How IT Leaders Can Use SaaS Management for Cost Optimization: Insights from Jeremy Boerger

HIPAA Compliance Checklist for 2025

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IT leaders in 2025 are battling SaaS sprawl, hybrid work, cybersecurity threats and shrinking budgets. But what if these challenges could become your biggest cost-saving advantage?

That’s exactly what Jeremy Boerger, founder of Boerger Consulting and creator of the Pragmatic ITAM Method, has been helping organizations achieve for over 20 years. In this podcast, Jeremy shares how IT leaders can build more resilient, collaborative, and data-driven organizations.

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Key Takeaways: How to Future-Proof Your ITAM Program

From Just Following Rules to Adding Real Value

Managing software assets is about navigating a complex maze of SaaS subscriptions, shadow IT, and emerging technologies. Jeremy Boerger shares a practical, people-first approach that reveals how smart asset management can unlock real value and build stronger, more agile organizations.

“It’s not just about keeping the auditors at bay anymore,” Jeremy shares. “Asset management today is about understanding your data, how it flows through your people and processes, and making sure IT is truly supporting business goals.”

He points out that SaaS has made things both easier and more complicated. On one hand, it’s never been simpler for teams to get the tools they need. On the other, this freedom has led to a proliferation of shadow IT, siloed contracts, and ballooning costs.

“Before jumping into new tools, you need to know your products, your licensing models, and how these investments fit into the bigger financial picture,” he says.

New Skills Needed for Software Asset Managers

Gone are the days when a SAM manager could get by with a spreadsheet and a good relationship with procurement. Jeremy believes the modern SAM professional needs to be part technologist, part financial analyst, and part diplomat.

“A big part of asset management now is knowing what data is created, who uses it, and how it moves the business forward,” he explains.

But the biggest shift? Collaboration. “It's important to find ways for teams to connect and work together, not just online but in person when possible, because real collaboration can't happen in isolation. The best SAM teams are deeply connected with enterprise architecture, security, and business owners,” Jeremy notes

Breaking Down Barriers to SaaS Management

Despite the clear benefits, Jeremy acknowledges that some SAM professionals are hesitant to embrace SaaS management. “There are self-imposed and artificial barriers,” he admits. We need to think beyond just buying and using software, plan ahead for how assets can be reused or repurposed, so we avoid waste and get more value.

Jeremy’s advice? Start small and build trust. “Better data leads to smarter decisions. And, understand that asset management is about being curious and open. When something new shows up, ask questions and work with others to understand if it really adds value,” he says.

Tackling Rogue SaaS Spend: The Credit Card Problem

One of the most common challenges Jeremy sees is rogue spending, employees swiping their corporate cards for software subscriptions.

“Sometimes you think you know what the company is spending on software, but then a surprise bill pops up and you realize there's more going on than you thought.” The solution, he says, is visibility.

“You need a tool that helps you see what’s being bought, by whom, and why. Only then can you start to rein it in and optimize your spend”.

The Rise of AI and the SAM/FinOps Partnership

AI is rapidly changing the SAM landscape. “We’re now having to track AI consumption, tokens, and usage rates. Things that didn’t exist a few years ago,” Jeremy observes. He sees a growing partnership between SAM and FinOps, though he’s quick to note that the two disciplines remain distinct.

“FinOps is great at managing infrastructure costs, but they don’t always have visibility into SaaS and software usage. That’s where SAM comes in. Together, they can drive real savings and value”.

Building Resilient, Human-Centered Teams

Amid all the technology talk, Jeremy never loses sight of the human element. “Resilience isn’t just about systems, it’s about people. If you want your team to be resilient, you have to respect your employees' time, plan for real breaks, and don't expect people to be productive every minute of the day,” he says.

He encourages leaders to build continuous communication with all the teams, foster in-person connections when possible, and remember that behind every software license is a person trying to get their job done.

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Tips to Build a Successful IT Asset Management Program

So, what’s Jeremy’s advice for SAM pros looking to uplevel their careers and drive greater business impact?

Get comfortable with change. The world of software is only getting faster and more complex.
Invest in relationships. Build bridges with finance, architecture, security, and business owners.
Embrace new tools. You can’t manage what you can’t see, so invest in platforms that give you real-time insight into your software landscape.
Stay curious. The best SAM pros are always learning about new licensing models, emerging tech, and the evolving needs of the business.

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