Dell Software offers best practices for increasing IT ROI with endpoint systems management

Dell Software recognises that while IT funding is an integral part of every organisation’s budget, systems management has been an underfunded piece of the IT ecosystem. The results from a recent security survey, carried out by Dell show this is starting to change as more organisations understand the value of systems management in securing critical endpoints and streamlining routine IT functions. With a comprehensive, unified set of tools for managing all their systems, companies can improve operational efficiencies, elevate security and increase workforce productivity.

In measuring the ROI of endpoint systems management (ESM), there are a number of ways to calculate both quantitative and qualitative business benefits. Organisations often measure ROI through reduced administrative costs, decreased downtime, improved productivity and elevated security.

Dell Software has five best practices to leverage ESM for increased IT ROI:
1. Perform an inventory of software and hardware assets
A comprehensive software inventory reveals what is licensed and how much is actually used, so you can reclaim and reallocate under-utilised software. Look for solutions with automated metering and software titling which can produce software audits and compliance reports to avoid license violations and associated fines. A hardware inventory details what you own, and once all is accounted for, plot an asset management strategy for aging gear and asses how to manage new hardware brought about by mobility. 71% of UK companies see the use of mobile devices as the greatest security threat to their organisation in the next 5 years. With ESM, you can assess which hardware endpoints are security threats and start to plan how you can protect your networks against these.

2. Standardise and simplify the IT environment
Reduce the number of configurations that must be maintained and standardise on fewer applications so you can shrink the cost of service-desk support while easing software asset management. For systems, the use of policy-based management can help enforce standard configurations for tablets, laptops, desktops and servers.

3. Restrict administrative privileges
One of the most effective ways to boost security and lower support costs is to lock down systems so that only authorised software can be downloaded. An end-user portal facilitates fast and easy access to approved software and productivity tools, which can also drive impressive productivity improvements. Additionally, it is essential to adopt secure mobile or remote access solutions to prevent security breaches, and reassuringly the Dell security survey showed that 61% of UK companies recognise the importance and have this in hand.

4. Streamline common systems management tasks
Daily tasks across the entire ESM lifecycle can be streamlined for considerable time and cost savings. Routine functions from initial system deployment and imaging, to OS migration, inventory, user identity management, patching and support for desktops, laptops, servers and mobile devices can be addressed.

5. Adopt an integrated approach to systems management
Piecemeal purchases of point products—one for inventory, one for asset management, another for patch management, and for trouble tickets—cost too much and take up too much admin time. With an integrated approach and unified console for managing all systems and endpoints, companies can lower costs, increase operational efficiencies and speed up ROI for all strategic software and hardware purchases.

Effective ESM enables IT teams to take a more proactive approach and avoids firefighting which is costly in every respect. Enlightened organisations are building strong cases for ESM as a strategic business investment, and are moving beyond reactive spends to smarter budget decisions which increase their ability to proactively manage critical systems, protect vital corporate assets and drive business forward.