Abstract: Today's usage of Decision Support Systems (DSS), combined with vetted SCM 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: 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: “Last-mile supply chain services” is an evolving segment of the supply chain industry, but a cutting-edge segment that has evolved as supply chain managers across the US struggle to cope with the inadequacies of the current globalized supply chain model. Learn five reasons why current supply chain models are flawed and how you can use a new architecture to balance supply chain risk, globalized sourcing, and economics.

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: November 2, 1999 05:30 PM BARNEVELD, Netherlands and HERNDON, Va., Nov. 2 /PRNewswire/ -- Baan Company N.V., a global provider of enterprise business solutions, today announced the release of two major new additions to its Supply Chain Solutions suite: Baan Supply Chain Solutions Planner 2.0 for factory planning, and Baan Supply Chain Solutions Order Promising 1.0 for order acceptance. The two solutions provide advanced supply chain and logistics capabilities that enable manufacturing professionals to increase throughput, reduce inventory, improve supply chain visibility, and improve response time and service levels to customers.

Abstract: Historically, companies have invested in tactical and operational supply chain technology solutions. These solutions helped model and operate existing supply chains, without addressing overall supply chain design and strategy. Companies are increasingly turning to strategic solutions such as supply chain design and optimization (SCDO) to help satisfy customer demand while balancing limitations on supply and the need for operational efficiency.

Abstract: As companies struggle to control costs, the supply chain and management of supply resources have come under scrutiny. The supply chain is one area where a company can achieve quick gains and receive a fast return on investment.

Abstract: Optimizing supply chain management processes to work more closely with trading partners, requires enterprises to act together as interdependent supply networks. The development of service oriented architecture will be crucial in achieving the necessary flexibility characterizing such networked supply chains.

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: 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: Active Execution Management captures radio frequency identification (RFID) and electronic product code (EPC) data and integrates it into the supply chain business process. AXM associates individual EPC events (the observation of an EPC tag at an RFID reader) with the supply chain transaction that is currently being executed and then determines if that supply chain transaction is executing as planned. AXM is able to make this determination by comparing key performance indicators of the supply chain transaction with the characteristics of the EPC event. The paper describes multiple business cases, such as promotions management, deductions management, complex international shipments, and spoilage management, and shows how RFID data can be leveraged to improve supply chain performance.

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: 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: Streamlining your supply chain can boost revenue, reduce costs, and help grow your business. No matter what business you’re in, the days of managing your supply chain from the back office are over. Today’s successful companies understand that lean supply chains maximize revenue and help stimulate growth—and their top executives aren’t afraid to wield their supply chains like weapons.

Abstract: Lean supply chain management and lean sourcing strategies are relatively new to the apparel industry, generating more talk than broad implementation to date. In this the final paper of our “Lean Is Fashionable” thought leadership series, we define a lean supply chain action plan with five concrete steps for building a collaborative infrastructure between your company and other members of your supply network. These represent an eleven year culmination of our and our customers’ real world experiences in implementing lean supply chain strategies that are designed as a road map to achieving a more collaborative and profitable future.

Abstract: Fashion companies need to respond quickly and strategically to major changes occurring in today’s global supply chains. Implementing a lean supply chain management strategy can enable cost savings and more efficient operations by realigning process according to a demand-driven model. Lean supply chain management uses Web-based technologies to create and maintain dynamic supplier networks. Such networks are able to deliver the highest customer value at the lowest cost. It also lays the groundwork for the next level of hands-free, wireless radio frequency identification-enabled processes. 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 first of this series, “Lean Is Fashionable”, explores the impact of lean practices in the fashion and apparel industry during a period of momentous change.

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: 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.