Common Misconceptions About Licensing

Understanding and Avoiding Common Misconceptions in Licensing

All licenses are the same: Different licenses serve different needs.
Once purchased, a license covers everything: Licenses have specific terms and limitations.
Open source software doesn’t require licensing: Open source comes with specific licenses and obligations.
Licensing is a one-time process: Ongoing management and renewals are essential.

Table of Contents

Introduction Common Misconceptions About Licensing

Brief Overview of the Importance of Software Licensing

Software licensing is a critical aspect of utilizing software legally and efficiently. It defines how software can be used, distributed, and managed, ensuring that users adhere to the terms set by the software provider.

Proper licensing is essential for organizations of all sizes to maintain legal compliance, optimize costs, and leverage software capabilities to their fullest extent.

Explanation of How Misconceptions Can Lead to Compliance Issues and Financial Loss

Misunderstanding software licensing can lead to significant compliance issues and financial losses.

Incorrect assumptions about licensing can result in the use of unlicensed software, exposing organizations to legal actions and hefty fines.

Additionally, choosing the wrong type of license can lead to unnecessary expenditures or operational inefficiencies, impacting the organization’s overall productivity and financial health.

Objectives of the Article

This article aims to address common misconceptions about software licensing, providing clarity on the various types of licenses and their implications.

By understanding these misconceptions, readers can make informed decisions, ensuring compliance, optimizing costs, and improving operational efficiency.

Misconception: All Licenses Are the Same

Different Types of Licenses

Perpetual Licenses

Perpetual licenses involve a one-time purchase, allowing the user to use the software indefinitely. This type of license is suitable for organizations that prefer a long-term investment without recurring fees.

Key Features:

One-Time Payment: Pay once for indefinite use.
Version Specific: Tied to a specific version of the software.
No Ongoing Costs: No need for ongoing subscription fees.

Subscription Licenses

Subscription licenses require ongoing payments, usually monthly or annually, to use the software. This model provides continuous access to the latest versions, updates, and features.

Key Features:

Recurring Payments: Monthly or annual fees.
Continuous Updates: Access to the latest software versions and features.
Flexible Terms: Can adjust the number of licenses as needed.

Volume Licenses

Volume licensing is designed for organizations that need multiple licenses. It offers discounts and flexible terms for purchasing licenses in bulk, making it cost-effective and easier to manage.

Key Features:

Bulk Purchasing: Reduced pricing for purchasing multiple licenses.
Centralized Management: Simplified administration and tracking of licenses.
Flexible Options: Various programs tailored to different organizational needs.

Client Access Licenses (CALs)

Client Access Licenses (CALs) are required for each user or device accessing a Microsoft server product. CALs ensure that all users or devices are properly licensed to use the server software.

Key Features:

User CALs: License a user to access the server from multiple devices.
Device CALs: License a device to be used by multiple users to access the server.
Compliance: Ensures legal access to server software.

Impact of Choosing the Wrong License

Legal Implications

Choosing the wrong license can result in non-compliance with software licensing agreements, leading to legal consequences. Organizations using unlicensed software or violating license terms may face:

Fines and Penalties: Financial penalties imposed by software providers or regulatory bodies.
Litigation: Legal action taken by software providers for breach of contract.
Reputation Damage: Harm to the organization’s reputation due to non-compliance.

Financial Consequences

Incorrect licensing decisions can lead to unnecessary costs and financial inefficiencies. Over-licensing or under-licensing can result in:

Wasted Expenditure: Paying for more licenses than needed or incurring penalties for insufficient licensing.
Budget Mismanagement: Difficulty in financial planning and budgeting due to unexpected licensing costs.
Missed Savings: Failure to take advantage of volume discounts or other cost-saving opportunities.

Operational Inefficiencies

Using the wrong type of license can hinder operational efficiency and productivity. It can cause:

Access Issues: Users may lack access to necessary software, affecting their ability to perform tasks.
Administrative Burden: Increased complexity in managing and tracking licenses.
Downtime: Potential disruptions if software is found to be non-compliant during audits or inspections.

Misconception: Once Purchased, a License Covers Everything

Scope of License Usage

Single-User vs. Multi-User Licenses

Single-User Licenses:

Designed for individual use.
Only one user can access and use the software.
Commonly used for personal or professional use where only one individual needs access.

Multi-User Licenses:

Allows multiple users to access and use the software.
Ideal for businesses and organizations with teams.
Often more cost-effective for organizations needing multiple access points.

Device-Specific Licenses

Device-Specific Licenses:

Tied to a specific device rather than a user.
Useful in environments where multiple users share a single device.
Example: A workstation in a shared workspace or a public kiosk.

User-Specific Licenses

User-Specific Licenses:

Assigned to individual users, allowing them to access the software from multiple devices.
Provides flexibility for users who work across different devices, such as desktops, laptops, and tablets.
Ideal for remote work scenarios and dynamic work environments.

License Terms and Conditions

Usage Restrictions

Usage Restrictions:

Define how the software can be used.
May include limitations on the number of installations, types of use (personal vs. commercial), and geographic locations.
Ensuring compliance with these restrictions is crucial to avoid legal issues.

Transferability

Transferability:

Specifies whether a license can be transferred to another user or device.
Some licenses allow for transfer under certain conditions, while others are strictly non-transferable.
Important for organizations undergoing changes in staff or equipment.

Duration of License Validity

Duration of License Validity:

Defines how long the license is valid.
Perpetual licenses offer indefinite use, while subscription licenses are valid for a specified period (monthly or annually).
Understanding the duration helps in planning renewals and budgeting.

Misconception: Open Source Software Doesn’t Require Licensing

Understanding Open Source Licensing

Definition and Purpose of Open Source Licenses

Open Source Licenses:

Legal frameworks that define how open source software can be used, modified, and distributed.
Promote collaboration and sharing while protecting the rights of creators.
Ensure that the software remains free and open for public use and development.

Common Types of Open Source Licenses

GPL (General Public License):

Requires derived works to be distributed under the same license.
Ensures that modified versions remain open source.

MIT License:

Highly permissive, allowing for extensive reuse, modification, and distribution.
Minimal restrictions make it popular among developers.

Apache License:

Allows for the use of the software in proprietary projects.
Requires attribution and provides an express grant of patent rights from contributors to users.

Compliance Requirements for Open Source Software

Obligations to Maintain Open Source Status

Maintaining Open Source Status:

Users must comply with the terms of the open source license to maintain the software’s open status.
Failure to comply can result in legal consequences and the loss of rights to use the software.

Attribution and Modification Requirements

Attribution:

Most open source licenses require users to credit the original authors of the software.
Proper attribution includes providing the original license text and notices.

Modification Requirements:

Some licenses, like the GPL, require modifications to be released under the same license.
Others, like the MIT license, allow more freedom but still require that the original license and notices be included.

Legal Risks of Non-Compliance

Legal Risks:

Non-compliance with open source licenses can lead to lawsuits and legal action.
Intellectual property disputes can arise from improper use or modification of open source software.
Organizations must ensure they understand and adhere to the terms of open source licenses to mitigate legal risks.

Misconception: Licensing is a One-Time Process

Importance of Ongoing License Management

Regular Audits and Reviews

Regular Audits and Reviews:

Conducting periodic audits helps ensure that software usage complies with licensing agreements.
Identifies underutilized licenses that can be reallocated or retired, optimizing software expenditure.
Helps in detecting any unauthorized or unlicensed software, mitigating legal and financial risks.

Keeping Track of Renewals and Expirations

Keeping Track of Renewals and Expirations:

Monitoring license renewal dates prevents lapses in coverage, ensuring continuous access to software and support.
Planning for renewals allows for better budgeting and cost management.
Staying aware of expiration dates avoids disruptions in software availability and compliance issues.

Tools and Resources for License Management

Software Asset Management (SAM) Tools

Software Asset Management (SAM) Tools:

SAM tools automate the tracking and management of software licenses, providing real-time insights into license usage and compliance.
Help in generating detailed reports, aiding in audits and reviews.
Facilitate better decision-making regarding software procurement and deployment.

Microsoft Volume Licensing Service Center (VLSC)

Microsoft Volume Licensing Service Center (VLSC):

https://atonementlicensing.com/microsoft-licensing-policies/VLSC is an online portal that provides a centralized platform for managing Microsoft volume licenses.
Allows organizations to view license entitlements, download software, and manage renewals.
Simplifies license management, ensuring that all licenses are up-to-date and compliant.

Microsoft License Advisor

Microsoft License Advisor:

A tool designed to help organizations determine the most suitable licensing options based on their specific needs.
Provides cost estimates, compares different licensing programs, and generates quotes for budgeting purposes.
Assists in making informed decisions about software licensing, optimizing costs and compliance.

Misconception: Licensing Costs are Prohibitive

Cost-Effective Licensing Options

Volume Discounts

Volume Discounts:

Purchasing multiple licenses through volume licensing programs can significantly reduce the per-license cost.
Ideal for organizations that need a large number of licenses, offering substantial cost savings.
Examples include the Microsoft Enterprise Agreement and Open License programs.

Subscription-Based Licensing

Subscription-Based Licensing:

Subscription models allow organizations to pay for software on a recurring basis, typically monthly or annually.
Provides access to the latest versions and features, ensuring that software remains up-to-date.
Offers flexibility in scaling the number of licenses up or down based on changing needs.

Long-Term Financial Benefits

Predictable Budgeting

Predictable Budgeting:

Licensing agreements often include fixed costs for the duration of the agreement, making it easier to predict and manage expenses.
Helps in financial planning and avoids unexpected costs related to software upgrades or renewals.
Facilitates better allocation of financial resources across the organization.

Cost Savings from Compliance and Support

Cost Savings from Compliance and Support:

Ensuring compliance with licensing agreements prevents costly fines and legal penalties.
Access to technical support and updates through programs like Software Assurance reduces the need for additional expenditures on support services.
Proper license management helps avoid over-purchasing or underutilizing licenses, optimizing software spending.

Misconception: Compliance is Only an IT Issue

Organizational Responsibility for Licensing Compliance

Roles of IT, Legal, and Procurement Departments

IT Department:

Monitoring and Management: IT is responsible for tracking software usage and ensuring that it aligns with licensing agreements.
Implementation: Deploying and managing software across the organization.

Legal Department:

Compliance Oversight: Ensures that the organization adheres to licensing terms and mitigates legal risks.
Contract Management: Reviews and manages licensing agreements and terms to ensure legal compliance.

Procurement Department:

License Acquisition: Responsible for purchasing and renewing software licenses based on organizational needs.
Vendor Management: Maintains relationships with software vendors and negotiates terms and pricing.

Impact on the Entire Organization

Organization-Wide Impact:

Financial Implications: Non-compliance can lead to significant fines and legal fees, impacting the organization’s budget.
Operational Efficiency: Proper licensing ensures that employees have access to the tools they need, maintaining productivity.
Reputation: Compliance with licensing agreements enhances the organization’s reputation and trustworthiness.

Best Practices for Ensuring Compliance

Cross-Departmental Collaboration

Collaboration:

Unified Approach: Ensure IT, legal, and procurement departments work together to manage and comply with software licenses.
Regular Meetings: Hold regular meetings to discuss and address licensing issues and updates.
Shared Responsibility: Promote a culture where compliance is seen as a shared responsibility across departments.

Regular Training and Awareness Programs

Training Programs:

Employee Education: Conduct regular training sessions to educate employees about the importance of software licensing and compliance.
Updates and Refreshers: Provide updates on any changes to licensing terms and conditions.
Awareness Campaigns: Run awareness campaigns to keep licensing compliance top-of-mind within the organization.

Misconception: Only Large Companies Need to Worry About Licensing

Relevance of Licensing for Small and Mid-Sized Businesses

Specific Challenges Faced by Smaller Organizations

Challenges:

Limited Resources: Smaller businesses often have fewer resources to dedicate to license management.
Complexity: Navigating licensing agreements and ensuring compliance can be complex and time-consuming.
Financial Constraints: Licensing costs can be significant for small businesses, making cost-effective solutions crucial.

Scalable Solutions and Support Options

Scalable Solutions:

Volume Licensing Programs: Options like the Open License program provide flexible and affordable licensing solutions for smaller businesses.
Cloud-Based Solutions: Subscription-based models like Microsoft 365 offer scalable options that can grow with the business.
Support Services: Access to Microsoft’s support services and resources helps small businesses manage their licenses effectively.

Case Studies

Examples of Small Businesses Benefiting from Proper Licensing

Case Study 1: ABC Design Studio

Challenge: ABC Design Studio, a small graphic design firm, struggled with managing multiple software licenses and ensuring compliance.

Solution: They adopted Microsoft 365 Business, which provided a subscription-based model that included all necessary tools and compliance support.

Benefits:

Cost Savings: Reduced overall software costs with a predictable monthly subscription.
Compliance: Ensured compliance with licensing terms, avoiding legal risks.
Productivity: Improved productivity with access to the latest design tools and collaboration features.

Case Study 2: XYZ Consultancy

Challenge: XYZ Consultancy faced difficulties in managing software licenses across their small but growing team.

Solution: They implemented the Microsoft Open License program, which provided flexibility and scalability as the business expanded.

Benefits:

Scalability: Easily added new licenses as the team grew.
Efficiency: Streamlined license management, reducing administrative burden.
Support: Gained access to Microsoft’s support resources, ensuring smooth operations.

Misconception: Free Trials Mean Free Software

Understanding Trial Software Licensing

Limitations and Conditions of Trial Licenses

Limitations:

Time-Bound: Trial licenses are typically valid for a limited period, such as 30 or 60 days.
Feature Restrictions: Some features may be restricted or unavailable in trial versions.
Usage Limits: There may be limits on the number of users or devices that can use the trial software.

Conditions:

Activation Requirements: Users may need to register or activate the trial to use it.
Data Retention: Data created during the trial may not be retained after the trial period ends unless a full license is purchased.
Compliance: Users must comply with the terms and conditions outlined in the trial agreement.

Transitioning from Trial to Full Licenses

Transition Process:

Purchasing a Full License: Users must purchase a full license before the trial period expires to continue using the software without interruption.
Data Migration: Ensure that data and settings from the trial version are preserved when transitioning to the full version.
Activation: Follow the activation process for the full license to unlock all features and extend usage.

Risks of Misusing Trial Software

Legal Implications

Legal Risks:

License Violation: Using trial software beyond its intended period or circumventing trial restrictions can lead to violations of licensing agreements.
Fines and Penalties: Organizations may face fines or legal action for unauthorized use of trial software.
Reputation Damage: Misuse of trial software can damage the organization’s reputation and relationships with software vendors.

Operational Disruptions

Operational Issues:

Service Interruptions: Failure to transition to a full license can result in software becoming unusable, disrupting business operations.
Data Loss: Data created during the trial period may be lost if not properly transitioned to the full version.
Productivity Loss: Limited features and functionality in trial software can hinder productivity and project completion.

Misconception: Licensing is Just About Software

Scope of Licensing Beyond Software

Hardware Licenses

Hardware Licensing:

Device-Specific Licenses: Some hardware devices come with licenses for pre-installed software or firmware.
Usage Restrictions: Hardware licenses may include restrictions on how and where the device can be used.
Support and Updates: Licensing agreements may cover technical support and firmware updates for the hardware.

Service Agreements

Service Agreements:

Support Contracts: Licensing can include service agreements for technical support, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
Cloud Services: Subscriptions to cloud-based services like Microsoft Azure or Office 365 are governed by service agreements.
Customization and Integration: Service agreements may cover customization, integration, and deployment services.

Integrated Licensing Strategies

Benefits of a Unified Approach to Licensing

Unified Licensing Benefits:

Simplified Management: A single, integrated licensing strategy reduces administrative complexity by centralizing license management.
Cost Savings: Bundling software, hardware, and services can lead to cost savings through volume discounts and streamlined procurement processes.
Consistency: Ensures consistent licensing terms and conditions across all components, reducing the risk of compliance issues.

Managing Software, Hardware, and Services Together

Integrated Management:

Centralized Platform: Use centralized platforms like the Microsoft Volume Licensing Service Center (VLSC) to manage all licenses in one place.
Holistic Approach: Adopt a holistic approach to license management, considering the interdependencies between software, hardware, and services.
Regular Reviews: Conduct regular reviews and audits to ensure all licenses are up-to-date and aligned with organizational needs.

Misconception: You Can Ignore License Agreements

Importance of Reading and Understanding License Agreements

Key Elements to Look for in a License Agreement

Usage Rights:

Defines how the software can be used, including any restrictions on installation, access, and geographical limitations.
Details on whether the license is for single-user, multi-user, or device-specific usage.

Term and Renewal:

Specifies the duration of the license, whether it is perpetual or subscription-based.
Information on renewal terms, including automatic renewals and expiration dates.

Support and Maintenance:

Outlines the support and maintenance services included with the license, such as updates, technical support, and training.
Conditions under which support is provided, and any additional costs that may apply.

Compliance Obligations:

Lists the compliance requirements that the user must adhere to, such as restrictions on sharing, copying, or modifying the software.
Consequences of non-compliance, including penalties, fines, and legal action.

Transferability and Termination:

Specifies whether the license can be transferred to another user or device and under what conditions.
Terms under which the license can be terminated by either party, including breach of contract or non-payment.

Consequences of Ignoring Terms and Conditions

Legal Consequences:

Non-compliance with license agreements can lead to legal action from the software provider, including lawsuits and injunctions.
Organizations may face significant fines and penalties for violating the terms of the license.

Financial Implications:

Unauthorized use of software can result in unexpected costs, including back payments for unlicensed usage and legal fees.
Loss of access to critical software if the license is terminated due to non-compliance, leading to operational disruptions.

Reputation Damage:

Violating license agreements can harm the organization’s reputation and credibility, affecting relationships with vendors and customers.
Public disclosure of non-compliance issues can result in negative publicity and loss of trust.

Seeking Professional Advice

When to Consult Legal or Licensing Experts

Complex Agreements:

Consult legal or licensing experts when dealing with complex or high-value licensing agreements that require detailed understanding and negotiation.
Experts can help interpret intricate terms and conditions, ensuring that the organization fully understands its obligations.

Compliance Audits:

Engage experts during compliance audits to ensure that the organization is fully compliant with all licensing terms.
Experts can provide guidance on remediation steps if non-compliance issues are identified.

Contract Negotiation:

Seek professional advice when negotiating licensing contracts to secure favorable terms and conditions.
Experts can help identify potential risks and opportunities, ensuring that the organization’s interests are protected.

Resources Available for Understanding Complex Agreements

Legal Consultants:

Hire specialized legal consultants with expertise in software licensing to review and interpret license agreements.
Legal consultants can provide tailored advice and support throughout the licensing process.

Licensing Experts:

Engage licensing experts or consultants who have in-depth knowledge of specific software products and licensing models.
Licensing experts can assist with license selection, compliance management, and contract negotiation.

Online Resources:

Utilize online resources, such as guides, articles, and forums, to gain a better understanding of licensing terms and best practices.
Websites like Microsoft’s official licensing pages provide detailed information and support for understanding licensing agreements.

Training Programs:

Participate in training programs and workshops offered by software vendors or third-party organizations to improve knowledge of software licensing.
Training programs can provide practical insights and hands-on experience in managing licenses effectively.

Top 10 Real Life Examples of the Use of Common Misconceptions About Licensing

1. Misconception: All Licenses Are the Same

Use Case

A small tech startup assumed all software licenses were interchangeable and purchased single-user licenses for multi-user needs.

Benefits

Legal Compliance: Understanding different licenses ensured compliance.
Cost Savings: Correct licensing avoided fines and overpayment.
Operational Efficiency: Proper licenses provided necessary software access.

2. Misconception: Once Purchased, a License Covers Everything

Use Case

A retail company believed that purchasing a single license allowed unlimited installations across multiple devices.

Benefits

Avoided Legal Issues: Adhering to license terms prevented legal consequences.
Cost Management: Proper licensing reduced unexpected costs.
Improved Planning: Awareness of limitations helped in better resource planning.

3. Misconception: Open Source Software Doesn’t Require Licensing

Use Case

A non-profit organization used open source software without adhering to its licensing terms, believing it was free from any obligations.

Benefits

Compliance: Properly following open source licenses avoided legal risks.
Reputation: Maintaining open source status built trust with the community.
Sustainability: Correct usage ensured long-term viability of the software.

4. Misconception: Licensing is a One-Time Process

Use Case

A mid-sized business neglected to renew their software licenses, thinking it was a one-time purchase.

Benefits

Continuous Access: Regular renewals ensured uninterrupted software use.
Budget Control: Tracking renewals helped in financial planning.
Compliance: Ongoing management maintained legal compliance.

5. Misconception: Licensing Costs are Prohibitive

Use Case

A small business hesitated to purchase necessary licenses due to perceived high costs, leading to non-compliance.

Benefits

Cost-Effective Solutions: Discovering volume and subscription options reduced expenses.
Legal Protection: Proper licensing avoided fines and legal fees.
Enhanced Access: Affordable licenses provided necessary tools.

6. Misconception: Compliance is Only an IT Issue

Use Case

A large corporation delegated all licensing issues to IT, ignoring the roles of legal and procurement departments.

Benefits

Cross-Department Collaboration: Involving multiple departments ensured comprehensive compliance.
Risk Mitigation: Legal oversight prevented potential legal issues.
Cost Savings: Procurement optimized licensing costs through better negotiation.

7. Misconception: Only Large Companies Need to Worry About Licensing

Use Case

A local bakery used unlicensed software, believing that licensing regulations only applied to large corporations.

Benefits

Legal Safety: Proper licensing avoided potential lawsuits.
Operational Continuity: Licensed software ensured consistent business operations.
Scalability: Correct licensing supported business growth.

8. Misconception: Free Trials Mean Free Software

Use Case

A graphic design firm continued to use trial software beyond its expiration, thinking it was still free.

Benefits

Legal Compliance: Transitioning to full licenses prevented legal action.
Data Security: Full licenses protected against data loss.
Productivity: Unrestricted access to features improved productivity.

9. Misconception: Licensing is Just About Software

Use Case

An educational institution overlooked hardware and service agreements, focusing solely on software licenses.

Benefits

Comprehensive Management: Including hardware and services optimized resource use.
Cost Efficiency: Bundling licenses reduced overall expenses.
Operational Efficiency: Unified management improved overall operations.

10. Misconception: You Can Ignore License Agreements

Use Case

A healthcare provider ignored detailed license agreements, resulting in non-compliance and legal risks.

Benefits

Legal Safety: Understanding agreements ensured full compliance.
Financial Health: Avoided fines and unexpected costs.
Trust and Reputation: Adhering to terms built trust with vendors and patients.

FAQ: Common Misconceptions About Licensing

What is a software license?

A software license is a legal agreement that defines how software can be used, distributed, and managed. It ensures legal use and compliance with the terms set by the software provider.

Why are there different types of software licenses?

Different types of software licenses cater to various needs and usage scenarios, such as single-user, multi-user, device-specific, and subscription-based licensing. Each type offers specific benefits and restrictions.

Can I use a single-user license on multiple devices?

No, a single-user license is typically limited to one user on one device. For multiple devices, you need a multi-user or device-specific license.

What happens if I don’t comply with software licensing terms?

Non-compliance can lead to legal action, fines, and penalties. It can also result in the termination of the software license and operational disruptions.

Is open source software truly free to use without restrictions?

No, open source software comes with specific licensing terms that must be followed. Non-compliance can lead to legal risks and loss of rights to use the software.

Do I need to renew software licenses regularly?

Yes, many software licenses require regular renewals to ensure continuous access and compliance. Keeping track of renewal dates is essential to avoid disruptions.

Are licensing costs prohibitive for small businesses?

No, there are cost-effective licensing options such as volume discounts and subscription-based models that make software affordable for small businesses.

Is software licensing only an IT responsibility?

No, licensing compliance involves IT, legal, and procurement departments. Cross-department collaboration ensures comprehensive compliance and cost management.

Why is it important to understand license agreements?

Understanding license agreements helps avoid legal risks, ensures compliance, and optimizes software usage. Ignoring agreements can lead to serious consequences.

Can free trial software be used indefinitely?

No, free trial software is time-bound and has usage limitations. Continuing to use trial software beyond its expiration can lead to legal issues.

Does licensing only apply to software?

No, licensing also applies to hardware and services. Managing software, hardware, and service agreements together ensures comprehensive compliance and cost savings.

What are the benefits of volume licensing?

Volume licensing offers cost savings through bulk purchasing, simplified management, and flexibility to scale licenses based on organizational needs.

How can subscription-based licensing benefit my business?

Subscription-based licensing provides continuous access to the latest software versions, predictable budgeting, and flexibility to adjust licenses as needed.

When should I consult a licensing expert?

Consult a licensing expert when dealing with complex agreements, compliance audits, or negotiating contracts to ensure full understanding and optimal terms.

What tools can help manage software licenses?

Tools like Software Asset Management (SAM), Microsoft Volume Licensing Service Center (VLSC), and Microsoft License Advisor can help manage, track, and optimize software licenses.