The demand for SLM solutions is primarily driven by the continual rise of Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) products and the proliferation of embedded software-powered intelligent devices. Businesses are recognizing the need for effective entitlement management and license enforcement to ensure users have access to necessary software tools, especially in a hybrid work environment. The global SLM market is projected to grow from $415 million in 2021 to $846.1 million by 2028, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.7%.

Entitlement management provides software vendors with a centralized system that acts as a single source of truth for all customer transactions, including purchases, upgrades, and renewals. This system enhances user flexibility by allowing customers to choose their entitlements and deployment options. Additionally, it facilitates partner management by extending capabilities to reseller networks, and it automates back-office processes, which is crucial for businesses with recurring revenue models.

Businesses often face several challenges when adopting SLM solutions, including the continued reliance on in-house solutions, which can hinder market growth. There is also a lack of awareness regarding the value proposition of SLM among many SaaS vendors, leading to slower uptake. Additionally, upfront integration costs and concerns about transitioning from on-premises to cloud-based products can deter companies from investing in new systems, as they may fear that the resources spent will not yield significant returns.