Broadcom has initiated audits on VMware license holders, raising concerns among IT and finance professionals about potential financial ramifications for companies already operating with limited budgets. Employees fear the audits could strain salary negotiations and even lead to layoffs, particularly as uncertainty looms over license compliance. Some organizations report receiving audit notifications without any recent VMware usage or updates, suggesting a broader issue with Broadcom's auditing practices. The situation highlights the challenges and anxieties that healthcare IT departments may face regarding software compliance, particularly in a tightened economic landscape.