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: The challenges that face the manufacturing industry today are also opportunities. Manufacturing is being revolutionized in its processes, routines, and ways of doing business through the growing emergence of order driven production methods. This shift towards demand driven manufacturing is emerging in tandem with the larger currents caused by globalization. This cross industry brief focuses on the manufacturing industry from the standpoint of a demand driven IT solution and is aimed at manufacturing and distribution businesses. It describes some major market trends and issues, provides an overview of IBS supply chain solution, and offers details on how the IBS solution for demand driven manufacturing can address current needs of the industry.

Abstract: Many oil and gas industry suppliers chose enterprise software prior to 1999, when software designed to meet the needs of the oil and gas industry didn’t exist. This affects the efficiency of these companies—and will prevent them from pursuing new revenue streams in the future. However, project-enabled solutions can now cater to the oil and gas industry’s needs, helping you adjust to current market demands. Learn more.

Abstract: The textile industry is famous for its very different characteristics when compared to industries in either process or discrete manufacturing. Developing production planning and scheduling software for any textile mill is a real challenge even for seasoned industry experts. This article focuses on some of the unique challenges posed to master requirement planning and master production scheduling (MRP / MPS) software vendors by the textile industry.

Abstract: As there are many different categories of outsourcing services, there are also many outsourcing providers. With many different aspects to consider, how can a company ensure they have made the right choice in selecting one?

Abstract: In PLM, there is no single vendor that can meet all of the requirements, and the market is still immature, so almost every product can be the right solution provided a certain set of requirements. In this part of the article we review 3 vendors who offer products to the PLM market - IDe, Thetis, and PDMware - as a demonstration that selecting the appropriate solution is highly dependant on the prioritized needs of the business.

Abstract: Past experience shows us that the vast majority of enterprise technology evaluations run over time and budget, and once selected, the majority of the implementations fail to meet functional, return on investment (ROI) and total cost of ownership (TCO) expectations. Enterprise technology selections for ERP, CRM, SCM, and other enterprise applications provide valuable lessons that can be applied to selecting PLM software, but there are some key differences that need to be recognized.

Abstract: As the final article in a three-part series on outsourcing security, the following article provides guidelines for selecting a dependable managed security services provider.

Abstract: Find out in ten pitfalls to avoid when selecting a cmms/eam.

Abstract: You probably already know that a human resources information system (HRIS) should track all information on current and former employees, and reduce your HR staff’s workload. Not sure what lies beyond that? There are a few things you should know before selecting an HRIS. Find out how to identify your HR needs, so your HRIS can help you reach your business objectives—and give you a quick return on investment (ROI).

Abstract: There’s a buzz in the automotive industry around the concept of “strategic workforce management”—getting the right people, for the right job, at the right time, to improve overall business results. Strategic workforce management goes beyond the traditional role of human resources: it’s a strategic initiative and competitive weapon to help today’s automotive companies drive corporate goals and objectives.

Abstract: This Business Engine white paper provides a technical account on the process behind scoring, selecting, and scheduling the technology portfolio. The document offers additional insight into weighting criteria that should be considered as part of the portfolio management and optimization process. The document further provides insight into considerations for alignment, and how to know if the portfolio is in fact properly aligned with business objectives.

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: Selecting a product lifecycle management (PLM) system can be a challenge if a company is not aware of the options available on the market. But if an organization starts by understanding what the technology should address, and further understands the needs of its unique business and market segment, it can select a PLM tool that makes product development more efficient, and can help transform the organization. Find out how.

Abstract: As you look for ways to get the most out of your existing operating assets, enterprise asset management (EAM) and computerized maintenance management system (CMMS) solutions are key. However, when it comes to researching, selecting, and implementing the right EAM/CMMS software, you need to avoid several mistakes. Discover 10 common errors you should avoid if you’re looking for a new or replacement EAM or CMMS solution.

Abstract: High-performance digital video recorders (HPDVRs) solve a range of business and scientific challenges. The ability to capture, play back, correlate, measure, and analyze visual events can be invaluable for various industries. Learn key guidelines for selecting an HPDVR from amongst the multitude of DVR solutions on the market today—very few are designed and built to meet the demands of high performance video recording.

Abstract: Recently, the traditional method of selecting software based on functions and features has come under scrutiny. Some even suggest that this method is unduly drawn out and fails to focus on the critical processes of business. As you might expect, vendors would rather sell you out-of-the-box business processes and solutions that would improve efficiency, increase yields, and drive their costs down. A third alternative for selecting software, which will be discussed in this article, attempts to provide the assurances needed by the buyer and the efficiency desired by the vendor.

Abstract: There are many CMMS systems in the market that specialize in detailed maintenance, repair, and overhaul. When selecting a sysems for an airline, decision-makers have to be extra careful.