BSA urges companies to take control of their software assets

The Business Software Alliance (BSA) has commenced a vigorous campaign amongst Irish small to medium sized enterprises reinforcing the importance of proper software asset management to protect against legal liabilities arising from inadvertent copyright infringement.

The campaign promotes software compliance as a vital part of responsible business practice for Irish companies. Software compliance involves ensuring that all software is legally procured, fully licensed and deployed efficiently.

The benefits of effective management are tangible. By purchasing and managing software strategically, businesses can benefit from tax breaks and increased bargaining power over volume licenses.

During the programme, the BSA Software Asset Review form is sent to company directors providing advice and information about illegal software use. The form seeks to assist businesses in checking and clarifying their business software situation.

Companies that can demonstrate good licensing practice will be issued with a Certificate of Recognition.

Over the coming weeks, Irish businesses will receive the BSA Software Asset Review form which asks recipients to conduct a self audit of their software licenses or use the services of a software audit provider.

A list of such providers is available on the BSA website www.bsa.org/ireland