Abstract: Companies that are not already offering the capabilities of meeting the exacting, stringent requirements of federal agencies will likely not be able to tap the recent surge in the federal and defense markets. Conversely, those vendors and their users--government contractors--who can deliver comprehensive solutions that satisfy the requirements of federal agencies are in the driver's seat to capture that market segment.

Abstract: In this economy, enterprise resource planning (ERP) software is a critical business asset and key driver of lean practices. According to Aberdeen Group, best-in-class manufacturing companies are 35 percent more likely than other companies to operate on a current version of ERP. Discover the key considerations?and the potential benefits?that you should keep top-of-mind as part of an overall application lifecycle strategy.

Abstract: Companies often overlook telesales as a vital source of core revenue. In fact, telesales can be a major driver of software sales and can make an impact far more quickly than field-based enterprise selling. Find out how IT telesales can assist with revenue growth, discover the keys to improving your IT telesales success, and learn why telesales usually involves identifying smaller, more product-focused opportunity.

Abstract: As a fast-growing company, you have the same objectives as any business. But you’re probably finding it challenging to gain the control you need to achieve these goals without sacrificing your IT budget. And when you try to achieve control, it’s often at the risk of slowing down your business. Find out how having enterprise-wide visibility of your business processes and activities can put you back in the driver’s seat.

Abstract: The critical difference between industry leaders and laggards is a focus on the consumer experience. Search is a fundamental bridge between an enterprise and its stakeholders, and the quality of the search experience is a core driver of experiential perceptions. Delivering a powerful search experience builds a brand perceived as responsive, empathetic, and knowledgeable. Sounds good, right? So where do you start?

Abstract: Do you spend all your time chasing new customers instead of taking care of the ones you already have? Most customer relationship management (CRM) projects focus on customer relationships but fail to address customer experience as a loyalty driver. In part two of a two-part series, learn about best practices recommended by customer experience management (CEM) experts, and how they can help you improve long-term loyalty.

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: Contemporary firms must recognize a fundamental shift in the management of distribution activities as a strategic driver of their competitive success. Instead of the traditional focus on pushing products to customers through distribution channels, there is a need to migrate toward adaptive distribution networks. Such networks focus on managing the flow orders from customers by providing them with high levels of convenience while preserving attention to responsiveness and total distribution costs.

Abstract: Integrating actuals into the planning cycle is usually a zoo. Financial and operating results are spread across multiple databases. Actual results and plan details are at different levels. Lack of underlying volumes and rates makes meaningful causal analysis difficult. Discover financial planning and analysis software that lets you fully integrate actuals, and plan using driver-based planning and reporting.

Abstract: With limited IT budgets and resources, how can small to midsized companies effectively and affordably manage and secure their digital assets? Creative companies, with assets that are almost entirely digital, are especially concerned with effective data management. Explore options that can save time and money—and provide your creative companies with creative solutions for solving your digital file management problems.

Abstract: Last week, adult sites were informed that Amex would no longer serve their clientele in processing online transactions. However, in the information technology sector, when one technology obstacle gets in the way, smart entrepreneurs get creative.

Abstract: USWEB/CKS has announced it fourth quarter results. Its performance is on the money, and continues to drive forward as it goes through expansion by mergers and organic growth. The expansion is directed at providing end-to-end services, for which the merger with Whittman-Hart is a key component. For users, this means that USWEB/CKS can address high-end projects and leverage its position as a leading internet creative services provider. However, it faces issues of staff retention and retaining its technology agnostic stance.

Abstract: By automating and optimizing business processes, companies gain the efficiency, clarity, and flexibility they need to support the creative development of products and services. Employees in such an environment spend less time on mundane business tasks, focusing instead on generating new ideas and innovative products. Learn how integrated software solutions can help you invest and innovate to sustain your company’s growth.

Abstract: Until recently, there has been no solution to help manage the complex tasks involved with multistep, multimedia follow-up. People have been forced to come up with “creative” ways to get the follow-up done—which is why we now offer you … Six Highly Effective Ways You Can Effortlessly Destroy Your Business by Mismanaging Complex Prospect and Customer Follow-up!

Abstract: Industry analysts and retail executives agree that, although competitive prices are a must, “low price” as a leading strategy will no longer lead to long-term business success. To successfully compete, midsized retailers must carve out a niche based on creative strategies, including better and more localized product assortments, flawless price management and execution, and optimized inventory down to the store level.

Abstract: Retailers stand to gain significantly by implementing critical strategic changes to the promotional advertising aspects of their business. These changes can include integrating disparate promotions-related processes and merging existing data stores with creative systems, as well as creating expedited advertising in real time—thus extending the marketing reach of their promotions. The direct result: more efficient and effective promotions.

Abstract: Developing a core competency in global sourcing is one of the critical business initiatives for retailers and channel masters. By understanding exactly how global sourcing strategies impact margins, retailers can develop creative product categories that push margins and profit higher. What do you need to master global sourcing techniques? What technologies should you use? Find out, with the five stages of global sourcing.