Abstract: There are many legitimate reasons for upgrading your company’s enterprise network. The trick is selling those reasons to the executives holding your company’s purse strings. When you know it’s time for a network upgrade, you need more than just the technical facts—you have to arm yourself with a solid business case. Start with 10 tips that can help you sell the members of your upper management team on a network upgrade.

Abstract: Upgrading to CRM solution increases value of relationships for financial services firm. ScotiaMcLeod (www.scotiabank.com) is the investment arm of Scotiabank, one of Canada's largest financial organizations with over $280 billion in assets. ScotiaMcLeod's financial advisors specialize in helping individuals and small business customers plan financial solutions for trusts, estate planning, borrowing and banking services. ScotiaMcLeod has more than 800 financial advisors working in 84 branches across the country. According to Chris Carter, Associate Director and Branch Manager for ScotiaMcLeod's North Vancouver office, the financial services sector is a people-driven business where customer service is critical to success.

Abstract: Identifying, evaluating, and outlining your information management needs is already a tough task—but conducting a complete vendor review can stretch the project further. To reduce the time spent learning about the information management solution landscape—and vendor tendencies—arm yourself with the questions that your search vendors don’t want to answer. The first question: Can I request a proof of concept? Learn more.

Abstract: Today, global manufacturers have all but abandoned traditional vertical supply chain management to adopt the more flexible horizontal and virtual supply chain concepts. But in changing their business model, they have given up a fair amount of control over their supply chain processes.

Abstract: Some major SSI competitors, while possibly inferior regarding process or mill industry focus, will influence some purchase decisions through more comprehensive horizontal product portfolios, and superior global presence, localization capabilities, and viability—which are still hurdles for SSI to overcome.

Abstract: The merging vendors, Sage/Best and ACCPAC, have understood that a broad, impeccably integrated, horizontal offering with selected vertical enhancements, a nurturing resellers network in addition to providing well-attuned pricing and catering to the evolving scalability and migration needs of customers through products of upward compatibility are necessary tenets for success in the SME market segment.

Abstract: Despite solid horizontal ERP functionality, product flexibility, and very good customer service, Infinium's challenge remains its lack of mind share and brand awareness outside of its hospitality stronghold.

Abstract: The CRM market is shifting. Instead of looking for an all-purpose and horizontal oriented CRM application, customers are seeking a more specialized and industry specific tool. From the larger organization to the smallest customers, CRM buyers are expecting their applications to follow their business model with limited need for customization. Interface Software, which is focused on the professional services market, is an example.

Abstract: Retalix, a supply chain software provider is positioning itself to be a segment pack leader through vendor positioning, vertical differentiation, and horizontal influences. It may be poised to oust industry heavyweights including IBM and SAP as the retail food industry software provider.