Abstract: Buying a software solution that doesn’t closely fit your business processes significantly impacts the time and money your company needs to make it work. There are particular challenges in using a generic enterprise resource planning (ERP) system for the printing and packaging industry. Read about the functional gaps to consider when choosing an ERP system, and how to use it to lower your total cost of ownership (TCO).

Abstract: While the concept of lean manufacturing is well established in traditional manufacturing industries, its adoption in printing and packaging has been slow. Many companies have yet to fully realize the benefits of a holistic implementation. Find out how and when you should implement enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems for a faster transition to lean processes—and improve efficiency and quality while reducing waste.

Abstract: Regardless of size or purpose, business processes within a company rely heavily on the dependability of assets for successful operations. Enterprise asset management (EAM) solutions can help companies monitor their assets, including a feature that allows documents to be attached to a work order. But printing the work order and its attachments is not always so simple. Learn how automated work order software can help.

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: How do companies address the out-of-control costs associated with network printing? Many look to control them by outsourcing their managed printer services. The transition from basic dealer services to a holistic approach—where the dealer manages the print services for the entire organization—has its challenges. With printer fleet management tools, companies gain a competitive advantage and save on printing costs.

Abstract: Beyond the operational efficiencies and cost savings of an improved product audit trail, standardized GS1 barcode labels contribute to greater supply chain security by protecting against the entry of counterfeit products into a legitimate supply chain. There are many complications to having fully conforming GS1 barcode labels, however. Find out how to address these issues with five strategies for the global supply chain.

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: 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: The pharmaceutical industry is highly competitive, regulated, and in a permanent state of change. Customers demand instant attention, while suppliers require comprehensive leading edge services with regard to their products. Regulatory authorities require that the industry keep up to date with regulations, following them to the letter. Competitors are always inventing new ways to gain market share, while e-business presents new opportunities and challenges. All the while the pressure to reduce prices and to shorten order cycles is high. Pharmaceutical wholesalers comprise the lifeline within the pharmaceutical industry, providing continuity of supply and facilities for storage. They also offer a range of supporting services, such as information technology systems and product withdrawal notifications, which form an essential part of the total healthcare package. These companies and institutions all operate in an environment where speed and efficiency may mean the difference between life and death. However, the industry has a number of specific requirements that are critical for achieving success in the distribution sector.

Abstract: The challenges that face the manufacturing industry today are also opportunities. Manufacturing is being revolutionized in its processes, routines, and ways of doing business through the growing emergence of order driven production methods. This shift towards demand driven manufacturing is emerging in tandem with the larger currents caused by globalization. This cross industry brief focuses on the manufacturing industry from the standpoint of a demand driven IT solution and is aimed at manufacturing and distribution businesses. It describes some major market trends and issues, provides an overview of IBS supply chain solution, and offers details on how the IBS solution for demand driven manufacturing can address current needs of the industry.

Abstract: The benefits of implementing a manufacturing system are well known and well documented, but there are many factors to consider when selecting a system. Companies seeking to automate their manufacturing systems, wanting to upgrade entry-level software, or seeking new technology need to ask themselves serious questions to determine if and what type of enterprise resource planning (ERP) system to get. Learn how to assess if you need a new ERP system for your process manufacturing environment.

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: As time passes, enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems drift further and further into misalignment with enterprise goals, strategies, and tactics. Eventually your legacy ERP system begins to interfere with your company’s ability to operate efficiently. Examine ERP evaluation criteria and techniques, and equip yourself with the tools and knowledge you need to measure your current ERP system’s effectiveness.

Abstract: The textile industry is famous for its very different characteristics when compared to industries in either process or discrete manufacturing. Developing production planning and scheduling software for any textile mill is a real challenge even for seasoned industry experts. This article focuses on some of the unique challenges posed to master requirement planning and master production scheduling (MRP / MPS) software vendors by the textile industry.

Abstract: Advanced planning and optimization makes supply chain systems cost effective. It is the brain of the supply chain because it works on top of all other software tools that plan, monitor, and control supply chain activities and control them.

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: If you are implementing or considering Microsoft Axapta as your ERP system, or providing Axapta-related services, this note provides an overall understanding of how the system fits together to run a business. This section reviews the major design factors affecting system usage in a manufacturing environment.

Abstract: If you are implementing or considering Microsoft Axapta as your ERP system, or providing Axapta-related services, this note provides an overall understanding of how the system fits together to run a business. This section reviews the major design factors affecting system usage in a distribution environment.