Abstract: Today's usage of Decision Support Systems (DSS), combined with vetted CRM knowledge bases, allows organizations to save time and money, achieving better and more reliable/fully-documented decisions, a quantum improvement over the widely-used subjective process of selecting complex enterprise software...

Abstract: Decision matrix: a decision-support tool allowing decision makers to solve their problem by evaluating, rating, and comparing different alternatives

Abstract: Model-based architectures are conceptually superior on all fronts to conventional approaches to development. So far, they have not yet attained high levels of maturity and robustness and hence most organizations are living with conventional approaches. This paper compares the next generation of architectures, called model-based architectures, with current generation architectures from these perspectives. The extent of improvements in model-based architectures over current generations of applications is evaluated based on the above listed criteria for sustainable competitive advantage.

Abstract: Can you relate to the following software demo situation? Jennifer, the sales engineer, is at the keyboard. She’s on a roll. She’s been setting the stage to show how her price matrix capability will eliminate costly errors. This is all-important to the prospect. She has the audience’s full attention and is steadily moving them toward her objective. Suddenly Robert, the account executive, interrupts from the back of the room. “Jennifer, I think this would be a great time to show how the information you’re working with updates the data warehouse and is immediately available for sales analysis purposes.” Everybody shifts their attention from Jennifer and the all-important price matrix capability to Robert and the equally important data warehouse function. In an instant, the momentum Jennifer has been building dies.

Abstract: The biggest threat to data security doesn’t come from hackers, misconfigured firewalls, missing patches, or negligent employees. Nor is it in the application layer of the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) Basic Model. Instead, there are three undocumented layers of the OSI Model that exert a huge influence on security decisions and the integrity of security programs. Learn about those layers and how to manage the threat.

Abstract: For IT departments drowning in complex and expensive software maintenance chores, the software-as-a-service (SaaS) model can ease the burden. SaaS reduces complexity by outsourcing most of the infrastructure needed to run software applications, and reduces costs by charging only for what is consumed. But you can also adopt a hybrid SaaS model, in which some systems are outsourced and others are kept in-house. Learn more.

Abstract: Whether it’s for an in-house delivery model or an on-demand model, a business case needs to justify the total value of a solution. This ensures that the selected delivery model will help reduce operational costs and drive continuous value from IT investments. Learn how to properly prepare a business case that includes a total cost of ownership (TCO) analysis to assess both cost impacts and line-of-business impacts.

Abstract: To help fashion players achieve the most out of adopting PLM methodology and systems while respecting the uniqueness of fashion products and business processes, the article introduces a two-layer model to facilitate the process of selecting a fashion PLM solution.

Abstract: Organizations increasingly see business model innovation—not new products and services—as the basis of their competitive advantage. Common approaches to innovation include improvements to customer experience and supply chain management, and implementation of a service-oriented architecture (SOA). Learn how these innovations can help create new opportunities for companies and their customers, partners, and suppliers.

Abstract: Estimation process improvement offers a significant opportunity to get more success out of your software projects. As you gain a better understanding of the factors influencing your estimates and as you complete more iterations of each estimate, your model can become more sophisticated. Discover how to approach the task systematically with a defined technique and supporting data—an advantage over ad hoc techniques.

Abstract: Empirical evidence demonstrates that the benefits of a distributed IT services model are considerable—yet many companies still resist the change. If IT professionals took the time to fully understand the positive impact of distributed services models on both cost and value, they’d be better equipped to fight organizational resistance and develop a road map for successful change. Find out how you can build yours today.

Abstract: Computerized numerical control (CNC) is crucial to the successful operation of an enterprise resource planning (ERP) application, but the road to success is sometimes rocky. To surmount the challenges of meeting your CNC needs, learn how an on-demand (or CNC managed services) model can improve your return on investment, and streamline and standardize your business processes.

Abstract: Capstone Turbine Corporation, an energy innovator, needed to implement management, business model, and strategy changes. It also needed to improve product reliability, modularize configurations, and provide visibility. By using SAP products, such as SAP BI, SAP EP, and SAP Best Practices, it realized performance measures for key business activities, and improved sales and inventory management.

Abstract: To maximize the return on investment of a customer relationship management system, a new CRM best practices model should be used. A point-based system, self-assessment model that emphasizes senior management leadership and the need to create a culture consistent with CRM can lead to a deployment strategy that is correlated with success. An interactive version of this assessment is included with this article.

Abstract: WorkWise's business model is all about 'loving the customer'. A recent visit to their Customer Conference showed us the business plan in action. Is it time for other companies to consider this model?

Abstract: The value of a requirement traceability matrix is in its ability to track and monitor each requirement to be incorporated into the customer's product throughout the entire process of product development, and to detect defects at the earliest stage possible.

Abstract: Software as a service is the latest incarnation of the hosting model. The demand for cost efficiency, information technology flexibility, and faster return on investment, coupled with new technology advancements, has caused the hosting model to be reborn.

Abstract: The ASP model is the latest in a long line of silver bullets that are supposed to simplify the delivery of technology’s benefits to the business world. This article provides some simple guidelines for determining if you should consider the ASP model along with thoughts on selecting an ASP.

Abstract: Can you relate to the following software demo situation? Jennifer, the sales engineer, is at the keyboard. She's on a roll. She's been setting the stage to show how her price matrix capability will eliminate costly errors. This is all-important to the prospect. She has the audience's full attention and is steadily moving them toward her objective. Suddenly Robert, the account executive, interrupts from the back of the room.