Abstract: Client relationship management (CRM) technology can help capital-markets firms streamline investment banking activities, increase brokerage trade volume, and meet compliance challenges. As a nerve center for information about clients, prospects, institutions, syndicate partners, and other contacts, the right CRM system enables capital-markets firms to share intelligence, coordinate activities, and derive advantage from an integrated body of corporate knowledge and relationships.

Abstract: Globalization, technology stabilization, inventory visibility, and traceability are forcing organizations to reevaluate supplier relationship management systems. The benefits of a customer relationship management system that can be applied to a supply chain can streamline operations and increase bottom line results.

Abstract: Although end-user companies should continue to track the financial health of their vendors to possibly discern if the vendor will be a collector or one of the collected, the latest torrid 'love triangle' affair involving Oracle, PeopleSoft and J.D. Edwards may prove that even a seemingly stable vendor can involuntarily end up being acquired. If your vendor is acquired, do meet the new owners, given their motivation in buying your vendor was the install base and that is you. Showing interest is your part in keeping the relationship the way you want it.

Abstract: Other than for the peculiarity of a ‘love triangle’, the merger of SynQuest, Viwlocity and Tilion might be a harbinger of SCEM’s annexation by the realm of SCM, in which case, with a similar phenomenon of ERP absorbing MRP over a decade ago, history would repeat itself.

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: Despite technological advances, users are dissatisfied with customer relationship management (CRM) systems. Ambiguous terms do not provide the vocabulary for concrete action and measurable expectations. Thus, CRM is perceived to be about intangibles, and is approached with a let's-hope–for-the-best mentality.

Abstract: Customer relationship management (CRM) can be a tool for positive change in businesses' operations. Or CRM can—unintentionally—cause a host of problems, from lost employee time to lost customer data. But with the right information, implementing CRM allows evolution without the upset of revolution.

Abstract: Customer relationship management (CRM) is rapidly morphing from a customer management model to one of customer engagement. Social networks, podcasts, blogs, and wikis are enabling customers to become advocates, and not simply the targets they were in the traditional CRM process. The same techniques are also being used within the CRM industry itself to create a content-rich, social media environment for CRM professionals. Find out what these sweeping changes mean to businesses and CRM professionals alike, as TEC's director of research Wayne Thompson sits down with Paul Greenberg and Bruce Culbert of BPT Partners, a leading CRM consulting firm.

Abstract: An alarming number of companies get on the wrong track when creating a customer relationship management (CRM) vision. Outlined here are four steps that take the mystery out of what makes an effective CRM vision. The secret? It’s all about people and relationships.

Abstract: Surado Solutions aims to provide a complete customer relationship management suite. We'll analyze Surado CRM 5.0 from the perspectives of core functionality, its distinguishing factors, and the challenges users may face when considering the Surado solution.

Abstract: No company today can afford to ignore the value of its customers' natural social networking behavior. The advantages that these social networks can bring to a company's customer relationship management platform are powerful tools that can ultimately improve its products.

Abstract: Many organizations find it challenging to adopt sales force automation and customer relationship management solutions. Formal sales training and the related reinforcement tools can make the difference. We examine the key challenges and propose some solutions.

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 business case for integrating call center service resolution management into customer relationship management is becoming increasingly obvious, as companies need to rely more on inbound (customer-generated) calls than on outbound telemarketing efforts.

Abstract: The customer relationship management (CRM) market is changing. Over half the market is served by small vendors. Fully integrated business suites like NetSuite standalone solutions like salesforce.com, are heeding the demand for software as a service, but they are approaching the market with very different market strategies.

Abstract: Customer relationship management (CRM) functionality can fall into four categories: core functionality; non-core functionality; vertical, industry-specific features; and accounting-related features. When evaluating and selecting a CRM solution, enterprises must be aware of the potential issues associated with functions and features that are not part of core CRM functionality.

Abstract: Properly implemented supplier relationship management solutions can help companies overcome some of today's business challenges by allowing them to restructure their supply chains, align business processes, define and establish company-supplier relationships, and integrate information systems to share information with suppliers.

Abstract: What makes a strong supplier/customer relationship? The bottom line is trust. However, trust needs to be earned through a series of conversations and commitments that have been met.