Abstract: As countries frequently increase and revise border security protocols, participating in global trade has become increasingly complex. Compliance and supply chain managers can no longer solely rely on personal knowledge and paper-based processes to effectively plan and manage global trade. You must have real-time access to critical trade information and the ability to automate global trade management processes. Learn more.

Abstract: Most retailers can no longer compete on price alone; however, integrated retail solutions built on Microsoft SQL, and OPOS and ART Data Model standards offer a competitive advantage. They support holistic systems that integrate point of sale, enterprise, and even warehouse management functions, to deliver better service to customers.

Abstract: Implementing the proper business system can be as strategic and important to your bottomline as expanding your warehouse or bringing on new product lines. However, implementing the wrong solution or choosing an inexperienced solution provider can have serious negative effects on your business—-from lost opportunities and late orders to bankruptcy in some extreme cases. Consequently, it is imperative that wholesale distributors take time to clearly define their business processes and objectives before they start their search for new business software. This guide is designed to help wholesale distributors manage the entire software evaluation cycle, from needs analysis and budget planning through software selection and implementation.

Abstract: The Internet opened the door for global trade. As the global trade management (GTM) space continues consolidating, market leadership belongs to companies that understand, to truly improve global trade, one must be able to manage both the physical and financial supply chains.

Abstract: Although the retail and wholesale customers have typically invested a low proportion of their total revenues in information technology, retail industry leaders have begun to demonstrate an ability to achieve market advantage through the effective use of specialized enterprise applications. As a result, the requirement for all retailers to increase their investment in IT and adopt best practices has thus grown.

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: Continuous change in the retail industry is limiting retailers’ ability to plan, forecast, price, and replenish. Thus, many retailers are facing a dilemma: they need new retail technology to adapt their processes and respond more rapidly to changing markets, but they can’t afford the up-front expenditure or lengthy implementation. But advances in new software-as-a-service (SaaS) retail solutions can help. Learn how.

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: Companies are going global because the risk of not doing so greatly outweighs the comfort that staying domestic brings. According to a World Trade Organization (WTO) report issued in October 2004, 'Despite the rise in oil prices the volume of world trade is likely to grow by 8.5% in real terms by the end of 2004.' The liberalization of trade, the reduction of tariffs, the elimination of quotas, the continued rise in China as an industrial force, and the rise of outsourcing as a cost reduction opportunity, all create an environment that is full of opportunity and fraught with hazards. The ability to effectively manage global commerce will be a key strategic competitive differentiator. Global commerce management (GCM) is what is required by companies to win in this tougher, more competitive environment.

Abstract: To optimally complete the global trade cycle, a business must automate, track, and provide visibility to the entire global trade management process to optimize its supply and distribution chains.

Abstract: The strategic imperative to streamline the entire lifecycle of global trade has prompted JPMorgan and TradeBeam to acquire complementary companies. Logistics service providers also recognize that many customers want trade services, and are stepping up to the challenge.

Abstract: The challenge for government and industry is to secure trade without impeding growth. Therefore, there is a greater need for timely information updated by knowledgeable sources of compliance and regulation issues. Global trade management software appears to be the best solution.

Abstract: Survey says: trade promotion spending is up, but the majority of consumer package goods (CPG) companies aren’t spending wisely. Reuse of same old seasonal promotions, supply not meeting demand, and invoice errors also contribute to a decreased return on investment (ROI). Trade promotion management (TPM) can provide visibility into the life cycle of each promotion—so you can provide better service to your customers.

Abstract: This paper examines the steel service center segment of the wholesale distribution industry as a case in point of the challenges facing distributors and the relief offered through supply chain software.

Abstract: There are critical objectives that Supply Chain Management Software must satisfy to meet the challenges faced by wholesale distributors.

Abstract: Efficient procurement and sourcing. Storing and moving inventories. Attracting and retaining customers. Such challenges have an impact on wholesale distributors’ revenues, competitiveness, and profits. To make timely and informed decisions that can impact your business, you need answers to questions like “How can I offer value-added services to improve customer loyalty?” Get the answers to this and other key questions.

Abstract: All too often, fragmented IT landscapes make it difficult—and sometimes downright impossible—for wholesale distributors to improve processes, control costs, and create the efficiencies needed to succeed in a competitive industry. Nevertheless, enterprise technologies do have the potential to be powerful tools, quickly reacting to shifting market forces in a consolidating industry, and achieving operational excellence and solid growth.

Abstract: SaaS, despite its phenomenal popularity, is certainly not one-size-fits-all. You need to consider decision criteria such as fit, return on investment, and risk. Learn how SaaS works, who the major vendors are, how SaaS can help your business grow, and how to find the SaaS solution that’s right for you. It’s all in this comprehensive SaaS Buyer’s Guide for Wholesale and Distribution from TEC and SupplyChainBrain.