Abstract: Salesforce.com is now an almost unstoppable force in the world of on-demand customer relationship management. However, it may be the architect of its own downfall—and Microsoft is poised to take advantage. But will you profit from the Salesforce.com-versus-Microsoft war?

Abstract: Eight years ago, architect Kevin Harris, like many other architects, found it difficult to accurately charge clients for his services. But after attending courses to learn the proper methods for tracking time and costs, he realized that what he really needed was an integrated system. Since implementing BillQuick time billing and project management solution, Kevin has been able to easily and accurately manage billing.

Abstract: What manufacturers must realize is that through efforts to comply with regulatory standards, they can make their manufacturing operations more competitive. Indeed, compliance is transforming the companies that have taken the time to re-architect the many processes used for managing suppliers, channel partners, resellers, and customers. For manufacturers that ignore compliance, on the other hand, the costs can be steep.

Abstract: This white paper is a transcript of an IBM White Glove Events on-demand webinar. In it, you’ll learn how Chevron improved business decision-making by extending SAP NetWeaver data and applications with IBM Cognos 8 Performance Management. Speakers include Daisy Woodhams, senior VI design architect at Chevron, and Sharon Maxon, global category analyst for the consumer packaged goods category at Chevron.

Abstract: Another vendor has stated that growth and license revenues in the mainframe arena are softer than expected. Shares of Merant (NASDAQ: MRNT), the provider of PVCS, a major software configuration management product (acquired from Intersolv), in addition to other software, have dropped more than 24 percent after the company released preliminary financial estimates for its first fiscal quarter recently-ended, showing revenues likely will be about 17 percent less than the previous year due to a decline in COBOL license fees.

Abstract: Unisys has modified its policy on garnering license fees from the use of the .GIF image format.

Abstract: CrossWorlds Software, an enterprise application integration vendor, is making it easier for customers to acquire components and utilities with specific functionality. The vendor will create a CrossWorlds Exchange site on a subscription basis, for $50,000 per year with additional fees for some components.

Abstract: The licensing and delivery of enterprise software products is undergoing a fundamental shift from traditional up-front fees to incremental, per-transaction, and even success-based pricing.

Abstract: Sun Microsystems has eliminated licensing fees for Solaris 8 and its source code.

Abstract: The point of running a B2B service is to grab those transaction fees, right? Peregrine says maybe not.

Abstract: A common misconception when considering a Web content management solution (CMS) is that open source software will save you time and money. Just because you don’t have to pay subscription fees or shell out for licensing doesn’t mean there aren’t hidden costs with open source implementation. Find out the questions you should ask before choosing open source—and how to best evaluate and compare your CMS options.

Abstract: Mid-market companies can level the competitive playing field by using business integration technology. Integrated processes reduce costs by decreasing data entry errors, improving supply chain responsiveness, and increasing inventory accuracy—not to mention eliminating document processing fees and customer charge-backs. But how can mid-market companies leverage the capabilities of 'high-end' integration solutions?

Abstract: Choosing an on-demand customer relationship management (CRM) vendor can be a daunting task, especially for the price conscious consumer who lacks the budget for intensive research. A true CRM vendor should have pre-integrated sales, marketing, and customer support. Look for easy access to software free trials, and beware of hidden fees. Ultimately, researching the alternatives can save your company up to 50 percent of a solution’s total cost of ownership.

Abstract: Application Service Provision (ASP).There has been a trend in recent years towards the use of remote software services through application service providers. These are companies who make software applications available via the Internet to users who, rather than buying software, pay rental fees for it. The software does not have to be installed locally, the application being available through any web browser, and all support and maintenance is handled by the service provider. CMMS vendors are not the only ones offering these solutions. CAD modelling, engineering design, finance packages, purchasing, ERP and even your company Intranet can now be rented. This is an expanding sector and the signs are that major growth is about to take place. Earlier problems with slow data transfer speeds, communication costs and data security have largely been eliminated and this has made ASP a very attractive proposition. This is clearly illustrated by the proliferation of systems that have become available over the last three or four years with most of the major CMMS vendors now offering an ASP option.

Abstract: In late 2004, the senior management team of the Huntsman Corporation, a global manufacturer of chemical products, identified an opportunity to both prepare the company for compliance with Sarbanes-Oxley and achieve cost reductions. Learn how the company selected a new financials solution that helped it reduce audit fees, avoid headcount additions, improve productivity, and create an enterprise-wide analytics platform.

Abstract: Leading companies are increasing the percentage of perfect orders and reducing costs by exchanging documents with trading partners via electronic data interchange (EDI). Diverse trading partner capabilities and high-cost value-added network (VAN) fees, however, can pose barriers to even greater success. Learn about a solution that can help remove those barriers and let you exchange data regardless of format.

Abstract: Mercator Software, formerly known as TSI International Software, reported higher than forecasted marketing expenses, a new CFO, and missed their earnings estimate by 4 cents a share (predictions were 8 cents a share). Despite the resultant sharp drop in market capitalization, Mercator’s capabilities in the areas of XML and enterprise application integration are still solid.

Abstract: On June 27, Great Plains Software, Inc., a leading mid-market provider of back-office and e-business solutions, announced financial results for the fiscal quarter and fiscal year ended May 31, 2000. Despite continued growth and profitability, the market reacted to the company’s results that were below analysts’ expectations by almost halving its market capitalization in a day!