Abstract: Integrated enterprise resource planning software normalizes the reporting requirements for a mining company’s various departments. This article loosely shows the parallels between the operations in a mining company and those of a manufacturer whose product is sold on store shelves.

Abstract: It is now imperative that businesses be prudent. With rising volumes of data, traditional analytical techniques may not be able to discover valuable data. Consequently, data mining technology becomes important. Here is a framework to help understand the data mining process.

Abstract: Microsoft released a new version of OLE DB (Object Linking and Embedding Database, based on Microsoft’s Component Object Model or COM) which supports a proprietary data mining specification. It is purported to extend the Structured Query Language (SQL) to allow easier and faster incorporation of data mining queries into existing data warehouse solutions.

Abstract: Data mining has emerged from obscure beginnings in artificial intelligence to become a viable and increasingly popular tool for putting data to work. Data mining is a set of techniques for automating the exploration of data and uncovering hidden truths.

Abstract: Mine evaluation studies, including those that support mine water management or environmental compliance, are rife with challenges. The biggest: to quantitatively evaluate alternative approaches for completing projects, and to identify and manage associated risks. Models must be accurate, and yet still take uncertainty into account. Learn how a simulation tool can you help forecast the behavior of complex mining systems.

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: For the coffee producer Mother Parkers, scheduling coffee production across two plants was an ever-increasing challenge. Mother Parkers decided to take proactive steps toward consolidating its day-to-day scheduling data by engaging Supply Chain Consultants (SCC) to help. SCC applied its scheduling algorithms to improve schedule attainment, visibility, and stability—exactly what Mother Parkers needed.

Abstract: Recent findings by the SEC prompted global management consulting firm PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP to dismiss a number of its consultants, including five partners, and discipline a larger group from its U.S.-based staff of 39,000 consultants.

Abstract: Achieving operational excellence is fundamental for Yanacocha, the largest gold producer in South America. In 1999, Yanacocha decided it needed an online system linking its principal management areas (operations, maintenance, logistics, finance, and human resources), in order to optimize efficiency in administering its assets. It turned to Mincom Ellipse as its corporate management system, allowing standardization of its operations worldwide.

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: 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: Business performance management (BPM) includes setting key performance indicators, using data mining to discover data patterns and using software to help drive business decisions and develop corporate strategy. For an organization, there are many benefits to implementing a BPM solution.

Abstract: Project management tools for software development should include a broad range of functionality. Project teams must be able to estimate the scope and duration of each project, divide work into components and tasks; provide quality assurance; and generate detailed performance metrics. Find out how many project management solutions are missing the mark, and learn what to look for when choosing a solution of your own.

Abstract: Effective resource management not only impacts profitability, it generates loyalty that translates to competitive advantages in recruiting and retaining the best people. System inefficiencies, however, often make it difficult for businesses to find time to improve their resource management processes or upgrade their systems. Find out how these five steps can help your business in its resource management planning efforts.

Abstract: Counterfeit medicine is a major threat to the pharmaceutical industry. Seven percent of the medicine worldwide is counterfeit; however, advances in packaging and labeling technologies are coming to the industry’s aid. Pharmaceutical companies are using pilot projects to help labeling implementations throughout the supply chain to increase the availability of safe, licensed medicine and thwart the underground drug market.

Abstract: Hendrix Wire & Cable, an underground power distribution product manufacturer, had a highly functional in-house-developed system that fit its manufacturing environment. However, it was expensive to support and maintain. Management wanted to establish a foundation to support planned e-commerce initiatives and provide better visibility and executive decision support. And above all, they wanted to lower the company’s IT-related costs.