Abstract: When selecting a point of sale (POS) solution, users have a choice between stand-alone solutions and integrated solutions. They should first evaluate core and non-core components of POS systems, and assess the strengths and weaknesses of best-of-breed and integrated approaches.

Abstract: Testing a system well is harder than building it. In the face of new risks introduced by the ever-increasing complexity of software and hardware, test tools may be your only practical way to be confident that you've got just what you paid for. From gathering the initial requirements to supporting the system after it has been deployed, test tools are available to support all phases of a project. This article looks at the ways that test tools can be used to design, code, and (of course) test a system.

Abstract: Not all integrated accounting and point of sale (POS) systems are created equal. If sales prices aren’t updated, or if on-hand stock isn’t managed properly, you will be at a major competitive disadvantage. Fully integrated accounting systems move information smoothly from one module to another—but what does integration as it applies to accounting and POS software really mean?

Abstract: A store’s point of sale (POS) system is the gateway to valuable data. The problem with many legacy POS systems is that they create islands of information—information that should be shared with other parts of the organization in real time in order to serve customers cost-effectively. They also prevent retailers from adding capabilities that can boost the bottom line.

Abstract: Microsoft Point of Sale and Microsoft Retail Management System provide a complete point of purchase solution suite for small and midsize specialty retail businesses. Released in 2005, Microsoft Point of Sale has enabled Microsoft to further penetrate the retail market.

Abstract: Commerce One has partnered with Sagent Technology to add analytic tools to its enterprise e-purchasing application. Also, Ariba has partnered with Informatica to add analytic tools to its enterprise e-purchasing application.

Abstract: Tools under the business intelligence (BI) umbrella combine to convert data into information, and information into decisions for action. Dashboards and scorecards are two such tools. Though often confused, they have functional difference, especially in modern BI suites.

Abstract: This tutorial, part 2 of a two part series on Knowledge Based Selection, demonstrates the selection processes and capabilities of Knowledge Based Selection Methods and Tools. These tools, integrated with business decision making procedures, can arguably reduce selection risk and improve chances for success in IT projects. Given the appalling rate of IT project failures, selection can potentially help reduce risk in some 30% of cases, with an associated estimated cost of about $30B annually to industry according to some sources. In this tutorial, we illustrate a number of the procedures for rapid decision processing through the real-life selection of a PDA device. The process gave confidence to the argument to wait for the solution, while weighing risk against return.

Abstract: In going through a business decision process for complex technology selections, more and more use is being made of technologically driven processes using Decision support tools and captured knowledge. The use of these systems and the capability to drive a solution from them assumes an ability to accurately express business requirements and business value within these tools. In this article, we explore the marriage of knowledge management and decision support in forming knowledge based selection systems and procedures that can assist in reducing the current appalling record of IT project failures. This is illustrated by the process to select a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA).

Abstract: This article continues the examination of tools that a vendor may supply that can make the implementation of an ERP package easier for your project team, end users, and IT department. Read on to see what tools you may want to have in your toolbox before proceeding with the implementation.

Abstract: Microsoft development tools will help developers and independent Microsoft software vendors integrate Microsoft Dynamics GP with existing applications. This accounting and business management system includes many features and benefits, as well as guidelines to help developers choose the right tools for various development tasks and create custom applications that integrate with Microsoft Dynamics GP.

Abstract: Conventional business intelligence (BI) tools are often not available to decision makers and are typically designed for use by trained business analysts. Learn about software-as-a-service (SaaS) BI tools designed to help non-IT people who struggle with the task of mining Microsoft Excel spreadsheets and other unstructured data sources to make sales forecasts, plan for resource utilization, or service customer accounts.

Abstract: Workers spend on average close to 80 percent of their workday with some combination of enterprise applications and desktop tools. Best-in-class companies have already found ways to improve productivity. Learn more about the convergence of enterprise applications with desktop tools, and the role it plays in providing visibility to enterprise data, improving communication, and facilitating real-time decision making.

Abstract: Demand for instant access to dispersed information is being met by vendors offering enterprise business intelligence tools and suites. Portlet standardization, enterprise information integration, and corporate performance management are among the proposed solutions, but do they really deliver real time information?

Abstract: SCO introduces Tarantella ASP edition and ASP Connect as tools for the Application Service Provider market.

Abstract: To learn how a new generation of bi tools can give you the knowledge you need to make the right business decisions at the right time, check out the...

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: Skila, Inc. is applying advanced eKnowedge tools to the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical device industries. It’s the kind of offering every knowledge worker wants to have.