Abstract: Customizing third-party “vendor” source code is becoming increasingly common. But managing the incorporation of vendor application releases alongside customizations requires an additional layer of software configuration management (SCM) to integrate subsequent vendor releases. Traditional branch-based SCM tools require an unnecessarily complex branch-and-merge process. However, there is a more intuitive and efficient parallel development model for managing customizations to vendor code.

Abstract: Although end-user companies should continue to track the financial health of their vendors to possibly discern if the vendor will be a collector or one of the collected, the latest torrid 'love triangle' affair involving Oracle, PeopleSoft and J.D. Edwards may prove that even a seemingly stable vendor can involuntarily end up being acquired. If your vendor is acquired, do meet the new owners, given their motivation in buying your vendor was the install base and that is you. Showing interest is your part in keeping the relationship the way you want it.

Abstract: The decision to support older releases is like any other business decision, it is all about the money and profitability. If the vendor can make money at providing support for older releases, it is good business for the vendor. The decision may be sugar-coated with pronouncements about doing what is good for the customer, but both the vendor and the customers know that the first consideration must be the money.

Abstract: IFS invested heavily in both product development and worldwide growth infrastructure for a few years, now with that infrastructure in place, the company’s financial position has improved. This balancing of expenditures to promote global growth and improved cash flow has long been IFS’ mixed blessing conundrum. As the bigger vendors will intensify their mid-market aspirations, IFS continues to increase its marketshare worldwide, particularly in mid-market.

Abstract: TD Bank of Canada has entered into a partnership with Commerce One to create an E-purchasing marketplace in Canada. As the first such endeavor, the bank hopes to capture both mind- and marketshare before the inevitable competitors crowd in.

Abstract: A brief introduction to Lectra, a specialized vendor in the CAD, CAM, and PLM industry, including history, product offerings, and achievements, as well as expectations and recommendations to the vendor’s future growth.

Abstract: Welcome to TEC's Vendor Spotlight series. This installment focuses on Agresso, a Netherlands-based ERP vendor now enjoying its fair share of success in North America. So how successful is Agresso? Just ask SAP—Agresso claims to have won over $50 million (USD) against SAP in 61 separate deals…

Abstract: CrossWorlds Software, an enterprise application integration vendor, is making it easier for customers to acquire components and utilities with specific functionality. The vendor will create a CrossWorlds Exchange site on a subscription basis, for $50,000 per year with additional fees for some components.

Abstract: A vendor compliance database can range from a complex system built within the retailer's existing architecture to a smaller, stand-alone desktop database application. Find out what's Andersen's take on vendor compliance programs.

Abstract: Informatica Corporation, long an established vendor in the Extract/Transform/Load (ETL) market space, has morphed themselves into a vendor of solutions for the

Abstract: Purchasing an enterprise resource planning (ERP) system is a huge investment for any business—and knowing whether or not you’re buying the right system for the best price isn’t easy. Before meeting with your ERP vendor to negotiate the contract, there are a few important things you should take into account. Discover ten tips that can help you reach an agreement on pricing and service levels quickly and painlessly.

Abstract: Creating a give-and-take relationship with a software vendor will help you get the most from any application. If your organization does not use a request for proposal (RFP) tool, use this checklist to help you with your software selection process. Make this solution-provider checklist work for you: your best-fit vendor and the software tailored to your business needs are easier to find than you think.

Abstract: Choosing an on-demand customer relationship management (CRM) vendor can be a daunting task, especially for the price conscious consumer who lacks the budget for intensive research. A true CRM vendor should have pre-integrated sales, marketing, and customer support. Look for easy access to software free trials, and beware of hidden fees. Ultimately, researching the alternatives can save your company up to 50 percent of a solution’s total cost of ownership.

Abstract: Smaller manufacturing enterprises are often more comfortable dealing with a vendor of a size and corporate culture similar to theirs. Examples of these markets can be e.g., fresh meats, dairy producers, Tier 2/3 automotive suppliers, etc. Some of these thriving Boutique Vendors will actually be conglomerates of smaller divisions or vendors with a common owner. These might even be a current mid-range vendor who specializes in a series of smaller markets or even a sub-segment of a Big Five vendor

Abstract: For a vendor, focus is good, as it often results with more value to its targeted customers. A highly focused vendor can also remain profitable even in difficult economic times. One example of a vendor delivering more by covering less is Ross Systems.

Abstract: I'm Lyndsay Wise, senior research analyst at Technology Evaluation Centers. Welcome to another in TEC's series of enterprise software Vendor Showdowns. Today's Showdown pits three of the top business intelligence (BI) vendors against each other in a head-to-head contest: Oracle's Hyperion System 9 vs. Microsoft ProClarity vs. Exact Business Analytics. We hope you find this Vendor Showdown helpful and informative, and invite your comments and questions.

Abstract: While Made2Manage's decision to go private under a wealthy Battery Ventures' wing, which was supposedly committed to invest in the acquired technology was prudent at the time of announcement; subsequent events might be showing us a different side of the buyout medal. Although the draconic exodus of former executives and subsequent layoffs may at the end of the day result with some benefits for the customers (e.g., the vendor's stability and improved delivery of product functionality and quality) albeit within the vendor's future sweet spot. While the target market remains small and midsize manufacturers, that more granular sweet spot is yet to be determined and vocally unveiled by the new management.

Abstract: The vendor that many have long forgotten seems to be reincarnating. In order to return from oblivion SSA GT has been making strides to put itself back on the global enterprise applications map, primarily through salvaging the relationships with existing customers. Will the latest V8 product vouch for an (incredible) resurrection of a fallen ERP vendor?