Candidate Resource Guide for Exam 70-673

Preparation Guide for Exam 70-673

TS: Designing, Assessing and Optimizing Software Asset Management (SAM)
This test preparation guide was created by Agnitio Advisors info@agnitioadvisors.com, www.agnitioadvisors.com.

Introduction
This study guide for Exam 70-673 is intended to give you the depth of knowledge and resources to become successful and demonstrate your experience to design, implement and optimize a Software Asset Management (SAM) program, use the SAM Optimization Model to accurately evaluate SAM processes, policies, and tools. The study guide is not intended to be a cheat sheet, but to provide the resources and information for you to study to prepare for the certification exam.

Audience Profile
Exam 70-673 measures your ability to understand, develop and assess various aspects related to the Software Asset Management (SAM) environment. The exam is designed for candidates with three years of on-the-job experience in an IT environment. The candidate should be familiar with business processes and audit procedures, for example, ITIL SAM-related standards and ISO/IEC 19770 standards that support the SAM life cycle. Specific process areas the candidate should be familiar with include acquisition, inventory, discovery, deployment, reconciliation, maintenance, and retirement processes.

Core IO Integration
Software Asset Management plays a key role in all sizes of organizations and is now integrated with the Core IO Infrastructure Optimization Model in 2 key areas: Client Services Model and Data Center Services Model. The Core Infrastructure Optimization (IO) model helps organizations better understand and strive for a more secure, well-managed, and dynamic core infrastructure that will help enable them to reduce their overall IT costs, make better use of IT resources, and make IT a strategic asset for the business. This model supports IT professionals in the management of servers, desktops, mobile devices, and applications and in achieving efficient resource usage to help eliminate unnecessary costs and complexity, ensure that the business is always up and running, and establish a responsive infrastructure.

Summary of skills required

Software Asset Management (SAM) cannot be done solely by implementing a software product and expecting that product to automatically track and manage all software licenses. To create an effective SAM program, organizations must put effort into all three key components of SAM People, Process and Technology. The 70-673 exam tests the candidate's knowledge of the key areas involved in understanding, developing and/or assessing a company's SAM program.

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Candidate Resource Guide for Exam 70-673

People The candidate must be aware that training, communication and awareness of roles and responsibilities have a very large impact in having a successful SAM program. Candidates must have a background on various training programs and policies that an organization should implement to ensure a successful SAM program including corporate software policies, end-user training and vendor sponsored training programs. Process The candidate must understand all the processes required to implement a successful SAM program. The ISO standard - ISO/IEC 19770-1:2006 Information technology Software asset management Part 1: Processes outlines 70 different process areas that should be addressed. The Microsoft SAM Optimization Model focuses on 10 of those process areas. The candidate must have a very solid understanding of the SAM Optimization Model, and a good understanding of the additional processes specified in the ISO/IEC 19770-1:2006 standard. Technology The candidate needs to understand the process of software license entitlement reconciliation. The candidate must understand how software inventory is captured, what license data is required and how it can be captured and how this information can be reconciled. This knowledge is critical both for SAM practitioners as well as for SAM auditors. The candidate should be knowledgeable of the tools and technologies available in the market to aid in the reconciliation of software licenses. This document provides references a candidate for Exam 70-673 can use to locate information relative to the material covered within the exam.

SAM Optimization Model

The SAM Optimization Model (SOM) provides a strong framework for the development, assessment and improvement of a SAM program. This model provides a process to evaluate a SAM program based on 10 key competencies. Each competency is assessed at one of 4 different maturity levels. The candidate familiar with the Model and the indicators that appropriate each candidate should how the SAM Model can be organization to optimize a SAM should be very SAM Optimization key performance identify the maturity level for competency. The also be aware of Optimization used within an assess and program.

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Reference Materials
The following web sites provide information that covers all aspects of the 70-673 exam. Candidates should be familiar with the concepts discussed in these sites and have a strong working knowledge of how SAM programs should be implemented in a corporate environment. Microsofts listing for Exam 70-673 Information related to: People Process Technology http://www.microsoft.com/learning/en/us/exams/70-673.aspx This site provides: An overview of the exam Information on the targeted audience for the exam Skills measured by the exam

Candidates should ensure they have a strong background in SAM and are comfortable with demonstrating all skills being tested.

Microsofts Practice Test for Exam 70-673

Information related to: People Process Technology https://training.partner.microsoft.com/learning/app/management/registrationex/LM S_Registration.aspx?UserMode=0&Mode=0&ActivityID=576132 This site requires a logon users can sign up as registered members to access this information at no charge. This practice test will help you prepare for the Microsoft Certification Exam 70-673 "Designing, Assessing, and Optimizing Software Asset Management (SAM)," by providing you an environment similar to the exam. The practice questions nearly match those that appear in the real exam, and cover all topics, skills, and objectives measured in Exam 70-673. At the end of the practice test you will review comments on the correct answer for each question to help correct your mistakes. You can complete the practice test as many times as you like until you feel ready for the real test. Good luck!

Microsoft general information on SAM http://www.microsoft.com/sam

Information related to: People Process Technology

The Microsoft SAM sites provide a wealth of information on the benefits of SAM as well as information on: The SAM Optimization Model Page 3 of 11 Prepared by Agnitio Advisors, Inc.

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Developing support for SAM within an organization Information on how to implement a SAM program Information on tools and partners available for organizations

Candidates should understand all information accessible from this link. Microsoft Volume Licensing Information Information related to: People Process Technology http://www.microsoft.com/licensing/default.mspx

This site provides information related to the various Microsoft volume licensing offerings as well as links to various related topics including: Volume licensing overview Volume licensing programs (includes downloads of the agreements for review) Information on the Software Assurance offering

Candidates should have a good understanding of volume license processes in particular the key licensing use rights for the different volume licensing programs. http://www.microsoftvolumelicensing.com/userights/Default.aspx This site provides access to licensing terms, conditions and supplemental information relevant to the use of products licensed through Microsoft Volume Licensing Programs. This site provides information related to: Product Use Rights (PUR) Product list Glossary of Microsoft licensing terms Volume Licensing Support documents

The candidate should study and be aware of key licensing terms for the more popular Microsoft products. http://www.microsoft.com/licensing/resources/volbrief.mspx This link provides direct access to briefs designed to clarify licensing policies for different products and licensing models. Particular attention should be given to briefs of popular products and some of the more common licensing questions, including: Office licensing Virtualization Re-imaging Downgrade rights Multicores and hyper threaded processor licensing OEM licensing details

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Candidate Resource Guide for Exam 70-673 by a SAM program to ensure a company's license compliance. https://training.partner.microsoft.com/learning/app/management/LMS_ActDetails.as px?UserMode=0&ActivityId=575583 This site requires a logon users can sign up as registered members to access this information at no charge. This series of on-line training course provides the information required to understand the basics of Microsoft's volume licensing programs. Candidates should have a good understanding of where, when and how customers should use Volume licensing. The candidate should also have a good understanding of the use rights available for customers who use volume licensing for their purchases.

Microsoft SAM Optimization Model

Information related to: People Process Technology http://msevents.microsoft.com/CUI/WebCastEventDetails.aspx? EventID=1032369765&EventCategory=5&culture=en-US&CountryCode=US This site provides a link to the webcast presented by Michael Beare introducing the Microsoft SAM Optimization Model. It's recommended that the candidate view the presentation as well as download the presentation for further study. The downloaded presentation must be opened in read-only mode. https://training.partner.microsoft.com/learning/app/management/registrationex/LM S_Registration.aspx?UserMode=0&Mode=0&ActivityID=590810 This site requires a logon users can sign up as registered members to access this information at no charge. This webcast recording is presented by Jonathan Naseath from KPMG and provides details on how to conduct a SAM Optimization Model assessment, looking at each of the 10 KPI of the SAM Optimization Model.

Microsoft General SAM Training Materials

Information related to: People Process Technology https://training.partner.microsoft.com/learning/app/management/registrationex/LM S_Registration.aspx?UserMode=0&Mode=0&ActivityID=500110 This site requires a logon users can sign up as registered members to access this information at no charge. This link provides training on Software Asset Management Essentials. Candidates should understand all the concepts provided in a high level course such as this. Page 5 of 11 Prepared by Agnitio Advisors, Inc.

Candidate Resource Guide for Exam 70-673

General SAM reference links

Information related to: People Process Technology

http://www.samguides.com This Agnitio Advisors site provides links to a variety of reference material that can be found on the web including: Assessment models SAM Communication venues Copyright information Professional organizations SAM training programs ISO/IEC 19770 information (on current and future SAM standards) Standards organizations

Candidates may want to explore additional links from this web site to further their understanding of the SAM market and SAM processes.

Tools and Technology focus The following resources provide information on Microsoft tools and technology that are helpful in developing and/or improving a SAM program. Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager http://www.microsoft.com/sccm This site provides information on Microsoft's System Center Configuration Manager. Information on this site is product centric and provides: Overview details on the product Datasheets, Virtual Labs TechNet documents Information related to: People Process Technology

The candidate should be aware of the fundamental capabilities of System Center Configuration Manager and how this product compares to other products provided by Microsoft.

Microsoft System Management Server http://www.microsoft.com/sms

Information related to: People Process Technology

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This site provides information on Microsoft's System Management Server. Information on this site is product centric and provides: Overview details on the product Datasheets, Virtual Labs TechNet documents

The candidate should be aware of the fundamental capabilities of System Management Server and how this product compares to other products provided by Microsoft. NOTE: the new version of System Management Server is System Center Configuration Manager; but many organizations have not implemented System Center Configuration Manager.

Microsoft Active Directory

Information related to: People Process Technology http://www.microsoft.com/events/series/adaug.aspx

This site provides information on Microsoft's Active Directory. Links from this site provide educational aspects of Active Directory and how it can be implemented in corporate environments. Information includes: Webcasts Virtual Labs Podcasts

The candidate should be aware of how Active Directory can be used to manage and track software and hardware.

Microsoft Group Policy

Information related to: People Process Technology http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/windowsserver/grouppolicy/default.aspx This site provides a wealth of information on how Microsoft's Group Policy is implemented and used for administration of corporate networked computers. The candidate should focus on Intellimirror features and limitations including how Intellimirror can be used to administer and report on software installations. The candidate should be aware how Group Policy is used to manage software.

Microsoft Software Inventory Analyzer (MSIA)

Information related to: People Process Technology http://www.microsoft.com/resources/sam/msia.mspx Page 7 of 11 Prepared by Agnitio Advisors, Inc.

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This site provides information on the Microsoft Software Inventory Analyzer tool. This free tool provides inventory data for core Microsoft products installed on both local and network connected computers. Candidates should understand what MSIA is capable of inventorying, the tools limitations and when it should or should not be used.

Microsoft Assessment and Planning (MAP) Toolkit http://www.microsoft.com/map

Information related to: People Process Technology

This site provides information on the Microsoft Assessment and Planning (MAP) Toolkit. This free tool provides inventory data for core Microsoft products installed on both local and network connected computers, and provides CAL usage tracking reporting along with readiness assessments for Virtualization planning and Office 2010 upgrades. Candidates should understand what the MAP Toolkit is capable of inventorying, the tools limitations and when it should or should not be used.

Additional sites for Partners The following sites require that individuals be associated with companies that are active in the Microsoft Partner Network, however some resources are restricted to those members who have met additional qualifications of being in the Software Asset Management Competency. For more information on these Microsoft Partner Programs, visit https://partner.microsoft.com/global/program/competencies/compsoftwareassetmanagemen t. Microsoft SAM Webcast Series Information related to: (Available only to Microsoft People Process Partners) Technology https://training.partner.microsoft.com/learning/app/management/LMS_ActDetails.as px?UserMode=0&ActivityId=584434 This site requires a logon users can sign up as registered members to access this information at no charge. Explore best practices used by Software Asset Management (SAM) professionals: take advantage of webcast and articles presented by SAM Partners and Microsoft employees. Candidates should have a strong understanding of all subjects covered in these training sessions.

Microsoft SAM Optimization Model

Information related to:

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Candidate Resource Guide for Exam 70-673 (Available only to Microsoft People Process Partners) Technology https://partner.microsoft.com/40072576

This site provides information on the Microsoft SAM Optimization Model, including: Resource guide Brochures White papers Online tutorial Workbooks

Candidates should have a very strong understanding of the Microsoft SAM Optimization Model, including the key competencies, key performance indicators and how to apply these details to a SAM program assessment.

Microsoft Partner Network site Information related to: SAM Competency Exam Resources People Process (Available only to Microsoft Technology Partners) https://partner.microsoft.com/global/program/competencies/40032372 This site provides specific information primarily for Microsoft Partners who have achieved the SAM Competency with Microsoft. Training Webcast SAM Optimization Assessments SAM Tool Provider Directory

Microsoft General SAM Training Materials http://readysetgo.upsellusa.com

Information related to: People Process Technology

This link is provided to access the courses designed for use by individuals working for companies that have access to the Microsoft Partner University (MPU). Access to this course requires separate login rights and is available to software resellers only. Courses of interest are: SAM: The Opportunity course MPU 3038 SAM: How To course MPU 3039

Microsoft SAM Training Curriculums

Information related to: People Process

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Technology https://training.partner.microsoft.com/learning/app/taxonomy/TAX_Search.aspx? UserMode=0&NodeID=0&SelectedNodeID=0&VSC=ItemName&VSO=A&DispMode =normal&AdvType=0&SearchStr=sam_partner&See=Search This site requires a logon users can sign up as registered members to access this information at no charge. The training courses available through the curriculums cover the following subject matter Volume Licensing programs, including: Enterprise Agreements, Open and Select Volume Licensing, SPLA, Rental Rights How to read and understand the MLS Microsoft SAM inventory and discovery tools (MAP, AIS, System Center, and others) Virtualization licensing models Windows 7, Windows Server and Microsoft Office licensing programs and rules Conducting a SAM Engagement

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About Agnitio Advisors

About Agnitio Advisors Agnitio Advisors provides consulting services to assess, develop and optimize organization IT practices. Projects are structured around industry standards including ISO/IEC 19770-1, the Microsoft SAM Optimization Model and ITIL. Agnitio Advisors applies years of experience from hundreds of projects in organizations of all sizes and market segments to ensure the correct projects are implemented at the right stage of organizational maturity to maximize customer benefits. Projects are based on a pragmatic approach to cost savings, cost avoidance and process efficiency. Managing software effectively provides significant benefits beyond the traditional IT Asset Management (ITAM) focus. Agnitio Advisors can help organizations establish more effective and measurable security policies, improve device stability and decrease help desk costs, among other things. Agnitio Advisors' consultants have real world experience in auditing, implementation and tool evaluation as well as a high degree of focus on policies, processes and workflows for effective IT practices. Through these experiences, Agnitio Advisors has been recognized by many industry organizations as highly valued partners. A few highlights of the recognitions received by Agnitio Advisors include: Microsoft Certified Partner with a competency in Software Asset Management Recognized as Fellows of the International Association of IT Asset Management (IAITAM) Regular judges for the SIIA CODiE awards in the Software Asset Management category Convener for the ISO/IEC 19770-2 standard for Software Identification Tags

Agnitio Advisors consultants are brought into a project for their knowledge, practical experience and value-based approach to assisting customers. Agnitio Advisors remains involved in projects due to their ability to work effectively within a customer's requirements and resource limitations. For more information about Agnitio Advisors, contact us or visit us on the web at http://www.agnitioadvisors.com/info/.

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