If you read the 2007 and 2008 Intel IT Annual Performance Report, you will see a few sections describing the contributions we were able to provide towards effective software application inventory control.

In 2007, some of the quotables are:

We had quite a few items which were ripe for picking. Our goals were easy to achieve and through the implementation of some simple algorithms comparing usage with cost with other parameters, we were able to identify our low-hanging fruit.

As explained in previous posts, we created a software application in order to capture and maintain our software metadata. The architecture, development and maintenance of this solution keeps me busy on a day-to-day basis.

Our goals for 2007 were achieved.

One of our largest wins was the removal of the older data warehouses

As we moved into 2008 our cost savings continued. We expanded the metadata captured and pulled some existing functionality into the solution in order to remove redundant capabilities on the enterprise.

As we increased our scope beyond IT, our real installation base was closer to 3,000 applications due to the custom solutions needed to support our factory operations and tools. We continue to save money and get closer and closer to our goal every day.

We are definately on track. At the end of 2008 we met (and actually exceeded) our goals.
Every day it is becoming more difficult to find the solutions no longer needed and the resources to help remove them from the environment.

Two of our biggest wins for 2008 was the removal of the mainframe from the environment and the inclusion of e-Discovery information into our inventory solution.

What advice can I give you?

• Be specific with your goals.
• Hold people accountable.
• Do the inventory early and often.
• Know when you reach a goal and celebrate it!
• Be vigilant so not to just add more software once you remove the old. Net-zero inventory is not a reduction.