In a recent survey conducted by the ITAM Forum and Azul, it was found that over 80% of IT Asset Management (ITAM) and Software Asset Management (SAM) professionals are moving away from Oracle Java due to increasing costs, audit risks, and frustration with the vendor’s complex licensing structure.
The survey, which analyzed responses from 500 IT professionals responsible for Java usage and compliance, revealed that Oracle’s shift to a new pricing model in January 2023 has caused significant challenges for organizations using Java at scale. The introduction of the Java SE Universal Subscription model, which requires licensing fees for every employee, has led to concerns over compliance and forced many businesses to invest in tracking tools and internal audit processes.
As a result, 79% of businesses surveyed have already transitioned away from Oracle Java or are in the process of doing so, citing cost savings, simpler compliance, and security as primary motivations. The shift towards open-source Java alternatives is seen as a cost-effective solution, with two-thirds of respondents estimating savings of at least 40% by making the switch.
The survey results also reflect broader trends in the ITAM and SAM industries, with the market experiencing steady growth. The increasing costs of software, combined with factors such as software virtualization, cloud adoption, and regulatory scrutiny, are driving the need for effective software compliance management. Martin Thompson, founder of the ITAM Forum, emphasized the importance of SAM and ITAM professionals in navigating complex licensing frameworks to avoid financial penalties and operational disruptions.
