Ask the Experts

Ask the Experts

• How can distribution requirements planning help inventory management?

  An expert explains how distribution requirements planning can help companies gain better control over their inventory and prevent shortages.  Continue Reading

• Which technologies do companies need to support product as a service?

  While companies may be considering the product as a service trend, most will need to make some profound changes to their technology infrastructure -- and their perspective on product lifecycle management -- to make the new model work.  Continue Reading

• What kind of warranty management software do manufacturers need?

  In addition to simplifying administrative tasks, warranty management software can help companies improve customer relationships. An expert outlines the technology and best practices needed for a better warranty management process.  Continue Reading

• How does wearable tech fit manufacturing needs?

  What are the most feasible, near-term applications of wearables in manufacturing and the supply chain?  Continue Reading

• When does it make sense to deploy a demand signal repository?

  A demand signal repository can aggregate sales data to help business users make better short-term demand planning decisions. But is a DSR right for your needs?  Continue Reading

• Why should companies consider ERP consolidation?

  Many companies use a mix of disconnected ERP systems and poorly integrated third-party applications that block efficiency and increase costs. An expert explains how to start consolidating ERP.  Continue Reading

• Which demand planning tools are right for your company?

  Should companies use the built-in planning capabilities of an ERP system, or select from best-of-breed demand planning tools? An expert debunks some myths about the pros and cons of each, and outlines best practices for choosing the right approach.  Continue Reading

• What's the true definition of demand management?

  The demand management market can be difficult to navigate because of the over-abundance of terms for technology and processes. What do companies really need to know about the various categories of demand management?  Continue Reading

• How can manufacturers improve field service operations?

  Equipment providers and distributors are shifting their focus to improving field service. What are some best practices and technologies that can boost customer engagement and increase sales?  Continue Reading

• What are the most promising innovations in ERP technology?

  An expert outlines recent innovations in ERP technology and their practical applications for manufacturers.  Continue Reading

• How have the capabilities and cost of RFID tags evolved?

  In the past, the cost of RFID tags has limited where RFID could be used. Today, lower prices and more advanced capabilities are starting to enable wider, more effective use.  Continue Reading

• What is item-level RFID, and how can companies benefit from it?

  In this expert response, learn how RFID is evolving and what companies can do to make item-level RFID a success.  Continue Reading

• Why executive buy-in really does matter in an ERP upgrade

  A director of manufacturing shows how lack of executive buy-in can delay deployment, and shares other ERP upgrade tips.  Continue Reading

• Best practices to ensure an ERP upgrade benefits the business

  The CIO of Ferrari shares the best practices that made the Italian automaker's Infor LN ERP upgrade a winner for business and IT.  Continue Reading

• Five steps to close the books faster

  Faster closes are a perennial goal for finance departments. These five tips can streamline your process.  Continue Reading