Complex software estates demand expert guidance

Modern software environments span multiple vendors, licensing models and deployment methods. Without specialist oversight, organisations face compliance risks, budget overruns and missed optimisation opportunities that impact operational efficiency.

Strategic software management drives measurable results

Professional software advisory services deliver comprehensive estate visibility, vendor negotiation expertise and ongoing optimisation. Our specialists ensure your software investments align with business objectives while maintaining compliance and controlling costs.

Key opportunities, challenges and SCC solutions in software

Opportunity

Cloud platform acceleration

Adopt containers and automation to ship changes faster while keeping costs in check. Build a portable platform with Kubernetes, infrastructure as code and policy automation so teams can scale on demand and avoid lock-in.

Challenge

Cloud waste and slow delivery

Unmanaged consumption, manual provisioning and legacy app patterns drive up cost and delay releases.

SCC solution: Cloud optimisation and platform engineering

FinOps-backed cloud optimisation plus container platform design, Continuous Integration/Continuous Delivery (CI/CD) automation and guardrails for multi-cloud.

Outcomes

  • Faster release cycles
  • Reduced cloud spend
  • Reliable, compliant operations

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Opportunity

Cyber-resilient data protection

Protect data wherever it lives with immutable backups, rapid recovery and SaaS resiliency for Microsoft 365 and key business apps. Regular testing proves recovery so trading can continue after an incident.

Challenge

Ransomware and recovery gaps

Point tools and untested plans create uncertainty over recovery times and data integrity.

SCC solution: Next-generation backup and resiliency services

Architecture and run for backup, cyber vaulting and SaaS backup with continuous posture checks and recovery drills.

Outcomes

  • Confident recovery at speed
  • Stronger compliance posture
  • Lower business risk

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Opportunity

Data value and AI at pace

Link data with governed pipelines, API integration and event automation to surface real-time insight. Enable safe AI with quality data, clear controls and practical copilots that boost service and decision-making.

Challenge

Siloed data and limited trust

Inconsistent integration and weak governance block analytics and AI adoption.

SCC solution: Data platform and AI enablement

Integration and governance frameworks, API management, automated workflows and accelerators for analytics and AI use cases.

Outcomes

  • Faster, trusted insight
  • Reusable data pipelines
  • Measurable service gains

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Opportunity

Enterprise applications modernisation

Increase agility without heavy re-platforming. Optimise and extend your core platforms, including Microsoft Dynamics and IBM estates, with targeted integration, automation and managed run tied to commercial strategy.

Challenge

Monolithic estates and upgrade risk

Complex customisations and ageing stacks slow change and raise TCO.

SCC solution: Dynamics and IBM application services

Assessment, integration and managed operations with roadmap planning aligned to licensing and vendor lifecycle.

Outcomes

  • Quicker change delivery
  • Lower run costs
  • Predictable upgrades

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Opportunity

Accelerate digital transformation

Digital transformation unlocks faster growth, improved efficiency and fresh customer experiences. Organisations can harness new technologies and insights to outpace competitors, adapt to change, and drive measurable business impact.

Challenge

Cloud waste and slow delivery

Realising these benefits is tough when legacy systems, siloed teams, and unclear processes slow innovation and reduce ROI. Many organisations find it challenging to move ideas into action, missing out on the full value of digital transformation.

SCC solution: Nimble

Nimble Approach offers technology consultancy that helps leading UK brands turn ideas into impact faster. Nimble combines specialist agility with the scale to design, build, and deliver end-to-end solutions. Our Nimble solution helps organisations develop bespoke digital solutions where they need IP ownership.

  • Faster, tailored solutions for real business outcomes
  • Proven results for leading UK brands
  • Seamless, scalable support from SCC

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Opportunity

Digital workplace optimisation

Maximise the value of Microsoft 365 by right-sizing E5 licences, hardening security and driving adoption of productivity tools. Extend consistency to every location with managed VDI so stores, warehouses and head office get a secure, predictable desktop experience that scales for peak trading.

Challenge

Fragmented collaboration and rising licence costs

Inconsistent toolsets and unused E5 features dilute productivity while licence sprawl inflates spend.

SCC solution: Digital workplace E5 and VDI services

Targeted E5 optimisation, security and governance. Design, delivery and managed run of VDI estates with user experience monitoring and adoption support.

Outcomes

  • Lower licence spend
  • Higher colleague productivity
  • Consistent, secure user experience

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Opportunity

Unified ITAM and FinOps

Bring software asset management together with cloud FinOps for a single view of licences, SaaS and consumption. Use policy, tagging and usage analytics to control cost and improve forecasts.

Challenge

Shadow IT and uncontrolled consumption

Untracked SaaS and cloud usage cause budget variance and compliance exposure.

SCC solution: ITAM and FinOps integration services

SaaS discovery, licence optimisation and cloud cost management with showback and governance embedded in delivery.

Outcomes

  • Reduced software and cloud spend
  • Improved compliance
  • Accurate forecasting

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Opportunity

Digital process automation

Automate repetitive work with low-code apps, workflows and RPA so teams focus on higher-value tasks. Standardise processes end to end to raise speed and quality.

Challenge

Manual handoffs and rework

Email-driven processes and swivel-chair tasks slow service and create errors.

SCC solution: Intelligent automation services

Discovery, design and build of low-code, workflow and RPA solutions with a light Centre of Excellence for scale.

Outcomes

  • Shorter cycle times
  • Fewer errors
  • More capacity without extra headcount

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Opportunity

Software marketplace acceleration

Streamline procurement and governance by curating private marketplaces, standardising terms and enabling controlled self-service. Speed access to approved software while keeping budgets visible.

Challenge

Traditional procurement delays

Lengthy sourcing and fragmented approvals hinder adoption and slow projects.

SCC solution: SCC Marketplace services

Design and operation of Azure and AWS private marketplaces with vendor onboarding, commercial negotiation and policy controls.

Outcomes

  • Faster purchasing cycles
  • Consolidated vendor management
  • Clear spend governance

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Opportunity

Enterprise software optimisation

Software asset management transforms cost control and compliance positioning across enterprise environments. Regular portfolio reviews identify underutilised licences, eliminate duplicate applications and consolidate vendor relationships. These assessments directly address licence compliance challenges by establishing accurate baseline inventories and usage patterns for audit preparation.

Challenge

Licence compliance management

Complex licensing terms and changing vendor policies create compliance risks that expose organisations to unexpected costs and audit penalties.

SCC solution: Software asset lifecycle management services

Comprehensive software asset management covering discovery, inventory reconciliation and compliance monitoring. Our specialists provide ongoing licence position analysis and vendor audit support.

Outcomes

  • Reduced compliance risk exposure
  • Optimised licence utilisation rates
  • Streamlined vendor negotiations

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Opportunity

Microsoft licensing excellence

Microsoft licensing complexity demands specialist expertise to navigate Enterprise Agreements, Cloud Solution Provider programmes and hybrid deployments. Strategic advisory services unlock consumption optimisation opportunities whilst Microsoft’s pricing model evolution creates competitive advantages for organisations with proper guidance. These services directly counter Microsoft pricing complexity by providing transparent commercial advisory support.

Challenge

Microsoft pricing complexity

Microsoft’s pricing model changes and subscription complexity create uncertainty around budgeting and contract negotiations for enterprise customers.

SCC solution: Microsoft commercial advisory services

Dedicated Microsoft licensing expertise covering Enterprise Agreements, CSP advisory and Azure optimisation. Our team provides contract structuring guidance and renewal negotiation support.

Outcomes

  • Transparent pricing strategies
  • Optimised contract structures
  • Enhanced negotiation outcomes

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Opportunity

Cloud marketplace acceleration

Software marketplaces streamline procurement processes and consolidate vendor management under unified governance frameworks. Marketplace adoption accelerates digital transformation by reducing procurement cycles and enabling controlled software discovery. These platforms effectively resolve traditional procurement delays through simplified purchasing workflows and pre-negotiated commercial terms.

Challenge

Traditional procurement delays

Legacy procurement processes slow software acquisition and limit organisational agility in competitive markets where speed to deployment matters.

SCC solution: Marketplace services for Azure and AWS

Expert marketplace advisory covering private marketplace setup, vendor negotiations and governance framework implementation. We streamline software discovery and procurement workflows.

Outcomes

  • Accelerated procurement cycles
  • Consolidated vendor management
  • Enhanced governance controls

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Opportunity

Vendor partnership excellence

Strategic vendor relationships deliver enhanced support, preferential pricing and early access to product roadmaps. Partnership management ensures organisations maximise value from software investments whilst maintaining competitive market positioning. Effective vendor relationship management addresses software cost pressures through negotiated terms and strategic alignment opportunities.

Challenge

Software cost pressures

Rising software costs and vendor price increases strain IT budgets whilst organisations require expanded functionality and user access.

SCC solution: Strategic vendor management programme

Comprehensive vendor relationship management spanning 600+ software vendors. Our team provides commercial negotiations, contract optimisation and strategic partnership development.

Outcomes

  • Optimised vendor relationships
  • Cost control strategies
  • Strategic partnership benefits

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Opportunity

Software procurement intelligence

Market intelligence and procurement expertise enable organisations to make informed software purchasing decisions whilst avoiding common commercial pitfalls. Professional procurement support delivers vendor benchmarking, contract analysis and strategic buying recommendations. These services directly address procurement expertise gaps by providing specialist commercial knowledge and market insight.

Challenge

Procurement expertise gaps

Limited internal software procurement expertise leads to suboptimal commercial outcomes and missed cost optimisation opportunities across software portfolios.

SCC solution: Software procurement advisory services

Expert software procurement guidance covering vendor evaluation, commercial negotiations and contract structuring. Our specialists provide market intelligence and strategic buying recommendations.

Outcomes

  • Improved commercial outcomes
  • Strategic procurement decisions
  • Enhanced market positioning

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Opportunity

Software portfolio rationalisation

Application portfolio reviews identify redundant software, consolidate similar functionalities and eliminate unnecessary licence costs. Rationalisation initiatives deliver immediate cost savings whilst improving operational efficiency through simplified software environments. These assessments effectively counter software sprawl by establishing governance frameworks and usage monitoring capabilities.

Challenge

Software sprawl management

Uncontrolled software acquisition creates licence redundancy, security gaps and management complexity across distributed IT environments requiring centralised oversight.

SCC solution: Software portfolio assessment services

Comprehensive software estate analysis covering application discovery, usage assessment and rationalisation planning. Our specialists provide portfolio optimisation recommendations and implementation support.

Outcomes

  • Reduced software redundancy
  • Simplified estate management
  • Improved security posture

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Insights & Resources

People-first AI: Humanising HR in the Public Sector

People-first AI: Humanising HR in the Public Sector

Public sector HR teams are under pressure—managing rising demand, limited budgets, and shifting workplace expectations. But what if technology could help leaders deliver more human services, not less? AI can lift administrative burdens, streamline employee support, and free HR professionals to focus on meaningful, people-centred work. Workplace Challenges The AI Opportunity When used responsibly, AI…

Why Your Security Posture Should Be Creating Greater Business Efficiency

Why Your Security Posture Should Be Creating Greater Business Efficiency

When you hear “security posture,” do you think of it as a business accelerator -or just another compliance headache? The truth is, your security posture should be the foundation that lets your business move faster, innovate safely, and focus on what matters most: growth, customer experience, and operational excellence. Security: The Unsung Driver of Efficiency…

Security Alert: F5 Confirms Breach of Internal Systems

Security Alert: F5 Confirms Breach of Internal Systems

F5 has confirmed that a sophisticated cyber attack led to unauthorised access within its corporate network. According to the company’s official statement (https://my.f5.com/manage/s/article/K000154696), a threat actor gained entry to F5’s internal development environment and accessed portions of source code relating to BIG-IP and F5OS products. F5 has stated that there is no evidence of compromise…

How to increase cyber resilience and reduce risk without a genie, a lamp, or an unlimited budget.

How to increase cyber resilience and reduce risk without a genie, a lamp, or an unlimited budget.

The reality check: resilience is an operating goal, not a shopping list If you’re waiting for magic genie or a blank cheque to fix security, you’ll wait forever. Resilience isn’t the absence of incidents; it’s the ability to keep operating when systems fail or attackers get through. The good news: you don’t need a genie…

Observability as a strategic advantage

Observability as a strategic advantage

Move from monitoring to fixing Dashboards don’t fix outages  –  people do. And unless observability changes that equation, you’re not building resilience, you’re just watching failure in high definition. The point of observability isn’t to see more, it’s to fix more. Observability has to become an operational discipline, connecting telemetry to outcomes, fixing faster, smarter…

Why ITAM Is the Secret Weapon of High-Growth Companies

Why ITAM Is the Secret Weapon of High-Growth Companies

Rethinking IT Asset Management as a Strategic Growth Driver IT Asset Management (ITAM) is often misunderstood. To many, it’s a back-office function – an exercise in counting laptops and tracking software licenses. But for high-growth companies, ITAM is a secret weapon. When done right, it unlocks efficiencies, ensures compliance, and aligns IT with broader business…

Why choose SCC? Your strategic partner in software

SCC combines deep technical expertise with commercial advisory excellence to deliver comprehensive software management solutions. Our partnerships with 600+ vendors enable preferential pricing and strategic support whilst our dedicated specialists provide ongoing optimisation guidance. We transform complex software challenges into competitive advantages through proven methodologies and strategic insight.

Vendor partnership excellence

Strategic relationships with Microsoft, Oracle, Adobe, VMware and 600+ software vendors deliver enhanced commercial terms, technical support and product roadmap access for optimised outcomes.

Commercial advisory expertise

Dedicated licensing specialists provide contract negotiation support, renewal planning and strategic procurement guidance to maximise software investment returns whilst controlling costs.

Comprehensive service portfolio

End-to-end software lifecycle management spanning procurement, deployment, asset management and optimisation supported by proven methodologies and market-leading tools for sustainable results.

Frameworks and Accreditations

ISO 27001

Information security management certification ensuring robust data protection and security controls across all software management services and client environments.

Microsoft Gold Partner

Advanced partnership status with comprehensive technical competencies across Microsoft’s entire software portfolio including Enterprise Agreements and Cloud Solution Provider programmes.

Public Sector Frameworks

SCC is placed on 30+ Public Sector Frameworks including G-Cloud 14. Approved supplier status enables streamlined procurement for UK public sector organisations requiring software asset management and licensing advisory services.

Cyber Essentials Plus certification

Enhanced cybersecurity certification demonstrating advanced security controls and risk management capabilities for enterprise software environments and sensitive data handling.

VMware Advanced Partner

Specialist certification covering virtualisation, cloud infrastructure and software-defined data centre technologies with dedicated technical expertise and support capabilities.

What our software customers say

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“Understanding the complexities of modern day software licensing is a highly regarded skill set. A skill set that SCC, a partner we have worked with for over 12 years, has in abundance. They have worked with us on the discovery and validation of our software estate, helping us to negotiate new and efficient master agreements with one of our leading software vendors.”

Claire Hughes, Category Lead,
Procurement & Commercial Group,
HM Land Registry

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“Grafton Group and SCC have worked together as a true partnership on the major IT projects required to realise our vision of a true Group IT approach. From assisting us with hosting our major ERP investment, through the rollout of Microsoft Office to our 9,000 users, SCC have taken a professional and detail orientated approach to each and every challenge we have set them.”

Nathan Bishop,
Group IT Services Director,
Grafton Group

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“SCC Vision was a significant factor when choosing SCC’s cloud managed cloud service. The tool has allowed us to manage our cloud spend more effectively, and we feel more in control of our cloud estate.”

Andy Wyatt,
TIP CIO

Our partners

Our partnerships with more than 600 unique vendors, including specialist software vendor partners, is built on a single common belief: that a truly agile infrastructure should allow your business to work across any platform, not just the one your cloud or technology provider wants you to use.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is software asset management and why is it important?

Software asset management provides comprehensive visibility and control over software licences, usage and compliance. It reduces costs through optimisation, minimises audit risks and ensures organisations maintain accurate licence positions across their entire software estate.

How can SCC help with Microsoft licensing complexity?

Our Microsoft Commercial Advisory Services provide expert guidance on Enterprise Agreements, Cloud Solution Provider programmes and Azure optimisation. We offer contract structuring support, renewal negotiations and ongoing commercial advisory to navigate Microsoft’s evolving pricing models.

What are the benefits of marketplace services for software procurement?

Marketplace services accelerate procurement cycles, consolidate vendor management and provide enhanced governance controls. Our specialists setup private marketplaces, negotiate vendor terms and implement streamlined purchasing workflows for faster software deployment.

How does SCC support software compliance requirements?

We provide comprehensive compliance monitoring, audit preparation and vendor management services. Our specialists maintain accurate licence inventories, conduct regular compliance assessments and provide audit defence support to minimise compliance risks and costs.

Meet our software specialists

Jean-Philippe Barleaza Image

Jean-Philippe Barleaza

Jean-Philippe is responsible for setting the strategy and managing SCC’s EMEA software business, including partnerships with global vendors, distributors, professional services providers, and global system integrators. Passionate about guiding both strategic vendors and customers through their digital transformation journeys, Jean-Philippe plays a key role in driving IT transformation initiatives across the region.
With over 20 years of experience in the IT industry, Jean-Philippe has been instrumental in supporting vendors, channel partners and customers in adapting to the evolving ways businesses consume new technologies and services.

Before joining SCC in 2024, Jean-Philippe held senior leadership positions at NetApp, VMware, Oracle, and UiPath. At VMware, while the company grew from 300M$ to 12 B$ in 14 years he led the EMEA partner ecosystem, managing a $3 billion operation across 77 countries with a team of 380 people. He was also responsible for the EMEA Mid-Market segment, delivering a 21% CAGR over five years, supported by a team of 180 account managers.

Fluent in French, Spanish, and English, Jean-Philippe is based in London, UK.

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Andy Dunbar Image

Andy Dunbar

Andy Dunbar joined SCC in September 2024 and is responsible for the Software & Security Business Unit. He is thoroughly enjoying his time at SCC and is excited to be part of the company’s journey, driven by the incredible opportunity to foster growth and innovation for its customers.
Andy began his career as a developer on IBM AS400, and his inquisitive, data-driven nature led him to transition into business analyst roles, strategic consultancy, and solution sales, managing large delivery teams across EMEA. He holds a degree in Business Information Systems & Managerial Cybernetics and a Master’s in Business.

Prior to joining SCC, Andy ran the Software & Cloud Services Business at SoftwareOne across Western Europe, managing a team of 670 people and three nearshore delivery centers in Poland, Romania, and Utrecht.

Outside of work, Andy is a huge Liverpool fan and a proud dad to two teenage daughters who are both dancers. Andy is also a charity trustee for a local disability charity in Merseyside, KDC, which provides a range of services to help people have choices, be in control, and enjoy more independence.

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Transform your software management approach with expert guidance and proven solutions. Contact our specialists today to optimise your software estate, reduce costs and enhance operational efficiency.

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The SCC Advantage

SCC serves as a strategic partner in navigating complex IT landscapes, offering integrated support across digital workplaces, data and AI requirements, enterprise software management, infrastructure and cloud environments. Explore how our expertise enables organisations to implement lasting, efficient solutions at every stage of transformation.

Unlock the power of AI

Unlock the power of AI with integrated solutions designed for any organisation, no matter where you are on your transformation journey. Discover how our AI services help you streamline operations, improve decision-making, and achieve lasting impact, all with a flexible, secure and vendor-neutral approach. See how we provide support from strategy through deployment, so your business can innovate with confidence and future-readiness.

Flexible payment solutions

SCC’s payment solutions provide organisations with flexible, data-driven options to invest in technology without the constraints of upfront capital. Examine how our approach balances operational agility, asset management, and financial stewardship for sustainable outcomes.

SCC Consultancy

SCC’s Consultancy Practice helps customers align their tech strategy with their business strategy – enabling your business and driving ROI. Our consultants support you on your journey, specialising in: AI, M&A, Programme Recovery, Application Transformation, and Change & Adoption.

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