Abstract: In this challenging economy, standards for materials flow are critical to thriving in the global automotive industry. Successful suppliers know how to meet Materials Management Operations Guideline/Logistics Evaluation (MMOG/LE) standards. MMOG/LE is a self-assessment for material and logistics control used to evaluate production, parts and service, and more. Learn how it can help you succeed in the automotive market.

Abstract: When Luxembourg-based AZ Electronic Materials was carved out of Clariant International and sold to a private equity firm, the new company was given one year to wean itself off its parent’s information technology (IT) system. AZ beat the clock by three months, working with partner Accenture to roll out SAP business software across nine countries and six manufacturing plants.

Abstract: Tighten and speed up the manufacturing supply chain to better align raw Materials inventory levels with production plans, and reduce inventory and administrative costs.

Abstract: In a challenging economy, many companies focus cost-cutting on direct materials and capital spending rather than maintenance, repair, and operations (MRO) supplies (also known as indirect materials). But an alternate concept allows you to implement lean processes to create a high-efficiency MRO outsource model. Find out how it offers greater visibility and promotes continuous improvement along the indirect supply chain.

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: A typical manufacturing business today is faced with countless business challenges: domestic and global competition; high sensitivity to economic cycles; rising labor, materials and energy costs to name just a few. To combat today’s challenges manufacturers can easily and affordably leverage the web for internal efficiency gains, enhanced customer service, and increased sales.

Abstract: Material requirements planning is a system that strives to plan replenishment just before a withdrawal from stock, which does not work in some manufacturing environments.

Abstract: The MMOG was a self-assessment process developed by the Automotive Industry Action Group (AIAG) to provide consistent methodology for evaluating supplier performance, identifying weaknesses, and focusing improvement efforts. The Global MMOG/LE incorporates the Odette Logistics Evaluation (OLE), developed by AIAG’s European counterpart, to provide a single global standard for self-assessment. The MMOG is a proven tool for supplier development and provides a recognized industry standard for suppliers who have been asked by customers to complete a self-assessment. Although it was developed by the automotive industry, QAD believes it can be a helpful benchmark tool for customers across many verticals.

Abstract: This is a reprint of the summary chapter from the book Managing Your Supply Chain Using Microsoft Navision by Dr. Scott Hamilton.

Abstract: In going through a business decision process for complex technology selections, more and more use is being made of technologically driven processes using Decision support tools and captured knowledge. The use of these systems and the capability to drive a solution from them assumes an ability to accurately express business requirements and business value within these tools. In this article, we explore the marriage of knowledge management and decision support in forming knowledge based selection systems and procedures that can assist in reducing the current appalling record of IT project failures. This is illustrated by the process to select a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA).

Abstract: Using a knowledge base in the selection process can reduce the time, risk and cost of procuring technology. Well constructed knowledge bases that are used in a tested selection methodology reduce the RFI process from months to weeks, eliminate data quality issues and allow an apples to apples comparison of vendor offerings.

Abstract: Managing Your Supply Chain Using Microsoft Axapta provides an overall understanding of how the system fits together to run a manufacturing or distribution business. This book excerpt focuses on running the business from the top with sales and operations planning (S&OP). Variation in operations affect the S&OP process and the nature of demand impacts the S&OP game plans.

Abstract: Multi-Attribute Decision Making (MADM): How Firms Can Avoid Failure by Embracing a Formal MADM-Based Process for Their ERP Software Acquisition. Using Multi-Attribute Decision Making for ERP Software Selection.

Abstract: A straightforward way to drive prices down and obtain increased supplier attention is to leverage total purchasing volume through Internet-based auctions. This part addresses the implications of using e-procurement to Leverage Volume, including leveraging volume through outsourcing.

Abstract: Since the last recession in 2001, customer relationship management (CRM) systems have gained greater acceptance. Though CRM systems haven’t been widely tested under adverse business conditions, results achieved by CRM strategies indicate that businesses with an effective CRM approach will have a vital competitive advantage in recessionary conditions. Discover three key strategies to using CRM as a tool against a recession.

Abstract: Many large companies don’t realize the pains network administrators take to maximize real estate in the data center. The keyboard/video/mouse (KVM) switch can help by enabling IT pros to effectively manage the continual expansion of data centers. Learn how organizations of all sizes can optimize their data centers using KVM and remote technology to set new standards of excellence in reclaiming precious rack space.

Abstract: Teen purchasing power is enormous, but teens are a fickle demographic. As online marketing strategies shift from customer acquisition to customer retention, understanding teen purchasing behavior is vital for companies wanting to establish long-term relationships with teens. Discover how online retailers are using live chat to address the expectations of teens—keeping them loyal and boosting return on investment (ROI).

Abstract: A recent study by Jupiter Research found that e-mail marketers using Web analytics click-stream data to generate targeted e-mail campaigns produce an impressive average click-through rate of 14 percent, and a conversion rate of 3.9 percent. Can your business claim numbers this high? If not, find out how you can with Web analytics tools that will help you gain insight on your subscribers’ behaviors while increasing sales.