Stellenbosch-based operations management specialist, Space Age Technologies (SAT), was recently selected as one of the few Microsoft Licensing Management Partners (MLMP) in the Western Cape region. This status authorises SAT to conduct software licence reviews and issue certificates of compliance on behalf of Microsoft.
"Having the MLMP status means that we are recognised by Microsoft as one of a few partners who has the required knowledge, experience and internal processes to effectively consult and implement software management solutions for SMBs and enterprise customers," says Mark Geschke, Managing Director for SAT.
Says Thomas Malinowski, Microsoft Partner Account Manager: "SAT is one of our top SMB partners in the Western Cape who dedicate themselves solely to Microsoft's technologies. SAT's commitment and thorough understand of Microsoft's products and product roadmaps ensure they remain at the forefront of our technology."
SAT assimilated the licensing function into its service offering and proactively drives its software asset management programme among new clients. Given that the certificate of compliance is valid for 12 months, and businesses are continually seeking to upgrade and modify their platforms, SAT sees software asset management as an ongoing and continual process.
Unlicensed software use and distribution within SA is becoming a great concern for software giants as well as private developers. The Business Software Alliance (BSA), acting on behalf of software vendors such as Microsoft, is clamping down on illegal users and enforcing harsh penalties.
Information from the BSA reveals that an economy boost of R12 billion was experienced between 1995 and 2001 due to the reduction in software piracy for the term. Currently 38%, or one in every three software programs used in SA is illegal.
The MLMP programme was initiated in a bid to encourage compliance and provide assistance to people unsure of the process through support from selected, qualified service providers. Microsoft furthermore places strong emphasis on the continual development of MLMP partners, and offer guidance to licensing specialists in the form of knowledge transfer and training opportunities.
"We are extremely excited about SAT's appointment as MLMP partner, and believe they will add tremendous value in the global legalisation campaign," said Malinowski.
"In many cases, companies are unaware that they are violating the software licence regulations. Instead of condemning a company for not complying, we offer valuable and discreet assessment, consulting and software management services," says Geschke.
According to Geschke, SAT is able to provide a medium-term compliance and asset management programme through conducting thorough risk assessments to determine a company's deficiency.
"We see the licensing process as an integrated aspect of infrastructure management, and work closely with clients in assessing their need for future expansion and taking their long-term business objectives into consideration."
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