Abstract: Today's usage of Decision Support Systems (DSS), combined with vetted PLM knowledge bases, allows organizations to save time and money, achieving better and more reliable/fully-documented decisions, a quantum improvement over the widely-used subjective process of selecting complex enterprise software...

Abstract: Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) addresses the full lifecycle of a product. The focus of most of the current PLM solutions, however, does not make the most of the value available from servicing products after they have been sold. Service Lifecycle Management (SLM) promises valuable business benefits after a product has been shipped to the customer, tapping into the value of the product aftermarket.

Abstract: An earlier article, Audit Considerations for Enterprise Software Implementations, included a brief discussion of the use of computer-based tool sets and repositories to facilitate compliance with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX). Here we examine this issue in more detail. Of particular interest are the key characteristics that you should look for when selecting such tool sets. Read on to see how these tool sets can assist your company in meeting the new audit challenges facing corporate America.

Abstract: Pronto Software's enterprise resource planning (ERP) software, PRONTO-Xi v.670, is now TEC Certified. The certification seal is a valuable indicator for organizations who rely on the integrity of TEC's research services for assistance with their software selection projects. Download this 39-page TEC report for product highlights, competitive analysis, product analysis, and in-depth analyst commentary.

Abstract: Outdoor equipment and clothing retailer Kathmandu sought a new enterprise management system to support expansion throughout Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom. The new system, with capabilities for point of sale (POS) and inventory management, had to be scalable. Based on a strong customer reference, Kathmandu chose PRONTO-Xi. Find out how PRONTO-Xi has helped improved efficiencies and promotion management.

Abstract: The quantity of business information is doubling at an alarming rate. How can a proactive manager keep on top of it? A tool that merges and unifies information from a variety of sources and formats can help. That tool should also analyze data and identify inputs as indicators of future actions or outcomes, so problems can be solved before they happen. The bottom line: better data analysis means better decision making.

Abstract: Computerized maintenance management system (CMMS). Enterprise asset management (EAM) system. Computer-aided facilities management (CAFM) system. Integrated workplace management system (IWMS). Each type of facility management solution offers different functionalities and features, and one may be better than another for your company’s needs. Learn more about the differences and how an integrated solution is a “must have.”

Abstract: A new trend is emerging in the world of storage management, and it’s called information lifecycle management (ILM). Just what it is, however, varies significantly from vendor to vendor. Generally, ILM is a strategy for policy-based information management. Its mandate: to provide centralized management of all information assets, aligning storage resources with the value of the data residing in them.

Abstract: The core components of a retail information system are inventory management, inventory optimization, revenue management, sales management, and reports and inquiries. Non-core components can include financial, supply chain management, enterprise resource planning, customer relationship management, and warehouse management systems.

Abstract: Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems are software systems that cover the range of interaction a company has with its current, or potential customers. Its functionality can include marketing automation, sales force automation, help desk, customer service and support, partner management, contract management and creation, project and team management, Internet sales, e-mail response management, analytics, and important technical criteria.

Abstract: Effective IP management requires proper allocation of address space for adequate address capacity as needed, as well as accurate configuration of DHCP and DNS servers. Along with flawless configuration and management of each of these foundational elements of Internet protocol (IP) address management, address managers must also integrate these management functions into the broader IT network management environment.

Abstract: Since our research-driven beginnings, Johnson & Johnson Advanced Sterilization Products (ASP) has continually improved the new product development (NPD) process. Detailed process mapping has revealed three tiers of business metrics, starting with drivers and moving up through execution metrics to business performance metrics. When driver metrics improves, so does business performance. Six Sigma tools helps identify specific metrics at all tiers and the causality linkages among them. Each NPD process step at ASP results in a deliverable, and each deliverable relates to a trade-off triangle (cost-time-resources) and, ultimately, to investment dollars. To track performance, ASP calculates how actual NPD decisions and what-if scenarios affect deliverables, alter investment triangles, and thereby influence business results. ASP uses similar process and tools, including the investment triangles and Six Sigma QFD, to make idea management decisions. The IDweb real-time software environment enables both the NPD and idea management processes at ASP. By deploying the strategic planning, idea management, portfolio and pipeline management, process management, and resource management modules of IDweb, ASP has increased throughput by 20 percent and reduced cycle time by 40 percent.

Abstract: Understanding the nature and specifics of your product development life cycles, and especially new product design and initiation, can help you realize tangible cost savings and will offset the total cost of ownership of a product lifecycle management system.

Abstract: The highly competitive product manufacturing market makes true product lifecycle management (PLM) inevitable. PLM helps companies map product requirements to features, obtain control over product data, preserve product knowledge assets, and enter into the new paradigm of modular product development.

Abstract: In future, companies will be releasing products practically every other day, due to fierce global competition, and the significance of product lifecycle management (PLM) implementation will increase. However, it is possible to provide some guidelines for a rigorous PLM implementation.

Abstract: Product lifecycle management (PLM) implementation brings its own set of challenges, whether considering vendor selection, employee perception management, or actual implementation. However, based on experience and study, it is possible to describe the best practices for overcoming these challenges.

Abstract: The management of buzzwords represents a significant area for improvement, for both buzzword users (BU) and buzzword consumers (BC). Buzzword lifecycle management (BLM) is a proven discipline being applied to this crying need within the software industry.

Abstract: A plethora of software estimation tools are available, each claimed to be better than the others, thereby confusing prospective buyers. An effective tool ought to provide for all four aspects of software estimation, namely, size, effort, cost, and schedule.

Abstract: Agile Software recognizes product lifecycle management (PLM) as an emerging business imperative for innovation. Now, Agile has a unique opportunity to leverage its position as the sole PLM vendor of significance to have a pure PLM pedigree.