When creating a pattern normalization rule for custom products, what must be done first?

Creating normalization rules for custom products in Software Asset Management involves a specific prerequisite to ensure accurate data association and functionality. The first step should be to create custom product records before proceeding to create company records.

This is essential because the normalization rules are designed to match custom products with the appropriate company context. The custom product records define the specifics of the products, such as their attributes, types, and licensing details. By establishing these records first, it allows the normalization rules to properly reference and align the custom products with the companies involved. Only after these associations are clear can company records be created in a manner that will not lead to confusion or misalignment in the normalization process.

Establishing the custom products first creates a foundation upon which the company records can be accurately aligned, ensuring that data synchronization and management are effectively achieved in the SAM environment.