Abstract: This tutorial, part 2 of a two part series on Knowledge Based Selection, demonstrates the selection processes and capabilities of Knowledge Based Selection Methods and Tools. These tools, integrated with business decision making procedures, can arguably reduce selection risk and improve chances for success in IT projects. Given the appalling rate of IT project failures, selection can potentially help reduce risk in some 30% of cases, with an associated estimated cost of about $30B annually to industry according to some sources. In this tutorial, we illustrate a number of the procedures for rapid decision processing through the real-life selection of a PDA device. The process gave confidence to the argument to wait for the solution, while weighing risk against return.

Abstract: All government projects must be run as efficiently as possible. Modeling and simulation tools can help maximize efficiency and predict the costs and risks associated with many government projects. Model-building templates, plus features that allow users to share and re-use models and create custom models, can help government successfully design and complete major environmental and infrastructural projects. Find out more.

Abstract: Bridging the gap between an application’s problem domain and its code can be difficult, even for the best software engineers. Bridging these two diverse worlds—each with its own language—requires a finished application that creates an intersection between the two. By building a domain-specific modeling (DSM) language and generator using MetaEdit+, engineers close the gap and pave the way to better productivity.

Abstract: Business process management notation (BPMN) is an initiative to increase standardization within process modeling. What are the principles of BPMN, and what is the value of BPMN to vendors and organizations using business process modeling?

Abstract: Three problems are common to most complex environmental modeling efforts: they’re uncertain, multifaceted, and hard to communicate. Overcoming these challenges is especially important when modeling the performance of proposed and existing radioactive waste management facilities. Graphical simulation tools can help represent uncertainties, integrate all aspects of the system, and ease the presentation of complex models.

Abstract: Over 80 percent of consultants in service organizations consider spreadsheet-based business plan modeling inadequate. Weak client–partner relationships reflect this inadequacy. An integrated business planning and modeling platform can provide deeper insight into a range of strategic and operational issues. Find out how this can result in enhanced decision making and optimized long-term client engagement and satisfaction.

Abstract: REALbasic is an object-oriented programming language for Mac OS X, Windows, and Linux computers. The Unified Modeling Language (UML) is the industry-standard notation for modeling object-oriented software. This paper shows how to extract a UML design from a REALbasic project, model REALbasic software using UML, and generate REALbasic code from UML.

Abstract: New technology, such as virtual machines and high-speed internet communication, is leading to wider remote application hosting. Here is a tutorial-level technical explanation of how it’s being driven

Abstract: This tutorial points out the significance of buyers researching PLM technology vendors before determining the short list and vendors researching the viability of the opportunity before committing time and money to a sales effort. Since a 'one-size-fits-all' product is still not quite a viable possibility, almost every product can win provided certain set of requirements. The Catch 22 for both buyers and vendors/VARs is to pinpoint the right opportunity in this ongoing 'dating game'.

Abstract: This tutorial identifies the significance of researching technology vendors to both buyers and vendors/VARs. Buyers require research to determine the short list and vendors/VARs can use research to assess the viability of opportunities before committing time and money to a sales effort. Since a 'one-size-fits-all' product is still not a viable solution for most clients, the ability of technology products to meet clients' needs depends on client requirements. The Catch 22 for both buyers and vendors/VARs is to pinpoint the right match in this ongoing 'dating game'.

Abstract: A CMMS is an excellent business opportunity whose implementation can significantly improve operations, reduce equipment downtime, increase accountability of the maintenance functions, and produce substantial financial savings. Read on to learn how this can be accomplished.

Abstract: Companies are looking for more areas to squeeze savings out of operations. One such area that may be fertile ground to explore is equipment maintenance. The class of software that can help to cultivate these savings is computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS). This article discusses the basics of CMMS and its key features, enabling you to determine whether your company should investigate this software as a potential source of savings.

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: Business processes must be enabled across the artificial boundaries of disparate applications that must work together to support these business processes. To that end, business process management (BPM) could assist in compliance issues, can reduce training requirements, and increase the overall efficiency of a business.

Abstract: To maximize the return on investment of a customer relationship management system, a new CRM best practices model should be used. A point-based system, self-assessment model that emphasizes senior management leadership and the need to create a culture consistent with CRM can lead to a deployment strategy that is correlated with success. An interactive version of this assessment is included with this article.

Abstract: Flow manufacturing leverages techniques to help manufacturers create any product on any given day, in any given quantity including the

Abstract: Conventional models for estimating the electrical efficiency of data centers are grossly inaccurate for real-world installations. Electrical loss estimates are typically made by summing inefficiencies of electrical devices, such as power and cooling equipment. Discover a more accurate efficiency model that can help you identify and quantify waste in power and cooling equipment, and reduce total cost of ownership (TCO).

Abstract: Telephony is a key element of convergence—and the primary reason for the hype surrounding it. But why is telephony so important to convergence? Voice or telephony traffic is very sensitive to latency on the network. The fact that converged networks must provide timely and reliable delivery of voice traffic makes it a key component to a successful converged solution implementation. Learn more about how it all works.