Abstract: Companies that have moved from a highly reactive environment to a more planned one notice significant improvement. A computer maintenance management or enterprise asset management system is useful tool to create a planned environment, help build accurate equipment history, and develop comprehensive analysis capability.

Abstract: Cowboyz.com builds and sells affordable firewall appliances to small to medium sized businesses. When not deploying firewalls, this small-time firewall vendor gives something back by taking notice and assisting to restore justice to a falsely accused convict.

Abstract: Many market observers might yawn at SAP's recent Premium Support announcement, but users increasingly appreciate more choice and certainty, and may take notice of what the market leader is trying to do with this middle-of-the-road support option.

Abstract: A company virtually unknown outside of the hospitality sector hits the ground running with a product, a marketplace, and a business model that might make some of the better-known e-procurement companies sit up and take notice.

Abstract: I'm Larry Blitz, editor of Technology Evaluation Centers’ (TEC) Vendor Showdown series. Welcome to our latest: ERP - Distribution Showdown. You’ll notice this one has a broader focus than Showdowns we’ve done in the past. Again we’ll be comparing three vendor solutions head-to-head, but not just on functionality. This time we’ll also look at the industries these solutions support, how well they cover different portions of the mid-market segment, and how their installed bases break out geographically. Of course, functionality is again a key component of this Showdown, broken down into four main distribution areas and 13 subareas. We hope you find today’s Showdown helpful and informative, and invite your comments and questions at showdown@technologyevaluation.com.

Abstract: In addition to growing at a breakneck pace for the last few years, Vendavo has recently rounded out its suite for price and margin management. The market should take notice, while the competition should indeed watch out.

Abstract: In today's cutthroat business environment, value-added reseller aspirants are seeing the need for faster deployment, improved systems quality, better cost control and resource utilization, and more flexibility to change requirements on short notice. The alternative? To disappear altogether.

Abstract: Companies that have moved from a highly reactive environment to a more planned one notice significant improvement. A computer maintenance management system (CMMS) or an enterprise asset management (EAM) is a useful tool to create a planned environment, help build accurate equipment history, and develop comprehensive analysis capability. Reprinted with permission from Plant Engineering and Maintenance magazine.

Abstract: At a first glance, one can even notice that the complementary nature of some SSA GT products and Infinium products may indeed provide a ‘kick for a buck’ proposition. Further, it appears that SSA GT understands and listens closely (via Global Guide Groups) to the needs of conservative ERP customers that are unwilling to ditch a good functional product even at a cost of its technological antiquity. Further, it has a track record of strong functional development that preserves the customer’s current investment.

Abstract: For many companies, a challenging business event or critical business pain precipitates a conversation about business intelligence (BI). But don’t wait until you introduce new products, upgrade your IT environment, or notice that your inventory is increasing but not your sales. Find out how to build a return on investment (ROI) for your BI applications and projects, so you can leverage your own data before it’s too late.

Abstract: Predictions of the death of software are overstated. In reality, businesses are becoming more reliant on technology, not less. What’s changing, however, is the number of options available for managing, delivering, and paying for software applications. Many independent software vendors recognize the benefits of offering software as a service--a delivery alternative that can present long-term benefits for all parties.

Abstract: High tech is the most brutally competitive of any manufacturing sector—which is why complacency can mean death for your company. How to secure lasting advantage without letting technology constrain your business processes? And how to prevail despite your partners’ legacy applications, the IT landscape of your recently acquired company, or the heterogeneous mix of your own IT landscape?

Abstract: To many executives, health insurance cost increases are as predictable as death and taxes. That’s why best-in-class organizations are embracing strategies which optimize benefit cost per employee. To succeed, these companies focus on wellness programs, clear communications about benefits choices, and benefits automation as part of an integrated system. And to compete effectively, other organizations will need to follow suit.

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 enterprise life cycle is often misunderstood, which can lead to complications during the selection, implementation, and maintenance phases. Knowing what to expect during each phase will allow an enterprise to get better money for value from the solution.

Abstract: On April 7, Gores Technology Group (GTG), a leading international technology and management company, and System Software Associates, Inc. (SSA) announced that SSA has agreed to sell substantially all of its assets to a newly formed subsidiary of Gores Technology.

Abstract: On September 20, Baan, an ERP vendor recently believed to be deceased, won its first new contract since being acquired by Invensys. The British Defence Aviation Repair Agency (DARA) has placed a large order for the complete Baan enterprise solution. Will the market witness Baan rising like a phoenix from the ashes?

Abstract: Because e-mail is a source of vital information, users are reluctant to delete old messages. To get around typical storage limits imposed by IT administrators, they often rely on Microsoft Outlook PST files that are stored on individual work stations instead of on a central server—a solution that carries serious risks. Find out what those risks are, and learn about e-mail archiving solutions that can help you avoid them.