

Ensuring Compliance with Oracle’s Virtualization Policy: Best Practices and Tools

Organizations must implement best practices and use the right tools to ensure compliance with Oracle’s virtualization policy. Here are some tips to help you stay compliant:

Conduct regular audits of your virtualized environment to ensure you have the appropriate licenses for all Oracle products.
Use tools such as Oracle License Management Services (LMS) or third-party tools to monitor your virtualized environment and track the usage of Oracle products.
Stay updated with Oracle’s virtualization policies and guidelines and ensure your virtualized environment is always compliant.

The Consequences of Non-Compliance: Mitigating Financial and Legal Risk

The consequences of non-compliance with Oracle’s virtualization policy can be severe and have significant financial and legal implications for an organization. Non-compliance can result in audits, fines, and penalties, leading to legal disputes and reputational damage.

Oracle has a reputation for aggressive auditing practices and has a team dedicated to investigating and enforcing its licensing policies. Audits can result in significant financial penalties, including backdated licensing fees, interest charges, and the cost of the audit itself. In extreme cases, non-compliance can lead to legal action, resulting in hefty fines and legal fees.

In addition to financial and legal risks, non-compliance can damage an organization’s reputation. News of non-compliance and legal disputes can spread quickly, and potential customers may be deterred from doing business with a company with a history of non-compliance.

To mitigate these risks, it is crucial for organizations to stay up-to-date with Oracle’s virtualization policy and to take steps to ensure compliance in all virtualized environments. This includes regular audits, monitoring tools, and IT staff and end-users training. By prioritizing compliance and proactively managing virtualized environments, organizations can avoid the consequences of non-compliance and protect their reputation and bottom line.

Staying Ahead of Oracle’s Virtualization Policy

Staying ahead of Oracle’s virtualization policy is essential for organizations that use Oracle products in virtualized environments. By understanding Oracle’s licensing requirements and guidelines, implementing best practices, and using the right tools, organizations can ensure compliance and mitigate non-compliance risks. It’s also important to stay current with any changes to Oracle’s virtualization policies and guidelines to ensure ongoing compliance.

Why Keeping a Bad Sales Rep Could Cost You: How to Get a Great Software Deal and Strengthen Relationships

Posted on May 18, 2023May 7, 2024 by Hailey Austin

As a customer, when you are looking to buy software, you want to get the best possible deal and build a strong relationship with the software provider. However, this can be difficult to achieve if a bad sales rep is working with you. In this blog post, we will explore why keeping a bad sales rep could cost you and provide actionable tips on how to get a great software deal and strengthen relationships.

Why Keeping a Bad Sales Rep Could Cost You

A bad sales rep can cost you in many ways. A bad sales rep:

Will not give you straight answers and will likely give you the runaround. This can be frustrating and time-consuming as you try to get the information you need to make an informed decision

May not be loyal to you and may be more interested in meeting their own goals than yours. This can lead to added costs, such as licensing, deployment, ongoing support, and increased costs over time.
Focuses on their quota and how they get paid. If you find a rep forcing you to buy products or services you don’t need, there is a reason. Reps that are focused on themselves are not going to help you accomplish what you need.

Actionable Tips to Get a Great Deal and Strengthen Relationships

Now that we’ve looked at why a bad sales rep can cost you, let’s explore some actionable tips on how to get a great software deal and strengthen relationships.

Do your research

Mistake: Not doing research

Tip: Before making a software purchase, do your research. Look for reviews and testimonials from other customers, check the software provider’s website and social media accounts, and speak with current or past customers if possible. This will help you make an informed decision and avoid wasting time and money.

Communicate your needs

Mistake: Not communicating your needs

Tip: When speaking with a sales rep, be clear and specific about your needs. This will help the sales rep understand your needs and make appropriate recommendations. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or ask for clarification if you don’t understand something.

Statistic: According to a survey by TechValidate, 97% of B2B buyers said that the sales rep’s ability to understand their needs was an important factor in their decision to purchase.

Negotiate

Mistake: Not negotiating

Tip: Don’t be afraid to negotiate with the sales rep. Ask for discounts or special pricing, especially if purchasing multiple licenses or a long-term contract. If the sales rep is unwilling to negotiate, consider speaking with management or looking for a different software provider.

Statistic: According to a survey by HubSpot, 89% of B2B buyers said negotiating pricing was an important factor in their decision to purchase.

Get in Touch with Us to Avoid That Bad Software and Sales Rep

As a customer, if you’re looking to buy software, you want to get the best possible deal and build a strong relationship with the software provider. We’ll help you avoid those bad sales reps that cost you, and we’ll provide even more actionable tips on how to get a great software deal and strengthen relationships.

Don’t let a lousy software sales rep cost you more. Look for warning signs like poor communication and lack of support.

Don’t settle for vague timelines or complex deployments. A good sales rep should be clear and transparent.
Watch out for hidden costs and “shelf-ware” bundles. A good sales rep will work to provide value and meet your needs.
Work with a sales rep who prioritizes your goals and vision, not just their own. Loyalty and support are critical.
Choose a sales rep who values security and supports your business needs. Don’t compromise on protection or solutions.

Don’t keep a bad sales rep if you want a great software deal and strong relationships.

Look for warning signs like poor communication, lack of support, and unclear timelines.
Don’t settle for hidden costs or unnecessary “shelf-ware” bundles. A good sales rep should provide value.
Prioritize your own goals and vision. Choose a sales rep who will support you and work to meet your needs.
Don’t compromise on security or protection. Choose a sales rep who values these aspects of software purchasing.
Take control of the purchasing process. Don’t let a bad sales rep drive up costs or hurt your relationship with your provider.

As businesses continue to rely more and more on software, the role of the sales representative has become increasingly important. A good sales rep can help enterprises to find the right software at the right price, while a bad sales rep can do the opposite. In fact, a bad sales rep could end up costing your business more than just money. According to a study by HubSpot, over 50% of customers say they have stopped doing business with a company because of poor customer service. So, how do you avoid keeping a bad sales rep, get an excellent software deal, and strengthen your business relationships?

Identify Warning Signs

The first step in avoiding a bad sales rep is to know what to look for. Here are some warning signs that you might have a bad sales rep:

A sales rep who is challenging to reach, doesn’t respond to emails, or doesn’t listen to your needs is a red flag.
A good sales rep should be there to support you throughout the entire software purchasing process, not just during the sale.
Be wary of sales reps who aren’t transparent about costs or try to bundle unnecessary features or services.
If the sales rep is only concerned with their own goals rather than yours, it’s time to look elsewhere.

Actionable Recommendation: Watch for these warning signs, and don’t hesitate to ask questions or voice concerns to their management team. A good sales rep will be transparent and responsive.

Error to Avoid: Don’t assume that a sales rep who seems nice or friendly will automatically be a good fit. Always do your research and ask questions.

Prioritize Your Goals and Vision

Your business has unique needs and goals when it comes to software. A good sales rep should prioritize your vision, not theirs. Here are some ways to ensure that your goals are being met:

A good sales rep will be open and honest about what they can and can’t provide.
Your software needs might change over time. A good sales rep should be willing to adjust to your changing needs.
Look for a sales rep who provides ongoing support, not just during the sale.
A good sales rep will be loyal to you and your business, not just trying to make a quick sale.

Actionable Recommendation: Clearly articulate your goals and vision to potential sales reps. Look for reps who show a willingness to work with you to achieve these goals.

Error to Avoid: Don’t settle for a sales rep who tries to push their own agenda or goals onto your business. Always prioritize your own needs and vision.

Don’t let your sales rep talk you into unnecessary add-ons:

Evaluate whether add-ons align with your goals and objectives
Ask for data or case studies that demonstrate how the add-on has helped similar clients
Push back if you feel like the add-on isn’t necessary or won’t provide a good ROI
Don’t let a bad sales rep pressure you into making a decision that isn’t right for your business and your budget.

Sales reps are often incentivized to push additional products or services, even if they don’t add value to your specific needs. Before agreeing to any add-ons, take the time to evaluate whether they align with your goals and objectives. Ask your rep to provide data or case studies demonstrating how the add-on has helped other clients in similar industries. Don’t be afraid to push back if you feel the add-on isn’t necessary or won’t provide a good return on investment.

Remember, it’s your business and your budget— don’t let a bad sales rep pressure you into making a decision that isn’t right for you.

Why Keeping a Bad Sales Rep Could Cost You: How to Get a Great Software Deal and Strengthen Relationships

Posted on May 18, 2023June 11, 2024 by Hailey Austin

Why Keeping a Bad Sales Rep Could Cost You

A bad sales rep can cost you in many ways. A bad sales rep:

Will not give you straight answers and will likely give you the runaround. This can be frustrating and time-consuming as you try to get the information you need to make an informed decision

May not be loyal to you and may be more interested in meeting their own goals than yours. This can lead to added costs, such as licensing, deployment, ongoing support, and increased costs over time.
Focuses on their quota and how they get paid. If you find a rep forcing you to buy products or services you don’t need, there is a reason. Reps that are focused on themselves are not going to help you accomplish what you need.

Actionable Tips to Get a Great Deal and Strengthen Relationships

Now that we’ve looked at why a bad sales rep can cost you, let’s explore some actionable tips on how to get a great software deal and strengthen relationships.

Do your research

Mistake: Not doing research

Communicate your needs

Mistake: Not communicating your needs

Statistic: According to a survey by TechValidate, 97% of B2B buyers said that the sales rep’s ability to understand their needs was an important factor in their decision to purchase.

Negotiate

Mistake: Not negotiating

Statistic: According to a survey by HubSpot, 89% of B2B buyers said negotiating pricing was an important factor in their decision to purchase.

Get in Touch with Us to Avoid That Bad Software and Sales Rep

Don’t let a lousy software sales rep cost you more. Look for warning signs like poor communication and lack of support.

Don’t settle for vague timelines or complex deployments. A good sales rep should be clear and transparent.
Watch out for hidden costs and “shelf-ware” bundles. A good sales rep will work to provide value and meet your needs.
Work with a sales rep who prioritizes your goals and vision, not just their own. Loyalty and support are critical.
Choose a sales rep who values security and supports your business needs. Don’t compromise on protection or solutions.

Don’t keep a bad sales rep if you want a great software deal and strong relationships.

Look for warning signs like poor communication, lack of support, and unclear timelines.
Don’t settle for hidden costs or unnecessary “shelf-ware” bundles. A good sales rep should provide value.
Prioritize your own goals and vision. Choose a sales rep who will support you and work to meet your needs.
Don’t compromise on security or protection. Choose a sales rep who values these aspects of software purchasing.
Take control of the purchasing process. Don’t let a bad sales rep drive up costs or hurt your relationship with your provider.

Identify Warning Signs

The first step in avoiding a bad sales rep is to know what to look for. Here are some warning signs that you might have a bad sales rep:

A sales rep who is challenging to reach, doesn’t respond to emails, or doesn’t listen to your needs is a red flag.
A good sales rep should be there to support you throughout the entire software purchasing process, not just during the sale.
Be wary of sales reps who aren’t transparent about costs or try to bundle unnecessary features or services.
If the sales rep is only concerned with their own goals rather than yours, it’s time to look elsewhere.

Actionable Recommendation: Watch for these warning signs, and don’t hesitate to ask questions or voice concerns to their management team. A good sales rep will be transparent and responsive.

Error to Avoid: Don’t assume that a sales rep who seems nice or friendly will automatically be a good fit. Always do your research and ask questions.

Prioritize Your Goals and Vision

Your business has unique needs and goals when it comes to software. A good sales rep should prioritize your vision, not theirs. Here are some ways to ensure that your goals are being met:

A good sales rep will be open and honest about what they can and can’t provide.
Your software needs might change over time. A good sales rep should be willing to adjust to your changing needs.
Look for a sales rep who provides ongoing support, not just during the sale.
A good sales rep will be loyal to you and your business, not just trying to make a quick sale.

Actionable Recommendation: Clearly articulate your goals and vision to potential sales reps. Look for reps who show a willingness to work with you to achieve these goals.

Error to Avoid: Don’t settle for a sales rep who tries to push their own agenda or goals onto your business. Always prioritize your own needs and vision.

Don’t let your sales rep talk you into unnecessary add-ons:

Evaluate whether add-ons align with your goals and objectives
Ask for data or case studies that demonstrate how the add-on has helped similar clients
Push back if you feel like the add-on isn’t necessary or won’t provide a good ROI
Don’t let a bad sales rep pressure you into making a decision that isn’t right for your business and your budget.

Remember, it’s your business and your budget— don’t let a bad sales rep pressure you into making a decision that isn’t right for you.

Best Practices for Azure Zombie Resources and Cost Management

Posted on April 27, 2023August 14, 2024 by Hailey Austin

What Are Azure Zombie Resources?

Azure zombie resources are cloud resources that are no longer in use but remain active and consuming resources, resulting in unnecessary charges. Zombie resources can occur when cloud resources are not adequately decommissioned or deleted or when resources are left running but are no longer needed.

These resources can be a significant problem for organizations using Azure, as they can result in unexpected and potentially significant Azure bills. To avoid this issue, it is vital to regularly review and clean up your use of Azure to ensure that all resources are appropriately decommissioned or deleted when they are no longer needed. Several factors can contribute to the development of Azure zombie resources.

For example, zombie resources can occur when:

Resources need to be correctly decommissioned: When resources are no longer needed, it is vital to decommission them properly by deleting or deallocating them. Without this step, the resources will continue to consume and generate charges.
Resources are left running when not in use: Some resources, such as virtual machines, can be left running when not in use, resulting in ongoing charges. To avoid this issue, stopping or deallocating resources when they are not needed is essential.
Resources are not adequately managed: Resource management is critical to avoiding the development of Azure zombie resources. This includes regularly reviewing resource usage and taking steps to decommission or delete resources that are no longer needed.

There are many tools and strategies that organizations can use to identify and remove Azure zombie resources, including:

Using Azure Resource Manager policies: Azure Resource Manager policies can enforce resource management standards and automatically decommission or delete resources that are no longer needed. For example, you can use policies to specify that resources must be deleted after a certain period of inactivity or to delete those terminated automatically.
Using Azure Cost Management tools: Azure Cost Management tools, such as Azure Advisor, can help organizations identify resources that are consuming significant resources or generating high costs and suggest ways to optimize their usage. For example, Azure Advisors can identify underutilized or overutilized resources and recommend actions to maximize their use.
Review resource usage: Reviewing resource usage can help organizations identify resources that are no longer needed and take steps to decommission or delete them. This can be done manually or automated using tools like Azure Resource Manager policies.

Contact us to learn how we can help you manage your Azure resources and get proper visibility of your data.

Azure Cost Management

Azure is a powerful and feature-rich cloud platform that offers a wide range of services and tools to help organizations build, deploy, and manage applications and

Workloads. However, the cost of using Azure can be a significant concern for organizations, particularly as the scale and complexity of their Azure environment grow.

Optimizing Azure costs requires a strategic approach considering the organization’s needs and requirements. To help organizations optimize their Azure costs, we recommend the following strategies:

Understand your workloads: One of the critical steps in optimizing Azure costs is to understand the specific workloads and resources consumed in your environment. This includes identifying which services and resources are used, how they are used, and how much they cost.

Right-size your resources: Ensuring your resources are appropriately sized for your workloads is critical to optimizing Azure costs. This can involve scaling resources up or down as needed to meet the demands of your workload or selecting cost-effective resource sizes that meet your performance requirements.

Utilize Azure Cost Management tools: Azure provides various tools and services to help organizations optimize costs, including Azure Cost Management, Azure Advisor, and the Azure Pricing Calculator. These tools can help you identify optimization opportunities, track your costs over time, and plan for future growth.

Use resource tagging: Resource tagging is a powerful tool for optimizing Azure costs. It allows you to assign metadata to your resources and track their usage and costs more granularly. This can help you identify and optimize underutilized or overutilized resources and allocate costs more effectively.

Optimize resource deployment: The way that you deploy resources in Azure can have a significant impact on your costs. To optimize your costs, consider using resource groups to manage and deploy resources more efficiently and leverage deployment automation tools like Azure Resource Manager templates to streamline resource deployment.

By following these strategies, organizations can optimize their Azure costs and get the most value from their investment in the cloud.

Azure cost management best practices:

Effective Azure cost management requires a strategic approach considering the organization’s needs and requirements. To help optimize Azure costs, we recommend the following best practices:

Understand your workloads: One of the critical steps in optimizing Azure costs is to understand the specific workloads and resources consumed in your environment. This includes identifying which services and resources are used, how they are used, and how much they cost.
Right-size your resources: Ensuring your resources are appropriately sized for your workloads is critical to optimizing Azure costs. This can involve scaling resources up or down as needed to meet the demands of your workload or selecting cost-effective resource sizes that meet your performance requirements.
Use resource tagging: Resource tagging is a powerful tool for optimizing Azure costs. It allows you to assign metadata to your resources and track their usage and costs more granularly. This can help you identify and optimize underutilized or overutilized resources and allocate costs more effectively.
Optimize resource deployment: How you deploy resources in Azure can significantly impact your costs. To optimize your costs, consider using resource groups to manage and deploy resources more efficiently and leverage deployment automation tools like Azure Resource Manager templates to streamline resource deployment.
Leverage Azure Cost Management tools: Azure provides tools and services to help organizations optimize costs, including Azure Cost Management, Azure Advisor, and the Azure Pricing Calculator. These tools can help you identify optimization opportunities, track your costs over time, and plan for future growth.

Azure cost management tools:

Azure provides a range of tools and services to help organizations optimize their costs, including:

Azure Cost Management: Azure Cost Management is a comprehensive platform that provides visibility into your Azure costs, usage, and trend data. With Azure Cost Management, you can track your costs in real-time, optimize your resource usage, and optimize your Azure spending.
Azure Advisor: Azure Advisor is a free service that provides recommendations to help you optimize your Azure resources. Advisor analyzes your resource utilization and workload patterns and provides recommendations to help you optimize your costs, improve performance, and increase security.
Azure Pricing Calculator: The Azure Pricing Calculator is a tool that allows you to estimate the cost of running your workloads on Azure. You can use the calculator to estimate costs based on specific services, regions, and resource sizes and compare the cost of running your workloads on Azure to other cloud platforms.

Azure cost management strategies:

Effective Azure cost management requires a strategic approach considering the organization’s needs and requirements. To help organizations optimize their Azure costs, we recommend the following strategies:

Adopt a cost-conscious mindset: To optimize your Azure costs, adopting a cost-conscious mindset and approach to resource management is essential. This involves being aware of the cost of your resources and actively seeking ways to optimize those costs.
Develop a cost management plan: A cost management plan is a roadmap for optimizing your Azure costs over time. Your plan should outline your cost management goals, the strategies and tactics you will use to achieve those goals, and the metrics you will use to track your progress.
Utilize Azure Cost Management tools: Azure provides tools and services to help organizations optimize costs, including Azure Cost Management, Azure Advisor, and the Azure Pricing Calculator. These tools can help you identify optimization opportunities, track your costs over time, and plan for future growth.
Use resource tagging: Resource tagging is a powerful tool for optimizing Azure costs. It allows you to assign metadata to your resources and track their usage and costs more granularly. This can help you identify and optimize underutilized or overutilized resources and allocate costs more effectively.
Optimize resource deployment: How you deploy resources in Azure can significantly impact your costs. To optimize your costs, consider using resource groups to manage and deploy resources more efficiently and leverage deployment automation tools like Azure Resource Manager templates to streamline resource deployment.

Azure cost management tips:

In addition to the strategies and best practices mentioned above, there are several additional tips that organizations can follow to optimize their Azure costs:

Monitor your costs regularly: Monitoring your Azure costs can help you identify optimization opportunities and make changes to reduce your costs. Azure provides a range of tools and services, such as Azure Cost Management and Azure Advisor, that can help you to track your costs and identify areas for improvement.
Consider using reserved instances: Reserved instances can help you to save on Azure compute costs by allowing you to reserve capacity for your workloads at a discounted rate. When you purchase a reserved instance, you commit to using a specific computing capacity for a certain period in exchange for a discounted rate.
Use Azure Hybrid Benefit: Azure Hybrid Benefit is a licensing benefit that allows organizations with Windows Server and SQL Server licenses with Software Assurance to use their existing licenses to save on Azure compute costs. By leveraging Azure Hybrid Benefit, organizations can reduce their Azure compute costs by up to 55%.
Utilize Azure Cost Management policies: Azure Cost Management policies allow you to set rules and alerts to help you optimize your Azure costs. You can use policies to define budget thresholds, set alerts for when costs exceed a certain threshold and enforce resource tagging standards.
Use Azure Cost Management APIs: The Azure Cost Management APIs allow you to access your Azure cost and usage data programmatically, enabling you to build custom cost management solutions or integrate your Azure cost data with other tools and systems.

Azure cost management tools – documents that can help:

Azure provides a range of documentation and resources to help organizations optimize their Azure costs, including:

Azure Cost Management: The Azure Cost Management tool and its documentation provide detailed information on how to use the Azure Cost Management platform, including how to track your costs, optimize your resource usage, and manage your Azure spending.
Azure Advisor: The Azure Advisor documentation provides information on using the Azure Advisor service to optimize your resources and reduce costs. The documentation includes information on how to use Advisor to identify optimization opportunities, get recommendations, and track the progress of your optimization efforts.
Azure pricing: The Azure pricing tool provides detailed information on the cost of Azure services, including pricing details for specific regions, resource sizes, and services. The documentation also includes Azure pricing plans, discounts, and billing options.

Azure cost management pricing:

The cost of using Azure varies depending on the specific services and resources consumed. Azure offers a range of pricing plans and options to suit the needs of different organizations, including:

Pay-as-you-go pricing: With pay-as-you-go pricing, you pay for the specific Azure services and resources you consume based on the published rates. This pricing model is ideal for organizations with variable or unpredictable workloads or wanting the flexibility to scale their resources up or down as needed.
Commitment-based pricing: Commitment-based pricing allows you to purchase Azure services at a discounted rate in exchange for a commitment to use a certain number of resources over a specified period. This pricing model is ideal for organizations that have predictable or stable workloads and can commit to using a certain number of resources over a more extended period.
Azure Hybrid Benefit: Azure Hybrid Benefit is a licensing benefit that allows organizations with Windows Server and SQL Server licenses with Software Assurance to use their existing licenses to save on Azure compute costs. By leveraging Azure Hybrid Benefit, organizations can reduce their Azure compute costs by up to 55%.

Azure cost management resources:

In addition to the documentation and tools mentioned above, there is a range of additional resources available to help organizations optimize their Azure costs, including:

Azure Cost Management blogs: The Azure Cost Management blog provides updates and best practices for optimizing Azure costs, case studies, and success stories from organizations that have successfully optimized their Azure costs.
Azure Cost Management webinars and training: Azure provides various webinars and training resources to help organizations learn more about Azure cost management and optimization. These resources include online courses, in-person training sessions, and virtual events.

Azure Cost Management Community: The Azure Cost Management community is a forum for Azure users to share best practices, ask questions, and connect with other users and experts. The community is a valuable resource for organizations seeking guidance and support on optimizing their Azure costs.
Azure Cost Management support: Azure provides a range of support options for organizations looking for help with Azure cost management. These options include online, phone, and support from Azure partners and third-party vendors.

By leveraging these resources and strategies, organizations can optimize their Azure costs and get the most value from their investment in the cloud.