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: Project portfolio management (PPM), once a solution only larger organizations could afford, enables companies to analyze, recommend, authorize, activate, expedite, and monitor projects. In recent years, however, small to medium businesses have been able to benefit from PPM too, through software-as-a-service models of this tool.

Abstract: There are two types of project portfolio management (PPM) solutions for professional services organizations (PSO). For smaller PSOs, best-of-breed vendors provide hosted solutions with out-of-the-box integrations, while integrated PPM solutions provide the complete back-office systems preferred by many larger PSOs.

Abstract: Many companies recognize the need for project portfolio management (PPM) and implement a solution, but encounter cultural resistance to the initiative. Yet other companies can integrate PPM with virtually no resistance. The difference is the readiness for and acceptance of change in the company. Learn how to avoid the pitfalls, adhere to proven best practices, and realize the benefits and huge return on investment (ROI).

Abstract: Project portfolio management (PPM) software can provide a dynamic decision-making process for assessing projects such as portfolios, prioritizing projects, and allocating limited resources to meet key organizational objectives. Using PPM can also help you better align and manage your people, projects, and processes—giving you the ability to react quickly to change and minimize risk in the current declining market.

Abstract: Research shows that companies implementing product portfolio management (PPM) solutions achieve greater success in profitability because of their ability to monitor product value throughout the product selection and development processes. With the ability to evaluate this information through PPM capabilities, companies can take corrective action to maximize product value during new development—or kill projects that won’t deliver sufficient returns.

Abstract: Project portfolio management (PPM) is a hot topic, and there’s no shortage of related advice. However, much of the current advice is incomplete—or flat-out wrong. Before purchasing a tool, buyers should familiarize themselves with established theories for valuing projects. Armed with understanding, they can avoid getting 'burned' by the unsuitable PPM tools that are being pushed in the marketplace.

Abstract: Project portfolio management (PPM) has become a critical component in the IT business lexicon. It provides structure and consistency to the process associated with the planning, prioritization, management, and control of project portfolios. By using PPM, IT departments can align their IT and business strategies and improve performance in project-based work, and enhanced corporate governance.

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.

Abstract: Because the technology has become easier to implement, use, and maintain, many of the challenges to achieving the benefits that supply chain management software applications can provide have been removed.

Abstract: Business Engine provides best-of-breed PPM functionality for internal IT departments, focusing on financial governance. For organizations seeking flexible workflow and IT governance capabilities, BEN delivers functionality in the financial services, health care, government, manufacturing, telecommunications, pharmaceuticals and retail vertical markets.

Abstract: Implementing information technology (IT) governance means using a structure of relationships and processes to direct an organization. Some project portfolio management (PPM) vendors have adopted the IT governance mantra to differentiate their solutions from those offered by the enterprise resource planning (ERP) industry.

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: The most realistic and attainable approach to IT governance is a 'lean' approach via project portfolio management (PPM). The lean approach requires a light footprint life cycle, rapid implementation of proven practices, and centralized data. It is based on simplicity and achievability, building on what works while establishing headroom for continuous improvement.