Summary
Technology Expense Management (TEM) platforms help businesses tackle challenges related to the growing complexity of the Digital Workplace. Professional TEM services go even further by handling tedious tasks such as cost allocation, catalog management, report control, and the import and quality of data. This enables businesses to focus on their core activities.
Benefits of professional TEM services:
- A TEM platform with optimal performance
- Savings of 10–30% through better contract management and reduced unnecessary spending
- Project management to support digital transitions and ensure quality results
- Well-structured RFPs to compare solutions and choose the best provider
- Device management and security tools to protect sensitive data
Adopt professional TEM services to simplify Digital Workplace management, control costs, and secure IT assets while optimizing resources.
Challenges of Technology Expense Management (TEM) Software
TEM platforms face several major challenges. The Digital Workplace is becoming increasingly complex due to its constant evolution. Providers must quickly adapt and integrate new solutions. This can be costly and challenging, especially for large enterprises, multinational companies, or multi-site businesses.
Cost management remains a significant challenge. Companies must regularly audit invoices, contracts, and subscriptions. These efforts help eliminate redundancies, avoid unnecessary expenses, and optimize budgets.
Data security is also a priority for businesses. As cyber threats grow, TEM services must protect sensitive information and rigorously manage access and permissions.
Professional TEM Services Are in Growing Demand
The market for professional services in the Technology Expense Management sector is experiencing significant growth. In 2023, it was worth approximately $3.5 billion and is projected to reach $5.6 billion by 2028, with an annual growth rate of 9.5%. Around 70% of large companies use TEM solutions to optimize costs. This number continues to rise. Businesses adopting these services save 10–30% by improving contract management, optimizing resources, and reducing costs. These figures highlight the growing importance of TEM solutions for better IT expense management and focusing on core activities.
How Can Professional TEM Services Address These Challenges?
In the TEM field, professional services ensure the operational maintenance (MCO) of TEM platforms. TEM providers offering professional services operate the software on behalf of the user. They perform the following tasks:
Cost allocation verification
TEM software providers ensure that all lines are correctly allocated to their respective cost centers. They also update organizational structures.
Verification of invoice data completeness
TEM providers collect invoices from operators and suppliers, verifying their completeness and integrity. After the check, they issue reports on missing and newly received invoices.
Order process management
TEM providers customize and update order settings and user rights as needed and on demand.
Catalog management
TEM providers update catalogs (IT equipment, subscriptions, options, prices, etc.) and user profiles upon request.
Report distribution
Quarterly, TEM providers send a document containing:
- The number of lines managed in the tool
- Platform availability rates and connection numbers
- Spending trends
- Unused lines, etc.
Control of automatic report distribution
Monthly, TEM providers verify the integrity of reports, ensure proper distribution, and update the recipient list.
Access management
TEM providers create or modify logins as requested.
Assistance with import matrices
Upon request, TEM providers verify import files and resolve any issues.
Without professional TEM services, businesses would need to handle these tasks themselves.
Benefits of Professional TEM Services
Professional TEM services allow clients to focus on their core business activities. By conditionally updating TEM software, companies benefit from optimized platform operations without worrying about updates or managing data repositories. The MCO of the TEM platform, along with assistance from industry specialists, ensures clean and usable data.
Other Types of Professional Services
Project management
Project management in TEM supports businesses in their digital transitions and the execution of complex projects. Experts design plans aligned with company objectives, optimize resource allocation, and ensure smooth coordination between all stakeholders. During each project stage, professionals manage security risks, as migrations to new technologies are moments when company data is particularly vulnerable to cyber threats. Project specialists perform regular updates and draft transparent reports to ensure clear communication.
Benefits:
Project management optimizes resource use, controls costs, and ensures deadlines are met. By anticipating risks and fostering smooth communication among stakeholders, it delivers quality results while adapting to unforeseen events. This structured approach enhances efficiency, stakeholder satisfaction, and project success.
Request for Proposal (RFP) Publications for Professional Service Providers
An RFP (Request for Proposal) is a formal document used to solicit proposals from TEM software providers offering professional services. It includes details such as:
- Project scope
- Required deliverables
- Deadlines
- Budget constraints
Publishing an RFP allows businesses to collaborate with multiple potential TEM providers, compare solutions, and choose the one best suited to their specific needs.
Benefits:
Publishing an RFP offers several major advantages:
- Ensures a competitive purchasing process, enabling organizations to receive multiple proposals and find the most suitable tool. This competitive approach often leads to better pricing and more innovative solutions.
- Standardizes the purchasing process by providing a clear framework for suppliers, simplifying evaluation and selection.
- Reduces the risk of project failure. According to a study by Aberdeen Group, companies using formal RFP processes see a 20% improvement in project success rates.
Cybersecurity solutions
Businesses are increasingly aware of cyber threats and actively integrate security software into their IT infrastructures. There are many cybersecurity solutions on the market, from simple antivirus programs to comprehensive platforms addressing all IT asset vulnerabilities. The latter option is increasingly popular. For example, the global Mobile Device Management (MDM) market—providing advanced security measures for mobile devices—was valued at $12.15 billion in 2024. In a sector where professionals often work remotely and handle sensitive client information, MDM provides essential tools for enforcing security policies, such as encryption and access controls, protecting against data breaches and unauthorized access. However, MDM is limited to managing and securing mobile devices. This is why many companies turn to more comprehensive solutions, such as Unified Endpoint Management (UEM). From a security perspective, UEM allows IT teams to enforce security policies, deploy patches and updates, and manage device configurations to ensure compliance. UEM also supports threat detection and response, identifying and mitigating risks. Furthermore, UEM can remotely wipe or lock devices that are lost, stolen, or at the end of their lifecycle to protect sensitive data.
Benefits:
Companies that have integrated UEM and MDM platforms into their systems have seen:
- A 30% reduction in IT equipment security breaches
- A 25% increase in compliance rates
- A 20% productivity boost due to simplified device management and task automation
- Up to a 50% reduction in IT equipment management costs
- A 40% improvement in IT asset management efficiency through centralized control
Conclusion
Professional Technology Expense Management services help businesses simplify the management of their Digital Workplace. This enables them to focus on priorities while optimizing TEM tools.
In the future, these services will integrate more advanced technologies such as AI and predictive analytics. These newer technologies can enhance the speed and performance of TEM solutions in identifying cost-saving opportunities.
Cybersecurity will remain a critical issue, with even more advanced device management and security tools entering the market. The demand for tailored services will continue to grow. By adapting to new needs, TEM services will help businesses succeed in their digital transformation and remain competitive.
SOURCES:
- The Business Research Company
- European Investment Bank
- Statista
- Global Market Insights
- Aberdeen Group
- Springer Link
- McKinsey
- AIMultiple
- Thirdera