Abstract: Leveraging corporate knowledge and intellectual property (IP) across the organization is a complex challenge. But an IP management system can help cut through the complexity, capture inputs from all relevant sources, and offer control over the entire process. The solution should be comprehensive, while conferring the right mix of process control and flexibility. (Part Two of a two-part series.)

Abstract: Intellectual property (IP) is a valuable commodity. And today, companies can use new technology, new practices, and organizational alignment to reap the value of corporate IP. The catchphrase of the 80s and 90s was “other people’s money.” But the catchphrase for the new millennium is “other people’s IP.” (Part One of a two-part series.)

Abstract: Computerized maintenance management system (CMMS). Enterprise asset management (EAM) system. Computer-aided facilities management (CAFM) system. Integrated workplace management system (IWMS). Each type of facility management solution offers different functionalities and features, and one may be better than another for your company’s needs. Learn more about the differences and how an integrated solution is a “must have.”

Abstract: Aerospace and defense (A&D) has unique security needs. Avoiding the unauthorized sharing of technical information and intellectual property is essential. Product development systems (PDSs) provide the secure, real-time collaboration A&D needs, including extended and secure collaboration of distributed product development processes. PDSs control access to intellectual property, mitigating information sharing risks.

Abstract: For real estate companies, poor property management can be disastrous, increasing both costs and maintenance problems. The end result: dissatisfied customers—and poor competitive prospects. Communication is also integral to property management, so to keep its customers happy and to improve its maintenance practices, Inmobiliaria Colonial, a major Spanish real estate company, decided to implement an enterprise portal solution.

Abstract: In our new “wired” world, software is no less important than other products and services in our everyday lives. But people are generally more used to buying other products and services than software. In many ways, however, selecting software is similar to selecting other products and services. Find out the key factors and criteria you should include—and what you should leave out—when you’re in the market for a new software solution.

Abstract: Predictions of the death of software are overstated. In reality, businesses are becoming more reliant on technology, not less. What’s changing, however, is the number of options available for managing, delivering, and paying for software applications. Many independent software vendors recognize the benefits of offering software as a service--a delivery alternative that can present long-term benefits for all parties.

Abstract: After dealing with the over-hype of Y2K, companies have started to reconsider the best of breed as a viable solution to satisfy their software needs. This comes as a shock to the corporate systems culture when user communities were told that fully integrated software such as ERP, SCM, and EAM were the only way to meet their software needs. After developing a level playing field, this article examines the pro’s and con’s of one alternative over the other. Read on to see if you agree with the merits of the best of breed or fully integrated software approach to software selection.

Abstract: The core components of a retail information system are inventory management, inventory optimization, revenue management, sales management, and reports and inquiries. Non-core components can include financial, supply chain management, enterprise resource planning, customer relationship management, and warehouse management systems.

Abstract: Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems are software systems that cover the range of interaction a company has with its current, or potential customers. Its functionality can include marketing automation, sales force automation, help desk, customer service and support, partner management, contract management and creation, project and team management, Internet sales, e-mail response management, analytics, and important technical criteria.

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: Software developers need a powerful tool to control and plan the quality of their software applications. With a solution that offers project analysis, testing, and bug administration, you have options that can help increase the quality of your software products. Read about a software test tool that has administrative functions to help you more effectively plan, control, and evaluate your software as it’s developed.

Abstract: Effective IP management requires proper allocation of address space for adequate address capacity as needed, as well as accurate configuration of DHCP and DNS servers. Along with flawless configuration and management of each of these foundational elements of Internet protocol (IP) address management, address managers must also integrate these management functions into the broader IT network management environment.

Abstract: The requirement that enterprise software vendors deliver a measurable return on investment (ROI) has never been greater than right now. Customers are demanding that ROI analysis be a critical factor in their decisions to acquire new enterprise software. Without a demonstrable return, few customers are willing to invest scarce capital and human resources in new enterprirse software. A more complete analysis of return can be had by looking at the overall payback that enterprise software can offer to a company. Enterprise software payback includes not only quantifiable improvements in bottom and top line functionality, but also more qualitative measures-—such as new business opportunities, improved customer and partner relations, and improved time to market—-that contribute significantly to the success of a company's enterprise software implementation and use.

Abstract: Since our research-driven beginnings, Johnson & Johnson Advanced Sterilization Products (ASP) has continually improved the new product development (NPD) process. Detailed process mapping has revealed three tiers of business metrics, starting with drivers and moving up through execution metrics to business performance metrics. When driver metrics improves, so does business performance. Six Sigma tools helps identify specific metrics at all tiers and the causality linkages among them. Each NPD process step at ASP results in a deliverable, and each deliverable relates to a trade-off triangle (cost-time-resources) and, ultimately, to investment dollars. To track performance, ASP calculates how actual NPD decisions and what-if scenarios affect deliverables, alter investment triangles, and thereby influence business results. ASP uses similar process and tools, including the investment triangles and Six Sigma QFD, to make idea management decisions. The IDweb real-time software environment enables both the NPD and idea management processes at ASP. By deploying the strategic planning, idea management, portfolio and pipeline management, process management, and resource management modules of IDweb, ASP has increased throughput by 20 percent and reduced cycle time by 40 percent.

Abstract: Facilities management software systems used to function in separate technology silos. Now, vendors are adopting Web-based services, as well as on-demand and other emerging technologies. As the technology that solves the inefficiencies of working with geographic information systems (GISs) and computer-aided design (CAD) rapidly evolves, new opportunities emerge for facility and property managers. Learn more.

Abstract: When it comes to data and storage management, midsize organizations often face similar issues to those of their larger counterparts. Rapid data growth, business continuity, and data archiving are just a few of the problems they must deal with. By coupling IP-based storage area network (SAN) technology with Ethernet-based SAN connectivity, however, organizations can gain higher levels of efficiency and effectiveness.

Abstract: E-mail is more important to companies than ever, since sensitive information is e-mailed both inside and outside the organization. However, growth in overall e-mail volume, driven by more sophisticated spamming attacks, as well the need to ensure content is suitable for purpose, means that we now must reconsider how we view e-mail management within the organization.