Asset Panda vs. Snow License Manager

Brenda Gratas October 12, 2022
- 17 min read

In today's technology-driven landscape, effective IT Asset Management (ITAM) is pivotal in optimizing organizational operations and maximizing efficiency. With numerous ITAM software alternatives available, selecting the most suitable solution can be daunting. That's why we're here to shed light on a compelling comparison: Asset Panda vs. Snow License Manager.

These ITAM tools bring their own set of features and functionalities to the table, catering to diverse organizational needs. In this blog post, we'll conduct a comprehensive analysis, delving into Asset Panda and Snow License Manager's key attributes, strengths, and limitations.

In addition, we’ll introduce you to a third alternative: InvGate Asset Management. With its unique features and capabilities, InvGate Asset Management offers a compelling option that may perfectly align with your organization's needs. We'll explore how InvGate Asset Management stands out in the ITAM landscape.

Join us and uncover the perfect ITAM solution to revolutionize your organization's Asset Management practices.

 

Table of contents

TL;DR

  • Asset Panda is praised for its ease of use, strong customer service, and comprehensive reporting features. Nonetheless, users have raised concerns about its navigational complexity and occasional delays in customer support, along with perceived high pricing for smaller companies.

  • Snow Asset Manager stands out for its intuitive user interface, robust software recognition service, and comprehensive reporting capabilities. Nonetheless, users encounter challenges with system integration, occasional inaccuracies in software recognition, varying support quality, and performance issues with large data volumes.

  • In contrast, InvGate Asset Management offers comprehensive IT asset and inventory management through seamless integration with various sources, facilitates proactive operational cost management, and streamlines IT operations.
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Most looked-at features by buyers

When evaluating IT Asset Management solutions, potential buyers consider a range of important features to find the most suitable option that meets their specific requirements and business needs. Here are some key factors buyers consider when selecting a customized ITAM solution for their organization.

  1. Enhanced cybersecurity compliance - Buyers seek a tool that continuously monitors assets and their security status, helping them proactively identify and address security risks.

  2. Proactive cost management and financial optimization - The solution should incorporate financial data, contract lifecycle management, licenses, and other relevant information to gain a comprehensive understanding of operational costs.

  3. Unified IT Asset and Inventory Management - By using a unified IT asset inventory feature, users can efficiently monitor and manage their entire inventory of IT assets from a single platform. The solution should automate asset discovery and capture essential details like hardware specifications, software versions, and ownership information.

  4. Automated management and proactive notifications - The solution should allow the creation of automated workflows for routine tasks such as software updates, patch deployments, and system maintenance. Users can ensure efficient operations and respond promptly to critical events by automating tasks and receiving proactive notifications.

  5. CMDB Map Builder - This functionality enables users to define and document relationships between different components, such as hardware devices, software applications, network connections, and dependencies. By visualizing these relationships, organizations can gain a better understanding of the impact of changes, assess risks, and plan for effective Incident Management and Change Management

  6. Optimization of Software Management - This feature empowers users to track software installations, ensure proper Software License Management, and identify instances of overutilization or underutilization.

  7. Service desk integration - Integrating with help desk software enables a smooth flow of information between Asset Management and IT Service Management processes. This integration improves communication, streamlines workflows, and enhances overall service delivery.

  8. Comprehensive insights into IT infrastructure - The platform should provide complete visibility into IT asset status, performance, and usage, enabling users to make informed decisions and optimize their infrastructure. Additionally, reporting and analytics features should be available.

  9. Remote management with integrated tools - Integration with popular remote desktop tools allows IT teams to remotely diagnose issues, apply patches, perform software installations, or conduct system updates remotely, eliminating the need for physical presence.

  10. Flexible deployment options - Users desire a platform that offers flexibility in choosing different deployment models, such as cloud-based, on-premise, or hybrid solutions.

What is Asset Panda?

Example of Asset Panda's interface.

Asset Panda is an advanced cloud-based platform for managing and tracking assets, built to enhance and streamline Asset Management operations for organizations of any scale. By consolidating data from various sources, the platform presents a holistic perspective of assets, their locations, and the individuals associated with them.

Equipped with a diverse array of features and tools, Asset Panda empowers organizations to oversee, control, and safeguard their assets effortlessly. Prominent capabilities of Asset Panda include:

  • Customizable asset tracking that can be tailored to suit individual requirements and preferences.
  • Rapid and accurate scanning of barcodes and QR codes to swiftly identify and associate assets.
  • Real-time data and reporting functionalities that provide users with up-to-the-minute insights into asset information.
  • Efficient management of maintenance tasks and work orders, ensuring assets are properly serviced and maintained.
  • Seamless accessibility via mobile devices, allowing for convenient Asset Management on the go.
  • Integration with multiple systems and seamless data synchronization, resulting in improved operational efficiency and collaboration.

What users like from Asset Panda

Asset Panda has garnered favorable feedback from customers, as validated by reviews from reputable sources such as Gartner. Let's delve into some of these advantages.

  • Powerful features - The platform encompasses an extensive array of capabilities, including comprehensive reporting and analytics, customizable options, and seamless integrations with other software.
  • User-friendly interface - The tool is known for its intuitive navigation and ease of use.
  • Cost-effectiveness - Users perceive Asset Panda as a valuable investment, offering significant benefits relative to its price point.
  • Excellent customer service - Users commend the proficient and prompt support provided by the tool's knowledgeable professionals.

What users don’t like from Asset Panda

While Asset Panda has numerous strengths and commendable attributes, customers have expressed concerns and criticisms regarding certain facets of the platform. These concerns have been identified through meticulous examination of reputable sources like Gartner. Below are some of the concerns raised.

  • Limited customization options and reporting capabilities - Some users believe that the platform would benefit from additional customization choices and a more user-friendly reporting system.
  • Navigational intricacies - Certain users find the tool bewildering, particularly when attempting to locate specific items.
  • Pricing implications for small enterprises - The cost of Asset Panda may be relatively high, especially for smaller companies operating on tight budgets.
  • Customer support challenges - Users have expressed reservations about delayed response times from customer service and inadequate support.

What’s Asset Panda’s argument over Snow License Manager?

Asset Panda offers a compelling argument against Snow License Manager, highlighting several factors that set it apart. Here are the key points of differentiation.

  1. Comprehensive features and customization - Asset Panda emphasizes its extensive range of powerful features, customizable options, and seamless integrations with other software. This contrasts Snow License Manager, where users have expressed concerns about limited customization options and reporting capabilities.

  2. User-friendly interface - Asset Panda prides itself on its intuitive navigation and user-friendly interface, making it easy for users to adapt and utilize the platform effectively. In contrast, Snow License Manager has received criticism regarding navigational intricacies, with some users finding it confusing, especially when searching for specific items.

  3. Cost-effectiveness - Asset Panda positions itself as a valuable investment, offering significant benefits relative to its price point. On the other hand, Snow License Manager is considered costly, both in terms of initial acquisition and ongoing maintenance expenses, which may pose challenges for smaller enterprises operating on tight budgets.

What is Snow License Manager?

Example of Snow Software's interface.

Snow Software provides Snow License Manager, which is a solution for Software Asset Management (SAM). Its purpose is to assist organizations in effectively managing their software licenses, optimizing software usage, and ensuring compliance with licensing agreements. Snow License Manager offers various features and functionalities that give organizations a complete overview of their software assets and help make well-informed decisions about software procurement, usage, and cost optimization.

Snow Software is a globally recognized vendor that specializes in technology intelligence solutions, specifically in Software Asset Management, IT Service Management, and Enterprise Mobility Management. Headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden, Snow Software has established a strong global presence with offices in the United States, Europe, and Asia. Since its establishment in 1997, the company has been a leader in providing organizations with a comprehensive range of products and services to optimize technology investments and maximize value.

In addition to Snow License Manager, the company offers other products such as Snow Device Manager, Snow Inventory, and Snow Automation Platform as part of its product portfolio.

What users like from Snow License Manager

Customers have praised Snow License Manager, which can be seen through reviews from reputable sources such as Gartner. Now, let's delve into a few of those advantages.

  • Performance - Snow License Manager excels in consolidating information and adopts an audit-ready approach, enabling organizations to maintain a detailed inventory of their software assets efficiently.
  • User interface - The platform features an intuitive and user-friendly interface designed to facilitate ease of use. It offers a visually pleasing display throughout all processes, enabling users to navigate and interact with the software efficiently.
  • Integration - The software seamlessly integrates with SAP environments, streamlining workflows and ensuring compatibility. Its lightweight agents contribute to efficient operation.
  • Licensing - Snow License Manager simplifies the tracking and management of software licenses and compliance issues. It provides intuitive tools for effective license management, supporting organizations in maintaining compliance with licensing agreements.
  • Reporting - The tool offers a diverse range of pre-built reports that offer valuable insights into software usage and hardware information collected by agents. Users also have the flexibility to create custom reports tailored to their specific requirements.
  • Software Recognition Service (SRS) - The software provides a comprehensive and meticulous SRS. Regular updates ensure accurate identification of software assets, while the stable agents employed deliver reliable results.
  • Support - Users have reported excellent communication with the support team, ensuring effective resolution of their concerns. The availability to join the beta program allows users to access new features and contribute feedback. Additionally, the inclusion of a dedicated customer success manager contributes to successful outcomes.
  • Cost - The tool offers valuable insights into installations and compliance, resulting in cost savings during audits by ensuring license compliance.
  • Maintenance - The software undergoes constant updates, ensuring it remains up-to-date with the latest features and security enhancements. Its established track record as a mature product further reinforces its reliability.

What users don’t like from Snow License Manager

While Snow License Manager has many strengths and positive attributes, it is not immune to customer concerns and criticisms. Reviews from reputable sources such as Gartner have highlighted some common issues raised by users.

  • Performance - The performance of Snow License Manager can be affected by large volumes of data. Organizations with extensive software inventories or complex IT environments may experience issues such as slower response times or delays in generating reports. Users have also reported encountering bugs or limitations within the software, restricting certain functionalities and impeding optimal software utilization.
  • User interface - Configuring Snow License Manager can be a challenging task that lacks simplicity. Users often encounter difficulties while customizing the interface to meet their specific needs, leading to a suboptimal user experience.
  • Integration - Users have encountered challenges during the integration and implementation process of the software. Integrating Snow License Manager with existing systems and configuring the required agents for seamless operation can be complex and not user-friendly. Successful integration often requires additional effort and expertise.
  • Licensing - Users have expressed concerns about the absence of notifications when synchronization fails during the licensing process. This lack of immediate alerts or notifications can potentially lead to compliance issues if there are synchronization problems between Snow License Manager and software license databases. Additionally, providing a comprehensive software license position can be a time-consuming task, involving manual effort to gather and consolidate accurate license information.
  • Reporting - While Snow License Manager offers a variety of useful standard reports, some users have suggested that the reporting functionality could be further enhanced. Generating specific or customized reports can be time-consuming and require additional effort. Users have found limitations when creating complex or tailored reports.
  • Software Recognition Service issues - Snow License Manager may face issues when identifying certain software assets accurately. This can result in incomplete or inaccurate reporting of the software inventory. Additionally, challenges related to cross-platform rights can restrict the recognition and management of software assets across different platforms or operating systems.
  • Support - Users have reported delays in issue resolution due to the slow response time from the support team. Moreover, the support team sometimes lacks the necessary problem-solving skills, resulting in prolonged troubleshooting processes. Users have expressed dissatisfaction with the inconsistent quality of support received, as it can vary from case to case.
  • Cost - Snow License Manager is considered costly, both in terms of initial acquisition and ongoing maintenance expenses. Furthermore, organizations may incur extra costs for technical support services, further contributing to the overall financial burden.
  • Maintenance - Snow License Manager involves significant maintenance costs that organizations need to consider when budgeting for the software. Users have reported issues and disruptions in the system's functionality during product upgrades, requiring additional resources and careful planning to minimize any adverse effects on operations.

What’s Snow License Manager’s argument over Asset Panda?

Snow License Manager presents its argument against Asset Panda, highlighting distinctive advantages that differentiate it from its competitor. Here are the key points of emphasis.

  1. Integration capabilities - Snow License Manager seamlessly integrates with SAP environments, streamlining workflows and ensuring compatibility. Its lightweight agents contribute to efficient operation, making it a preferred choice for organizations working with SAP systems. 

  2. Robust reporting and software recognition - Snow License Manager provides a diverse range of pre-built reports that offer valuable insights into software usage and hardware information. Users also have the flexibility to create custom reports tailored to their specific requirements. The SRS ensures accurate identification of software assets, while the stable agents employed deliver reliable results. According to some users, Asset Panda may face challenges regarding reporting functionality and accurate software recognition.

  3. Licensing compliance and cost savings - Snow License Manager simplifies the tracking and management of software licenses, ensuring compliance with licensing agreements. Offering valuable insights into installations and compliance helps organizations save costs during audits. 

Considering InvGate Asset Management as an ITAM solution alternative

 

 

InvGate Asset Management is a comprehensive IT Asset Management solution that offers a wide range of features and functionalities to streamline processes. Here are the key features it provides.

Enhanced IT Asset and Inventory Management

InvGate Asset Management's multiple methods to populate an IT asset inventory.

InvGate Asset Management seamlessly integrates data from various sources, such as operating systems, cloud service providers, and Mobile Device Managers (MDMs). This integration consolidates information, making managing IT and non-IT assets, locations, and personnel easier. It saves time and provides a comprehensive view of your infrastructure.

Improved cybersecurity compliance with asset monitoring

health-rules-invgate-insight

InvGate Asset Management's asset monitoring capabilities enable you to establish and enforce device health rules, ensuring proactive cybersecurity compliance. By quickly identifying instances of non-compliance, you can take immediate action to adhere to cybersecurity policies and protect your IT infrastructure.

Optimization of software efficiency and cost reduction

software-deployment-on-invgate-insight-new-plan

InvGate Asset Management allows you to identify and measure the usage of paid software, enabling efficient software management. By gaining visibility into software utilization, you can reallocate underutilized licenses, reduce unnecessary costs, and maximize returns on your IT investments. This optimization of software efficiency helps you make the most of your software resources.

A holistic view of IT operations through native service desk integration

InvGate Asset Management seamlessly integrates with InvGate Service Management, creating a native integration that links tickets with devices and people. This integration offers a 360° view of your IT operations, facilitating more efficient management. Connecting service tickets to relevant assets and personnel streamlines workflows, improves communication, and enhances issue resolution.

Proactive cost management

contract-lifecycle-management-with-invgate-insight-select-licensees

InvGate Asset Management allows you to integrate financial data, contracts, licenses, and other crucial information directly into the system. This integration provides a complete understanding of operational costs, empowering proactive and informed financial decision-making.

Efficient management through automation and alerts

InvGate Asset Management enables you to automate processes and set up alerts, ensuring proactive IT management. By creating automated alerts, you can monitor contract expirations and promptly notify relevant parties, reducing manual effort and minimizing the risk of oversight. This automation streamlines operations and enables you to focus on critical tasks, enhancing overall efficiency.

Streamlined operations with CMDB Map Builder

create-a-cmdb-with-invgate-insight

InvGate Asset Management's CMDB map builder tool offers a clear and comprehensive overview of your IT ecosystem. By visualizing the relationships between different components, you can identify potential impacts on operational continuity and proactively mitigate risks. This visibility helps reduce service times, improve operational efficiency, and ensure smoother IT operations.

Flexible deployment options

InvGate Asset Management recognizes that organizations have unique requirements and industry regulations. Therefore, it offers flexible deployment options, allowing you to choose between a cloud-based or on-premise solution. This flexibility ensures that you can implement InvGate Asset Management in a manner that aligns with your specific needs and compliance standards.

Effortless remote management with native integration

InvGate Asset Management natively integrates with popular remote desktop tools, enhancing remote management capabilities. This integration provides direct access to devices for troubleshooting and maintenance, enabling efficient resolution of IT issues and uninterrupted operations.

Detailed insights into IT infrastructure

interfaces-invgate-insight

InvGate Asset Management provides detailed and actionable information about your IT assets, including their status and usage. These comprehensive insights enable effective management and optimization of your infrastructure, improving operational efficiency.

Next steps

Choosing the right IT Asset Management solution is crucial for optimizing IT service delivery and ensuring long-term success in your organization. Investing sufficient time and effort in evaluating your options is vital to find a solution that aligns seamlessly with your requirements. In addition to comparing Asset Panda vs. Snow License Manager, it is worthwhile to consider other alternatives, such as InvGate Asset Management.

Take a closer look at our live demo and experience how InvGate Asset Management can transform your business operations. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to schedule a meeting with our experts.