Solutions that administer and track the usage of software licenses, and whose source code is freely available for modification and distribution, represent a significant category of tools for software asset management. These systems allow organizations to optimize their software investments by monitoring concurrent usage, preventing license overages, and ensuring compliance with licensing agreements. A basic illustration involves a company employing a set number of licenses for a CAD program; the system monitors how many engineers are using the software simultaneously, preventing more users from accessing the program than the license permits.
The value of these systems lies in their potential to reduce costs, improve efficiency, and provide greater control over software assets. By identifying underutilized licenses, organizations can reallocate them or reduce future purchases. Their development often arises from the need for flexibility, customization, and community support, driving innovation and providing alternatives to proprietary offerings. Historically, the high cost of proprietary license management solutions created a demand for more accessible and adaptable alternatives.