Abstract: Since our research-driven beginnings, Johnson & Johnson Advanced Sterilization Products (ASP) has continually improved the new product development (NPD) process. Detailed process mapping has revealed three tiers of business metrics, starting with drivers and moving up through execution metrics to business performance metrics. When driver metrics improves, so does business performance. Six Sigma tools helps identify specific metrics at all tiers and the causality linkages among them. Each NPD process step at ASP results in a deliverable, and each deliverable relates to a trade-off triangle (cost-time-resources) and, ultimately, to investment dollars. To track performance, ASP calculates how actual NPD decisions and what-if scenarios affect deliverables, alter investment triangles, and thereby influence business results. ASP uses similar process and tools, including the investment triangles and Six Sigma QFD, to make idea management decisions. The IDweb real-time software environment enables both the NPD and idea management processes at ASP. By deploying the strategic planning, idea management, portfolio and pipeline management, process management, and resource management modules of IDweb, ASP has increased throughput by 20 percent and reduced cycle time by 40 percent.

Abstract: In going through a business decision process for complex technology selections, more and more use is being made of technologically driven processes using Decision support tools and captured knowledge. The use of these systems and the capability to drive a solution from them assumes an ability to accurately express business requirements and business value within these tools. In this article, we explore the marriage of knowledge management and decision support in forming knowledge based selection systems and procedures that can assist in reducing the current appalling record of IT project failures. This is illustrated by the process to select a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA).

Abstract: This note compares the two leading collaborative messaging systems, Lotus Notes and Microsoft Exchange, in the areas of functionality, technology, cost, service, support, corporate viability, and corporate strategy.

Abstract: Lotus Notes has just surpassed the 50,000,000-installed base mark, giving Microsoft’s Exchange server a good “run for the money”.

Abstract: Companies are turning toward product innovation to achieve revenue growth, but to generate return on an innovation idea, the idea must be fully developed. When the concept has been fully defined, validated, and transformed into a product, it is then ready for commercial launch and execution from a sales, marketing, manufacturing, and logistics perspective.

Abstract: The benefits case for enterprise asset management (EAM) has been used to justify huge sums in EAM investment. But to understand this reasoning, it is necessary to explore how asset data can be used to further the aims of maintenance.

Abstract: Resource allocation and phase-based processes are key features to consider when selecting a project portfolio management solution for new product development (NPD) projects. More importantly, NPD projects demand a best practices framework, like Stage-Gate®, for their success.

Abstract: The odds against successful product innovation are long. New products need to win over consumers and convince retailers—a challenging task for many reasons, including saturated markets, a growing variety of products and brands, and shorter product life cycles. To shorten time to market, companies need to integrate all development-related areas, within a single sphere of visibility and influence.

Abstract: Traditionally, small and medium businesses (SMB) use the same ERP selection methods as large enterprises. However, the lack of an implementation standard, shifts from large-scale purchases, vendor consolidation, and niche solutions have left the market in turmoil. Learn how SMBs can meet the challenges of the new market.

Abstract: In a supply chain managed according to the theory of constraints (TOC), it is clear that there are so many common improvements that virtually all companies will benefit. It doesn’t take long for TOC companies enjoying greater sales and lower expenses to gain not only market share, but market dominance. Find out how you can work these principles into your organization with the help of a TOC solution for distribution.

Abstract: The major factors of success in business applications for the mid-market segment have traditionally been--flexible pricing, packaging and deployment options; speed of implementation; vertical focus; interconnectivity to other applications and legacy systems; product scalability and scope expandability; Internet and wireless device accessibility; low cost business-to-business (B2B) electronic connectivity; and a single point of contact possibly with a local consulting and implementation support. PeopleSoft seems to have captured (or at least tackled) most of these.

Abstract: With Best having already captured a lion's share of the market estimated to consist of several millions of small enterprises or ~$14 billion in revenue opportunity, and continuing to capture new customers, the likes of MBS will likely have their work cut out for them despite their recently unveiled sound strategy and product offering.

Abstract: Prio! SecureSync combines the proven technologies of Fischer Systems and Siemens, providing over 18 years of combined directory synchronization and management experience. The flexibility and interoperability of the product have certainly captured the industries attention in bringing order to ‘directory chaos’, thereby allowing an always up to date, synchronized, disparate directory computing environment.

Abstract: During the course of product evaluations for a customer, the Technology Evaluation Center has uncovered a potential security hole in SAP R/3's three-tier architecture. SAP has revealed that they expect the database or third party products to handle security between the application server and the database server. If the client does not take these extra measures, the master password for the SAP database instance travels over the network in the clear, and can be captured. PeopleSoft has the same issue.

Abstract: The US is the largest debtor nation in the world, with the largest per capita consumption of energy, and its currency is in decline. Does that mean a decline in America's wealth and super power status? This article makes some sobering observations, predictions, and recommendations.

Abstract: The termination of QRS' merger with JDA Software opened a window of opportunity for business commerce automation provider Inovis to acquire QRS, indicating a potential shift in its traditional strategy of B2B e-commerce connectivity (i.e., to drive its offerings well behind the enterprise firewalls).

Abstract: Founded in 1936, Berkheimer Outsourcing is the largest independent local tax administrator in Pennsylvania (US). Each day, critical information must be quickly and accurately captured from more than 150,000 documents. A time-consuming paper shuffle, including tedious manual data entry, had to be replaced with an automated solution. Find out how Berkheimer virtually eliminated the need for data entry.

Abstract: The number of leads captured from conventional channels is steadily declining due to the increasing importance of web sites. While Web analytic and e-mail marketing solutions provide useful data, they do nothing to capture leads. If there was a service that could prospect all your web site visitors, would you use it? Find out how LEADSExplorer is helping businesses convert their web visitors into potential leads.