Asset management

Asset management can be defined as managing infrastructure capital assets to minimize the total cost of owning and operating them, while delivering the service levels customer's desire. It is successfully practiced in urban centers, and large and small sewer collection systems to improve operational, environmental, and financial performance. 
 
Each utility is responsible for making sure that its system stays in good working order-regardless of the age of components or the availability of additional funds. Asset management programs with long-range planning, life-cycle costing, proactive operations and maintenance, and capital replacement plans based on cost-benefit analyses can be the most efficient method of meeting this challenge. 
 
As part of the EPA's Sustainable Infrastructure Initiative, the Office of Water works in collaboration with partner organizations to hosts and co-sponsor training sessions and facilitate discussions on best practice in Advanced Asset Management.
Check Up Program for Small Systems (CUPSS) Software CUPSS is a free, easy-to-use, asset management tool for small drinking water and wastewater utilities. It provides a simple, comprehensive approach to implementing an asset management program and developing effective asset management plans. CUPSS is a computer-based program that allows users to baby-step their way into asset management and comes loaded with example data and tutorials. EPA has established a growing network of trainers to help new users get started.
Fact Sheets
 
Asset Management: A Best Practice asset management means, the benefits of asset management, best practices in asset management and how to implement an asset management plan. It is intended for owners, managers and operators of public water systems; local officials; technical assistance providers; and state personnel. 
 
 
Asset Management for Local Officials asset management for local officials and local officials’ vital role in successfully implementing an asset management program. It is intended for local officials who are directly or indirectly involved in decisions affecting public water systems. 
 
 
Building an Asset Management Team can help your system successfully implement asset management and the components of a successful asset management team. It is intended for local officials, owners and operators of public water systems, technical assistance providers, and state personnel.Asset Management
 
Asset Management is a leading asset manager for institutions, individuals and financial intermediaries, worldwide. Our investment professionals are located around the world providing strategies that span the full spectrum of asset classes including equity, fixed income, cash liquidity, currency, real estate, infrastructure, hedge funds and private equity.
Software Asset Management applies to the business practices specific to software management, including software license management, configuration management, standardization of images and compliance to regulatory and legal restrictions—such as copyright law, Sarbanes Oxley and software publisher contractual compliance. Legal software use in an organization is enforced by such compliance companies as Business Software Alliance, SIIA and FAST.
 
Software is referred to as entitlements so that SAM programs confirm the right to use, or entitlement to that software by the user. Automation is used to facilitate this management. Microsoft maintains a list of SAM providers to help customers manage their software.
 
Hardware asset management
 
Hardware asset management entails the management of the physical components of computers and computer networks, from acquisition through disposal. Common business practices include request and approval process, procurement management, life cycle management, redeployment and disposal management. A key component is capturing the financial information about the hardware life cycle which aids the organization in making business decisions based on meaningful and measurable financial objectives.