What is the Software Asset Management (SAM)?

Software is an important component of teaching, research, and administration at RWTH Aachen University. To ensure that software products can be used securely, in compliance with the law, and efficiently, Software Asset Management (SAM) ensures that licenses are handled in a transparent and compliant manner.

The use of software at RWTH Aachen University must comply with applicable legal requirements as well as the license terms of the respective manufacturers or licensors. The university administration bears overall responsibility for organizing and ensuring compliance with these requirements. However, specific tasks and responsibilities may be delegated to appropriate units within the university.

Based on the contractual provisions, RWTH Aachen is obligated to be able to provide proof of licenses for procured and used software products within a reasonable period of time. In addition, many license agreements stipulate that software manufacturers may conduct a review of the licenses, known as an audit.

The Software Asset Management (SAM) tool offers RWTH Aachen University’s departments the opportunity to reduce risks and ensure the responsible use of software at RWTH Aachen University.

For this purpose, RWTH Aachen University uses the license management software USU License Management from USU.

Who can use SAM?

RWTH organizations can use SAM free of charge. Participation in this program is voluntary.
 

How to use SAM

To use SAM, your organization must be activated for use by the service desk.

Once the SAM tool has been activated and properly configured, you can use it for your organization.