Media asset management systems allow for the effective storage and retrieval of large groups of "assets" such as images, video files, animations, music, and sound files. Mams can be incorporated into existing workflow programs to help cut costs and increase efficiency. A company wide MAM system allows different departments to share assets. Without a MAM system, a department may purchase an image from an outside source unaware that another department may already have the image on file. A MAM system permits all departments to pull the required assets from one source. Less time is spent in locating files, transferring files, reorganizing files, and tracking multiple version files.

Media asset management systems can assist with print-on-demand and one-to-one marketing. The level of organization required for one-to-one marketing is such that MAMs can be used to help organized customized print applications in less time. For example, a brochure can be printed for one person containing information and graphics important to that person. The individual assets can be organized on the fly and pulled together instantly in order to print the brochure.

Some of the points that should be considered when selecting a MAM system that is best suited for your organization are:

• The frequency in which assets are reused
  
  
• The number of gigabytes that are processed daily
  
  
• The limit on the number of assets that can be used
  
  
• The projected growth of the asset library which may determine the type of system that is required
  
  
• The number of people that are involved with different projects and their locations
  
  
• The degree in which the system must be integrated with the workflow
  
  
• The degree in which the system must be customized in order to meet your requirements
  
  
• The type of training that is offered and the available technical support