Abstract: Established in 2002, Fibrelogic is now Australia’s leading fiberglass pipe company. Recognizing that its spreadsheet-based systems—for everything from inventory management to financials—were delaying month-end reporting, the company implemented the PRONTO-Xi enterprise resource planning (ERP) system. Learn how the new system helped Fibrelogic access information for strategic decision making and improve customer service.

Abstract: With increased competition from a growing spectrum of alternative investments, evolving regulatory demands, and rising client expectations, asset managers face an onslaught of challenges in an already complex business. Discover how customer relationship management (CRM) software can help mutual fund wholesalers and institutional asset managers address these core industry challenges and foster better relationships.

Abstract: One of the largest expenses for distributors and wholesalers is stock. Many have difficulty finding the perfect balance between ensuring products are available when they’re needed and not holding too much inventory. So, how is it possible to increase profitability while lowering inventory costs? By exploiting an inventory optimization system, businesses increase automation and collaboration—allowing greater profitability.

Abstract: Despite intense price competition for its volume products, the electrical products industry remains healthy and dynamic. World-class companies are succeeding by marketing innovative products, scaling up and outsourcing production, expanding into new geographic areas, implementing more efficient business systems, and focusing on ever-closer relationships with suppliers, partners, and customers. This white paper explores the issues of manufacturers, wholesalers, and distributors and the current state and future of the industry. Industry specific technological are also discussed.

Abstract: The pharmaceutical industry is highly competitive, regulated, and in a permanent state of change. Customers demand instant attention, while suppliers require comprehensive leading edge services with regard to their products. Regulatory authorities require that the industry keep up to date with regulations, following them to the letter. Competitors are always inventing new ways to gain market share, while e-business presents new opportunities and challenges. All the while the pressure to reduce prices and to shorten order cycles is high. Pharmaceutical wholesalers comprise the lifeline within the pharmaceutical industry, providing continuity of supply and facilities for storage. They also offer a range of supporting services, such as information technology systems and product withdrawal notifications, which form an essential part of the total healthcare package. These companies and institutions all operate in an environment where speed and efficiency may mean the difference between life and death. However, the industry has a number of specific requirements that are critical for achieving success in the distribution sector.

Abstract: Arias Motors is the Dominican Republic’s leading distributor of spare parts for auto wholesalers, retailers, and repair shops. It needed a new enterprise resource planning (ERP) system covering all functional areas, from back-end processes to supply chain management. Learn how Arias Motors applied a best-practice approach to software selection, reduced licensing costs by 50 percent, and set a record implementation time.

Abstract: Diamond Plastics has a nation-wide network of PVC pipe manufacturing facilities. After years of customizing its financial software, the company was unable to upgrade to newer versions. The existing system also could no longer accommodate the company’s continued growth. Needing a new accounting and business management system, Diamond chose to implement Microsoft® Dynamics AX. Find out about the near-flawless transition.

Abstract: In the past 12 years, the universal serial bus (USB) has grown from pipe dream into the de facto standard for devices such as portable memory devices, video game consoles, personal digital assistants (PDAs), and more. Learn how a USB keyboard/video/mouse (KVM) can correctly emulate the constant presence of a keyboard and mouse to each connected computer, offering much more flexibility in the data centers of tomorrow.

Abstract: Following the general tendency in the metallurgy industry -knowing very well your product costs - Ductil Steel 'alloyed' with Epicor iScala 2.2, the enterprise resource planning (ERP) system provided by Epicor Scala in Romania, in order to maintain its leading position in manufacturing wires and wire products,' said Gellu Brotan, CIO of Ductil Steel Romania.

Abstract: An integrated steel plant’s manufacturing processes typically encompass three distinct types of manufacturing—flow manufacturing, process manufacturing, and mill manufacturing—making such a plant a mixed-mode manufacturer. Software systems that address the diverse needs these manufacturers have cannot be emphasized more.

Abstract: When one company acquires another, who benefits? It seems PSI’s recent acquisition of AIS will benefit both—as well as their clients and the steel industry as a whole. The combined solution offering will address APS, MES, SCM, and more.

Abstract: As has been proven time and again by successful companies, the correct technology, deployed in a well-managed organization with clearly defined estimating, procurement, fabrication, and shipping processes, is more likely to consistently meet customer requirements on schedule and on budget. Learn more about the importance of identifying the correct technology to produce the benefits you need.

Abstract: This paper examines the steel service center segment of the wholesale distribution industry as a case in point of the challenges facing distributors and the relief offered through supply chain software.

Abstract: To respond to an ever-changing environment, steel manufacturers are making investments to improve their systems. But over time, these modification dollars can add up! With an integrated and collaborative approach—combining the capabilities of a manufacturing execution system (MES) with the advantages of an advanced planning and schedule (APS) solution—manufacturers can realize considerable benefits without the added cost.

Abstract: As the number one supplier of cold-rolled strip steel in North America, Gibraltar Industries wanted to keep the ongoing cost of IT reasonable. Having experienced the high cost of maintaining heavily customized software systems, it decided to use an off-the-shelf enterprise resource planning (ERP) package that was specific to its industry and that effectively supported resource sharing across facilities.

Abstract: For over eighty years, the Edlund Company has been a leading supplier of stainless steel appliances and equipment to the food service industry—a highly competitive sector with lean operating margins. In 2003, to uphold quality standards and gain tighter control over its manufacturing process and customer service functions, Edlund decided to replace its material requirements planning (MRP) software system.

Abstract: Based in Cleveland, Ohio (US), Fuserashi International Technology, Inc. is a manufacturer of precision nuts, bushings, inner metals, piston blanks, and specialty cold-formed steel products. The company achieved significant return on investment within the first two years of using the Made2Manage Enterprise Business System. In fact, as revenue climbed, F.I.T. made a name for itself as a quality benchmark leader.

Abstract: SKF (AB Svenska Kullagerfabriken) was founded in 1907, with headquarters and a laboratory in Gothenburg, Sweden, and an R&D center in the Netherlands. SKF is the leading global supplier in its field, offering products, customer solutions, and services for rolling bearings, seals and specialty steel, claiming 20% of the world market share. SKF has 80 manufacturing sites employing about 40,000, and an additional 20,000 distributors in 130 countries worldwide. Revenue in 2001 reached 24.6 billion U.S. dollars, and for the first 9 months of 2002, SKF Group’s revenue showed 25.3 billion, grossing 2.04 billion.