Abstract: General enterprise resource planning (ERP) providers that are viable companies with a solid product, typically do not meet the dimensional inventory, chemical, and physical properties requirements that are vital to the metal service industry and material converter businesses.

Abstract: To enable organizations to support lean and traditional manufacturing practices in a single system, Microsoft Dynamics AX has incorporated lean manufacturing constructs into its package. Several case studies illustrate the use of kanbans in various lean environments.

Abstract: Decison support systems range from simple electronic filing cabinets to complex data intensive and analytically sophisticated executive information systems. This primer provides an overview with real case studies.

Abstract: Two recent studies on the growth of business over the Internet agree that growth is still strong. The studies contain information about infrastructure growth and development costs as well as E-commerce revenues.

Abstract: Among all customer relationship management (CRM) user groups, the sales organization is often the most important—and challenging—to win over. With sales force automation (SFA) one of the primary drivers for a CRM initiative, and one of the primary measures of its success, user adoption among the sales force is crucial. Learn the principles you can use to select a CRM system that sales users feel was built just for them.

Abstract: Continuous process simplification of inherently complex enterprise applications should be the primary goal. Apptricity believes that the primary focus for business- technology managers should be on achieving a rapid application integration and deployment to guarantee measurable return on investment (ROI). Business technology and business managers should not have to constantly recalibrate solution delivery objectives or re-scope project deliverables with reduced functionality because of finger pointing or other rationalized justifications. How can ROI be assured and achieved more rapidly? What are the major decisions faced by organizations relative to their information technology (IT) strategy, and how does this impact ROI? And why would a company choose an (application suite) versus extending in-house legacy systems?

Abstract: Making a robust business case to convince management how a software solution can make a valuable contribution to your business isn’t easy. To build a successful case, you need a set of practical examples of what the software does and the benefits it can provide. Examine the strategies and problems associated with achieving your manufacturing objectives, and what the Lighthouse Systems’ solution can do to address them.

Abstract: Many companies don’t place a high enough value on the importance of learning and development. How can you convince the rest of your organization to get on board? You need to build a business case that involves more than a return on investment (ROI) document or static business plan. Find out ten steps that can help you address immediate problems, build alliances throughout the company, and make a successful business case.

Abstract: As a world class supplier of metal stampings, automated assemblies, lamination stamp¬ings, and die castings, Orchid International’s products can be found in virtually every home or automobile. Its challenge was to find a way—with an IT staff of three people—to run five manufacturing facilities operating varying manufacturing processes as a tier-one and tier-two supplier to demanding customers in a variety of industries.

Abstract: Whether it’s for an in-house delivery model or an on-demand model, a business case needs to justify the total value of a solution. This ensures that the selected delivery model will help reduce operational costs and drive continuous value from IT investments. Learn how to properly prepare a business case that includes a total cost of ownership (TCO) analysis to assess both cost impacts and line-of-business impacts.

Abstract: When it comes to disaster recovery (DR) software, companies should think of it as an insurance policy—not just software that recovers lost data. Being prepared for disaster makes good business sense, but oddly enough, few companies are. Because Linux distributions don’t include DR tools, companies must look to a file-based recovery solution that can recover the entire system and eliminate the need to rebuild.

Abstract: Today’s leading-edge business applications go beyond mere Web enablement, where publishing information to the Web is the primary motive (referred to nowadays as Web 1.0 applications). State-of-the-art enterprise software must also incorporate a single, integrated interface that links applications instantly to business processes and collaborative technologies. However, developing Web 2.0 applications is anything but trivial.

Abstract: Wist, an office supply company offering over 40,000 products, was running an outdated enterprise resource planning (ERP) system. The primary concern was the system’s lack of flexibility, which incurred unnecessary labor costs. As well, errors were common and prevented Wist from getting the information needed for data analysis. With a new ERP for distribution, Wist has streamlined operations and reduced costs. Learn how.

Abstract: The lack of effective game plans is typically cited as a leading cause of poor system implementation. The following guidelines provide suggestions for improving the effectiveness of sales and operations planning (S&OP) game plans.

Abstract: ERP Plus provides tools that metal fabricators need to streamline their quoting, order entry, inventory control, production, labor collection, shipping, and invoicing processes.

Abstract: While many software professionals know one or more software sizing techniques—most have a reasonable understanding of function point analysis (FPA) or use case point techniques—they’re often stymied when it comes to making a real-life estimate. Learn a methodology that can help you make realistic estimates, including best- and worst-case scenarios that you can use to make pricing and delivery commitments to clients.

Abstract: The complexity of the metal manufacturing process often poses problems when it comes to planning and scheduling production. The sector’s many different processes often cause bottlenecks that slow down production—not only within plants, but throughout entire supply chains. With an industry-specific production planning and scheduling system, manufacturers can improve productivity, reduce lead times, and increase revenues.

Abstract: Carefully tracking components and assemblies throughout the manufacturing process can prevent costly production and sequencing errors, but executing these procedures can be difficult. While bar codes provide accurate, efficient product identification, they are not viable in many common industrial processes. Specialized RFID tags, however, are optimized for use on or around metal, and are an effective and viable alternative.