Abstract: You have convinced upper management that flow manufacturing will enable your company to leapfrog the competition. You have appointed a flow process leader, and selected a line for your flow pilot. Now it’s time to physically perform your first line implementation. The big question is, what exactly do you need to do to make the transition from discrete to flow?

Abstract: The University of Maryland School of Medicine had already experienced VMware technology as a way to consolidate its servers; what it didn’t realize was that the company’s solution could also address its disaster recovery needs. By combining two storage technologies—creating a common storage area network (SAN)—the school has reduced unexpected downtime from hours to seconds and has saved thousands of dollars in hardware costs.

Abstract: The Mobile County Public School System was frustrated with frequent attacks by viruses and malware on its student and staff workstations. The school district’s IT department searched for ways to gain more control over the multi-user computer environment. With Faronics’ Deep Freeze servers, IT now has centralized control of workstations, and increased protection against the effects of spyware, malware, and viruses.

Abstract: While lean/flow leverages practices to stay ahead of actual demand, traditional approaches better coordinate secondary, back-office systems like accounting and HR. Moreover, flow should be a company-wide strategy that impacts more than manufacturing.

Abstract: Lean execution strategies within enterprises and across supply chains can dramatically reduce cycle times, improve quality, reduce waste, and improve bottom lines. In other words, lean is more than an advantage: it is a competitive necessity. Oracle’s Flow Manufacturing module capabilities in lean execution can enable the transition from a discrete, push-based manufacturing environment to a flow, pull-based one.

Abstract: Today’s critical cash-flow and liquidity concerns are demanding executive-level attention. Turmoil in the financial markets is leaving many companies struggling to ensure the cash flow and liquidity needed for normal operations. Learn about software solutions that can help your company protect its commercial cash flows, improve visibility into sources and uses of cash, and increase control over global cash balances.

Abstract: To select a new enterprise resource planning (ERP) system, Katy Independent School District (Katy ISD) turned to Gibson Consulting Group to manage the project’s complexities. Gibson partnered with TEC, taking advantage of the eBestMatch decision support system (DSS). Find out how TEC and Gibson helped Katy ISD reduce the cost and duration of the selection project, and deliver a compelling business case to stakeholders.

Abstract: A school district in Missouri sought to optimize the booking and scheduling of its newly modernized conference and meeting spaces. Its old scheduling software was frustrating, as it was difficult to customize and configure. But after installing Meeting Room Manager, the schools are able to set specific room and equipment configurations, and post activities online as well as on a public viewing screen. Learn more.

Abstract: Newport Independent school district’s implementation of a formal energy-conservation policy created problems for the district-wide computer system. Rather than having to manually shut down up to 900 computers at the end of every day, the district’s head IT technician opted to centralize control with Faronic’s Power Save technology. The final result: a solution that is both environmentally and fiscally responsible.

Abstract: The school of business at one of Canada’s largest universities realized its old system for online registration, customer relationship management (CRM), and e-mail lacked needed functionality. The school wanted better reporting capabilities, automated waitlist maintenance, the ability to locate and change multiple profiles, and more. The learning management system (LMS) finally chosen allows easy modifications. Learn more.

Abstract: Schools often need to deploy computers that offer a limited feature set, as limiting a computer’s functions is important to protecting its purpose and keeping students focused. To lock down student workstation functionality, Newburgh Enlarged City School District finally implemented a solution to control system settings and application functionality. Learn more about the features and functionality of this workstation access solution.

Abstract: Computerized maintenance management system (CMMS). Enterprise asset management (EAM) system. Computer-aided facilities management (CAFM) system. Integrated workplace management system (IWMS). Each type of facility management solution offers different functionalities and features, and one may be better than another for your company’s needs. Learn more about the differences and how an integrated solution is a “must have.”

Abstract: Flow manufacturing leverages techniques to help manufacturers create any product on any given day, in any given quantity including the

Abstract: The core components of a retail information system are inventory management, inventory optimization, revenue management, sales management, and reports and inquiries. Non-core components can include financial, supply chain management, enterprise resource planning, customer relationship management, and warehouse management systems.

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: Effective IP management requires proper allocation of address space for adequate address capacity as needed, as well as accurate configuration of DHCP and DNS servers. Along with flawless configuration and management of each of these foundational elements of Internet protocol (IP) address management, address managers must also integrate these management functions into the broader IT network management environment.

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: The 2006 PMI Research Conference was an excellent venue for gauging the direction in which project management research is heading. The presentations of the areas of portfolio management and program management confirm the rising demand for project portfolio management solutions.