Software vendors expand use of audits as sales tools

Software audits are increasingly being used as a sales tool by various vendors. While Oracle is a well-known auditor, other major companies including SAP, IBM, Microsoft, Adobe, and Autodesk also conduct regular audits.

Recent developments show an increase in audits due to complex metrics involving user counts, processors, and cloud usage, which make under-licensing common. Acquisitions also trigger audit waves as companies seek to map newly acquired contract portfolios.

Newer or more aggressive auditors include Rocket Software, which has increased activity following its acquisition of the Micro-Focus and OpenText portfolios, and SUSE, which is enforcing stricter subscription rules for Linux. Even font providers like Monotype are conducting audits, claiming unlicensed use of specific typefaces and demanding payments.