Abstract: Oxford University Press (OUP), the largest university press in the world, publishes over 4,500 books per year. OUP has long used electronic data interchange (EDI) for inbound orders, invoices, and credit and delivery notes. Learn why incorporating a value-added network (VAN) to its existing EDI software helped OUP improve its warehouse efficiency, boost trading partner adoption, and reduce annual VAN costs by 60 percent.

Abstract: Knowledge Based Selections allow companies to truly reach an optimum and justifiable technology decision. Knowledge Based Selections have several unique characteristics that enable a company to rapidly and effectively marry internal business requirements with a myriad of vendor attributes that relate to both product performance and long-term value to clients.

Abstract: The University of Maryland School of Medicine had already experienced VMware technology as a way to consolidate its servers; what it didn’t realize was that the company’s solution could also address its disaster recovery needs. By combining two storage technologies—creating a common storage area network (SAN)—the school has reduced unexpected downtime from hours to seconds and has saved thousands of dollars in hardware costs.

Abstract: Although students at the University of Nevada’s Reno campus were generally respectful of the campus’s computers and IT policies, entertainment or malicious software often appeared on computer hard drives. This made machines less stable or even disabled them entirely. To combat the problem of computer network security, UNR found a solution that enables automatic shutdown time and safer shared computer workstations.

Abstract: Oklahoma City University spent a significant amount of money putting the latest computer technology and software in its classrooms. But teachers noticed students weren’t always using these learning tools appropriately. After installing teacher management software, instructors have total control of classroom computers and no longer have to deal with classroom distractions, such as games and instant messaging. Learn more.

Abstract: Student workstations at the University of Kentucky were constantly going down due to user activity—both innocent and malicious. IT couldn’t repair all the workstations immediately, so many students had to wait to use a computer. To reduce computer downtime and eliminate workstation damage, the system administrator installed a solution that prevented workstation drift and helped ensure desktop security. Find out how.

Abstract: A study from Iowa State University’s Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering suggests that the format and organization of a proposal can significantly affect a vendor’s chance of winning a contract. And we thought those university professors didn’t know much about the real world!

Abstract: Using Serena Mariner for Project and Portfolio Management (PPM), Brigham Young University was awarded the 2006 IQPC IT Financial Management Excellence Award for Best IT Governance Structure. Learn how Brigham Young University established its award-winning IT governance structure as a foundation for improving the business value of IT.

Abstract: Contemporary firms must recognize a fundamental shift in the management of distribution activities as a strategic driver of their competitive success. Instead of the traditional focus on pushing products to customers through distribution channels, there is a need to migrate toward adaptive distribution networks. Such networks focus on managing the flow orders from customers by providing them with high levels of convenience while preserving attention to responsiveness and total distribution costs.

Abstract: A major consulting firm recently unveiled an E-Procurement selection tool that helps its clients select technologies that enable their business objectives. The tool combines the consulting firm’s knowledge of various E-Procurement solutions with TEC’s decision support technologies.

Abstract: Using a knowledge base in the selection process can reduce the time, risk and cost of procuring technology. Well constructed knowledge bases that are used in a tested selection methodology reduce the RFI process from months to weeks, eliminate data quality issues and allow an apples to apples comparison of vendor offerings.

Abstract: Two of the greatest challenges IT decision makers face when selecting a CRM package is first, having a comprehensive understanding of their functional and technical requirements and second, identifying the vendors that best match their requirements. This article will focus on determining the functionality and technology required to enable business processes, and how to compare vendor offerings once those requirements have been documented.

Abstract: For the students at Northwestern University registration was supposed to be as easy as point and click, however, it turned into crash and burn.

Abstract: The University of Illinois provides a good example of extensive integration of its business intelligence (BI) solution and data warehousing environment with its enterprise resource planning (ERP) solution.

Abstract: Michigan Virtual University (MVU) was set up as a not-for-profit corporation to serve as a champion for online learning and a provider of cost-effective services and technology that support teaching and learning. MVU wanted to launch a more cost-effective version of its LearnPort that would allow teachers to get training anywhere with an Internet connection. Find out about the learning management system (LMS) MVU chose.

Abstract: Selecting a new enterprise customer relationship management (CRM) solution is an undertaking that requires careful planning and managed execution. And in fact, there are a number of common mistakes that organizations make. Failing to execute the selection process in an objective and structured fashion can be an expensive financial mistake—as well as a fatal hit to your professional reputation.

Abstract: How can you ensure that you make the right choice when purchasing enterprise resource planning (ERP) software? The answer: take all the critical components into consideration. ERP selection is not just about what different people in your organization want or don't want, it's about getting what you need for now and the future. Remember, you're not just buying software; you're buying into a vendor and its company culture.

Abstract: Today, entrepreneurs running small-to-medium sized businesses face daunting tasks that just a few years ago were not existent. The complexities of the business world have created new risks, a myriad of regulations, and complex reporting requirements that can overwhelm any organization. Owners and managers of all enterprises, even smaller private businesses, need to be cognizant of both the spirit and the letter of the law. How does a smaller organization, with limited resources, cope with all of this? How do they stay abreast of the additional changes that are on the way? In this guide, Pete Russo of the Entrepreneurial Management Institute at the Boston University School of Management outlines the pitfalls and steps, but also looks at effective solutions for private companies.