Not exactly sure what you mean by recognizing installed applications, but I think what you may be getting at is only showing Self Service items on Macs that actually need said app or update. Is that what you mean? If so, use Smart Groups for this to gather Macs together that still need Firefox 16.0.2 or the latest Flash Player update or whatever it is, then scope that group to the policy.
If you have your SS policies run Recon at the end of the install, it will ensure each time the available policies gets refreshed it will only show what that Mac actually needs.

Does that make sense? If not, post back and will see if I can clarify further.

mm2270--

You hit the nail right on the head. I apologize for the confusing worded question. You definitely were able to get what I was asking though We are still somewhat new with scoping so this was something I just hadn't even thought of. Thank you very much for the help and for saving me a LOT of administrative overhead had I waited until our project grew further!

Not a problem and glad I could help. Once you begin to build up Smart Group and use those for software deployment, your life will be a lot easier. Basically, since your JSS knows more about your Macs than you do, you let the server determine which Macs need something, rather than you trying to track them down. :)