Abstract: Today's usage of Decision Support Systems (DSS), combined with vetted SCM knowledge bases, allows organizations to save time and money, achieving better and more reliable/fully-documented decisions, a quantum improvement over the widely-used subjective process of selecting complex enterprise software...

Abstract: Computerized maintenance management system (CMMS). Enterprise asset management (EAM) system. Computer-aided facilities management (CAFM) system. Integrated workplace management system (IWMS). Each type of facility management solution offers different functionalities and features, and one may be better than another for your company’s needs. Learn more about the differences and how an integrated solution is a “must have.”

Abstract: Supply chain management (SCM), a critical part of your enterprise resource planning (ERP) system, means more than getting the right resources to the right place at the right time. It also means optimally tuning the sequence of events involved in producing goods and distributing them to customers. And if your chief financial officer (CFO) isn’t actively involved in analyzing your ERP/SCM system, it’s about time to start.

Abstract: Customizing third-party “vendor” source code is becoming increasingly common. But managing the incorporation of vendor application releases alongside customizations requires an additional layer of software configuration management (SCM) to integrate subsequent vendor releases. Traditional branch-based SCM tools require an unnecessarily complex branch-and-merge process. However, there is a more intuitive and efficient parallel development model for managing customizations to vendor code.

Abstract: Most software configuration management (SCM) systems rely on metadata annotations to support basic system operations, such as computing the contents of software configurations. With AccuRev, configurations are first-class objects called 'streams,' whose contents aren't defined in terms of metadata annotations at all. AccuRev relies on the chronology of SCM operations, enabling users to leverage the incremental nature of the process.

Abstract: This article summarizes the findings from a study of why customers failed to attain the full value potential of their SCM projects. Most SCM projects continue to focus much of their energy on technology implementations and simply pay lip service to end-user training and executive alignment. Learn the pitfalls causing SCM project failures and how to avoid them.

Abstract: SCM vendors are adding best of breed solutions to ERP product suites and are aggressively marketing this new functionality. The SCM market has been growing so strongly that where SCM was once viewed as a means to gain competitive advantage, companies now see it as a necessary extension of an ERP system, especially Inventory Management and Optimization solutions.

Abstract: The core components of a retail information system are inventory management, inventory optimization, revenue management, sales management, and reports and inquiries. Non-core components can include financial, supply chain management, enterprise resource planning, customer relationship management, and warehouse management systems.

Abstract: Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems are software systems that cover the range of interaction a company has with its current, or potential customers. Its functionality can include marketing automation, sales force automation, help desk, customer service and support, partner management, contract management and creation, project and team management, Internet sales, e-mail response management, analytics, and important technical criteria.

Abstract: While the recent initiatives by Microsoft Business Solutions to piecemeal bolster its product lines' SCM capabilities should benefit users, a lot more cohesive SCM strategy is needed for Microsoft to truly permeate the SCM mid-market.

Abstract: Effective IP management requires proper allocation of address space for adequate address capacity as needed, as well as accurate configuration of DHCP and DNS servers. Along with flawless configuration and management of each of these foundational elements of Internet protocol (IP) address management, address managers must also integrate these management functions into the broader IT network management environment.

Abstract: Since our research-driven beginnings, Johnson & Johnson Advanced Sterilization Products (ASP) has continually improved the new product development (NPD) process. Detailed process mapping has revealed three tiers of business metrics, starting with drivers and moving up through execution metrics to business performance metrics. When driver metrics improves, so does business performance. Six Sigma tools helps identify specific metrics at all tiers and the causality linkages among them. Each NPD process step at ASP results in a deliverable, and each deliverable relates to a trade-off triangle (cost-time-resources) and, ultimately, to investment dollars. To track performance, ASP calculates how actual NPD decisions and what-if scenarios affect deliverables, alter investment triangles, and thereby influence business results. ASP uses similar process and tools, including the investment triangles and Six Sigma QFD, to make idea management decisions. The IDweb real-time software environment enables both the NPD and idea management processes at ASP. By deploying the strategic planning, idea management, portfolio and pipeline management, process management, and resource management modules of IDweb, ASP has increased throughput by 20 percent and reduced cycle time by 40 percent.

Abstract: In this article, we examine capabilities of five top Supply Chain Management software vendors in several key areas of functionality: material procurement planning, manufacturing planning and scheduling, distribution and transportation management, and inventory management and warehousing.

Abstract: The 2006 PMI Research Conference was an excellent venue for gauging the direction in which project management research is heading. The presentations of the areas of portfolio management and program management confirm the rising demand for project portfolio management solutions.

Abstract: As enterprises seek better content management systems, documentation management (DM) and digital asset management (DAM) are growing in popularity. Despite market confusion, the two solutions serve different functions, but can still be integrated to meet an enterprise's needs.

Abstract: This note is intended to provoke thought regarding some of the dramatic incidents that occurred in the field of asset management in 2003, as well as address some of their more immediate consequences and ramifications of changing societal attitudes regarding the failure of physical assets. In particular it examines the impact of these events on issues such as the selection and implementation of enterprise management software, the use of call centers and the outsourcing of asset management functions. There is also an overview of the evolution of asset management throughout the world that has brought us to this point.

Abstract: The recently standardized NETCONF configuration management protocol, with the NETCONF-oriented data modeling language called YANG, can simplify network configuration management. Learn how the two technologies work, and how they can be used to support transactional capabilities and rollback management—so next-generation configuration management systems are simpler and more understandable than current systems.

Abstract: Role management is becoming recognized as an essential aspect of an organization's identity management and security. But role management goes well beyond simply assigning passwords or user IDs. You must also manage and govern the roles related to the core business activities of your organization. Start by looking at key considerations for choosing a role management solution, and benefit from suggested best practices.

Abstract: As the growth of electronic records continues, two major trends in the world of document and content management have now become intertwined. In view of these trends, companies are beginning to assess their current record management practices, and what has resulted is the clear need for electronic records management (ERM). Discover how ERM can provide a cost-effective solution for your growing business.