Abstract: On January 5, 2009, the American Design Communities presented a document to the US Congress called “Redesigning America’s Future: 10 Design Policy Proposals for the United States of America’s Economic Competitiveness & Democratic Governance.” Indeed, design is gaining importance in every area. This discussion with technologist Elif Tutuk explores how design thinking could be applied to business intelligence (BI).

Abstract: When the product alone was the primary basis of competition, the life of a design engineer was a lot simpler. No more. Design engineers are being asked to make an increasingly complex set of trade-offs, requiring a very cross-functional and inter-enterprise approach to the design process.

Abstract: Electro-mechanical design continues to gain importance, as the majority of today’s products have both electrical and mechanical components and systems. Designing and stimulating these products collaboratively across both domains is essential to producing high quality products. Learn how implementing an electro-computer-aided design (ECAD) and mechanical computer-aided design (MCAD) strategy—now—can help you later.

Abstract: Design globalization—and the access it provides to new markets, talents, and resources around the world—offers many opportunities to manufacturers today. Tapping into this growing network of suppliers and partners does bring risks and challenges. You can achieve best-in-class performance in a global design environment and achieve greater profitability. Find out the product design strategies of best-in-class manufacturers.

Abstract: A manufacturer of multiple electronic goods needed to maximize its available storage. A logistics modeling and design tool can help the company benefit from pull replenishment and focused storage approaches to logistics by enabling users to evaluate different storage options. Find out how the solution can support transition during initial design, including re-engineering of existing process, for continued results.

Abstract: The key to plant efficiency and profitability is open communication between those who design industrial facilities and those who operate and maintain them. Communication between these entities has been lacking, however. Companies that use design, operate, and maintain (DOM) concepts can facilitate and standardize their proactive approaches to this open communication—whether collaboration takes place internally, or with outside designers.

Abstract: Dashboards are a popular means to deliver important information at a glance, but their potential is rarely realized. The best software in the world will not produce a useful dashboard without effective visual design. To better understand the concept of business intelligence dashboards in the first place, it is thus vital to understand the common pitfalls of dashboard design.

Abstract: Historically, companies have invested in tactical and operational supply chain technology solutions. These solutions helped model and operate existing supply chains, without addressing overall supply chain design and strategy. Companies are increasingly turning to strategic solutions such as supply chain design and optimization (SCDO) to help satisfy customer demand while balancing limitations on supply and the need for operational efficiency.

Abstract: In our new “wired” world, software is no less important than other products and services in our everyday lives. But people are generally more used to buying other products and services than software. In many ways, however, selecting software is similar to selecting other products and services. Find out the key factors and criteria you should include—and what you should leave out—when you’re in the market for a new software solution.

Abstract: Predictions of the death of software are overstated. In reality, businesses are becoming more reliant on technology, not less. What’s changing, however, is the number of options available for managing, delivering, and paying for software applications. Many independent software vendors recognize the benefits of offering software as a service--a delivery alternative that can present long-term benefits for all parties.

Abstract: After dealing with the over-hype of Y2K, companies have started to reconsider the best of breed as a viable solution to satisfy their software needs. This comes as a shock to the corporate systems culture when user communities were told that fully integrated software such as ERP, SCM, and EAM were the only way to meet their software needs. After developing a level playing field, this article examines the pro’s and con’s of one alternative over the other. Read on to see if you agree with the merits of the best of breed or fully integrated software approach to software selection.

Abstract: The Delphi technique—drawing wise counsel from senior and experienced software developers—can help you prepare estimates for software development projects. With this method of software estimation, project specifications are given to a few experts, depending on their availability. Learn about the essential steps involved in this software estimation methodology for more accurate estimates of software development effort.

Abstract: Software developers need a powerful tool to control and plan the quality of their software applications. With a solution that offers project analysis, testing, and bug administration, you have options that can help increase the quality of your software products. Read about a software test tool that has administrative functions to help you more effectively plan, control, and evaluate your software as it’s developed.

Abstract: Now that you have planned and assessed your new system, it’s time to explore the next phase of the integration process: design and pre-deployment testing. Part 4 of this 4-part e-book series provides a basis for the exploration of network design. In addition, it includes a report card that will help you select the appropriate design and validation software tools for your Internet protocol telephony (IPT) system.

Abstract: The requirement that enterprise software vendors deliver a measurable return on investment (ROI) has never been greater than right now. Customers are demanding that ROI analysis be a critical factor in their decisions to acquire new enterprise software. Without a demonstrable return, few customers are willing to invest scarce capital and human resources in new enterprirse software. A more complete analysis of return can be had by looking at the overall payback that enterprise software can offer to a company. Enterprise software payback includes not only quantifiable improvements in bottom and top line functionality, but also more qualitative measures-—such as new business opportunities, improved customer and partner relations, and improved time to market—-that contribute significantly to the success of a company's enterprise software implementation and use.

Abstract: Founded in 1916, Oldfields is an Australian manufacturer of painting equipment, scaffolding, and garden sheds. To meet aggressive customer responsiveness targets, the company depends on up-to-date information and reliable communications. Learn how implementing PRONTO-Xi on a wide area network (WAN) helped Oldfields get quick access to data required for decision making, controlling costs, and improving customer service.

Abstract: DNA Group, Inc. is the North American distributor for Defond Manufacturing Limited, Inc, a major supplier of switches and electronics to the appliance, marine, transportation, power tools, white goods, lawn & garden, and consumer electronics industries. DNA Group serves the global marketplace by emphasizing responsiveness and the ability to focus on the needs of each individual customer and project.

Abstract: Howard Johnson’s Enterprises, Inc. (HJE) is a provider of lawn and garden fertilizer products whose discrete manufacturing package assumed a discrete process. It took ProcessPro eight months to implement a new enterprise resource planning (ERP) solution that worked to address HJE’s unique needs.