Abstract: Tibco Software and Cisco Systems have co-designed a network delivery method called the PGM (Pragmatic General Multicast) protocol. PGM allows a server to transmit a multicast message only once. The PGM software will then ensure delivery to all of the intended recipients. This is a much-awaited improvement on the existing multicast protocol, where the server has to transmit the message to each client individually, which increases the load on the network.

Abstract: Microsoft Business Solutions (MBS) announced the availability of Microsoft Business Solutions Solomon 5.5, which includes several new features and enhancements in the product's Foundation Series, Financial Series, Project Series and Service Series of modules. This part covers the vendor’s challenges and makes user recommendations.

Abstract: The Excellence Series is in fact a product that provides users with a powerful business management framework that is in many aspects far ahead of other middle market products.

Abstract: In recent days, Hewlett Packard has announced agreements for strategic alliances, technology licensing, and/or joint product development of middleware products with TIBCO Software, IONA Technologies, and webMethods. Industry rumors indicate that HP is trying to acquire an EAI vendor to complete its push towards a complete application server product. Who will it be?

Abstract: E-purchasing vendor Ariba chooses Tibco Software to integrate back-end programs.

Abstract: ACCPAC continues to enhance the PRO series and Advantage series product lines.

Abstract: As apparel and textile companies move to outsourcing production—relinquishing direct control in favor of a more cost-effective manufacturing model—a lean supply chain may appear to be the next logical step for further implementing cost and operational improvement. Not so, however. You can’t have a lean supply chain without lean manufacturing. Regardless of whether you or your partners engage in production, lean manufacturing is the lean engine that drives lean supply chain efficiencies. Accordingly, the business requirement for stability in a constantly changing demand environment motivates the fashion industry’s search for lean supply chain management principles and practices. Intentia, in cooperation with industry experts, have written a series of thought leadership white papers on the concept of implementing lean supply chain in the fashion industry. The second of this series, From Lean Manufacturing to Lean Supply Chain explains how lean manufacturing relates to lean supply chain management and where it differs and sometimes conflicts.

Abstract: Fashion companies need to respond quickly and strategically to major changes occurring in today’s global supply chains. Implementing a lean supply chain management strategy can enable cost savings and more efficient operations by realigning process according to a demand-driven model. Lean supply chain management uses Web-based technologies to create and maintain dynamic supplier networks. Such networks are able to deliver the highest customer value at the lowest cost. It also lays the groundwork for the next level of hands-free, wireless radio frequency identification-enabled processes. Intentia, in cooperation with industry experts, have written a series of thought leadership white papers on the concept of implementing lean supply chain in the fashion industry. The first of this series, “Lean Is Fashionable”, explores the impact of lean practices in the fashion and apparel industry during a period of momentous change.

Abstract: SAP AG has seemingly crossed a strategy chasm, from a strict, stodgy, Not-Invented-Here (NIH) approach to software development and delivery, to a seemingly quite open approach of broad development alliances, company acquisitions, Internet portals development, and a deep, new relationship with IBM for both technology sharing as well as bolstering IBM Consulting’s support for SAP’s new multiple mySAP.com™ initiatives. 'Collaborative' and 'SAP' were not two words you might have ever seen in the same article. You’re seeing it now.

Abstract: Baan is now iBaan, fully focused on the Internet via Portals and web technologies, across CRM, ERP, and SCM spaces.

Abstract: J.D. Edwards believes in the possibilities (both in terms of technology and sell-ability) of Collaborative Commerce. How far have they gotten in that vision? Are they a good bet if you also have visions of C-Commerce dancing in your head?

Abstract: Now in 2001, the catchphrase is 'Collaborative Commerce', where we unite all of the elements of ERP, CRM, E-Procurement, and SCM into one coherent system within and between organizations. This is the stuff system integrators dream of.

Abstract: Great Plains Software will supplement its ERP suite by incorporating Logility Voyager applications in an OEM deal.

Abstract: Today’s Digital Business Service Provider (DBSP) market is a complex of interrelated services and provider capabilities. This article traces the history of the service providers, and explains how each arose at points when markets developed around particular core technologies. The historical evidence suggests something about future planning for new technologies and developments.

Abstract: PeopleSoft has risen from its relatively humble origins in the Human Resource Management Systems (HRMS) arena, its sole focus as it begun life in 1987. Over the course of a decade or so, it added Supply Chain Management and Financials to its list of application offerings. In the last few years, in the face of slowing cash flows from its traditional strongholds, it has gone full bore toward Internet-based enterprise-wide - even cross-enterprise - solutions, trying to enter the game and be competitive with other top tier ERP-turned Collaborative Commerce vendors. Showing fiscal growth and, very-recently, notably-improved market acceptance, Peoplesoft may be the enterprise software turnaround story of the last decade.

Abstract: There are two ways to build enterprise application solutions: link together disparate, best-of-breed solutions, in which vendors embrace open architectures and inter-application messaging protocols, or find a one-stop-shop with all the software, functionality, and interoperability one could ever ask for. Oracle insists the latter is the best way, and it is their way. But is it best for Collaborative-Commerce? Is their vision of C-Commerce and interoperability yours as well?

Abstract: IFS needs to bolster its brand awareness, and let the world know that they are, in fact, a real contender in the Collaborative Commerce space. Once companies get IFS in-house and get to touch and feel it - to really understand its user interface and ease of use advantages over many of its rivals - it often wins.

Abstract: IFS arrived over five years ago on U.S. shores, with a Christmas-bag full of software components that run from the front-office to back-office and back again. They’re here to play, to get recognized, and win some big Collaborative Commerce engagements. We’ll see if they’ve got the stuff to do it.