Abstract: Today's usage of Decision Support Systems (DSS), combined with vetted PLM knowledge bases, allows organizations to save time and money, achieving better and more reliable/fully-documented decisions, a quantum improvement over the widely-used subjective process of selecting complex enterprise software...

Abstract: The challenges that face the manufacturing industry today are also opportunities. Manufacturing is being revolutionized in its processes, routines, and ways of doing business through the growing emergence of order driven production methods. This shift towards demand driven manufacturing is emerging in tandem with the larger currents caused by globalization. This cross industry brief focuses on the manufacturing industry from the standpoint of a demand driven IT solution and is aimed at manufacturing and distribution businesses. It describes some major market trends and issues, provides an overview of IBS supply chain solution, and offers details on how the IBS solution for demand driven manufacturing can address current needs of the industry.

Abstract: An integrated steel plant’s manufacturing processes typically encompass three distinct types of manufacturing—flow manufacturing, process manufacturing, and mill manufacturing—making such a plant a mixed-mode manufacturer. Software systems that address the diverse needs these manufacturers have cannot be emphasized more.

Abstract: Hiring the former APICS president to head its manufacturing industry efforts a year ago, the high profile acquisition of renowned manufacturing ERP provider J.D. Edwards this summer, and most recently, the acquisition of demand flow and lean manufacturing software solutions from JCIT, might indicate that PeopleSoft has finally gotten its manufacturing creed. Will these moves finally and lastingly establish it as a serious contender in the manufacturing enterprise resource planning (ERP) and supply chain management (SCM) space?

Abstract: As apparel and textile companies move to outsourcing production—relinquishing direct control in favor of a more cost-effective manufacturing model—a lean supply chain may appear to be the next logical step for further implementing cost and operational improvement. Not so, however. You can’t have a lean supply chain without lean manufacturing. Regardless of whether you or your partners engage in production, lean manufacturing is the lean engine that drives lean supply chain efficiencies. Accordingly, the business requirement for stability in a constantly changing demand environment motivates the fashion industry’s search for lean supply chain management principles and practices. Intentia, in cooperation with industry experts, have written a series of thought leadership white papers on the concept of implementing lean supply chain in the fashion industry. The second of this series, From Lean Manufacturing to Lean Supply Chain explains how lean manufacturing relates to lean supply chain management and where it differs and sometimes conflicts.

Abstract: Even before the mega merger, PeopleSoft had already set it sights on a bigger manufacturing presence. PeopleSoft’s acquisition of mid-to-large ERP system developer J.D. Edwards this summer, and most recently demand flow and lean manufacturing software solution from JCIT, might indicate some deep though process rather than a number of impulse initiatives from the past.

Abstract: The pressure to generate demand for consumer products is constantly increasing. Whether managing customer relationships, achieving increased sales, or introducing new products, the area of marketing expenditure is complex and prone to error. That’s why you need a solution drawing together all the activities needed to analyze, plan, sell, execute, validate, and evaluate your products in a closed-loop process.

Abstract: Despite intense price competition for its volume products, the electrical products industry remains healthy and dynamic. World-class companies are succeeding by marketing innovative products, scaling up and outsourcing production, expanding into new geographic areas, implementing more efficient business systems, and focusing on ever-closer relationships with suppliers, partners, and customers. This white paper explores the issues of manufacturers, wholesalers, and distributors and the current state and future of the industry. Industry specific technological are also discussed.

Abstract: Vantage 8.0 is the next generation manufacturing solution developed by Epicor Software Corporation. It builds on the successes of the Vista, Vantage, Avanté and other associated discrete manufacturing product lines by introducing a total manufacturing solution for the midmarket. It is built to leverage the Microsoft® .NET Framework™ and Progressreg® OpenEdge™ Business Platform in order to provide a leading-edge technological solution that offers Epicor’s manufacturing customers a framework that will support their business needs now and in the future.

Abstract: The market place is awash with many kinds of manufacturing scheduling systems. Due to the dynamic nature of the manufacturing shop floor, it is of utmost importance that a manufacturing scheduling system can take care of these dynamic conditions.

Abstract: As with any manufacturing operation, process manufacturing has special system requirements such as formulas, unit of measure conversions, and packaging recipes. However, within the realm of process manufacturing, specific industries have needs that are more critical than others. This article explores these critical needs for the food and beverage, chemical, and a hybrid industry (textiles), so that you can focus on these requirements when evaluating enterprise-wide software.

Abstract: As with any manufacturing operation, process manufacturing has special system requirements such as formulas, unit of measure conversions, and packaging recipes. However, within the realm of process manufacturing, specific industries have needs that are more critical than others. This article explores these critical needs for the food and beverage, chemical, and a hybrid industry -- textiles, so that you can focus on these requirements when evaluating enterprise-wide software.

Abstract: A number of lean manufacturing tools and practices have long been used to reduce manufacturing waste. These include the five S's, visual controls, standardized work, mistake proofing, total productive maintenance, cellular manufacturing, single-digit setup, pull systems, sequencing, activity-based costing, and leveled production.

Abstract: At a first glance, one can even notice that the complementary nature of some SSA GT products and Infinium products may indeed provide a ‘kick for a buck’ proposition. Further, it appears that SSA GT understands and listens closely (via Global Guide Groups) to the needs of conservative ERP customers that are unwilling to ditch a good functional product even at a cost of its technological antiquity. Further, it has a track record of strong functional development that preserves the customer’s current investment.

Abstract: Kaspersky Labs is no newcomer to anti-virus products. Headquartered in Moscow, Russia, with offices in Pleasanton, California and Cambridge, England, Kaspersky Labs has successfully branded itself as a leader in multi-platform anti-virus products. Though many IT decision makers neglect to protect their UNIX systems from viruses, research done by Kaspersky Labs indicates that Linux may be just as prone to viruses as Microsoft operating systems.

Abstract: For years, SEM Products Inc.—manufacturer of interior and exterior auto body repair and refinishing products—was managing its business with two software systems and various manual processes. As the business grew, it became clear that these systems were lacking in data accessibility and overall functionality. Learn about the enterprise resource planning (ERP) solution SEM now uses for improved order entry functionality.

Abstract: Anderson Power Products manufactures power connectors for telecommunications and other industries. The company, needing to consolidate data for its standard and customized products across five global locations, found an enterprise resource planning (ERP) solution that offers one reliable point of entry. Discover how the ERP solution helped improve shipping, customer relationships, financial reporting time, and more.

Abstract: Managing the demands of constant change is one of the biggest challenges facing the electronics manufacturing services (EMS) industry today. Collaboration between original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and contract manufacturers (CMs) can help both sides leverage the supply chain to manage change. Find out about a solution that can help you create a successful collaboration strategy that optimizes your supply chain.

Abstract: To effectively serve their customers, operations managers need to have visibility as well as control of the delivery and quality of their outsourced components. And because supply chain management is such a critical part of the manufacturing process, it’s important to have the right tools to optimize performance. Find out how real-time collaborative manufacturing is now helping to solve some key manufacturing problems.