True-up & Microsoft review
Instead of panic spreadsheets: one consistent ELP view from Microsoft sources plus documented assumptions.
Problem
True-up and Microsoft reviews hit organisations unprepared: portal, procurement and IT numbers disagree; add-ons and NCE commitments stack. Under-licensing is compliance risk; over-licensing is financial drag. Audit demands data lineage—screenshots are not enough.
Approach with CHAOS
CHAOS consolidates assignments, usage and contract logic (where expressible in rules) into an explainable ELP view. Scenarios show levers before deadlines; evidence packs structure answers to reviewer questions. Rule tests ensure corrective proposals do not go live silently.
Outcome from CHAOS
Fewer surprises in the true-up call, a stronger negotiation position and clearer internal ownership. Rework after Microsoft questions drops measurably.
Insight
True-up defence is a rules programme, not a spreadsheet programme. Clean rules and history pay back every subsequent year.