Features

Features

• Financial close management software aids finance greatly

  Finance has an ongoing requirement to close the books faster and cheaper -- and financial close management software can help achieve that goal.  Continue Reading

• Product data management software: Secret weapon for manufacturing performance?

  Manufacturers today rely on technology such as product data management software to manage critical product data, especially when problems arise.  Continue Reading

• Master data management software helps manufacturers control product data

  Strategic tools in master data management software can also improve ROI of ERP systems.  Continue Reading

• The move to SaaS-based applications remains a gradual process

  More organizations are moving business applications off-premises, relying on technology once thought of as cutting-edge, like software as a service—but full steam ahead it’s not.  Continue Reading

• Options abound from manufacturing ERP vendors

  Companies evaluating manufacturing ERP products have many options. Understand your needs to ensure a vendor can meet your specific requirements.  Continue Reading

• E2open boosts sales and operations planning at outsourcer

  Radisys was able to sync plans with China manufacturer after integrating SAP ERP with Steelwedge S&OP and E2open's E2 PR in a hybrid cloud system.  Continue Reading

• Solving optimization problems with specialized software

  Business planning often requires identifying the best option among many. Optimization software can be a big help.  Continue Reading

• Does SaaS ERP ROI always beat on-premises ERP? It depends

  An ERP consultant shows how to look beyond the early savings of SaaS to determine its true long-term ROI vs. on-premises ERP.  Continue Reading

• Epicor ERP, MES bring precision to IMCO's operational data

  Epicor ERP helped one manufacturer take its operational data from the Stone Age to real time.  Continue Reading

• Epicor ERP 10 frees users to customize dashboards, go mobile

  Epicor ERP 10, our product of the month, comes with customizable dashboards and mobile interface options for more flexibility.  Continue Reading

• Use balanced scorecards to follow through on business strategy

  Balanced scorecards are deceptively powerful tools for defining and tracking key metrics and objectives.  Continue Reading

• Users laud the benefits of tax provisioning software

  Faster closes, automatic uploads, more consistency -- just a few of the advantages companies that scrap Excel for a tax provisioning system can reap.  Continue Reading

• ERP upgrades open a world of infrastructure choices

  ERP upgrades go beyond the usual server and storage sizing to consider a host of new technologies.  Continue Reading

• Hammond's Candies finds sweet success with move to Sage ERP from Microsoft

  When Microsoft Dynamics made an ERP upgrade unaffordable, Hammond's Candies made a bold move to Sage ERP.  Continue Reading

• Is consolidating disparate ERP financial systems worth it?

  While simplifying the financial systems landscape is a smart goal, experts say standardizing on one ERP system might be overkill.  Continue Reading

• Create strategy maps to align business processes with goals

  Strategy maps can help companies choose their key objectives and get every department moving in the same direction.  Continue Reading

• Intacct provides the back-office backbone for global growth at STS

  Manually converting currencies at STS International wasn't cutting it. Learn how Intacct helped in the IT service company's global expansion.  Continue Reading

• Navigate the cloud-based financial software buying process

  Workday and NetSuite users reveal how they overcame security worries and functionality snags to sign on with cloud-based financial software vendors.  Continue Reading

• ReconNET streamlines credit card reconciliation at Panera

  Trintech's ReconNET reconciliation software helped cafe chain Panera bake more visibility and efficiency into the credit card reconciliation process.  Continue Reading

• Consumer devices expand mobile warehouse management

  Inexpensive consumer-grade devices are gradually opening the door to new use cases for mobile warehouse management.  Continue Reading

• WMS-TMS integration brings clearer operational views

  Warehouse management and transportation management systems software can boost operational efficiency while improving customer service.  Continue Reading

• MES-PLM integration creates clearer manufacturing visibility

  Manufacturers are using MES-PLM systems integration to get a better understanding of enterprise performance.  Continue Reading

• Bringing more users onto financial planning software smart but costly

  While there are several benefits of giving business users access to financial planning software, technology pricing models might block the way.  Continue Reading

• Spreadsheet governance tools make corporate finance Excel use feasible

  But be warned: A user of spreadsheet governance software clarifies that feasible isn't the same as desirable, or even good.  Continue Reading

• Distribution customer service benefits from self-service, survey says

  Self-service portals best route to improving distribution customer service, a new study shows.  Continue Reading

• Start with basic financial applications software, be an expert in no time

  There's a lot to keep in mind with financial applications software. This roundup outlines the most important topics and how they affect businesses.  Continue Reading

• Secrets to PLM implementation success

  PLM implementation has the potential for sweeping business transformation, yet practitioners advise targeting specific pain points and building on those early successes.  Continue Reading

• Is ERP technology going nowhere -- or everywhere?

  ERP technology is going to pieces in loosely coupled cloud apps, embedded analytics, Business Processes as a Service -- and integration headaches.  Continue Reading

• NetSuite financials helps tech company leave Oracle behind

  NetSuite financials has improved data visibility at SeaChange International, but revenue-recognition capabilities leave something to be desired.  Continue Reading

• FAQ: Back to basics with ERP 101

  In this FAQ, find answers to the most common ERP questions. Learn about different types of ERP modules, the software selection process and more.  Continue Reading

• How big data is expanding FP&A capabilities

  Steve Player explains how collecting and analyzing big data can make the financial planning and analysis (FP&A) function more agile.  Continue Reading

• M2M supply-chain connectivity is key, experts say

  The possibilities of M2M supply-chain connectivity are endless -- as long as manufacturers know where and how M2M fits into the business.  Continue Reading

• Before buying GRC tools, build framework and clear requirements

  When implementing governance, risk management and compliance tools, start small and know that GRC projects are ongoing endeavors that require upkeep.  Continue Reading

• Integration is key for GRC tools to provide comprehensive risk view

  Governance, risk management and compliance tools help a company compare its risk profile to its appetite, but only if you properly integrate them.  Continue Reading

• Data visualization tools bring finance data into focus for operations

  Data visualization tools can help bring data traditionally contained within finance to the rest of the business -- in a readily digestible format.  Continue Reading

• Finding seamless ERP-SCM integration

  Whether manufacturers opt for an all-in-one approach or a pair of best-of-breed packages, ERP-SCM integration is a must.  Continue Reading

• The pros and cons of two-tier ERP

  The right two-tier ERP approach can deliver some of the benefits of standardization without too much cost or complexity.  Continue Reading

• ERP system integration poses ongoing challenges

  Despite improvements on the technical front, ERP system integration faces new obstacles, such as cloud and mobility.  Continue Reading

• Batch scheduling and demand-driven manufacturing can coexist, experts say

  By understanding the benefits -- and limitations -- of demand-driven manufacturing and batch scheduling, manufacturers can optimize both.  Continue Reading

• Companies respond to customer needs with demand-driven manufacturing

  Demand-driven manufacturing can help companies react to rapid market changes -- and save money in the process.  Continue Reading

• Using the cloud for rapid deployment of FP&A technology

  Steve Player explains five key advantages to using cloud applications in financial planning and analysis and dispels two common objections.  Continue Reading

• What closing the books reveals about a finance function's health

  Find out why one expert thinks focusing on faster monthly closes could diagnose larger problems within the finance function.  Continue Reading

• Choosing an EPM software vendor: Know what questions to ask

  The two-part buyer's guide concludes with advice on key variables to look for in enterprise performance management software and vendors.  Continue Reading

• IaaS business scales faster with Zuora billing software

  While a user testified to the benefits of Zuora specialty billing software, an expert said the niche tool is not necessary for all.  Continue Reading

• Machine-to-machine technology automates the warehouse

  Machine-to-machine technology is a handy tool for automating warehouse operations.  Continue Reading

• Small businesses compete in e-commerce with same-day shipping

  Following mammoths like Amazon and eBay, smaller manufacturers are beginning to pack up their goods the day they're ordered. The industry might never be the same with same-day shipping.  Continue Reading

• Excel automation tools save time but don't eliminate error potential

  Users say Excel automation tool Spreadsheet Server reduces manual data entry, but it doesn't nix Excel snags. Analysts say it's typical of the category.  Continue Reading

• Decoding active and passive RFID tags

  Active and passive RFID differs greatly in terms of functionality and cost. Here's what you need to know about the flavors of RFID.  Continue Reading

• Q&A: Overall equipment effectiveness metrics for real-time visibility

  Expert Matthew Littlefield explains how these long-used efficiency measures can support real-time visibility in manufacturing.  Continue Reading

• RFID market expanding with new technology options

  A wide range of new technologies is keeping the RFID market alive and well.  Continue Reading

• Head of IT at Pandora urges IT to embrace cloud applications

  Cloud applications can free up time for more innovation, according to the vice president of enterprise information services at Pandora.  Continue Reading

• Who's blocking the adoption of cloud financial accounting software?

  Experts say that at some organizations, IT might play a bigger role in the slow adoption of cloud-based financial accounting software than finance.  Continue Reading

• SCOR 11 goes closed-loop with new release

  Looking at the new release of SCOR 11, SCM expert William Newman talks about and what it means for supply chain practitioners and software makers.  Continue Reading

• Four tips for faster financial consolidation

  Users and experts say that collaboration, automation and a defined schedule can cut back the days to close.  Continue Reading

• GPS technology steers towards the manufacturing supply chain

  Rather than replacing other AIDC technologies, GPS complements bar code and RFID technology and is typically deployed for logistics tracking.  Continue Reading

• Radio frequency identification tags technology finds supply chain niche

  RFID technology is steadily helping manufacturers gain visibility and intelligently track product throughout the supply chain.  Continue Reading

• Software mobility, cloud commerce, Dodd-Frank areas to watch in 2013

  Industry expert William Newman looks ahead for trends to watch in 2013, including cloud commerce and software mobility.  Continue Reading

• Best practices for successful demand-driven manufacturing

  Before embarking on a journey to demand-driven manufacturing, model the inventory environment and then focus on planning and execution.  Continue Reading

• Know the SCOR model to build strong supply chain metrics

  By following the SCOR model, manufacturers can put supply chain metrics in place to ensure enterprise-wide success.  Continue Reading

• Budgeting and forecasting software rescues firm from 'spreadsheet hell'

  Adaptive Planning's SaaS budgeting, planning and forecasting tools cater to NPD Group's global needs in a way that Excel couldn't.  Continue Reading

• Strategies for collaborative planning with S&OP

  In this book chapter excerpt, find strategies to design and implement collaborative sales and operations planning.  Continue Reading

• Minimize risk in cloud ERP integrations

  Companies considering cloud ERP integration can take steps to minimize risk, according to one analyst.  Continue Reading

• Tips for managing ERP software consultants

  The right consultant can make an ERP project run smoothly -- and the wrong one can throw everything off track. Learn tips for choosing the right one.  Continue Reading

• Small businesses get savvy with SaaS financial management software

  QuickBooks Online's cloud, mobile and global capabilities help bring SMBs up to speed on the latest trends.  Continue Reading

• Proper ERP testing essential for successful implementation

  In this book chapter excerpt, learn how to ensure successful system implementations through ERP testing best practices.  Continue Reading

• Best practices to estimate accurate ERP schedules, budgets in an ERP project

  In this book chapter excerpt, find out how to estimate ERP project schedules and budgets and avoid common pitfalls.  Continue Reading

• Six data privacy questions to ask SaaS financial software vendors

  The answers to these questions can help CFOs shake data privacy fears and feel more confident about moving financials to the cloud.  Continue Reading

• Manufacturing requirements planning: The four critical questions answered

  Read a key chapter in the recently revised and updated "Orlicky's Material Requirements Planning," considered by some to be a landmark book by one of the pioneers of MRP.  Continue Reading

• Overcoming lean manufacturing challenges

  In this book chapter, learn how to overcome lean manufacturing challenges and common obstacles to lean success.  Continue Reading

• Supply chain management (SCM) and business intelligence (BI): Questions about integration

  Integrating SCM and BI can boost the effectiveness supply chain analytics. SCM BI integration can be tricky, so before you get started, find answers to some common SCM and BI questions.  Continue Reading

• Integrating supply chain management (SCM) and global positioning system (GPS) FAQ

  Supply chain management (SCM) can work with a global positioning system (GPS) to create a powerful logistics data network. Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about SCM GPS integration.  Continue Reading

• SCM CRM FAQ: Integration tips

  Supply chain management (SCM) and customer relationship management (CRM) software can work together to strengthen connections with and better serve a manufacturer's customers. These common SCM CRM questions are a good place to get started when ...  Continue Reading

• Manufacturing execution system (MES) FAQ

  Manufacturing execution system (MES) software, which analyzes processes across manufacturing organizations, can be complicated. Read on to learn more about how MES works and find answers to some common MES FAQs.  Continue Reading

• SCM and PLM: Questions about integration

  Integrating your supply chain management (SCM) software with your product lifecycle management (PLM) software optimizes the capabilities of both systems. Before getting started, read answers to some SCM PLM integration questions.  Continue Reading

• Inventory management software frequently asked questions (FAQ)

  Inventory management software goes beyond simple record-keeping to provide the information and analysis you need to make better decisions. Here are some frequently asked questions.  Continue Reading

• Building a business case for lean implementation

  Introducing lean thinking to your staff means explaining what lean does and how it will help your business. Identifying your goals, explaining the concepts of kaizen and kanban and setting up lean training programs are all parts of building a ...  Continue Reading

• Making the lean manufacturing management commitment

  In order for a lean initiative to be successful, lean manufacturing management must be willing to commit to implementation and training plans. Strong lean manufacturing leadership is able to evaluate what lean needs to do and solve problems down the...  Continue Reading

• Creating a lean implementation plan

  There are many factors to consider before starting a lean implementation project. Make sure to address any questions about systems capabilities, cultural change and leadership before creating a lean implementation plan.  Continue Reading

• Tips for manufacturing production planning and scheduling with MES

  MES software can aid in production planning by calculating automated sequences. It can also help on the work scheduling end through order processing.  Continue Reading

• Manufacturing capacity planning and production scheduling process

  Find out how Oracle E-Business Suite supply chain management (SCM) software provides supply chain capacity planning. Learn how to use Oracle SCM software in the production scheduling process.  Continue Reading

• Manufacturing tips for Kanban production control and BOM management

  Discover how Oracle E-Business Suite supply chain management (SCM) software helps manufacturers with Kanban setup and production control. Find out how Oracle SCM software can improve bill of materials (BOM) management.  Continue Reading

• Strategic benefits of a global trade management software system

  A company that deploys a global trade management software system can reduce the costs, risks and delays associated with manual compliance and tracking efforts.  Continue Reading

• ERP cost benefit analysis for stand-alone projects

  Preparing for an ERP implementation project can be challenging. Find out how to implement an ERP system without enterprise software and analyze the costs and benefits. Learn what steps should be on your ERP implementation checklist.  Continue Reading

• Introduction to ERP and designing a business case for ERP

  Preparing for an ERP implementation project can be challenging. Learn how to estimate the costs and benefits of ERP for your business, create an ERP vision statement and find out what you need to know about ERP before starting an implementation.  Continue Reading

• Preparing an ERP implementation plan: ERP audit and assessment

  Preparing for an ERP implementation project can be challenging. Find out how ERP implementation audits and assessments can help identify important pre-project questions and create a clear path to ERP implementation success.  Continue Reading

• Rapid Implementation Roadmap: What is the Implementation Process?

  Understanding what needs to occur during a software implementation project can help speed up the process. Find out what to expect at each stage of the implementation process and how to manage a rapid implementation.  Continue Reading

• Manufacturing operations management and planning based on strategic models

  Learn why you should base supply chain management decisions on strategic models and how to solve supply chain challenges.  Continue Reading

• A plant manager's guide to supply chain best practices

  Learn the importance of supply chain strategy, coordination and planning in plant management and why each step of the supply chain is key to optimizing plant productivity.  Continue Reading

• Sales and operations planning for manufacturing

  Learn how manufacturing sales and operations planning is critical to supply chain management and how to go from supply chain strategy to execution.  Continue Reading

• The Future of Business Intelligence

  Learn about the emergence and growth of business intelligence (BI) software technology. Discover new BI technical innovations and how BI can benefit your company.  Continue Reading

• Case Study: How Lean Failed

  Discover the best implementation practices for lean manufacturing. Find out common challenges in implementing lean manufacturing and learn how to avoid common mistakes.  Continue Reading

• Challenges and solutions in supply chain management

  Modern manufacturing has driven down the time and cost of the production process, leaving supply chains as the final frontier for cost reduction and competitive advantage. Supply Chains: A Manager's Guide will quickly give managers the foundation ...  Continue Reading

• Process Integration Architecture

  Discover how Process Integration Architecture helps manage end-to-end business processes. Learn how Process Integration Architecture can reduce cost, increase competetive advantage and optimize business processes.  Continue Reading

• Logistics Execution Process

  Find out how to execute logistics in manufacturing ERP. Learn how to configure deliveries, transportation, routes, determination and packaging.  Continue Reading

• Information Integration Architecture

  Learn how information integration architecture makes data accessible across software systems and takes the headache out of integrating your company's information.  Continue Reading