Abstract: Metadata (“data about data”) is essential for data warehousing. Metadata standards allow different products to interact. Without standards, different vendors’ tools cannot work together seamlessly and the customer’s warehousing effort is greatly complicated.

Abstract: True multi-service, multi-vendor global networks are the future of the telecommunications industry. However, mazes of international standards and protocols can create barriers rather than solutions. For service providers and system suppliers alike, implementing standards for interoperability is far from simple. The MultiService Switching Forum (MSF) fills the void by developing implementation agreements that take standards from theory into practice.

Abstract: International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) are the reporting standards developed by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB). IFRS is now required or permitted in nearly 100 countries, while others plan to adopt or align with IFRS soon. In the US, Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) will soon be aligned with IFRS. Find out how this will affect your company, and what you can do about it.

Abstract: Voice-Over Broadband standards are on the horizon. Today General Bandwidth, Inc. and Efficient Networks announced a business alliance to test interoperability between their two companies in the area of Voice-Over Broadband.

Abstract: A wireless standards forum has been needed for years, and given the wide array of vendors participating in the newly formed Mobile Wireless Internet Form (MWIF), we believe a global standard can be achieved and implemented quickly.

Abstract: Large companies can afford to develop their own budget and forecast systems, but for small businesses, there’s only one choice—the spreadsheet. But spreadsheet financial plans are all over the map—no rules, no procedures, no consistent formatting, and minimal GAAP accounting. This white paper proposes standards that can help entrepreneurs and small business owners create, format,and manage financial plans.

Abstract: Although the recent spate of acquisitions in the business intelligence market, especially marked with Business Object’s acquisition of Crystal, Hyperion’s acquisition of Brio, and Actuate’s acquisition of Nimble, may bear resemblance to the raging consolidation in the ERP market, the underlying reasons for the first one are not that simplistic.

Abstract: SAP announced its involvement in XML-based Internet content standards initiatives, detailing its involvement with standards committees, acceptance of XML, integration with their products, the creation of an XML interface repository and a partner certification program. What does it amount to?

Abstract: Compliance with regional and international standards, such as the Waste Electric and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) or Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) directives, has made it more complicated for companies to deliver innovative products to customers. Learn how focusing on product innovation, data integration, and process optimization can help your company satisfy customer needs while meeting compliance standards.

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: Archiving and logging standards place a great burden on network security professionals and IT administrators. When your routers, firewalls, and other devices are added to multiple servers, the volume of data that must be kept accessible can be tremendous. Learn more about event log standards and challenges, and how to implement a tool that can improve troubleshooting and diagnosis of incoming—and in-house—security issues.

Abstract: The ratification of standards is important to any industry. Now, in the realm of storage area networks (SANs), new standards are being put in place to ensure user-friendly and heterogeneous fibre channel switches that allow for multiple vendors and increased interoperability. Before incorporating a multi-switch fabric into your SAN, however, you should know the whys, whats, and hows involved.

Abstract: California based Ariba saw its stock rise 20% (by 17.88 points to 107.88) on August 11, with continued rises into the low 120's for the rest of the week.

Abstract: Original News & Educational Review Course Summary Ernst & Young, has put together the quintessential course for security engineers looking to improve their ability to protect their organization's website, systems, and network. Dubbed eXtreme Hacking, and carrying a price tag of $5,000 a slot, this course is for anyone but hacks. With an impressive course book that fills a two-inch thick binder, leading Ernst & Young security engineers take you step-by-step through all the ways that bad guys try to subvert your mission critical servers and network configurations. Using dual-bootable NT-Linux laptops, and an accompanying network setup for practicing subversive attacks and exploits, attendees will leave the course with an entire new bag of tools and tricks that help them understand how bad guys identify target IP addresses, collect information about the systems they plan on compromising, and exploit weaknesses without being noticed. The idea is to learn how to figure out what the weaknesses are in your organization's network before the bad guys do.

Abstract: Many consumers don’t trust Web site safety enough to complete an e-commerce transaction—and consequently, billions of dollars in sales are lost. How can you combat this trend and ensure your customers trust you enough to share their sensitive data in online transactions? Learn how an extended validation SSL certificate increases the visibility of authentication status—to help assure your visitors find your site is safe.

Abstract: We don't like to be reminded that there are people who thrive on the theft or malicious destruction of sensitive information, especially where financial transactions are concerned. However, businesses can no longer afford to be complacent. Implementing a practical policy such as the Payment Card Industry (PCI) Data Security Standard can go a long way toward ensuring peace of mind.

Abstract: Recent legislation has bought about unparalleled emphasis on corporate governance and regulatory compliance. In the United States, the Enron and Worldcom affairs have led to a new law Sarbannes-Oxley. In Europe, the EU parliament has decided that all countries must streamline the laws for financial reporting in accordance with IFRS rules from IASC. Bringing organizations into compliance with new demands for corporate governance is having immediate and long-term effects. In this paper we discuss the current business environment, those facets of legislation impacting manufacturers and how QAD enterprise suite of applications can assist you in achieving corporate governance and regulatory compliance quickly, efficiently, and cost-effectively.

Abstract: As globalization, competition, and downward price pressures show no signs of easing, lean manufacturing—matching supply to demand, eliminating waste, and streamlining operations—still holds great promise for automotive suppliers to meet this challenges.