Abstract: Helsinki (Finland)-based Rautaruukki Oyj is a leading supplier of metal-based components, systems, and integrated systems to the construction and mechanical engineering industries. The company has a wide portfolio of metal products and services, with operations in over 20 countries. Find out how the company found a solution to manage inventory, manufacturing productivity, and delivery performance.

Abstract: In our new “wired” world, software is no less important than other products and services in our everyday lives. But people are generally more used to buying other products and services than software. In many ways, however, selecting software is similar to selecting other products and services. Find out the key factors and criteria you should include—and what you should leave out—when you’re in the market for a new software solution.

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: As there are many different categories of outsourcing services, there are also many outsourcing providers. With many different aspects to consider, how can a company ensure they have made the right choice in selecting one?

Abstract: In PLM, there is no single vendor that can meet all of the requirements, and the market is still immature, so almost every product can be the right solution provided a certain set of requirements. In this part of the article we review 3 vendors who offer products to the PLM market - IDe, Thetis, and PDMware - as a demonstration that selecting the appropriate solution is highly dependant on the prioritized needs of the business.

Abstract: Past experience shows us that the vast majority of enterprise technology evaluations run over time and budget, and once selected, the majority of the implementations fail to meet functional, return on investment (ROI) and total cost of ownership (TCO) expectations. Enterprise technology selections for ERP, CRM, SCM, and other enterprise applications provide valuable lessons that can be applied to selecting PLM software, but there are some key differences that need to be recognized.

Abstract: As the final article in a three-part series on outsourcing security, the following article provides guidelines for selecting a dependable managed security services provider.

Abstract: Find out in ten pitfalls to avoid when selecting a cmms/eam.

Abstract: You probably already know that a human resources information system (HRIS) should track all information on current and former employees, and reduce your HR staff’s workload. Not sure what lies beyond that? There are a few things you should know before selecting an HRIS. Find out how to identify your HR needs, so your HRIS can help you reach your business objectives—and give you a quick return on investment (ROI).

Abstract: This Business Engine white paper provides a technical account on the process behind scoring, selecting, and scheduling the technology portfolio. The document offers additional insight into weighting criteria that should be considered as part of the portfolio management and optimization process. The document further provides insight into considerations for alignment, and how to know if the portfolio is in fact properly aligned with business objectives.

Abstract: Selecting a product lifecycle management (PLM) system can be a challenge if a company is not aware of the options available on the market. But if an organization starts by understanding what the technology should address, and further understands the needs of its unique business and market segment, it can select a PLM tool that makes product development more efficient, and can help transform the organization. Find out how.

Abstract: As you look for ways to get the most out of your existing operating assets, enterprise asset management (EAM) and computerized maintenance management system (CMMS) solutions are key. However, when it comes to researching, selecting, and implementing the right EAM/CMMS software, you need to avoid several mistakes. Discover 10 common errors you should avoid if you’re looking for a new or replacement EAM or CMMS solution.

Abstract: High-performance digital video recorders (HPDVRs) solve a range of business and scientific challenges. The ability to capture, play back, correlate, measure, and analyze visual events can be invaluable for various industries. Learn key guidelines for selecting an HPDVR from amongst the multitude of DVR solutions on the market today—very few are designed and built to meet the demands of high performance video recording.

Abstract: Recently, the traditional method of selecting software based on functions and features has come under scrutiny. Some even suggest that this method is unduly drawn out and fails to focus on the critical processes of business. As you might expect, vendors would rather sell you out-of-the-box business processes and solutions that would improve efficiency, increase yields, and drive their costs down. A third alternative for selecting software, which will be discussed in this article, attempts to provide the assurances needed by the buyer and the efficiency desired by the vendor.

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

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.