Abstract: Whether you’re familiar with the world of accounting or not, understanding the basic concepts and principles of accounting functions can give you an essential edge in the competitive manufacturing sector. This in-depth guide, complete with glossary, takes you through the step-by-step process of cost accounting for manufacturers—from prototype manufacturing, shipping, and full production, through to financial reports.

Abstract: The new focus for business leaders is customer advocacy, soon to become the most important strategic initiative for cutting-edge, forward-thinking companies. A crucial department in the company is thus the customer contact center, as it plays a pinnacle role in branding, corporate image, and customer lifetime value. Adopting a customer-centric culture has a direct impact on corporate financial viability.

Abstract: To ensure a positive customer experience, companies must first learn what their customer values, and then determine how they are measuring up to those values. Obtaining and taking action on customer feedback is what customer experience management is all about.

Abstract: Small businesses often become trapped by their outdated accounting systems, limiting their profits and arresting their growth. How can your business avoid this software trap? Planning and anticipating your business growth will help you minimize this costly mistake. Find the right accounting or enterprise resource planning solution to help your small business continue to expand and remain successful.

Abstract: Recent changes in accounting standards and compliance, along with greater emphasis on managing risk and value, have introduced new key measures of bank performance and made it more important to coordinate the internal and external reporting of financials and risk. To meet these challenges, banks must do their utmost to more fully integrate their accounting data and processes.

Abstract: Making a list and checking it twice is a particularly good practice when picking a finance and accounting software solution. If you don’t find the right product for your company, you’ll just pay for the mistakes on the back end. But first you need to know which features your small to midsize business must have and which you don’t want. Get some tips that will help you create your finance and accounting checklist.

Abstract: This white paper introduces customer self-service and how using Surado Web Self-Service can increase customer satisfaction, reduce costs, and increase return on investments (ROI). The key is to understand your customer, your products and services, and the tools available to deliver service to maximize customer satisfaction and reduce customer service costs. This paper will discuss the various self-service options available, how to utilize best practices, delivery technology and how customer self-service is tied to the 'big picture' of customer relationship management (CRM).

Abstract: It’s never been more important to create and sustain mutually valuable customer relationships. How can your company improve execution of customer-centric business management and drive total customer value? Learn about four best practices for better customer experience management, including building genuine relationships through collaboration. Explore the next frontier in achieving genuine customer relationships.

Abstract: Customer service means being aware of needs, problems, and fears. Studies have shown that the cost of acquiring a customer is seven to ten times that of retaining a current customer. And according to The Harvard School of Business, even a 5 percent improvement in customer retention can boost profits up to 85 percent. How do companies retain a loyal and consistent customer base? They listen, learn, and adapt—find out more.

Abstract: As one-to-one marketing begins to permeate mainstream business practices, organizations in highly competitive markets struggle to gain an advantage. Thus, as part of an ongoing effort to differentiate products and services, best-in-breed organizations are now using a tool called “customer lifetime value,” a metric that projects a customer’s value over the entire span of that customer s relationship with a company.

Abstract: Old-world quality is great for a chocolate manufacturer, but old-style business systems are not. Hauser Chocolatier learned this the hard way, struggling for years with DOS-based accounting software. Needing a seamless flow of information from a system that would accommodate Hauser’s unique pricing structure, the company chose Sage MAS 90. Find out how Hauser uses this accounting solution for more than just accounting.

Abstract: Not all integrated accounting and point of sale (POS) systems are created equal. If sales prices aren’t updated, or if on-hand stock isn’t managed properly, you will be at a major competitive disadvantage. Fully integrated accounting systems move information smoothly from one module to another—but what does integration as it applies to accounting and POS software really mean?

Abstract: For most companies, changing accounting software is a daunting challenge. Not only is transitioning the accounting function to a new software package tricky in itself, but it is usually catalyzed by one or more business challenges that are (hopefully) solved by the new system. Knowing that, how can you minimize the risks involved in selecting a new accounting application?

Abstract: The Public Company Accounting Reform and Investor Protection Act of 2002 (also known as the Sarbanes-Oxley Act 0f 2002) was passed by US lawmakers to reinforce honest and transparent corporate practices in the wake of the various public accounting scandals and corporate failures of the 1990s. The Act, named after US Senator Paul S. Sarbanes and US Congressman Michael G. Oxley, has changed the way public companies do business. Although not specifically covered under the Act, non-public entities are also finding that bankers, investors, and acquisition candidates are now conditioned to expect increased transparency and real-time disclosures, in effect placing a greater accounting and reporting burden on companies that are not legally obligated to comply with this act. As with any far-reaching legislation of this magnitude, there is plenty of hype that has emerged in connection with this law. This document is designed to help companies large and small navigate some of the 'hype' that sometimes blurs the line between fact and fiction.

Abstract: Customer data integration (CDI) involves consolidation of customer information for a centralized view of the customer experience. Implementing CDI within a customer relationship management initiative can help provide organizations with a successful framework to manage data on a continuous basis.

Abstract: Organizations often rely on surveys and questionnaires to determine customer satisfaction ratings, but such methods merely offer a perceived customer rating. Obtaining a realistic measure of customer satisfaction involves computing a metric based on a composite customer satisfaction rating system.

Abstract: Focusing on the customer is not new. But some companies are going deeper into a customer experience management strategy to become customer-centric. Can you manage every part of the interaction and experience your customers have with your company? Learn how to develop a customer-centric approach that will make your customers feel not only connected, but delighted, loyal, and able to be a consistent advocate of your brand.

Abstract: The secret to finding opportunity and growth in a downturn lies in your customer base. Don’t struggle to find ways to cut costs. Learn how your organization can use customer-centric strategies and customer relationship management (CRM) tools to maximize the value and loyalty of your customer base, get insight into new areas of opportunity, and do more with less—so your company can succeed in times of economic uncertainty.