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: 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: Ross Systems, the struggling ERP vendor that many have all but written off, might be telling us with its recent moves that it has not said its last word as yet.

Abstract: Big revenues, big acquisitions, and a big loss. Seemingly overnight, the Dallas-based vendor has leapt from the ranks of unknown companies to be the undisputed champion of B2B supply chain management software and services.

Abstract: Sun has launched an attempt to break into the ranks of large-scale and enterprise storage system vendors like EMC, IBM, and Compaq.

Abstract: The recent ILOVEYOU worm, was the most widely spread virus or worm reported as of yet. With so many anti-virus vendors to choose from, which one should you select? The three selection components are: the advisory, the anti-virus tool itself, and the price. This note takes a look at the advisories, and ranks them according to usability.

Abstract: Oracle remains a true IT powerhouse with fingers in many pies other than databases, such as application servers, and development tools, which ranks it as an enterprise infrastructure provider, together with SAP, IBM at a higher and, and Microsoft at the lower end of the market. However, Oracle may be getting very uncomfortable with how its protracted disappointing revenue results (possible the worst in a decade) jeopardizes its No. 2 position in the applications market. It seemed all but inconceivable over a year ago that PeopleSoft could be so close to snatching the No. 2 position from Oracle.

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: Need to manage your e-mail, but aren't sure which product best fits your needs? Gartner Inc.'s Magic Quadrant ranks e-mail-archiving vendors according to their ability to execute and the completeness of their vision. Learn more about the Magic Quadrant and how you can use it to find the right e-mail-archiving solution for your business by assessing the market as well as vendor strengths and cautions.

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.