Abstract: Primarily due to rapid development of technology in the past thirty years, the market structure throughout the world has changed considerably. Local markets have become accessible to foreign manufacturers, who are able to perform well in their newly established territories in part due to their superior application of technology. In this light, most companies, including small and medium size, have embedded globalization in their expansion strategies, consistently seeking for new markets abroad. Consequently, local manufacturing companies are facing global competition, forcing them to adopt new concepts with respect to people, process and technologies. This document describes these approaches to production planning in detail as well outlines a software solution. The software solution (Production/3) combines both pull and push techniques and enables small to medium size organizations to fully automate their production system while retaining their investment in their legacy enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems.

Abstract: With a turnover of CHF 85 billion and 470 sites, Nestle is the world's largest food group. Learn how Nestle is able to plan its production and to accommodate finite capacity calculations in terms of manpower and material resources, strategic material availability, and through the significant production constraints of Nestle's different production environments.

Abstract: Iwate Toshiba, a semiconductor fabricator, sought a supply chain solution to resolve recurring production issues. The solution had to be capable of quickly planning and scheduling lots during peak production, providing accurate order commitments, reducing planning cycles for production, optimize use of production resources, and achieving a more accurate supply chain model by integrating business planning with factory-level scheduling.

Abstract: Enterprises understand the value of integration. One area that has been ignored is the plant. Plant systems and corporate systems must be complementary and leverage each other to provide their maximum value. Production intelligence provides both integration and valuable information which is not available in either type of system.

Abstract: The textile industry is famous for its very different characteristics when compared to industries in either process or discrete manufacturing. Developing production planning and scheduling software for any textile mill is a real challenge even for seasoned industry experts. This article focuses on some of the unique challenges posed to master requirement planning and master production scheduling (MRP / MPS) software vendors by the textile industry.

Abstract: Invensys has created a new group within its Production Management Division called Invensys Production Solutions. The group includes the PRISM and Protean process ERP products plus the resources of Invensys Validation Services group. While the unit should have much strength, it also has certain liabilities that must be addressed.

Abstract: Manufacturers know that production scrap can come from just about anywhere: from the ordered parts that don’t fit into a finished assembly, or from a physical prototype you’ve used and discarded. Whatever the case, the scrap—and any rework needed to fix the problem—costs you time or money, or both. Learn how you can overcome the most serious causes of production scrap with a product lifecycle management (PLM) solution.

Abstract: Learn how Welch's found a solution that would give it the ability to optimize and coordinate its short-term production schedules while building long-term master production schedule (MPS) based on the capacity constraints, inventory targets, and manpower.

Abstract: Management at Concert GmbH, a company specializing in the production of non-woven air-laid fabrics, realized that the company had a lot of different custom applications running in its plants. Much of the production management was being handled manually—not in keeping with the nature of the company. After selecting a production management solution, Concert realized a return on investment in less than one year. Learn why.

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: This benchmarking study analyzes human resources (HR) performance for over 200 best-practice companies in three categories: process and transactional support, expertise-based business support, and strategic decision support. Two questions are at the core of the study: How can companies reduce HR costs and increase HR efficiency? And how can HR organizations create business value and optimize effectiveness? Find out what they said.

Abstract: Webcom Limited is a Canadian book manufacturer specializing in custom book production. Its heterogeneous IT infrastructure was resulting in discontinuous information flow, which impeded staffers’ abilities to collaborate throughout the steps of a book’s production. But when Webcom Limited migrated to an integrated Microsoft business management system, it saw a 33 percent improvement in the automation of job production workflow.

Abstract: Making a robust business case to convince management how a software solution can make a valuable contribution to your business isn’t easy. To build a successful case, you need a set of practical examples of what the software does and the benefits it can provide. Examine the strategies and problems associated with achieving your manufacturing objectives, and what the Lighthouse Systems’ solution can do to address them.

Abstract: Many companies don’t place a high enough value on the importance of learning and development. How can you convince the rest of your organization to get on board? You need to build a business case that involves more than a return on investment (ROI) document or static business plan. Find out ten steps that can help you address immediate problems, build alliances throughout the company, and make a successful business case.

Abstract: A leading application service provider of business applications needed to develop a replica of enterprise resource planning (ERP) for veterinary practice. The application required customer relationship management (CRM), supply chain management (SCM), a financial accounting system, human resource (HR) management, and medical records management. Rishabh Software developed the solution using EJB, XML, Java servlets, JSSE, JBoss, and J2ME technologies.

Abstract: The benefits of implementing a manufacturing system are well known and well documented, but there are many factors to consider when selecting a system. Companies seeking to automate their manufacturing systems, wanting to upgrade entry-level software, or seeking new technology need to ask themselves serious questions to determine if and what type of enterprise resource planning (ERP) system to get. Learn how to assess if you need a new ERP system for your process manufacturing environment.

Abstract: Have you come to the conclusion that your company needs a supply chain planning system? Do you need to provide management and other key decision makers with reasons why you need a supply chain planning system? One way that a supply chain planning system can help you is by enforcing best practices and processes. Get more details on this and 10 other reasons why you should implement a supply chain system that works for you.

Abstract: As time passes, enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems drift further and further into misalignment with enterprise goals, strategies, and tactics. Eventually your legacy ERP system begins to interfere with your company’s ability to operate efficiently. Examine ERP evaluation criteria and techniques, and equip yourself with the tools and knowledge you need to measure your current ERP system’s effectiveness.