A regular investigation of the SOftware installed on all computers in an organisation to ensure that it is authorised or licensed. SOftware audits minimise the risk of prosecution for {SOftware theft}, minimise the risk of {viruses} through uncontrolled SOftware copying, and ensure technical support is available to all users. The Business SOftware Alliance {Guide To SOftware Management (http://www.bsa.org/bsa)}. (1996-05-19)