Network asset management can be challenging. Systems can become fractured because your network infrastructure is constantly changing. A network asset management software application will help you to gain control over your costs and budgeting. A network inventory management software tool will help you to see how many physical assets you have. Network inventory management software will show not only the hardware you have, but the software applications used on that hardware.

Ask yourself the following questions: How many network devices do you have in your workplace? How many of them are still being used? If not, have they been retired? Where are they stored? How many personal computers connect to the network? Ask the same questions about your applications. Who uses them? Then consider the costs to your business. Using a network asset management software tool will help you to:

1. Automate so you have greater control over your network asset hardware and software

2. Control your costs with audit inventory network software

3. Ensure you are compliant with business requirements; have a sound network management control and network asset management system

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Use a network asset management software application to manage your network

Use a good network asset management tool to help you lower costs and increase return on your investment. Network asset management tools enable you to manage the life cycle of your IT network assets. Network inventory software can be expensive. If your budget is limited, consider purchasing open source network asset management tools.

I recommend: For a large business, consider BMC Remedy Asset Management. This software will help you bring network assets management in line with your business needs. You will be able to reduce your license costs on software and control spending on hardware and software. Check out Paragent, LLC for open source network asset management tools.

Build a partnership with an IT network asset management company

Choosing the right network inventory management company is important. You want to find out how long they have been in business and the personnel that makes up its company. You also want to know if the company stands behind its product. If you spend a lot of money on your network inventory software, consider getting an SLA (Service Level Agreement) with the company.

I recommend: Stay with companies that have a proven track record in producing network asset management tools. You cannot go wrong with Hewlett Packard or Computer Associates. They offer excellent partner programs.

Ensure the network asset management solutions company provides technical support

It is important that you have excellent technical support. You don't necessarily have to call the network inventory management company. Many times, you can find the answers to your problems by going to the network asset management company. For example, you can access the company's knowledge base for your answer. The company may have a live person to chat with on the company's site.

I recommend: Both FrontRange Solutions and IBM have comprehensive knowledge bases you can access. These companies have been leaders in the network asset management field for many years. Major corporations use their services.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  All of these companies follow a Best Practices framework called ITIL (Information Technology Infrastructure Library).