The Business Software Alliance has taken four manufacturingcompanies for over £50,000 in its latest clampdown on alleged unlicensedsoftware use.
The four companies involved, Samuel Brice Ltd, J Tools Ltd,Garran Lockers Ltd and Automotive Components Group Ltd (IAC), were found to beusing unlicensed versions of software written by firms including Adobe,Autodesk and Microsoft.
Garran Lockers claimed its license shortfall was caused byan ‘under-performing director’ who has since been given the heave ho, while IACfound itself short on Microsoft server licenses after failing to perform duediligence on a 2008 acquisition.
The BSA’s director of compliance marketing for EMEA, JulianSwan, said the IAC case demonstrated the importance of correct auditing whenacquiring and added that it was quite common for firms to overlook the legalityof their inherited software estates.
Swan also acknowledged that manufacturers often came underpressure to complete their orders on time and within budget, but said that “perceivedcosts savings from using unlicensed software [are] just an illusion” and would damagetheir reputations.
“If unlicensed software is used, companies do not haveaccess to the same support services as legal versions, which can result indowntime and major delays, impacting profitability and the ability to deliver.Businesses should not risk jeopardising their future by trying to cut corners,”said Swan.
Matt Fisher of SAM vendor FrontRange said: “The BSA is rightto point out the reputational damage, as businesses cannot afford to lose thetrust of consumers and partners in the current economic climate.”
“With tools to facilitate software asset management readilyavailable and simple to implement, there really is no excuse,” he added.
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