Abstract: It’s old, it’s new, and it’s the future. Pedigree tracking regulations were originally passed into law through the Prescription Drug Marketing Act of 1987 (PDMA). After two decades of postponing enforcement, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has lifted its final stay. Pharmaceutical companies are expected to be in compliance with 21 CFR Part 203 by the year 2011. Do you have what it takes for compliance?

Abstract: Business process automation is all very well and good. After all, nothing succeeds like success, especially automated success. But what is the effect of automation on the consumer, that most unpredictable of systems?

Abstract: Sales force automation makes it possible, and you can learn how in the sales force automation buyer's guide.

Abstract: Computerized maintenance management system (CMMS). Enterprise asset management (EAM) system. Computer-aided facilities management (CAFM) system. Integrated workplace management system (IWMS). Each type of facility management solution offers different functionalities and features, and one may be better than another for your company’s needs. Learn more about the differences and how an integrated solution is a “must have.”

Abstract: Maybe you’re considering software test tools for the first time. Or maybe you have experience but think your existing software test automation process needs retooling. Whatever your perspective, there are tips and tricks you may not know about test design and development. These 10 steps to building software test automation can help you shorten your time to market, improve the quality of your products, and save you money.

Abstract: The core components of a retail information system are inventory management, inventory optimization, revenue management, sales management, and reports and inquiries. Non-core components can include financial, supply chain management, enterprise resource planning, customer relationship management, and warehouse management systems.

Abstract: Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems are software systems that cover the range of interaction a company has with its current, or potential customers. Its functionality can include marketing automation, sales force automation, help desk, customer service and support, partner management, contract management and creation, project and team management, Internet sales, e-mail response management, analytics, and important technical criteria.

Abstract: Before you talk to a payroll services provider, you need to ask yourself several important questions about the current situation of your organization, and to consider its budget, expected growth, and more. Here’s a checklist of some of those questions so you can make the most of your consultation with potential services providers. Get organized and know your requirements before you commit to buying a payroll solution.

Abstract: Senior finance executives in all industries recognize the long-term benefits of transaction-processing automation on resource allocation. Transaction automation frees time and resources that can be allocated for decision support and financial planning and analysis. The result: sustained, profitable top-line growth and risk reduction. Find out other benefits of improving your back-office processes through automation.

Abstract: Effective IP management requires proper allocation of address space for adequate address capacity as needed, as well as accurate configuration of DHCP and DNS servers. Along with flawless configuration and management of each of these foundational elements of Internet protocol (IP) address management, address managers must also integrate these management functions into the broader IT network management environment.

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: For this Showdown, we looked at all three of the main CRM modules: sales force automation, marketing automation, and customer service and support. To eliminate any chance of bias and to ensure a level playing field, all the criteria that make up these three modules in our CRM Evaluation Center were given equal weight and priority. In other words, no area of functionality was treated as being more important than any other.

Abstract: The 2006 PMI Research Conference was an excellent venue for gauging the direction in which project management research is heading. The presentations of the areas of portfolio management and program management confirm the rising demand for project portfolio management solutions.

Abstract: Unica's possibly unique set of broad and astute functional footprint and geographic coverage, easily-deployable product with proven quick payback may prove the fact that the marketing automation point providers with a differentiating value proposition and with immaculate execution may prevail the onslaught of larger packaged suite providers.

Abstract: This guide to supply chain management (SCM) functions/features will help you determine which SCM features are a high priority for your organization. Learn about SCM functions and features for WMS, TMS, international trade logistics (ITL), supplier relationship management (SRM), demand management, supply chain analytics, order management, service parts planning, and more.

Abstract: Many organizations find it challenging to adopt sales force automation and customer relationship management solutions. Formal sales training and the related reinforcement tools can make the difference. We examine the key challenges and propose some solutions.

Abstract: Marketing is possibly the only remaining major business function yet to revise its core processes to take advantage of IT that can cut time, costs, and improve the quality of its operation. Nevertheless with marketing automation there are huge untapped opportunities for business improvement, given marketing has a unique vantage point in any enterprise to understand the customer needs, buying behavior, and value perception.

Abstract: Since the late nineties, enterprise resource planning (ERP) vendors have developed functionality for vertical markets in the service industry. Simultaneously, professional services automation (PSA) became a viable software category. Consequently, deciphering the difference between ERP and PSA remains a challenge.