BMC Software, Inc. (NYSE: BMC) sells software that helps IT departments run more efficiently by automating database and systems management tasks. These software products proactively monitor the performance and stability of computer systems and other networked devices. They also cut down on repetitive, manual tasks such as applying updates. The company makes most of its money by charging license and maintenance fees for its software products. BSM also offers consulting services to help clients implement these products.^[1]

Once focused exclusively on mainframe systems, BMC entered the distributed systems management market in the 1990s with the introduction of its Business Service Management Strategy (BSM). Distributed systems take advantage of the growth of the internet and networking by connecting a number of computers together to perform the same task. BSM approaches IT management from a business standpoint by finding the most cost-effective method of running an IT department; as many tasks as possible are automated to decrease the cost of hiring operators. BMC software not only monitors IT systems to decrease downtime but also uses predictive intelligence to help clients decide which systems are redundant or need upgrading. The shift towards BSM, combined with cost cutting measures, has more than doubled the company's operating margins. ^[2]

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