Abstract: Project portfolio management (PPM) is a tool-supported process for optimally managing an organization’s “portfolio” of projects. And although PPM can provide real value, many organizations are finding PPM implementations difficult. However, there are key approaches that can increase your likelihood of success, as well as an effective step-by-step process for implementing PPM within your organization.

Abstract: Business intelligence (BI) is a priority for many organizations, promising enhanced visibility and improved efficiencies. But for those with existing enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, implementing or updating a BI program raises especially interesting challenges. This set of vendor-neutral articles outlines best practices for creating or optimizing BI programs that effectively leverage existing ERP investments.

Abstract: Data mining has emerged from obscure beginnings in artificial intelligence to become a viable and increasingly popular tool for putting data to work. Data mining is a set of techniques for automating the exploration of data and uncovering hidden truths.

Abstract: In August, Epicor announced a revised portal strategy to provide rich portal content through a more secure and standardized portal platform. By leveraging Microsoft .NET across all product families, Epicor Portal will reportedly deliver data exploration, collaboration, and on-line management features.

Abstract: Now that you have planned and assessed your new system, it’s time to explore the next phase of the integration process: design and pre-deployment testing. Part 4 of this 4-part e-book series provides a basis for the exploration of network design. In addition, it includes a report card that will help you select the appropriate design and validation software tools for your Internet protocol telephony (IPT) system.

Abstract: Companies producing and selling complex and configured products can achieve a major competitive edge by successfully implementing product configurator software as a core element of a configurability strategy. This can provide a greater range of product variations, using fewer resources. Learn more about how you can gain the intended benefits from implementing a configurability strategy with product configurator software.

Abstract: Implementing a digital signature solution can secure business operations, reduce costs, advance business processes, and improve your competitive advantage. However, implementing an incompatible digital signature solution could end up costing thousands—if not hundreds of thousands of dollars more than necessary. Before you invest, get an overview of the options and their associated costs and different value propositions.

Abstract: A group of serial entrepreneurs was look¬ing to jump-start business operations at a series of high technology startups by implementing advanced manufacturing software early in the business cycle. In implementing Expandable ERP at each of their startup companies, the entrepreneurs were able to minimize their risk by developing a repeatable methodology for establishing sound manufacturing operations.

Abstract: As apparel and textile companies move to outsourcing production—relinquishing direct control in favor of a more cost-effective manufacturing model—a lean supply chain may appear to be the next logical step for further implementing cost and operational improvement. Not so, however. You can’t have a lean supply chain without lean manufacturing. Regardless of whether you or your partners engage in production, lean manufacturing is the lean engine that drives lean supply chain efficiencies. Accordingly, the business requirement for stability in a constantly changing demand environment motivates the fashion industry’s search for lean supply chain management principles and practices. Intentia, in cooperation with industry experts, have written a series of thought leadership white papers on the concept of implementing lean supply chain in the fashion industry. The second of this series, From Lean Manufacturing to Lean Supply Chain explains how lean manufacturing relates to lean supply chain management and where it differs and sometimes conflicts.

Abstract: Fashion companies need to respond quickly and strategically to major changes occurring in today’s global supply chains. Implementing a lean supply chain management strategy can enable cost savings and more efficient operations by realigning process according to a demand-driven model. Lean supply chain management uses Web-based technologies to create and maintain dynamic supplier networks. Such networks are able to deliver the highest customer value at the lowest cost. It also lays the groundwork for the next level of hands-free, wireless radio frequency identification-enabled processes. Intentia, in cooperation with industry experts, have written a series of thought leadership white papers on the concept of implementing lean supply chain in the fashion industry. The first of this series, “Lean Is Fashionable”, explores the impact of lean practices in the fashion and apparel industry during a period of momentous change.

Abstract: Implementing the proper business system can be as strategic and important to your bottomline as expanding your warehouse or bringing on new product lines. However, implementing the wrong solution or choosing an inexperienced solution provider can have serious negative effects on your business—-from lost opportunities and late orders to bankruptcy in some extreme cases. Consequently, it is imperative that wholesale distributors take time to clearly define their business processes and objectives before they start their search for new business software. This guide is designed to help wholesale distributors manage the entire software evaluation cycle, from needs analysis and budget planning through software selection and implementation.

Abstract: Part one of the “Lean Simplified” series looked at manufacturing wastes, lean principles, and the benefits of lean manufacturing. Here, in Part two, you’ll be taken through the action stage of lean practices: implementing lean. Understand the “5S” program toward implementing lean and begin laying the foundation of a discipline that is necessary for effective implementation of more complicated lean tools such as kanban.

Abstract: You have heard that something called split DNS can speed up websites. What does this mean and how does it work?

Abstract: Employee efficiency can greatly increase if information, currently scattered throughout a company, is structured through an appropriate enterprise content management system. Understanding the types of documents you have is key to knowing what type of system to implement.

Abstract: An investment analysis focusing on enterprise resource planning (ERP) benefits frequently applies to those firms initially justifying an ERP implementation. It can also be used to justify a 're-implementation' when the initial efforts have failed to produce desired results. Reprinted from Maximizing Your ERP System by Dr. Scott Hamilton.

Abstract: Enterprise resource planning (ERP) implementation costs can be divided into one-time costs and ongoing annual costs. Both types of costs can be segmented into hardware, software, external assistance, and internal personnel. Reprinted from Maximizing Your ERP System by Dr. Scott Hamilton.

Abstract: No enterprise is an island. Your company is a link in the business-to-business (B2B) supply chain. Thus, a seamless and efficient supply chain is a critical factor in your success—but you need to design a supply chain that focuses on demand, supply, and service to provide competitive differentiation in the marketplace. Learn how to strive for the perfect order and improve order accuracy with a business process solution.

Abstract: Electricity costs are an increasing portion of the total cost of ownership (TCO) for data centers. But you can dramatically reduce the electrical consumption of typical data centers through appropriate design of both the network-critical physical infrastructure and IT architecture. Discover how to quantify electricity savings and learn about methods that can greatly reduce your data center electrical power consumption.