Abstract: Today's usage of Decision Support Systems (DSS), combined with vetted 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: To realize the full benefits of their investments in enterprise computing systems, organizations must have a detailed understanding of the quality of their data—how to clean it, and how to keep it clean. The companies that approach this issue strategically are the companies that will be successful. Learn the six factors that go into a good data quality strategy, and find out how to go from strategy to implementation.

Abstract: Andersen Consulting has had a running battle with Arthur Andersen and Andersen Worldwide over Arthur Andersen's encroachment on the management and technology consulting firm's space. The win on August 7 releases Andersen Consulting from all its obligations, turning it into an independent company, with the slight stipulation of a name change.

Abstract: Ernest Hemingway said,

Abstract: This article on the built-in security features of the AS/400 system originally appeared in the Midrange Computing’s Showcase Magazine, June 2000.

Abstract: If you are an executive in a Tier 3 or Tier 4 manufacturing company and you have wondered where to start, whom to call, what questions to ask, this article is for you.

Abstract: ERP vendor SCT Corp. recently sold its Fygir Demand Planning product to Equilon, a joint refining venture of Shell Oil and Texaco that had signed Aspen Technology’s largest deal for its PIMS™ planning and scheduling software.

Abstract: Enterprise Application Integration vendor Software Technologies Corp. (STC) announced the filing by the company of a Registration Statement with the Securities and Exchanges Commission relating to the proposed initial public offering of up to $100 million of its common stock.

Abstract: Hewlett-Packard is one of the leading computer companies in the world, but they have fallen to fourth place in the Intel-based server market. Will they move back to being a key player, or remain an also-ran?

Abstract: Many business-to-business (B2B) software companies don't have a formal positioning process, and it's costing them time, money, and much more—a marketing message that misses the mark. This article explores the benefits of implementing a business process for positioning.

Abstract: Although Ross Systems today is merely a shadow of a once solid profitable vendor, its embattled management deserves accolades for tenacity and pulling off a third consecutive profitable quarter, thereby remaining in the race.

Abstract: For the time being, Oracle seems to have defied a global trend toward a slowdown in the technology market, which even its archrival, Microsoft, could not avoid. Is it only a matter of time before economic realities knock on Oracle’s door?

Abstract: While many software professionals know one or more software sizing techniques—most have a reasonable understanding of function point analysis (FPA) or use case point techniques—they’re often stymied when it comes to making a real-life estimate. Learn a methodology that can help you make realistic estimates, including best- and worst-case scenarios that you can use to make pricing and delivery commitments to clients.

Abstract: Lufthansa, one of the world’s leading airlines, wanted to improve the way it trained its Miles & More loyalty program customer service staff. Traditionally, training was a five-day, classroom-based workshop, but the company now wanted more flexibility in its training approach. By moving to a blended learning content management system (LCMS), Lufthansa experienced a 65 percent savings on course development costs.

Abstract: Hosted services can offer a sound solution for small and medium businesses requiring safe and reasonably priced platforms. Applying the same concept at a higher level could result in hosting and services providers leasing or renting virtual real estate for the services they provide in order to lower their initial investments or subsequent upgrade costs. Learn more about “hosted hosting,” the new breed of hosting services.

Abstract: By continuing to grow faster than many others, and by even reverting to profits, IFS has been defending the pride of quite beleaguered Tier 2 & 3 applications vendors. However, the bigger vendors will sell their aspirations dearly, and IFS still has a long way to go to achieve full-fledged credibility in the global market.

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: When small to medium businesses shop around for a human resources (HR) solution, their main considerations are whether to go for a hosted or non-hosted solution, or to simply outsource HR functions altogether. It’s important to know the advantages and disadvantages of each before making a selection.

Abstract: With seven consecutive profitable quarters, a feat unprecedented in the company's recent past, IFS enters a new phase of sustained profitable growth, along with its new chief executive officer. However, there are some challenges that just will not go away.