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• AI for finance adoption affected by legal, ethical issues

  Some experts say that for the foreseeable future, machine learning algorithms and other AI technologies will require human oversight for finance services and data privacy. Continue Reading

• discrete manufacturing

  Discrete manufacturing is an industry term for the manufacturing of finished products that are distinct items capable of being easily counted, touched or seen. Continue Reading

• Three top logistics trends companies should be researching for 2018

  E-commerce is having a powerful effect on logistics and the supply chain. Here are three trends that are happening today that are likely to affect your company. Continue Reading

• Infor

  Infor is a New York-based vendor of ERP and other enterprise business software. Continue Reading

• Can warehouse robots help solve supply chain issues?

  The direct-to-consumer model is transforming warehouse management and, in turn, supply chain management. Here's a look at how robotics is helping to solve some of the issues. Continue Reading

• Definitions to Get Started

  • ERP finance module
  • What is ERP? Guide to enterprise resource planning software
  • SaaS ERP
  • material requirements planning (MRP)

  • cloud ERP
  • process manufacturing
  • voice design
  • financial analytics

  View All Definitions

• ERP reporting tools effective first step in exploiting data

  Here's how ERP's built-in reporting and SQL tools can be effective at exploiting company data without full-blown analytics -- within limits.Continue Reading

• The modern approach to choosing an ERP system

  Today's ERP landscape offers more options than ever before. Here's a look at how two companies took a strategic approach to choosing the right software for their needs.Continue Reading

• process mining software

  Process mining software is a type of programming that analyzes data in enterprise application event logs in order to learn how business processes are actually working. The goal of process mining software is to identify bottlenecks and other areas of...Continue Reading

• The risks and rewards of a multivendor ERP strategy

  As old-school mega ERP implementations increasingly fall out of favor, companies are now picking and choosing software. Here are some of the issues that these choices create.Continue Reading

• general ledger (GL)

  A general ledger (GL) is a set of numbered accounts a business uses to keep track of its financial transactions and to prepare financial reports.Continue Reading

• hybrid manufacturing

  Hybrid manufacturing is a term that describes combining additive manufacturing and subtractive manufacturing in a single machine system.Continue Reading

• Good budgeting strategy ties business plans to budgets in CPM software

  A well-prepared budget is both the product and the driver of strategic planning that gets results. Here's how the components relate, and how software oils the gears.Continue Reading

• cross-docking

  Cross-docking is the practice of unloading goods from inbound delivery vehicles and loading them directly onto outbound vehicles.Continue Reading

• accounts receivable (AR)

  Accounts receivable (AR) is an item in the general ledger (GL) that shows money owed to a business by customers who have purchased goods or services on credit.Continue Reading

• Practical steps to follow when running cloud-based ERP systems

  There are practical lessons to learn before adopting a cloud manufacturing ERP system and choosing from among the many cloud options, which include private, public and hybrid.Continue Reading

• pick to light

  Pick to light is order-fulfillment technology that employs alphanumeric displays and buttons at storage locations to guide the manual "picking" and recording of items for shipment.Continue Reading

• dual sourcing

  Dual sourcing is the supply chain management practice of using two suppliers for a given component, raw material, product or service. Companies use this approach to lower the risk of relying on a single supplier, a practice called single sourcing. ...Continue Reading

• How to decide if ERP best practices are the best for your business

  ERP vendors often claim their software incorporates business process best practices that are best left unchanged. But how do you know if these ERP best practices are right for you?Continue Reading

• manufacturing process management (MPM)

  Manufacturing process management (MPM) is the discipline of defining how products are manufactured so production processes can be made more efficient and responsive.Continue Reading

• cartonization

  Cartonization is a process that uses algorithms to evaluate the items in an order to determine the number and size of each carton needed to ship the order.Continue Reading

• software robotics

  Software robotics is the use of bot programs to automate computer tasks normally performed by people. Software robotics is synonymous with robotic process automation (RPA) and is the less widely used term, except in the financial services industry.Continue Reading

• Tools and best practices you'll need for a hybrid ERP implementation

  If you're moving some of your business processes to the cloud and leaving some on premises, a sound ERP integration strategy is critical. Here's advice on creating one.Continue Reading

• Six keys to creating strong data-security measures

  The rush to embrace digital technologies can put organizations at extreme risk. Here are six foundations for creating an information-security strategy that will keep your data safe.Continue Reading

• How are IoT sensors helping the aviation industry?

  When aircraft take to the sky with IoT sensors on board, repair needs are more accurately predicted, potential failures trigger alerts and safety measures can be boosted.Continue Reading

• Tagetik

  Tagetik is a software vendor of cloud-based and on-premises applications on a single platform for enterprise performance management.Continue Reading

• go-live (go live)

  In software development, go-live is the time at which code moves from the test environment to the production environment. As a verb, go-live means to make such an event happen.Continue Reading

• Expert tips for implementing procure-to-pay software

  P2P software touches many departments, ties in suppliers and has a big impact on financials. You need all the major stakeholders at the planning table.Continue Reading

• Six essentials to becoming a data-driven company

  If you want to harness the power of analytics and automation to ensure your organization's relevance, you'll have to create a culture of data. Here's how.Continue Reading

• How is advanced manufacturing defined in terms of manufacturing today?

  In a technology landscape marked by exponential changes, pinning down the term 'advanced manufacturing' can be tricky. Here's a nuanced definition that will help.Continue Reading

• Five essentials of creating a business transformation strategy

  As vendors, analysts and others weigh in on the best approach to digital transformation, determining what's right for your company can be tricky. Here's how to make it easier.Continue Reading

• Project planning for a new corporate performance management system

  A corporate performance management system touches most aspects of any business. You need a carefully thought-out plan to ensure a positive ROI from the software.Continue Reading

• virtual manufacturing

  Virtual manufacturing (VM) is the use of computers to model, simulate and optimize the critical operations and entities in a factory plant.Continue Reading

• value driver

  A value driver is an activity or capability that adds worth to a product, service or brand. One of the key ideas in defining value drivers is determining which factors provide the organization in question with a competitive edge.Continue Reading

• The essential guide to ERP for small and medium-sized businesses

  By integrating important business processes and unifying data, an ERP system can help small and medium-sized businesses go up against the big guys. Here's what you need to know.Continue Reading

• model-based enterprise

  Model-based enterprise (MBE) is an engineering strategy that aims to clarify design intent during the manufacturing process, resulting in better quality of the products, reduced costs and more efficiency.Continue Reading

• Why your company needs the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard

  If you think Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard is just for merchants, think again. Here's why virtually every company can boost security and address risk issues using PCI DSS.Continue Reading

• Value drivers must be constant focus of digital technology initiatives

  Getting caught up in the enterprise digital technologies hype is dangerous for your company. Here's what to do instead.Continue Reading

• Five key strategies to making savvy digital investments

  'Digital' is all the rage in enterprise technology. Here's advice on defining what the concept means for your organization, so you don't risk falling for the hype.Continue Reading

• Basware

  Learn about Basware, a Finland-based vendor of networked purchase-to-pay, e-invoicing, procurement, and financing software and services.Continue Reading

• Strategic shared cloud migration for better supply chain operations

  Migrating to the cloud along with your supply chain partners can be a boost to business. But you'll need to answer key strategic questions before doing so.Continue Reading

• engineering bill of materials (EBOM)

  An engineering bill of materials (EBOM) is a product recipe structured from the design standpoint, rather than the manufacturing standpoint.Continue Reading

• poka-yoke

  A poka-yoke is a mechanism that is put in place to prevent human error. The purpose of a poka-yoke is to inhibit, correct or highlight an error as it occurs.Continue Reading

• Manufacturers need to adopt IoT and analytics into processes

  In this Q&A, Mark Lockwood and Patrick Chartrand of Logi Analytics discuss what manufacturers need to think about as they adopt IoT and analytics into machines and processes.Continue Reading

• computer numerical control (CNC)

  Computer numerical control (CNC) is a method for automating machine tools through software embedded in an attached microcomputer. CNC is commonly used for manufacturing metal and plastic parts.Continue Reading

• CFOs are finally getting onboard with cloud-based ERP systems

  No longer waylaid by security and compliance concerns, more CFOs are reportedly moving forward with cloud-based ERP as a cornerstone for digital transformation.Continue Reading

• Your essential guide to CPM tools, tips and vendors

  CPM has expanded in use throughout the enterprise, but it's still a cornerstone of the finance department. This guide takes you through key tips you'll need for success.Continue Reading

• How manufacturing companies can join the digital revolution

  Even innovative business leaders may be overwhelmed by how to begin developing a digital manufacturing strategy. Here's some advice on where to start.Continue Reading

• reverse logistics

  Reverse logistics is the set of activities that is conducted after the sale of a product, such as servicing, refurbishment and recycling, for the purpose of recapturing value or proper disposal.Continue Reading

• digital thread

  A digital thread is a strategy for connecting manufacturing systems and digitally linking a manufacturing environment from end to end.Continue Reading

• Do you know the basics of using Excel for accounting?

  Performing accounting in Excel can be a breeze if you know key commands and shortcuts. Take our quiz to see if you know the basics.Continue Reading

• Supply chain performance management provides key metrics for finance

  Inventory and cash measures are some of the most powerful tools for aligning operations with finance in a comprehensive process for corporate performance management.Continue Reading

• service lifecycle management (SLM)

  Service lifecycle management (SLM) describes the strategy and software for managing the maintenance and repair of products and maximizing the profit opportunities from these activities.Continue Reading

• What basics should companies know about digital manufacturing?

  Digital manufacturing is a concept that is gaining traction in the industrial sector. Here's one take on just what it means and why it's important.Continue Reading

• digital manufacturing

  Digital manufacturing is a technology-based approach to production that links different data silos and processes in the manufacturing lifecycle so that stakeholders can make better business decisions both comprehensively and at each step.Continue Reading

• traceability

  Traceability, in supply chain management, is the ability to identify, track and trace elements of a product or substance as it moves along the supply chain from raw goods to finished products. The concept applies to both the discrete manufacturing ...Continue Reading

• PTC ThingWorx

  PTC ThingWorx is a model-based rapid application development (RAD) platform for the Internet of Things. The platform provides design, networking, data management and analytics tools for building business software that integrates with and manages IoT...Continue Reading

• digital twin

  A digital twin is a virtual representation of a product that can be used in product design, simulation, monitoring, optimization and servicing. It requires three elements: the physical product in real space, its digital twin in virtual space and the...Continue Reading

• Mapping out a cloud migration strategy for your financials

  Once you decide to move financial data and applications to the cloud, you'll need a cloud migration strategy so nothing falls through the cracks. Read how one finance director made the move.Continue Reading

• Boost bottom line with supply chain analytics

  The transformation of supply chain management is happening now. IoT is driving that change, but supply chain analytics is instrumental in taming the massive amounts of data generated by IoT sensors, devices and objects and turning it into insight --...Continue Reading

• What supply chain management fundamentals are most core?

  Overseeing materials, information and finances as they move through the supply chain requires learning -- and making peace with -- some critical truths.Continue Reading

• Eight keys to supply chain sustainability

  Figuring out how to create a comprehensive and compelling supply chain sustainability initiative can be overwhelming. Here's guidance on getting it right.Continue Reading

• Should companies make supply chain sustainability a priority?

  There are many compelling reasons to focus on supply chain sustainability. Here's a look at some of those and why sustainability is a key issue for every company.Continue Reading

• digital supply chain

  A digital supply chain is a supply chain whose foundation is built on Web-enabled capabilities to fully capitalize on connectivity, system integration and the information-producing capabilities of "smart" connected products.Continue Reading

• IoT supply chain disruption: Get ahead of it now

  The idea of untold devices talking to one another may still have an aura of science fiction, but here's what we recommend: If you want your company to live long and prosper, stake your IoT strategy now. The Internet of Things is indeed poised to ...Continue Reading

• Zuora

  Zuora sells software that helps companies manage their cloud subscriptions, including sales, pricing, billing, collection and renewal. Zuora also offers analytics software that tracks information on subscribers and offers ways to boost services or ...Continue Reading

• inventory turns

  Inventory turns are a popular measurement used in inventory management to assess operational and supply chain efficiency. Also referred to as inventory turnover and inventory turnover ratio, the inventory turns ratio is calculated by dividing the ...Continue Reading

• Early teamwork key to picking financial accounting software

  Experts advise first appointing a cross-functional steering committee to identify requirements and ensure every voice is heard before looking for financial applications.Continue Reading

• Should you use standard mobile devices for mobile logistics?

  Some companies are outfitting their vehicles with consumer-grade devices to keep in touch with drivers while they're on the road. Here's a look at that strategy's benefits and risks.Continue Reading

• supply chain finance

  Supply chain finance is a set of technology-enabled business and financial processes that provides flexible payment options for a buyer (such as a manufacturer) and one of their suppliers (for example, a raw materials supplier), typically through ...Continue Reading

• product data management (PDM)

  Product data management (PDM) involves capturing and managing the electronic information related to a product so it can be used in various business processes, including production and marketing. It usually requires a dedicated software application ...Continue Reading

• What makes inventory turns a popular measurement?

  Inventory turns can help you determine whether company performance costs and margin are keeping up with sales.Continue Reading

• How to select an ERP integration partner

  Integrating ERP with outside applications is key to a successful implementation. Here are a few things you should do to ensure success -- and what you'll want to avoid.Continue Reading

• What are the basics of supply chain finance?

  Old models of financing are giving way to supply chain finance, a technology-enabled approach that helps suppliers get paid early and buyers get more time to pay.Continue Reading

• How do I choose transportation management system software?

  If you're trying to determine the TMS that's right for your company, start with four considerations. They will help guide your software requirements.Continue Reading

• What is perpetual inventory and why does it matter?

  To ensure an accurate inventory balance, don't overlook the practice of perpetual inventory. Here's what you need to know.Continue Reading

• Budgeting, planning and forecasting gets an upgrade

  Budgeting, planning and forecasting is a process that companies want to be sure to get right. For some, that means updating their software and possibly investing in a cloud option. In this three-part handbook, learn about the upgrades companies are ...Continue Reading

• Augmented reality provides a change of perspective for manufacturers

  Augmented reality, which enhances the physical world with digital data and images, could make industrial repairs easier.Continue Reading

• distribution requirements planning (DRP)

  Distribution requirements planning (DRP) is a time-based systematic process to make the delivery of goods more efficient by determining which goods, in what quantities, and at what location are required to meet anticipated demand.Continue Reading

• What features are best in a global transportation management system?

  Global functionality is available in the TMS market, but you should look beyond marketing materials and scrutinize your options carefully.Continue Reading

• Manufacturing SMBs slow to adopt an ERP platform

  Manufacturing SMBs tread lightly when it comes to moving to an ERP platform. But experts say implementation can be smooth if clear goals are set.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

• Predictive analytics in manufacturing starts to take hold

  Manufacturers are realizing that long-term sustainability requires the ability to exploit machine-learning algorithms by employing predictive analytics.Continue Reading

• Is your company suited to ERP in the cloud?

  If you're a startup with simple data and don't require tons of customization, the cloud could be a perfect fit. Here are a few other qualities of the most cloud-compatible companies.Continue Reading

• Learn the ins and outs of activity-based costing

  Activity-based costing (ABC) helps you understand the profitability of all product lines. Here's how ABC may benefit you.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

• 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

• Manufacturer finds success with cloud-based ERP system

  When it came time for international expansion, Shaw Industries turned to a cloud-based ERP system. The company couldn't be happier.Continue Reading

• How green manufacturing processes can boost the bottom line

  Sustainable production and supply chain practices are not just good PR -- they often help the bottom line by cutting resource consumption and opening up new lines of business. Those benefits aren’t the only drivers toward greener, most sustainable ...Continue Reading

• Mobile ERP makes for a powerful, if mismatched, combo

  The manufacturing and supply chain industries were among the earliest adopters of enterprise-class mobile applications and hardware, but as platforms have evolved, with interfaces resembling cheaper smartphones and tablets, IT strategists have had ...Continue Reading

• Manufacturers enhance customer experience to fuel growth

  Finding ways to enhance customer experience has become a top priority for manufacturers as they shift focus away from operations to driving new growth opportunities.Continue Reading

• Will manufacturing embrace cloud-based ERP?

  Manufacturing companies are slow to adopt cloud-based ERP applications. A new generation of manufacturers may change this trend.Continue Reading

• Planning a safe journey to ERP in the cloud

  Companies are evaluating cloud-based ERP options that can save time and money while allowing for extended functionality. Our editors have put together a guide to plotting the right course to ERP in the cloud.Continue Reading

• Is mobile ERP in the cloud a reality?

  Interest is high in cloud-based mobile ERP, and it can make your life easier. But you should look before you leap.Continue Reading

• Manufacturing operations management merges ERP and MES

  As integrated manufacturing systems evolve, a new term -- manufacturing operations management -- signifies the merger of ERP and MES.Continue Reading

• Lean and sustainability strategies meld for supply chain transformation

  Some manufacturers are expanding lean and sustainability strategies to the supply chain to reduce waste and bolster efficiencies, but extending these practices outside a company's four walls won't be easy.Continue Reading

• Lean manufacturing principles take off in the cloud

  The cloud's emphasis on easy collaboration and access to shared data can advance lean manufacturing principles, helping companies eliminate waste and focus on value-added activities.Continue Reading

• The buzz: New 4-D printing gets itself together

  And you thought 3-D printing was avant-garde? Get a load of this one-upper: The 4-D process prints parts that can assemble or repair themselves. That is, in theory.Continue Reading

• How to know when it's time to dump Excel for BP&F software

  Users and consultants say the presence of any of these seven indicators probably means your Excel-based budgeting, planning and forecasting are ready for heavy-duty specialty tools.Continue Reading