Abstract: Internet entrepreneur David Poole announced the creation of a venture capital fund targeted to XML-based companies.

Abstract: Tracking and reporting stimulus fund spending are difficult tasks for chief information officers (CIOs). The US government’s accountability demands are forcing organizations that are spending American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funds to analyze floods of data. Discover how automated ARRA reporting systems can help you comply with reporting requirements without excessive labor costs or data management headaches.

Abstract: One of the largest expenses for distributors and wholesalers is stock. Many have difficulty finding the perfect balance between ensuring products are available when they’re needed and not holding too much inventory. So, how is it possible to increase profitability while lowering inventory costs? By exploiting an inventory optimization system, businesses increase automation and collaboration—allowing greater profitability.

Abstract: Despite intense price competition for its volume products, the electrical products industry remains healthy and dynamic. World-class companies are succeeding by marketing innovative products, scaling up and outsourcing production, expanding into new geographic areas, implementing more efficient business systems, and focusing on ever-closer relationships with suppliers, partners, and customers. This white paper explores the issues of manufacturers, wholesalers, and distributors and the current state and future of the industry. Industry specific technological are also discussed.

Abstract: The pharmaceutical industry is highly competitive, regulated, and in a permanent state of change. Customers demand instant attention, while suppliers require comprehensive leading edge services with regard to their products. Regulatory authorities require that the industry keep up to date with regulations, following them to the letter. Competitors are always inventing new ways to gain market share, while e-business presents new opportunities and challenges. All the while the pressure to reduce prices and to shorten order cycles is high. Pharmaceutical wholesalers comprise the lifeline within the pharmaceutical industry, providing continuity of supply and facilities for storage. They also offer a range of supporting services, such as information technology systems and product withdrawal notifications, which form an essential part of the total healthcare package. These companies and institutions all operate in an environment where speed and efficiency may mean the difference between life and death. However, the industry has a number of specific requirements that are critical for achieving success in the distribution sector.

Abstract: Arias Motors is the Dominican Republic’s leading distributor of spare parts for auto wholesalers, retailers, and repair shops. It needed a new enterprise resource planning (ERP) system covering all functional areas, from back-end processes to supply chain management. Learn how Arias Motors applied a best-practice approach to software selection, reduced licensing costs by 50 percent, and set a record implementation time.

Abstract: Adonix often comes ahead of larger global players in terms of functional fit, pricing, and understanding of the local requirements in the distribution area. The company still faces challenges presented by limited financial resources to adequately fund multiple key strategic initiatives including brand marketing, undeveloped global channel and brand recognition, and formidable competition within the market of Adonix’ future expansion focus (particularly the North American market).

Abstract: Despite its product's notable functional scope, Centive is committed to being the leader in on demand sales compensation management. The vendor believes it now has sufficient resources to fund research and development, as well as business initiatives.

Abstract: Clarus Corporation, having unloaded all of its back-end software business, is asking the market to fund its new life as an E-procurement vendor.

Abstract: With 10 remote office locations spread across nine states, Amerisure was in need of a communications platform that would enable the company to enhance the distribution of information to employees. Employees located in satellite offices, with no direct access to the home office, can feel disconnected from corporate headquarters’ operations and activities. Amerisure needed to communicate to employees in a timely manner that would allow the flow of accurate, important information, whether that data be employee-specific, such as salary, job, or benefit information, or company news and updates. In addition to a centralized communication platform, the company wanted heightened management of its workforce through the use of business intelligence tools that would allow it to track trends and have improved monitoring capabilities for each location.

Abstract: The Scala and Microsoft alliance in the CRM arena has merits of mutual benefits, particularly in the short to medium term, but due to vacillating motives of the participants that compete in the other enterprise applications fields, will it last? For the time being, Microsoft will likely be content to help Scala attack or keep the satellite divisions of its bigger competitors, particularly those of their common rival - SAP.

Abstract: No matter how unique a project may be, project quality is always the top concern for both the software services providers and the clients—on time and within budget. Indeed, there’s a good chance the customer will be satisfied if these fundamental goals are met. Thus, successful projects are fostered through mutual trust and cooperation between outsourcer and client.

Abstract: In the UK, government IT has a poor track record. Too much money is wasted on complex projects which fail to deliver the anticipated benefits. However, it is possible to deliver IT projects successfully in the public sector if sensible business and technology strategies are combined within strong project management frameworks to promote a spirit of mutual understanding and respect.

Abstract: Celina Insurance Group, a mutual insurance carrier that serves eight states in the midwestern US, wanted to increase competitiveness against larger insurance carriers by integrating independent agents into business processes and providing superior services and support. Find out how a new collaborative extranet helped the company reduce policy turnaround times, improve service to agents and customers, and more.