Abstract: Today's usage of Decision Support Systems (DSS), combined with vetted ERP knowledge bases, allows organizations to save time and money, achieving better and more reliable/fully-documented decisions, a quantum improvement over the widely-used subjective process of selecting complex enterprise software...

Abstract: This second annual survey of the warehousing and distribution industry, conducted by the Manufacturing Performance Institute (MPI) Census of Manufacturers, explores the metrics, management practices, and business concerns of over 200 US warehouse and distribution facilities. This data is presented in easy-to-understand tables and charts, and may be useful for companies currently facing distribution center challenges.

Abstract: The power sector realizes the importance of information technology (IT), and its potential to contribute to the power reforms process. The global IT market for this sector provides a wide range of technology and solutions that can address the entire business value chain in power distribution—from setting up distribution network and service connection, to distribution load management, power delivery, and customer service.

Abstract: For most distribution companies, managing operating expenses has a far bigger impact on the business than simply pouring more revenue into the top of the funnel. In today’s tough times, operating expenses have moved to the center of the boardroom table and the top of the agenda. Learn what the five main value drivers in distribution are, and find out how to avoid seven common distribution and wholesale “sins.”

Abstract: Hearing confusing messages from your customer resource management (CRM) and enterprise resource planning (ERP) vendors? You may be dealing with dozens of software vendors and system integrators, each one praising the benefits of his solution. Among these proposals, one claims not only to efficiently manage the entire customer life cycle, but also to take full advantage of your previous technology investments. Your incumbent ERP system vendor also has a CRM solution, and praises the benefits of the tight integration of both systems. The question then is, how do you know whether this solution is the best for you? Request your copy of Integrating CRM with ERP compliments of Baseline Consulting. The report gives you the criteria to use when formulating your strategy of integrating CRM with ERP, best practices of CRM implementation, dealing with ERP integration, and how to integrate CRM with ERP impacts the value chain.

Abstract: Using our ERP - Distribution Evaluation Center, we compared Oracle's JD Edwards and Technology Group International head-on. For the overall rankings portion, we looked at these vendors' solutions in two basic configurations, with and without back-office (human resources [HR] and financials) functionality. To eliminate any chance of bias and to ensure a level playing field, all 3, 414 criteria comprising all the modules and submodules in the ERP - distribution request for information (RFI) were given equal weight and priority...

Abstract: I'm Larry Blitz, editor of Technology Evaluation Centers’ (TEC) Vendor Showdown series. Welcome to our latest: ERP - Distribution Showdown. You’ll notice this one has a broader focus than Showdowns we’ve done in the past. Again we’ll be comparing three vendor solutions head-to-head, but not just on functionality. This time we’ll also look at the industries these solutions support, how well they cover different portions of the mid-market segment, and how their installed bases break out geographically. Of course, functionality is again a key component of this Showdown, broken down into four main distribution areas and 13 subareas. We hope you find today’s Showdown helpful and informative, and invite your comments and questions at showdown@technologyevaluation.com.

Abstract: North American server installations are uniquely inefficient because of multiple circuits, use of floor space and weight, and more. A new approach to power distribution for high-density server installations saves floor space, simplifies power cabling, saves capital cost, reduces weight, and increases electrical efficiency. Learn more about how this distribution architecture can provide you with numerous benefits.

Abstract: Today, there is less clarity in wholesale, retail, and vertical sales operations than ever before. In a marketplace that dictates increasingly complex operations, distribution centers of all types need to ensure that their warehouse management systems keep up with customer demand. To keep your supply chain from exploding in your face, defuse complexity with a simple distribution indexing tool.

Abstract: Consider the ideal manufacturing and distribution process—one that eliminates human error, improves speed and efficiency, and increases information availability; a process that offers high security and delivers data without a network connection. This is what a radio frequency identification (RFID) system can do to help solve logistical problems that may be affecting your manufacturing and distribution processes.

Abstract: Wholesale distribution operations are becoming more complex, with ever-changing customer requirements, global and electronic marketplaces, multiple distribution channels, and compliance initiatives adding to the perennial challenges of accurate delivery. Traditional warehouse management or enterprise resource planning solutions are simply not enough. Operational efficiency is the key to increasing inventory turns, improving order fulfillment rates, reducing cycle time, and eliminating charge-backs.

Abstract: Invacare is the leader in the manufacturing and distribution of innovative home and long-term care medical products. For Invacare, warehouse management was a complex program, involving thousands of pieces moving through distribution centers, controlled by manual business processes. A typical customer order could vary greatly, ranging from a single carton to 4,000 cartons. The company needed to implement a new system that could handle orders equally well, regardless of size. Invacare implemented Click Commerce’s Warehouse Management Solution to meet the unique requirements of its warehouse operations.

Abstract: Food giants and technology providers work together to improve the efficiency of food processing, and storage and distribution operations, so that food products can be harvested, stored, and moved to the dinner table quickly and at less cost. This vertical brief focuses on specific issues within today's food distribution industry, explaining how IT solutions can help food distributors improve efficiency and reduce overall costs that drive up profits in an extremely competitive, low margin business.

Abstract: Global sourcing, an erratic economy, and extended supply operations are just a few threats to the profitability and growth of your distribution environment. But if you extend the capabilities of your existing enterprise resource planning (ERP) solution, you can better meet demands, maximize inventory, and increase operational efficiency. Learn how supply chain optimization is easier with an ERP for distribution solution.

Abstract: I'm Larry Blitz, editor of TEC’s Vendor Showdown series. With enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems being the information backbone of the organization, we decided to take a closer look at three of the more popular discrete ERP solutions for the mid-market. Using TEC's ERP Evaluation Center, we compared Infor ERP LN 6.1, Epicor Vantage, and Lawson M3 Discrete Manufacturing Solutions head-to-head, based on the most recent data supplied to us by the three vendors.

Abstract: The trade-off between best-of-breed functionality and ease of integration is no longer so simple. Enterprise resource planning (ERP) software continues to expand, blurring the boundaries of core ERP functionality. The three essential factors to consider in ERP versus best-of-breed decisions are functionality, integration, and the ability to upgrade. Find out the questions you need to ask when considering an ERP extension.

Abstract: Every company faces different challenges and has different needs in regard to enterprise resource planning (ERP). Choosing the right ERP system can be difficult because there is really no one-size-fits-all ERP solution. However, there are certain basic principles that apply to nearly every company’s situation. Find out what they are, and learn how you can increase your chances of a successful ERP implementation.

Abstract: As time passes, enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems drift further and further into misalignment with enterprise goals, strategies, and tactics. Eventually your legacy ERP system begins to interfere with your company’s ability to operate efficiently. Examine ERP evaluation criteria and techniques, and equip yourself with the tools and knowledge you need to measure your current ERP system’s effectiveness.

Abstract: As organizations prepare for their next ERP version upgrade, they find themselves trying to make sense of a new iteration that disrupts the traditional understanding and thinking about ERP. ERP II requires organizations to transform from a focus on internal resource optimization to a new focus on process integration and external collaboration. To help organizations make sense of this new iteration, we look at why ERP II has come about, how it differs from ERP, and how it promises to change the way organizations do business in the future.