Abstract: Today's usage of Decision Support Systems (DSS), combined with vetted CRM knowledge bases, allows organizations to save time and money, achieving better and more reliable/fully-documented decisions, a quantum improvement over the widely-used subjective process of selecting complex enterprise software...

Abstract: Ford Motor Company and Oracle Corporation announced the formation of the AutoXchange, an integrated electronic procurement supply chain to be created and run as a joint venture.

Abstract: The global automotive and wholesale distribution industry moves more than 50 million motor vehicles from factory floor to dealer to customer every year. Companies that operate in this market sector perform a difficult balancing act between the vehicle makers on the one side and the dealers and the consumers on the other. However by leveraging IT strategies, their goals are attainable.

Abstract: When Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) was created, the Internet was still mainly a vehicle for scientific collaboration. Indeed, the need for security has grown out of the increased use of the Internet as a commercial medium. That’s why new DHCP issues have come to the forefront that were simply not explored in the early days of the Internet.

Abstract: In the automotive industry, purchasing has become a critical business component. Some experts estimate that a 4 percent reduction in sourcing costs can add as much to profits as a 10 percent increase in sales. With intense global competition putting constant pressure on vehicle prices, many companies see improved sourcing and procurement as key to increasing margins, profits, and competitiveness.

Abstract: Inventory optimization is a proven vehicle to gain competitive value through reduced inventory, freed-up working capital, and improved service levels. But leading the inventory innovation initiative in your organization requires more than an understanding of its enormous cost savings and customer service improvements. Discover the six most common factors that can make or break your inventory optimization projects.

Abstract: An unsettled economy needs a different approach to managing revenues. Companies must identify their most profitable customers and the most effective marketing and sales vehicle for reaching them—with a shrinking budget. And shifts in customer spending demand a fresh look at the value proposition of your current products and services. Find out how you can stay close to your customers as their needs change.

Abstract: Investing in a customer relationship management (CRM) system can increase sales productivity and represent an addition to, not a subtraction from, your company’s bottom line. But a return on investment (ROI) from CRM software depends on whether you’ve identified strategies that leverage the CRM system’s sales productivity. Find out how to formulate CRM strategies before you choose a CRM solution, and compare CRM products.

Abstract: Hearing confusing messages from your customer resource management (CRM) and enterprise resource planning (ERP) vendors? You may be dealing with dozens of software vendors and system integrators, each one praising the benefits of his solution. Among these proposals, one claims not only to efficiently manage the entire customer life cycle, but also to take full advantage of your previous technology investments. Your incumbent ERP system vendor also has a CRM solution, and praises the benefits of the tight integration of both systems. The question then is, how do you know whether this solution is the best for you? Request your copy of Integrating CRM with ERP compliments of Baseline Consulting. The report gives you the criteria to use when formulating your strategy of integrating CRM with ERP, best practices of CRM implementation, dealing with ERP integration, and how to integrate CRM with ERP impacts the value chain.

Abstract: Customer relationship management (CRM) is rapidly morphing from a customer management model to one of customer engagement. Social networks, podcasts, blogs, and wikis are enabling customers to become advocates, and not simply the targets they were in the traditional CRM process. The same techniques are also being used within the CRM industry itself to create a content-rich, social media environment for CRM professionals. Find out what these sweeping changes mean to businesses and CRM professionals alike, as TEC's director of research Wayne Thompson sits down with Paul Greenberg and Bruce Culbert of BPT Partners, a leading CRM consulting firm.

Abstract: Microsoft's foray into the CRM arena has not been a bed of roses, despite its indisputably large marketing muscle and R&D investment, its strong channel, traditionally attractive pricing policies, and the aura and experience within the market segment. Microsoft CRM remains both a threat and an opportunity for the most nimble mid-market CRM vendors. Microsoft’s entry with CRM evangelism through an array of seminars nationwide has bolstered the market’s awareness of the need for CRM applications.

Abstract: Since the last recession in 2001, customer relationship management (CRM) systems have gained greater acceptance. Though CRM systems haven’t been widely tested under adverse business conditions, results achieved by CRM strategies indicate that businesses with an effective CRM approach will have a vital competitive advantage in recessionary conditions. Discover three key strategies to using CRM as a tool against a recession.

Abstract: Customer relationship management (CRM) solutions can help you achieve success by managing your company’s customer-facing processes and implementing a customer-centric vision. But to make the most of CRM’s benefits, you should weigh and consider the options by answering key questions about your processes and CRM solutions’ capabilities. Find out key CRM principles, and how to best mitigate the cost of CRM implementation.

Abstract: Why do some customer relationship management (CRM) implementations fail? The answer: companies’ lack of understanding of their current CRM environments, and of what areas need modification or improvement. Companies with a clear understanding of what they need from a CRM solution—as well as of what CRM means to their business—are more likely to succeed. To clinch that success, some key elements should be assessed first.

Abstract: Enterprise resource planning (ERP) and customer relationship management (CRM) vendor Consona is determined to establish a CRM “kingdom” based on Consona Enterprise CRM. Read this comprehensive analysis of Consona Enterprise CRM to find out what lies ahead for this flagship product.

Abstract: Finding out the true facts about what makes CRM tick and how fast it circles the ROI clock—if it indeed reaches ROI-has long frustrated potential CRM implementers looking for answers. And getting good answers really matters, because their only alternative to being forewarned may be leaping into enterprise-wide, mega-bucks, change management-laden CRM implementations—and testing the depth of the water with both feet. For the first time, there are statistically-based, substantive answers to many questions about CRM.

Abstract: CRM. C.R.M. itself is an acronym, standing for Customer Relationship Management. This is part three of a three-part article to provide explanation and meaning for most of the common CRM phraseology. Here, in alphabetical order, we continue the Lexicon of CRM

Abstract: While marketing automation modules have begun to attract a new wave of companies to customer relationship management (CRM) software, CRM’s long-term benefits can help businesses make the most effective use of advertising and sales resources. According to leading industry experts, companies can leverage CRM applications in five specific ways. For one, CRM systems help you identify where to place ad dollars. Find out more.

Abstract: Many companies approach customer relationship management (CRM) software as an opportunity to save money via automation. While most CRM solutions offer powerful infrastructure benefits, approaching your new CRM tool with a focus on customer loyalty can earn you more repeat business. Learn about six ways your CRM solution can help your service agents personalize customer service—and maintain customer loyalty.