Abstract: An earlier article, Audit Considerations for Enterprise Software Implementations, included a brief discussion of the use of computer-based tool sets and repositories to facilitate compliance with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX). Here we examine this issue in more detail. Of particular interest are the key characteristics that you should look for when selecting such tool sets. Read on to see how these tool sets can assist your company in meeting the new audit challenges facing corporate America.

Abstract: The quantity of business information is doubling at an alarming rate. How can a proactive manager keep on top of it? A tool that merges and unifies information from a variety of sources and formats can help. That tool should also analyze data and identify inputs as indicators of future actions or outcomes, so problems can be solved before they happen. The bottom line: better data analysis means better decision making.

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: 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: 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: A plethora of software estimation tools are available, each claimed to be better than the others, thereby confusing prospective buyers. An effective tool ought to provide for all four aspects of software estimation, namely, size, effort, cost, and schedule.

Abstract: Bristol Technology, Inc. has announced shipment of its Windows-to-Linux application-migration tool. Bristol's Wind/U for Linux product, which began shipping Tuesday, enables developers to compile Microsoft Win32 API and Microsoft Foundation Class source code directly on Linux, and create native, desktop and server-based Linux applications, according to Bristol.

Abstract: As manufacturing becomes a global process, advances in demand management software have given rise to attribute-based demand management software. In the process manufacturing environment, this software can help manufacturers deal with complex manufacturing processes and increase overall customer satisfaction.

Abstract: The merger of traditional brick-and-mortar manufacturer Illinois Tool Works with Internet-based Click Commerce is puzzling, but has some method to the madness. Only time will tell how easily and tightly their tools will

Abstract: Of all the points that you should focus on when planning ISO 9001 standards projects, corrective action and root cause analysis should rise to the top of your priorities list. Learn how to improve your approach to ISO 9001, how to implement a system that can help you ensure that your approach is feasible and effective, and about the one tool that you need help ensure your company becomes ISO 9001 2000 certified.

Abstract: Structured planning can make all the difference to your business’s growth. But are you using the right tools? Spreadsheets may not be meeting your financial management and budget planning needs. Find out the risks of using spreadsheets as a planning tool, and how enterprise performance management can help consolidate your departments’ financial information and budgets to give you real-time views of business performance.

Abstract: While it’s great to find ways to keep up with mountains of e-mail, organizations must remember that e-mail is not a lightweight communication tool anymore. For people and organizations swamped by critical information, throwing messages away is just not an answer. Increasingly, knowledge workers are turning to searching to manage the volume and value of information sitting in their in-boxes.

Abstract: For a full picture of the business environment and make the best decisions, middle managers must have access to business intelligence (BI). You can’t focus on only the functional level—you must see the relationships among various business components. And you can—with a BI tool that’s easily accessible no matter where you reside in the enterprise, and that’s flexible enough to meet each department’s reporting needs.

Abstract: Milwaukee Electric Tool, in business for 85 years, was using an electronic data interchange (EDI) solution that had been outsourced at very high cost. When the company chose a new EDI solution, the focus of the conversion was on reducing costs while improving accuracy and increasing trading partner adoption. Learn more about how the company put EDI order processing back in-house and reduced cost per order by 86 percent.

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: This guide to supply chain management (SCM) functions/features will help you determine which SCM features are a high priority for your organization. Learn about SCM functions and features for WMS, TMS, international trade logistics (ITL), supplier relationship management (SRM), demand management, supply chain analytics, order management, service parts planning, and more.