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: 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: 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: This is an examination of EMR Innovations' ProcessPro ERP solution. Companies can begin determining if it is worthwhile to pursue a relationship with EMR Innovations by considering the selection criteria which are most supported by the vendor. We ask the question, all things being equal, which modules are the most complete in their contribution to the product's functionality.

Abstract: This is an examination of Metasystems ERP solution. Companies can begin determining if it is worthwhile to pursue a relationship with Metasystems by considering selection criteria, which are most supported by the vendor. We ask the question, all things being equal, which modules contribute the most to the product's functionality.

Abstract: Aligning information technology (IT) with corporate strategy is key to maximizing the business impact of IT investments. Tree Top's structured process of reviewing proposed IT investments will allow an enterprise to understand this alignment, and prioritize investments.

Abstract: This is an examination of Pronto Software's ERP solution. By looking at how areas where the Pronto product fulfills a large portion of selection criteria, companies can determine if it is worthwhile to pursue a relationship with Pronto. We ask the question, all things being equal, which modules contribute the most to the product's functionality.

Abstract: E-discovery is the extension of the discovery process to include identifying, preserving, collecting, reviewing, and analyzing electronically stored information. Today, it represents 35 percent of the total cost of litigation. Companies that fail to produce e-mail in a timely manner face paying fines and other risks. Learn how you can develop an e-discovery plan to better manage your electronic data discovery processes.

Abstract: Unfortunately, electronic documents are rarely categorized based on records management standards or retention policies. Organizations facing numerous claims, litigations, government investigations, or audits realize that identifying, locating, and reviewing electronic data is time-consuming and costly. A solution that helps archive and search for your vital electronic data can also ease your efforts to comply. Learn more.

Abstract: For dried fruit producer Sunsweet, a spreadsheet-based planning system just wasn’t working. After reviewing several solutions, Sunsweet selected the Zemeter supply chain planning suite to eliminate the repetitive work involved in spreadsheet management. Zemeter’s accurate forecasting and planning process ended up saving Sunsweet money by increasing production line efficiency and reducing overruns by 18 percent.

Abstract: Keeping track of your key business indicators is the difference between a thriving business concern and a business on life support. But even with this knowledge, one-third of chief executive officers (CEOs) feel they don’t spend enough time reviewing financial and operating numbers. But is spending more time agonizing over piles of data really the best solution?

Abstract: St. Marys Paper Ltd. is a pulp and paper mill located in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario (Canada). In 1989, it implemented a CHAMPS computerized maintenance management system (CMMS) to help reduce costs and improve efficiencies. In 1998, St. Marys decided to investigate potential vendors for a maintenance system upgrade. After reviewing several vendors, the mill again turned to CHAMPS.

Abstract: Electronic discovery, or e-discovery, is the process of identifying, collecting, filtering, searching, de-duplicating, reviewing, and potentially producing electronically stored information that relates to pending or anticipated litigation. Some particular characteristics of e-discovery need to be considered when developing search solutions. Find out what they are, as well as the truth about the effectiveness of keywords.

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.

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.