Abstract: When The Clientele Group of Epicor Software Corporation was faced with scalability and performance limits in their CRM software, they redesigned their application around the Microsoft® .NET Framework. A server architecture based on SQL Server™ 2000 and XML Web services removes their scalability limits, and supports multiple client applications. A smart client built with Windows® Forms gives customer support personnel a responsive application that is easy to deploy and update. A Web portal built with ASP.NET Web Forms gives authorized customers access to the same records as customer support sees internally. The new architecture can support 500 users on a single dual-CPU server, and offers many ways to scale up and out.

Abstract: For the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) to fulfill its vital health mission, it must expedite and streamline its workflow processes—and the forms, approvals, and documents associated with those processes. As NIMH grew, tracking and managing forms was just one challenge that needed to be addressed. Learn about the Web-based workflow software that provides users with automated business process management.

Abstract: While the Strategic Unit team formation should help SSA Global to figure out how to fully integrate organizational structure where employees are best integrated, service offerings best coordinated and cross-selling opportunities best tracked and pursued, the vendor must continue to clarify the position and integration of competing and complementary products in its fold, which gets complicated with every new addition to the family.

Abstract: Through its recently formed Strategic Solutions team, SSA Global might be showing that it is not just an ERP collector that is living off milking its install base, but rather an extended enterprise applications provider that can appeal to both its current and new users.

Abstract: SSA Global seems to be doing some proper thinking while continuing to acquire new software companies. Recent unification of its broadening collection of supply chain management (SCM) solutions under the SSA SCM brand and formation of a specialized Strategic Solutions division--which also includes other extended enterprise capabilities, such as customer relationship management (CRM), product lifecycle management ([PLM), and more—are both aimed at nurturing existing customers while attracting new prospects with products that exceed far beyond mere enterprise resource planning (ERP) capabilities.

Abstract: Bluecross Blueshield of South Carolina (BCBSSC) had been using optical character recognition (OCR) technology for many years, but wanted to improve productivity by automating its claims processing system from document and data capture to document storage. By integrating AnyDocCLAIM into its existing automated system, BCBSSC has increased its processing speed and averages more than 400 claims per hour.

Abstract: Recently delivered products like ViaView, a product that combines supply chain visibility, event management, and decision support, or FourSite WMS product, designed specifically for the 3PL industry, show that Provia is adept at leveraging its position to generate new forms of revenue.

Abstract: Using our ERP - Distribution Evaluation Center, we compared Oracle's JD Edwards and Technology Group International head-on. For the overall rankings portion, we looked at these vendors' solutions in two basic configurations, with and without back-office (human resources [HR] and financials) functionality. To eliminate any chance of bias and to ensure a level playing field, all 3, 414 criteria comprising all the modules and submodules in the ERP - distribution request for information (RFI) were given equal weight and priority...

Abstract: Using our Merchandising Evaluation Center , we compared Lawson Software, Epicor, and Aldata Solution head-on. For the overall rankings portion, we looked at these vendor solutions in two basic configurations, with and without POS functionality. To eliminate any chance of bias, and to ensure a level playing field, all 3,072 criteria comprising all the modules and submodules in the merchandising request for information (RFI) were given equal weight and priority…

Abstract: The whisky industry is an example of a process industry where it is impossible to accurately predict demand for the final product. Goods stocked must also be meticulously accounted for, in both intermediate (partially finished) and bulk forms.

Abstract: Using our EAM Evaluation Center, we compared Mincom Ellipse, CHAMPS, and IFS head-on. For the overall rankings, we looked at the vendors in two basic configurations: with back-office (HR and financials) functionality, for a total of eight main modules, and without, for a total of six main modules. To eliminate any chance of bias, and to ensure a level playing field, all 3,146 criteria comprising the modules and submodules in the EAM request for information (RFI) were given equal weight and priority.

Abstract: Using a knowledge base in the selection process can reduce the time, risk and cost of procuring technology. Well constructed knowledge bases that are used in a tested selection methodology reduce the RFI process from months to weeks, eliminate data quality issues and allow an apples to apples comparison of vendor offerings.

Abstract: Since a 'one-size-fits-all' product is still not quite a viable possibility, almost every product can win provided a certain set of requirements. The Catch 22 for both buyers and vendors/VARs is to pinpoint the right opportunity in this ongoing 'dating game'. An RFP/RFI selection process can streamline the initial phase of an ERP selection process while addressing many of the buyer's vital questions.

Abstract: Today’s Showdown is based on an industry-specific case study. Five enterprise resource planning vendors were selected for the evaluation. All the results were based on the latest request for information (RFI) supplied to us by the vendors, and all priorities were assigned by the client.

Abstract: Using our Merchandising Evaluation Center, we compared Lawson Retail Operations Management, Epicor CRS Merchandising, and Aldata G.O.L.D. head on. For the overall rankings portion, we looked at these vendor solutions in two basic configurations: with and without POS functionality. To eliminate any chance of bias, and to ensure a level playing field, all 3,072 criteria comprising all the modules and submodules in the merchandising request for information (RFI) were given equal weight and priority…

Abstract: There is certainly room to ask the fundamental question of whether the traditional practice of RFI/RFP-based selection processes has been adequate for the task of selecting complex systems. The record indicates there is much room for improvement. In essence, for complex selections like in the case of enterprise applications, the human-machine combination has to work together to drive the solution.

Abstract: IT infrastructure consisting of networks, servers, databases, and even parts of application systems forms a networked computing system (NCS) whose performance must be actively managed to ensure continual business support. But the skills and tools necessary to ensure that network and server systems provide adequate levels of services and performance are expensive and scarce. Management service providers (MSPs) that specialize in performance management can apply expert personnel and 24/7 monitoring at a fraction of the cost required to staff the function internally.

Abstract: Before you begin implementing Microsoft® Office SharePoint® Server 2007, familiarize yourself with the product’s design and features. This guide walks you through key feature areas, highlighting additions and improvements to portal, search, content management, business forms and integration, and business intelligence (BI). It also includes resources for evaluating Microsoft® Office SharePoint® Server 2007, as well as implementation considerations for administrators and developers.