Abstract: Remember Novell? They’re a small Utah company that makes network software called NetWare, now aimed at small businesses. Sounds familiar?

Abstract: For large organizations, enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems promise big gains by helping grow revenue and increase productivity. But can ERP benefit small to medium businesses (SMBs) in the same way? This step-by-step guide includes important decision-making considerations, such as benefits and costs, across some of the top finance and accounting solution providers for small to midsize companies.

Abstract: For small businesses with limited budgets and IT support, customer relationship management (CRM) has been out of reach. Until now, these small companies have missed out on the benefits provided by CRM because most applications were built for larger companies. New technology, however, has now emerged that levels the playing field for these smaller businesses by providing a fully customizable and affordable CRM system.

Abstract: Typically, the cost of feature-rich and scalable business phone systems prevents small businesses from purchasing these powerful tools in the initial stages of their growth. Thus, new companies generally choose standard business phone lines from their local phone company along with multi-line phones. With voice over Internet protocol (VoIP) technology, however, small businesses now have a cost-effective, feature-rich alternative.

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: By any measure, retailers are overwhelming small businesses. More than 95 percent of all retailers have only one store. Almost 90 percent have sales less than $2.5 million (USD), and more than 98 percent have fewer than 100 employees. To compete, small businesses need to be innovative, and understand both personalization and value, and how to execute best practices to build success.

Abstract: IT organizations struggle with the challenges of shrinking budgets, ever-changing technology, compliance pressures, and more. For greater efficiency, many IT organizations are turning to information technology service management (ITSM) to help improve processes. But there’s still too much focus on technology and not enough on business outcomes. Learn key strategies for changing your approach to delivering IT services.

Abstract: European nearshore locations are viewed as a complementary and alternative sourcing option to onshore and offshore locations. It offers a language and culture fit, and in some cases enjoys certain international trade agreements with the client's residing countries. Malta is an ideal nearshore location because it offers significant reduced development and implementation risks and lower hidden costs.

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: If companies are to find value in radio frequency identification (RFID), they need to view this technology as more than eliminating the scanning gun from the barcode equation. Companies considering implementing RFID must think beyond the confines of the four walls of the plant and factory in order to take full advantage the benefits that this type of technology has to offer. However, as is with any emerging technology, the bottom line is to only implement RFID when the ROI justifies it.

Abstract: On May 30, QAD reported financial results for the first quarter of fiscal 2002. Although not quite turning the corner, the business seems to be stabilizing against the backdrop of the economic slowdown, the fierce competition from the bigger vendors and the plight of many of its peers.

Abstract: Companies specializing in personalization of consumer relationships have formed a consortium and conducted their first research study. The conclusion is that you care about privacy but not enough to drive to the mall.

Abstract: While smaller businesses must be attuned to what their larger customers and trading partners require, and thus consider the Microsoft Business Network (MBN) as a relatively simple and inexpensive way to support those customers' demands, MBN is only a small part of the trading relationship equation.

Abstract: With sales being the lifeblood of virtually any company, selling should be an accurately accountable process forming the basis of overall strategic objectives. Still, the question remains: how much enterprise incentive management (EIM) do enterprises need, and in what form?

Abstract: To accurately assess the impact that requirements have on businesses, IAG surveyed over 100 companies. What they found was that less than one-third were properly equipped to define their software requirements, and that suboptimal requirements consumed around 41.5 percent of the IT development budget. Find out what it takes to ensure your organization doesn’t fall on the wrong side of this business requirements equation.

Abstract: In the past, enterprise resource planning (ERP) initiatives were far too costly for smaller organizations to consider. However, a trend has recently emerged where software vendors are now offering software-as-a-service business models for ERP implementation to even the smallest organizations.

Abstract: When small to medium businesses shop around for a human resources (HR) solution, their main considerations are whether to go for a hosted or non-hosted solution, or to simply outsource HR functions altogether. It’s important to know the advantages and disadvantages of each before making a selection.

Abstract: The third and final part of the path to ERP for small businesses series describes the software selection stage, including the dos and don’ts during vendor product demos, how to create a shortlist, and finally selecting the vendor that provides the best product and services for your needs.