“What Is A Software Audit”? “What Will It Mean To Our Company”? “Can We Refuse An Audit”?
These are some of the common questions asked by many who have been faced with a software audit. To help you understand the process, we have compiled this list of common questions and answers.
Types of Software Audits
The most common audits you might face are a single vendor (e.g. Microsoft) audit or The Software Alliance (Business Software Alliance).
Can I Refuse a Software Audit?
You can refuse an audit from a vendor organization, but this is not advisable? This may give the perception that you are not compliant with the vendors licensing rights. If they feel you are not compliant, they can make the audit mandatory.
A BSA audit cannot be refused as they often come with legal action.
Why Was My Company Chosen To Be Audited?
The most likely explanation is that you were chosen randomly; or you have refused an audit in the past year. At some point in time, most companies will face a software audit.
As It Is An Independent Organization, Would It Be Better To Face A BSA Audit Rather Than A Microsoft Audit?
Although this may sound like a good idea, it is probably not in your best interests. An independent organization is funded by collecting fines you are found to be out of compliance with software licensing. On top of the fines, you will also have to buy any licenses that are deemed to be missing. One other aspect of this type of audit is that the BSA offers a hefty “reward” to anyone that turns a company in. This encourages disgruntled ex-employees and others to put your company in a bad position.
On the other hand, in Microsoft’s case, they are motivated to bring the licenses up-to-date (often known as a “true-up”) and no fine is levied.
What Should I Do If I Get Audited?
The best course of action is to hire a professional organization to help step you through the process. To choose the right company for you, look for the following experience:
- the company is certified by Microsoft to assist in a Software Audit
- the company has assisted in a number of audits before
- the company has had success in helping other companies through the process
KAMIND IT has all the qualifications to help you navigate the process of a software audit. We have helped many companies through this process and have helped clients avoid costly fines.
