Font licensing is a surprisingly complex and often overlooked compliance issue—especially for organizations with large web footprints, internal design teams, and external agencies. Many fonts marketed as “free” carry specific usage restrictions that, when misunderstood, can lead to major legal and financial consequences. This session will help you navigate different license types, identify risky use cases, and prepare your organization before an audit exposes costly mistakes.

As automation and AI technologies redefine IT operations, Software Asset Management must move beyond compliance and cost control to stay relevant. The future of SAM lies in enabling smarter decision-making, improving software usage, and contributing directly to business outcomes. But what does that transformation require — in terms of tools, mindset, and skills?

This panel brings together SAM leaders to debate how the practice must evolve to meet modern demands and where AI and automation can accelerate that shift.

• How can SAM teams shift from static tracking to real-time, value-focused practices?
• What role will AI and automation play in redefining core SAM responsibilities?
• How can SAM contribute to strategic IT and business decisions, not just compliance?
• What skills, tools, and data foundations are needed to future-proof your SAM practice?

Mergers and acquisitions present significant challenges for Software Asset Management (SAM), often introducing complexity, risk, and unexpected costs. From identifying and integrating new assets to aligning disparate systems and license entitlements, SAM plays a critical role in ensuring a smooth transition. When SAM is overlooked during the M&A process, organizations may face compliance issues, inefficiencies, and missed opportunities for cost optimization. This session draws on real-life experiences to highlight the strategic importance of involving SAM early and effectively during acquisitions. In this session you will learn:

• How to define SAM-related requirements early to gather accurate data on acquisitions?
• How to integrate new data into your SAM environment to create a comprehensive and compliant model?
• How to distinguish and balance cost avoidance versus cost savings in the M&A context?
• How to avoid pitfalls when SAM is excluded from the M&A process – and what lessons can be learned?