Abstract: Developers obviously need to leverage best techniques to migrate MS Access applications to the MS SQL Server and Oracle Client/Server database platforms. However, they can also benefit from a presentation of specific migration procedures; guidance on which migration path makes the most sense; and a list of criteria to assist with the decision on whether to migrate at all.

Abstract: The pharmaceutical industry is highly competitive, regulated, and in a permanent state of change. Customers demand instant attention, while suppliers require comprehensive leading edge services with regard to their products. Regulatory authorities require that the industry keep up to date with regulations, following them to the letter. Competitors are always inventing new ways to gain market share, while e-business presents new opportunities and challenges. All the while the pressure to reduce prices and to shorten order cycles is high. Pharmaceutical wholesalers comprise the lifeline within the pharmaceutical industry, providing continuity of supply and facilities for storage. They also offer a range of supporting services, such as information technology systems and product withdrawal notifications, which form an essential part of the total healthcare package. These companies and institutions all operate in an environment where speed and efficiency may mean the difference between life and death. However, the industry has a number of specific requirements that are critical for achieving success in the distribution sector.

Abstract: The challenges that face the manufacturing industry today are also opportunities. Manufacturing is being revolutionized in its processes, routines, and ways of doing business through the growing emergence of order driven production methods. This shift towards demand driven manufacturing is emerging in tandem with the larger currents caused by globalization. This cross industry brief focuses on the manufacturing industry from the standpoint of a demand driven IT solution and is aimed at manufacturing and distribution businesses. It describes some major market trends and issues, provides an overview of IBS supply chain solution, and offers details on how the IBS solution for demand driven manufacturing can address current needs of the industry.

Abstract: This tutorial, part 2 of a two part series on Knowledge Based Selection, demonstrates the selection processes and capabilities of Knowledge Based Selection Methods and Tools. These tools, integrated with business decision making procedures, can arguably reduce selection risk and improve chances for success in IT projects. Given the appalling rate of IT project failures, selection can potentially help reduce risk in some 30% of cases, with an associated estimated cost of about $30B annually to industry according to some sources. In this tutorial, we illustrate a number of the procedures for rapid decision processing through the real-life selection of a PDA device. The process gave confidence to the argument to wait for the solution, while weighing risk against return.

Abstract: The main purpose of lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures is to prevent accidents, save lives, and protect equipment from extensive damage. But it’s important that these procedures don’t become routine—in fact, you should consider how you can improve work safety to prevent errors and eliminate accidents. Learn how an automated lockout and tag out solution can help improve processes, and provide business and financial benefits.

Abstract: The textile industry is famous for its very different characteristics when compared to industries in either process or discrete manufacturing. Developing production planning and scheduling software for any textile mill is a real challenge even for seasoned industry experts. This article focuses on some of the unique challenges posed to master requirement planning and master production scheduling (MRP / MPS) software vendors by the textile industry.

Abstract: There’s a buzz in the automotive industry around the concept of “strategic workforce management”—getting the right people, for the right job, at the right time, to improve overall business results. Strategic workforce management goes beyond the traditional role of human resources: it’s a strategic initiative and competitive weapon to help today’s automotive companies drive corporate goals and objectives.

Abstract: Despite intense price competition for its volume products, the electrical products industry remains healthy and dynamic. World-class companies are succeeding by marketing innovative products, scaling up and outsourcing production, expanding into new geographic areas, implementing more efficient business systems, and focusing on ever-closer relationships with suppliers, partners, and customers. This white paper explores the issues of manufacturers, wholesalers, and distributors and the current state and future of the industry. Industry specific technological are also discussed.

Abstract: Many oil and gas industry suppliers chose enterprise software prior to 1999, when software designed to meet the needs of the oil and gas industry didn’t exist. This affects the efficiency of these companies—and will prevent them from pursuing new revenue streams in the future. However, project-enabled solutions can now cater to the oil and gas industry’s needs, helping you adjust to current market demands. Learn more.

Abstract: Industri-Matematik had no complaints about its performance during the first quarter of fiscal 2001 in spite of lower revenues and earnings.

Abstract: Hearing the complaints of dissatisfied customers, some vendors are developing customer-centric contracts. HarrisData has even gone so far as to draft a Bill of Rights for customers. How well do these pledges measure up?

Abstract: The rise of electronic records is having a profound effect on business litigation. Electronic records are now so important that the litigation rules in US federal courts have been officially amended to give judges and litigants more guidance on coping with records. IT managers tasked with setting policies for e-mail retention should understand the amended rules before any lawsuit is started or anticipated. Learn more.

Abstract: Many frustrated executives find that despite the fortune spent on managing servers, networks, and applications, there are still complaints about the performance, usability, and availability of their customer relationship management (CRM) solutions. How do you know if your CRM system performs for each user? What does it mean when users say the system is slow? An experience management solution can give you the answers.

Abstract: Since 1985, TrailTech Inc. has provided the agriculture, construction, and transportation industries with state-of-the-art trailer equipment. However, inaccurate bills of materials (BOMs) were causing bottlenecks, missed delivery dates, and substandard productivity. After TrailTech implemented an enterprise resource planning (ERP) system that created real-time BOMs and eliminated bottlenecks, customer complaints of delinquent deliveries reduced dramatically, improving stress levels throughout the plant.

Abstract: How many of your online customers are happy customers? Today, few organizations can answer this question accurately, usually relying on customer complaints to highlight areas of underperformance. However, a significant proportion of unsatisfied online customers won’t even bother to complain. But now, organizations can track customer interactions in real time—transforming online experiences into truly effective channels for customer care.

Abstract: Workplace privacy issues are increasing dramatically, along with related employee complaints and litigation. As companies struggle to control health care costs, increase productivity, and maintain company confidentiality, they become concerned with how employees spend their time away from work. Meanwhile, employees naturally have a strong desire to limit “invasion” of their personal lives. Just where do you draw the line?

Abstract: Does your company have a simple way to publish and maintain internal documentation? If people are using workarounds instead of reading documents on the corporate intranet, it’s a warning sign that there’s no appropriate publishing system in place. But there are alternatives and practical tips that can help you choose a cost-effective solution, based on the familiar Lotus Domino platform.

Abstract: A comprehensive study done by TechnologyEvaluation.Com has shown that, for years the FBI has been alienating industry security experts. Some of the best industry security professionals want nothing to do with helping the FBI resolve cybercrime. Recently, one of the leading Department of Justice attorneys general, well-known for expertise in successfully prosecuting cybercrime, asked TechnologyEvaluation.Com why so many security and information technology professionals snub their noses at law enforcement agencies that exist to protect our nation's vital assets - private and public. TechnologyEvaluation.Com went behind the scenes to find o