Abstract: Many organizations don’t follow formalized processes for technical support evaluation. However, technical support is a vital component of any enterprise software solution. The fact is, poor technical support can have a severe impact on a solution’s total cost of ownership.

Abstract: The next-generation input/output interconnect standard for the PC industry arises from PCI Express and PICMG 1.3 specifications. However, as platforms change to incorporate these standards, they’re virtually eliminating space for high-end telephony boards. When building telephony solutions, vendors must be aware of the changes in these specifications so that they can better use current and future systems for communications applications.

Abstract: iSCSI storage area networks (SANs) offer an alternative for building SANs. Consolidating storage in a SAN offers storage management and scaling benefits for data centers, and iSCSI support in Windows Server 2003 makes connecting servers to an iSCSI SAN easier and more affordable. Read this technical briefing to understand best practices and the benefits of using an iSCSI SAN with SQL Server 2005.

Abstract: Great Plains has expanded eSupport, its web-based technical support service. The new service promises to provide customers and partners with higher levels of service while increasing Great Plains’ operational efficiency. Here’s how Great Plains uses the web to augment its technical support services.

Abstract: Until 2004, German agricultural machinery manufacturer RAUCH created its technical publications in-house, relying on a service provider to create and translate operation manuals. The problem: this was a massive, time-consuming effort requiring extensive communication between all parties. Clearly, RAUCH needed to change its approach. The solution: incorporating Arbortext IsoDraw into its technical publications workflow.

Abstract: There is a considerable need to understand how technical performance and the problems within the technical infrastructure impact the capabilities of the business itself. The majority of companies can only measure specific asset and application performance, whereas many issues within the infrastructure lie at the transport level, where packet switching can present both great opportunities and major issues.

Abstract: The source code for mission-critical software products is almost never provided to users by the supplier. All the end-user has is a copy of the compiled source code—in other words, the object code that can only be read and executed by the computers concerned. That’s why professional escrow is becoming an essential component of operational risk management.

Abstract: Airlines struggle every day to reduce costs, maintain the level of customer service, and have more efficient processes, and this puts more pressure on line maintenance supervisors and engineers. This is where a maintenance personnel management system can be useful.

Abstract: In the airline industry, aircraft maintenance is an activity that has to be done throughout the day, so maintenance personnel must be available at all times. The complexity of the operation increases the need for a maintenance personnel management system.

Abstract: TradeStone has developed an application that can be quickly configured to shift data in and out of traditional enterprise planning systems. Organizations can thus more easily intertwine basic procurement information with crucial sourcing data such as specifications, schedules, and statuses.

Abstract: A request for proposal or RFP Protest Letter may be sent by a prospective provider who is aggrieved in connection with the RFP specifications, the solicitation process, or award of the contract and would like to file a protest. The scope of the grounds of the RFP protest letter is limited to errors related to proper proposal scoring, violation of law or procedures set forth in the RFP, conflict of interest, partiality or discrimination. No protest may be filed if the RFP is cancelled or if all proposals received in response to the RFP are rejected. It is highly recommended to read the recommendations on properly writing an RFP Protest Letter. The RFP Protest Letter is part of your FREE RFP Letters Toolkit, 2008 Edition

Abstract: The Delphi technique—drawing wise counsel from senior and experienced software developers—can help you prepare estimates for software development projects. With this method of software estimation, project specifications are given to a few experts, depending on their availability. Learn about the essential steps involved in this software estimation methodology for more accurate estimates of software development effort.

Abstract: Cooling for IT wiring closets is rarely planned and often only implemented after failures or overheating occur. Specifications for cooling IT wiring closets should assure compatibility with expected loads, provide clear instruction for design and installation of cooling equipment, be flexible enough to work in various types of wiring closets, and more. Discover the science and practical application of cooling strategies.

Abstract: Industrial equipment manufacturers and maintenance, repair, and operations (MRO) distributors can’t afford to miss bidding deadlines, delivery dates, product specifications, or service level agreements. They also can’t afford the penalties of non-compliance with regulations. Learn how some businesses are leveraging integrated enterprise infrastructures to maximize profits while minimizing exposure to risks.

Abstract: Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL) is a framework of best practices to manage IT operations and services, with the main objective of aligning business and IT. Because there is no mandate that companies implement all framework specifications, small and midsize businesses (SMBs) need to have a cost-savings approach to ITIL implementation, so they can adopt the right features of ITIL. Learn how.

Abstract: Reducing costs and increasing the quantity and availability of data have always been concerns for IT departments. Booting up with a local area network (LAN) has long been one effective way of meeting those needs. However, what you might not know is that storage area network (SAN) booting with iSCSI connections can be even more effective in cutting costs and supplying information—and in providing greater security.

Abstract: If you base your selection of an outsourcing partner on a service provider’s strengths, it can be difficult to make an apples-to-apples comparison among the various models. The best way to make a comparison in a thoughtful and effective manner is to develop individual specifications matching buyer needs with service provider strengths in order to make an enduring match. Find out how.

Abstract: It s hard to go anywhere these days and not see ads for mobile wireless carriers. But the technology is so confusing and the choices so overwhelming, it can be impossible to know which solution to choose. Before making the wrong choice, it’s best to have a basic understanding of mobile wireless communication—how it is currently being used in the industry, and how it can benefit your organization in the future.