Abstract: In a move which will challenge other database vendors to open-source their SQL databases, Inprise/Borland Corporation has announced it is releasing the source code for its InterBase 6 cross-platform SQL database. It will provide the database on multiple platforms, including Linux, Windows NT, and Sun Solaris, make the database available at no charge, and spin the InterBase division off into a separate company.

Abstract: Oracle Database 11g is a database platform for data warehousing and business intelligence (BI) that includes integrated analytics, and embedded integration and data-quality. Get an overview of Oracle Database 11g’s capabilities for data warehousing, and learn how Oracle-based BI and data warehouse systems can integrate information, perform fast queries, scale to very large data volumes, and analyze any data.

Abstract: Oracle’s focus on software application markets is impacting its Database business. Recently SAP AG and Siebel Systems, i2 Technologies, Inc., and PeopleSoft have also chosen IBM’s DB2 Universal Database as their preferred database for developing current and future applications, and as their preferred backend database for customer deployment. In addition, IFS AB, one of the top 10 ERP vendors, which was previously Oracle-centric, has announced an agreement with IBM to add DB2 support.

Abstract: The contact database sits at the heart of any successful customer relationship management (CRM) program. Indeed, most CRM efforts aim at improving revenues based on the contact database. But what about the information that never made it into the database at all? The investment in these leads will often be lost—and the sales may go straight to the competition.

Abstract: Lawson Software, a major privately held provider of enterprise resource planning software, today announced the delivery of its enterprise software applications for IBM's DB2 Universal Database. This availability extends Lawson's support of the IBM DB2 Universal Database to encompass IBM Netfinity, RS/6000 and S/390 servers. Support for IBM DB2 on Hewlett Packard and Sun Microsystems server platforms is scheduled for May 2000.

Abstract: Growing demands on storage management system requirements can run counter to your need to lower costs. With Database 10g, Oracle introduced new features that can simplify database storage management to offer significant savings in both deployment cost and ongoing management overhead. Find out about best practices for deploying Oracle with Pillar’s Axiom storage system, with benefits to performance and management.

Abstract: Most service delivery managers and executives quickly realize that there are a number of 'pain points' involved in trying to manage service delivery efficiently, which can lead to a complete inability to manage business. However, the Service Network Optimization (SNO) model from ServicePower is a set of service offerings and technology designed to help service organizations make the right decisions.

Abstract: This white paper introduces customer self-service and how using Surado Web Self-Service can increase customer satisfaction, reduce costs, and increase return on investments (ROI). The key is to understand your customer, your products and services, and the tools available to deliver service to maximize customer satisfaction and reduce customer service costs. This paper will discuss the various self-service options available, how to utilize best practices, delivery technology and how customer self-service is tied to the 'big picture' of customer relationship management (CRM).

Abstract: During the course of product evaluations for a customer, the Technology Evaluation Center has uncovered a potential security hole in SAP R/3's three-tier architecture. SAP has revealed that they expect the database or third party products to handle security between the application server and the database server. If the client does not take these extra measures, the master password for the SAP database instance travels over the network in the clear, and can be captured. PeopleSoft has the same issue.

Abstract: SAP AG has chosen SQL Server 7.0 as its strategic database for the Windows platform. The companies also will cooperate to make the Windows 2000 OS available as a platform choice for customers wishing to implement mySAP.com solutions. On the heels of the agreement to use IBM DB2 as a preferred backend database, Oracle continues to lose market share as a database in the ERP arena.

Abstract: With the help of On-Line CRM Solutions, a Certified Maximizer Business Partner, GrowthWorks upgraded from Maximizer to Maximizer Enterprise 7 running on a SQL database. This enabled the company to integrate the customer database with the transaction database.

Abstract: IT organizations today are faced with the constant pressure of reducing costs at the service desk, while at the same time ensuring optimal customer service. To accelerate their IT infrastructure library (ITIL) initiatives, many are implementing service resolution management (SRM) systems. With the addition of SRM, these organizations can address the core issues required to operate an efficient and strategic service desk.

Abstract: This article describes the unique challenges of the service supply chain, provides a framework for understanding the service management decision hierarchy, and highlights the dramatic value proposition available to companies that deploy advanced service strategies and decision-support tools to address these challenges. Brief case studies from leading service organizations Cisco and KLA-Tencor show examples of successful deployments of service supply chain strategies.

Abstract: Written for the IT outsourcing community, this document describes an approach for measuring the business value of IT in order to focus service provision activities on areas that are of priority to the client. It introduces a quality improvement process that can decrease the cost of service provisioning without impairing service quality. The intended audience includes those responsible for designing a solution, managers of an existing service, and people bidding for new business looking to differentiate their services. By measuring and reporting on the business value of an IT service, outsourcers' clients see the contribution being made to the success of their clients' business ventures. As a result, the outsourcers' relationships will transition from supplier to partner, they become better placed to exploit new business opportunities, and save money by focusing efforts on areas that are important to their clients.

Abstract: Networked printers and multifunction peripherals often require a high level of support and manual intervention. Secure remote monitoring platforms reduce device downtime by automating service alerts and meter reading, and providing proactive toner replenishment. Users benefit from improved device uptime, and manufacturers and their service partners can build proactive service relationships that can drive customer loyalty.

Abstract: With the resurgence of the service market sector, the need for value-added and cost effective delivery of services to create competitive advantage has become more important. Professional and embedded service firms are turning to technology in order to stay ahead and grow their business. This white paper provides a comprehensive market analysis developed through a survey of technology decision makers in service-based organizations.

Abstract: Improved service management boosts revenue from both service offerings and new product sales, while improved customer service and enhanced offerings increase customer retention, and draw new service business, providing an additional, low risk and likely repeated revenue stream over a long period of ownership.

Abstract: Syncsort, a software vendor with years of experience in the sorting of data, has released a new product called Sigma™, which is designed to produce aggregated data within data warehouses to improve response time and reduce database load. The importance of aggregation in a data warehouse cannot be underestimated.