Abstract: Software as a service is the latest incarnation of the hosting model. The demand for cost efficiency, information technology flexibility, and faster return on investment, coupled with new technology advancements, has caused the hosting model to be reborn.

Abstract: As organizational storage allocation requirements multiply, the time required to back up file-based data also continues to increase. While software vendors continue making advancements in technology to speed up the disk fragmentation process, it continues to remain an issue—one that needs to be addressed at the file system level. Defragmenting the hard drive volume prior to performing the backup may be the answer.

Abstract: Any business that would benefit by holding less inventory, decreasing mis-shipments and, reducing errors should seriously consider implementing bar code systems and other forms of automated data collection (ADC) technology. Companies of all sizes apply bar code and wireless data collection systems to save labor, increase efficiency, and cut operations costs. ADC is a proven productivity enhancer, and advancements in the technology have made such systems affordable and practical for more businesses than ever before. Common errors and inefficiencies don’t have to be part of business as usual. This paper exposes some of the hidden expenses that hamper profitability, and how accurate data collection can eliminate them. The examples and techniques presented show the link between quality information and efficient operations. When investing in ADC, small and medium sized businesses (SMBs) can earn a full and rapid return on investment through reduced expenses and increased productivity. This white paper will help show how by presenting ADC costjustification guidelines and strategies. From Intermec and Epicor Software Corporation.

Abstract: It is important to understand potential online security risks—and to ensure you’re fully protected against them. With security technologies and online risks changing every day, it is not always easy to stay abreast of the latest advancements. This VeriSign guide will demystify the technology involved and give you all the information you need to make the best decision when considering your online security options.

Abstract: There are many articles on customer relationship management (CRM) and its benefits. These articles are usually targeted towards large organizations, and don’t focus on the needs and objectives of small business owners. However, it’s essential for small business owners to know what CRM really is, and why and how CRM can help retain existing customers and help their business grow.

Abstract: In conversation with the Open For Business (OFBiz) project leader, David Jones, TEC discovers some of the challenges in raising an open source enterprise software solution. Mr. Jones explains his vision in this first part of three articles on maintaining a business centered around Free and open source software for the enterprise.

Abstract: The star above small and medium businesses (SMB) has never been so bright. CRM solution vendors are courting this market segment extensively. This is the second of a series of articles that look at strategies deployed by major enterprise solution vendors to attract the SMB decision makers and whether those vendors are ''dumbing down'' their enterprise software for the mid-market. This article evaluates SAP's mid-market solutions and its implementation approach.

Abstract: As the market shifts from sophisticated enterprise CRM implementations to the more competitive and overcrowded mid-market-large enterprise vendors tend to step on mid-market vendor's toes. The real concern is to determine whether the mid-market cultural and functional differences are well understood and acted upon or do the large players simply offer a smaller mockup of their existing enterprise solutions. This article, which evaluates the PeopleSoft mid-market CRM solution, is the first of a series of research articles that focus on the mid-market applications provided by large CRM vendors.

Abstract: There is a method to take you through the positioning process, where success depends on understanding three Cs--your Customer, your Competition, and your Channel. This series of articles will explain how to use them to gather intelligence, challenge assumptions, and test your positioning.

Abstract: When buying a job scheduling solution, you should gather as much information as possible to make an objective comparison of competitive products’ key capabilities. Seek out customer references, analyst recommendations, and press articles to supplement vendor marketing materials. And to make sure you don’t miss any important evaluation criteria, benchmark the functions of job-scheduling software with a detailed checklist.

Abstract: You can’t pick up a business or IT magazine today without seeing numerous articles about the growth of mobile and wireless technologies. Why are these technologies so trendy? The answer is simple: developments in mobile computing, wireless communication, bar codes, and other data collection and communications technologies help businesses extend visibility and control over the operations that really matter to them.

Abstract: Most articles about the pitfalls of software implementation projects highlight the mistakes made during implementation. Examples include poor project management, scope creep, uncommitted users, or lack of an executive sponsor. All of these areas of focus are valid, but often we forget that before starting the implementation, somehow we had to choose a package and sign a contract.

Abstract: Anyone even peripherally exposed to business media that touch on enterprise application technology has seen the term service-oriented architecture (SOA) bandied about in advertisements and articles. Given the central role of SOA in information technology, it is important to get beyond a buzzword level understanding. There are three key concepts surrounding SOA: granularity, Web services, and change management.

Abstract: Business intelligence (BI) is a priority for many organizations, promising enhanced visibility and improved efficiencies. But for those with existing enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, implementing or updating a BI program raises especially interesting challenges. This set of vendor-neutral articles outlines best practices for creating or optimizing BI programs that effectively leverage existing ERP investments.

Abstract: Learn more about SAP BusinessObjects in this special report, featuring three SAP Insider articles about business intelligence (BI). Part one explains how better interaction with your business data yields better answers to your questions; part two examines whether BI is ready for a broader audience; and part three sheds some light on how decision makers in four different industries are using BusinessObjects.