Managing what is present.
WHERE SOFTWARE SHOULD COME FROM
The vendor An official distribution channel An organisation's approved repository
WHAT TO VERIFY
That the source is genuine That the version suits the system That a licence exists
WHAT AN INSTALLATION DOES
Copies files Registers components with the system Creates configuration Frequently adds services and startup entries
WHY REMOVAL IS FREQUENTLY INCOMPLETE
Configuration, registry entries and data are often left behind.
WHAT THAT CAUSES
Accumulated clutter, and occasionally conflicts on reinstallation.
WHAT TO DO BEFORE INSTALLING IN A MANAGED ENVIRONMENT
Follow the approval process.
WHY
Unapproved software creates security, licensing and support problems.
WHAT TO WATCH DURING INSTALLATION
Bundled additional software Changes to default programs Browser extensions added
WHAT TO DECLINE
All of those, unless wanted.
WHAT TO RECORD
What was installed, where and when.
WHAT TO REVIEW
Installed software, periodically, removing what is unused.
