If you’re hearing a lot about software licensing audits and feel an imminent risk to your business, then you’re not alone.
Due to substantial changes within major software vendors over the last 18 months, the risk of businesses being audited has increased exponentially. IBM is no different.
Passport Advantage changes
Back in 2023, IBM announced changes to its Passport Advantage program that were designed to streamline and simplify its licensing agreements.
Within these changes, clients are required to provide a detailed report of all deployed programs within 30 days of a request, which must be done once per year.
An increased responsibility for reporting will not only add to a business’ to-do list, as the details provided in the report will provide a basis for any audit activity. Therefore, compliance with IBM’s changes will likely result in more audits for your business and considerably less room for license errors.
3 Tips to Improve your IBM Passport Advantage Process
Here are 3 ways to optimise your IBM license reporting process to ensure you’re mitigating risk, while maximising productivity:
1. Understand Licensing Metrics
IBM uses various licensing metrics (e.g., PVU, RVU, Authorized User, etc.). Understand the specific metrics applicable to your software to ensure you accurately track and record your license usage.
2. Maintain Accurate and Up-to-Date Records
Keep all licensing documentation, purchase records, and agreements in a centralised and easily accessible repository. Ensure that you regularly update these records with any changes in software deployments, user counts or license purchases.
3. Engage with IBM
Maintain regular communication with your IBM account manager to stay informed about licensing changes, new products, and optimisation opportunities. Establishing a good relationship with IBM will also allow you foresight into any potential auditing opportunities.
Chat to our IBM licensing experts
The increased risk of license audits is a threat to businesses across the board, and ensuring compliance considering all these changes is no small task.
Speak with bedigital’s experts today and we can help you harness the potential of your IBM licenses.
