Abstract: On September 27, a group of vendors including Oracle, IBM, Unisys, NCR, and Hyperion Solutions announced the submission of a metadata interchange standard to the OMG standards body. A common approach to metadata would allow products from different vendors to interact, a problem that has vexed customers for years. But will all the major vendors adopt the standard?

Abstract: The 802.11n standard promises to extend today’s most popular wireless local area network (WLAN) standard by increasing reach, reliability, and throughput. The final standard, predicted to be ratified later this year, is expected to trigger broad-scale deployment of bigger and faster networks. Find out about the essential new technologies used by 802.11n, and their impact on network planning, installation, and operation.

Abstract: The UN Standard Products and Services Code (UNSPSC), the global product and services classification standard, has been revolutionizing purchasing and supply management across the world. Whether you’re deliberating on the need for a common product and classification standard for your company, or an advanced UNSPSC adopter, revisiting the basics can help you improve your purchasing and supply management processes.

Abstract: Due to security vulnerabilities in Standard & Poor's Comstock product, their customer sites throughout the world have been exposed to extensive security holes.

Abstract: Informatica Corporation (Nasdaq: INFA), a major extract/transform/load tool vendor, today announced the general availability of MX2 1.6, the latest version of its Metadata Exchange (MX2) application programming interface (API). Informatica bills MX2 1.6 as the first object-oriented metadata exchange facility to support XML, a text-based programming language standard for integrating and managing bi-directional metadata exchange.

Abstract: In August 2006, Microsoft conducted a Microsoft Dynamics AX 4.0 standard distribution benchmark to measure the performance and scalability characteristics of the application in a simulated distribution scenario. This benchmark exercised core accounts receivables scenarios around order entry through invoicing, in addition to procure-to-pay processes around purchase order creation through receiving of goods. We look at the methodology and results.

Abstract: The payment card industry data security standard (PCI DSS) defines a comprehensive set of requirements to enhance and enforce payment account data security in a proactive rather than passive way. These include security management, policies, procedures, network architectures, software design, and other protective measures. Get a better understanding of the PCC DSS and learn the costs and benefits of compliance.

Abstract: An important emerging standard in the web arena, known as SOAP (Simple Object Access Protocol), originally developed by Microsoft, has achieved a new milestone. Since IBM joined in support for the SOAP standard with increased security, SOAP may replace DCOM, and possibly even CORBA eventually. The W3C consortium has just released a new version, 1.2, which will be widely accepted and adopted by vendors.

Abstract: When implementing customer relationship management (CRM), organizations often lose sight of their customers and focus on efficiency gains instead of looking at the bigger picture from a customer perspective. But organizations that can build a business-centric system flexible enough to quickly respond to changing customer needs will have a sustainable competitive advantage and enjoy profitable growth for years to come.

Abstract: Lost sight of your bottom line? Product pricing not in step with your actual costs? So busy trying to stay on top of cost behavior that you can’t keep your costs under control? Cost and pricing models, as part of an enterprise resource planning (ERP) system, can help you better understand your costs. Put corrective measures into motion before problems occur—and save your food and beverage enterprise time and money.

Abstract: The cardinal sin of outsourcing governance is to focus entirely on the mechanics and the price. If you do that, you’ll squander the true potential of the relationship. So spend the time and effort required to ensure an effective governance process—and don’t lose sight of the fact that without cultural alignment with your vendor, you’ll only be creating ground rules for debate, not agreement.

Abstract: It’s common knowledge that asset downtime disrupts production and drives up both process and per-unit operating costs. However, executives often lose sight of this because they focus on output, not on the assets used to create it. The irony is that companies can use asset performance management not only to make more widgets, but to make each widget more profitably.

Abstract: Many application providers and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) either select a standard platform for their applications, or provide guidelines and recommendations as to which infrastructure components will optimize their solutions. Thus, one of the critical factors that should be considered prior to selecting a standard platform is the certification it carries, and how it pertains to your organization’s needs.

Abstract: Internet protocol (IP)—used for transmitting data across networks everywhere—is now used pervasively, transmitting data to and from a multitude of devices. Arguably, IP is the most successful open standard ever, but as network communications converge under a single standard used for an increasing number of applications, we need to understand how effectively these critical assets are being managed.

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: Radio frequency identification (RFID) is the most rapidly growing segment in today's automatic identification industry. The creation of the Auto-ID Electronic Product Code (EPC) Standard coupled with affordable RFID tag costs, and Wal-Mart's mandated adoption of the standard for all its suppliers, will drive rapid deployment. Learn how RFID will evolve as the cost and capability of deploying the system becomes more operationally feasible and economical, and of the benefits it will bring.

Abstract: The crucial interoperability of wireless network devices built around the 802.11 standard is threatened by the advent of faster technologies. The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) is trying to cope by developing the 802.11n standard—but it’s still in draft form. Meanwhile, how can manufacturers cope with the confusion surrounding the future of 802.11? Get an outline of the situation.

Abstract: While Intuitive Manufacturing Systems, still largely a stealth small ERP provider, may have the ‘Intuitive ERP’ trump to attract SMEs internationally, a bevy of competitors has also been engaged in delivering their panaceas to the increasingly crowding market segment.