Project Expert

Seven Steps a Global Energy Company Took to Bring BI Potential to Life

Thu, 9 Feb 2012 17:17:53 EST

See how a global energy company quickly jump-started its business intelligence (BI) capabilities using Xcelsius dashboards (now known as BusinessObjects Dashboards) and the Rapid Management Cockpit methodology. It was able to deliver up-front business value without undertaking traditional bottoms-up BI development processes, which can be costly and time-consuming. BI end users, analysts, administrators, and developers were instrumental in this process by driving the planning, designing, and developing of the solution.

Implementing SAP ERP Central Component 6.0 in the Hotel Industry: How SAP Solutions Helped Stonebridge Companies Integrate Its Financials, Payroll, and HR Processes

Fri, 3 Feb 2012 17:14:08 EST

Learn the challenges that Stonebridge Companies faced while implementing SAP ERP Central Component (SAP ECC) 6.0 in a hotel environment. Find out what the benefits of using SAP ECC in a hotel are and how you can ensure that an implementation is successful.

Moving IT from a Cost Center to a Profit Center

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 11:25:31 EST

When the global recession hit full speed in 2008, home construction was near an all-time low in the US. IT staffs at many companies in the hard-hit building materials industry were being slashed as IT projects were put on hold. Learn how one building supply company managed not only to keep its existing IT staff together, but actually to increase the IT organization�s value to the company�s bottom line without increasing its spend.

An E-Learning Course That Encourages End Users to Learn Through System Errors

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 16:20:23 EST

In a typical e-learning course with recorded scenarios, end users are set in their minds to always move forward as they click from one step into the other � sometimes without much thinking or understanding of what is really happening between the clicks. Walk through a course that slows down the process by forcing end users to make mistakes and, in this way, makes them think about every step in the process. The course is therefore useful for both end users in their learning process and help desk agents in troubleshooting.

Beyond a Standard Implementation: 4 Key Elements of an ERP-Enabled Business Transformation

Fri, 23 Dec 2011 11:26:14 EST

Rapid, diverse growth demands robust system-supported business processes to manage the scale, size, and complexities of business operations. ERP systems can support and improve operational efficiencies and integrate processes. Discover the need, purpose, and major components of an ERP-enabled business transformation program and how it differs from a conventional ERP implementation.

Explore the Differences Between Two Available HANA Versions

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 16:48:46 EST

Take an introductory tour through the SAP HANA environment from a consultant�s perspective. Find out the details behind SAP HANA 1.0 and SAP HANA 1.0 Support Package 03, how the new technology differs from existing SAP offerings, and potential scenarios for implementing SAP HANA.

Due Diligence in M&A Transaction: How SAP Helps Mitigate Risks

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 14:06:17 EST

Due diligence is a key step during mergers and acquisitions (M&A). SAP offers four tools (SAP BusinessObjects Watchlist Security; SAP BusinessObjects Governance, Risk, and Compliance solutions; SAP BusinessObjects Access Control; and SAP StreamWork) to help you mitigate risk during the M&A transaction.

10 Brand-New Application Incident Management Features in SAP Solution Manager 7.1

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 11:12:37 EST

Develop a convincing business case to adopt the new Application Incident Management functionality within your SAP Solution Manager 7.1 system. Learn 10 brand-new features that are sure to inspire your implementation and support teams. Discover the key enhancements to SAP Solution Manager�s incident management functionality that boost SAP Solution Manager�s messaging capabilities. Whether you have a fresh 7.1 install and are implementing for the first time or you are upgrading your existing Service Desk solution, these key features help prepare you to adopt Application Incident Management.

10 Lessons for Building the Web as a Sales Channel Leveraging Existing Processes

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 11:43:53 EST

See how a major healthcare industry supplier implemented Web Channel for SAP CRM, integrating it with its preexisting order-to-cash system and product catalogs.

New Features in SAP ERP HCM Talent Management

Fri, 14 Oct 2011 17:08:07 EST

SAP recently announced the general availability of SAP ERP HCM Succession Management enhancement package 5. The SAP Talent Visualization application by Nakisa (3.0) was released last year, for compatibility with enhancement package 5. Learn about the changes that have been made, as well as the new functionalities and enhancements that are available in HCM Talent Management enhancement package 5 and Nakisa 3.0.

Develop a Matrix So You Can Execute Multiple Data Migration Projects at Once

Thu, 6 Oct 2011 13:46:15 EST

Data migration activities are critical in any SAP implementation or roll-out project. Every year, billions of dollars are spent by organizations on data migration activities while implementing enterprise applications. Because of the cost and time involved, sometimes it is necessary to have one team for multiple projects performing data migration activities. It becomes critical to have a proper data migration plan in place. Walk through a simple but efficient matrix that can help a project manager plan for the execution of multiple data migration projects.

Use the AHP Methodology to More Effectively Define and Evaluate Your SAP Implementation Approach

Thu, 1 Sep 2011 9:10:46 EST

Understand the complexities of breaking down a complex SAP project implementation into manageable chunks, reflecting a scope capable of aligning with and meeting an organization�s specific goals. Build an implementation approach and business case by understanding the advantages and disadvantages of variations of the phased approach. Finally, learn how to use the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) model to evaluate the alternatives in a scientific way, as well as perform sensitivity analysis and a head-to-head comparison of alternatives.

10 Must-Have Tips to More Efficiently Implement, Optimize, and Go Live with ChaRM

Wed, 31 Aug 2011 13:41:24 EST

Accelerate the success of your Change Request Management (ChaRM) implementation by leveraging critical lessons learned from other organizations� implementations. Avoid common � and not-so-common � mistakes that can occur at any point throughout the project life cycle. From strategy and design to go-live and support, discover essential tips that help facilitate an efficient ChaRM implementation for your organization. Whether you are implementing standard processes delivered from SAP Solution Manager or configuring an enhanced ChaRM solution to streamline existing processes, these 10 tips help avoid common issues and support a smooth ChaRM implementation.

Q&A: How to Ensure Your ERP Project Goes Smoothly

Tue, 16 Aug 2011 15:41:48 EST

Find out which areas of an ERP implementation are the biggest roadblocks to an on-time and on-budget project and get tips on how to best structure your own project.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Select a Mobility Platform That Supports Sales and Service

Wed, 27 Jul 2011 11:22:26 EST

Use this practical guide to identify, evaluate, and select the right mobile platform for field users through a thorough mobility assessment. This process allows businesses to avoid the pitfalls of failed mobility implementations and achieve greater success.

6 Tips for Accelerating SAP Projects

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 13:59:28 EST

We talked to Francois Estellon and Joseph Micic of Bucyrus, a mining equipment company, about six ways you can improve your chances of executing a model SAP project.

Dow Corning Delivers BI for the Masses � From the Top Down

Thu, 30 Jun 2011 12:55:55 EST

As an early adopter of SAP Business Warehouse, Dow Corning built a strong foundation of rock-solid data. After nearly a decade of Microsoft Excel-based access for analysts, however, the company needed fresh ways to explore its data, including deeper data mining, predictive analysis, and easy-to-use mobile dashboards. In 2009, Dow Corning reversed its analyst-first strategy and launched a top-down refresh using SAP NetWeaver Business Warehouse (BW) 7.1, SAP NetWeaver BW Accelerator, SAP BusinessObjects XI 3.1, and Roambi, a mobile business intelligence solution that transforms data into dashboard-style mobile analytics.

Architecting a Document Strategy for SAP Solution Manager

Tue, 28 Jun 2011 11:18:55 EST

The SAP Solution Manager process-oriented approach to storing documents using the Business Blueprint structure provides companies with a tool for facilitating communication, knowledge transfer, and conformance. Architecting a document strategy up front by planning, defining, and communicating standards and procedures to all team members ensures consistency and delivers the benefits of the tool.

Q&A: What You Need to Know About Business Continuity Planning

Mon, 20 Jun 2011 15:39:25 EST

Are you thinking about creating a business continuity plan (BCP) to be prepared when disaster strikes? We spoke with Michael Wallace and Lawrence Webber, authors of The Disaster Recovery Handbook, to find out what you need to know about BCP.

Improve Defect Reporting by Using CAPA to Track Incidents

Thu, 16 Jun 2011 15:57:28 EST

A formal correction process can help you better manage defect reporting and improve related workflow. Find out about the key elements for an integrated corrective and preventive action system, which includes continuous monitoring based on documented procedures, prioritization and risk management, verification and validation, and well-defined procedures.

Social Tools for the Business Part 2: How Your Company�s Image, Marketing Strategy, and Sentiment Analysis Efforts Can Benefit from Social Media Tools

Thu, 26 May 2011 10:40:48 EST

Social media is becoming an invaluable tool for businesses to spread information, interact with customers, and collect public sentiment. If your company wants to create or improve its social media presence, read on to learn what tools to use and get tips for creating your initiative.

What�s New in SAP Solution Manager 7.1?

Mon, 23 May 2011 9:24:47 EST

With the new SAP Solution Manager 7.1 release, the platform for Application Lifecycle Management (ALM), SAP has extended support to third-party tools, integrated the solution with partner products, and improved the ease of use to reach a wider audience. SAP has enhanced SAP Solution Manager, particularly in the areas around user acceptance, protection of customers� investment, and permanent and proactive monitoring.

SAP BusinessObjects 4.0 Brings Greater Integration, Stronger Ties from SAP to BusinessObjects Users

Tue, 12 Apr 2011 14:48:02 EST

SAP BusinessObjects 4.0, which was released earlier this year, offers a slew of new features and functionality. We break down the pieces of the new release and talk to experts in the field to gauge how customer response has been.

SAP Announces Additional Rapid-Deployment Solutions

Tue, 5 Apr 2011 14:40:48 EST

SAP announced 15 additions to its rapid-deployment solution portfolio aimed at providing affordable and easy-to-implement line-of-business- and industry-specific solutions to business issues. SAP released the first solutions in the portfolio in September 2010.

�Next-Generation� SAP GRC Solution Launched

Tue, 5 Apr 2011 14:33:21 EST

SAP has released SAP GRC 10, the new version of its governance, risk, and compliance software that has been three years in the making. SAP�s goal for the new release is to provide a more unified and user-friendly environment in which to monitor, manage, and analyze enterprise-wide risk and compliance activities.

SAP Releases New Version of SAP PLM

Tue, 5 Apr 2011 14:23:59 EST

SAP has announced the latest version of its product lifecycle management software, SAP PLM 7.01. The solution, delivered with enhancement package 5, is currently in its ramp-up phase with general availability planned for late spring. SAP says the new release will be �a single source of the truth connecting all critical business processes and information required to successfully develop and launch new products and services.�

Verizon and SAP Announce Delivery of SAP CRM through Verizon Cloud

Tue, 5 Apr 2011 14:16:36 EST

SAP America and Verizon have partnered to jointly deliver SAP Customer Relationship Management (CRM) through Verizon�s cloud offering, Computing as a Service (CaaS). Last year Verizon�s CaaS platform became the first cloud-based option to receive certification to run SAP software.

Social Tools for the Business Part 1: How Internal Communication and Efficiency Can Benefit From Social Networking Tools

Wed, 30 Mar 2011 11:08:56 EST

Social networking tools are becoming a great force to improve communication and increase efficiency in companies. Find out how they can help and learn about the functionalities some popular services offer.

Generating a Lightning Fast Upgrade: How Powell Electronics Moved from SAP R/3 4.7 to SAP ERP 6.0 in Just 11 Weeks

Wed, 23 Mar 2011 12:42:26 EST

As a smaller enterprise in a big SAP world, Powell Electronics created an upgrade plan from SAP R/3 4.7 to SAP ERP 6.0 in much the same way it sells its electronic connectors, switches, and sensors: in small components that are independently valuable, and when combined, assemble to become part of a solution worth far more than the sum of its parts.

Follow the Street Signs: Five Project Management Tips for SAP BI Projects

Fri, 18 Mar 2011 16:20:25 EST

SAP�s roadmap for business intelligence (BI) has been the subject of intense focus and debate since SAP bought Business Objects in 2008. The user-facing applications from the renamed SAP BusinessObjects have been the strategic direction for BI for more than three years, but still many companies struggle to move forward. Davin Wilfrid, senior analyst at insiderRESEARCH, showcases five tips for project managers gleaned from his recent research report: The SAP BI Roadmap: Perceptions, challenges, and opportunities for SAP customers.

Going Under the Knife: How Johns Hopkins University Transformed Training from Classroom Lectures to a Hands-On Experience

Fri, 25 Feb 2011 14:23:00 EST

Johns Hopkins University and Heath System runs a complex SAP environment that includes financial, supply chain, and HR solutions and more than 10,000 users. Learn how the training demand for those users led Johns Hopkins to move from its original demo-only class structure to build a standalone training client in which students can get hands-on experience in the SAP system.

News Brief: SAP Releases First New Analytic Applications of 2011

Thu, 24 Feb 2011 11:56:20 EST

SAP has released six new industry-specific analytic applications, bringing the total number the company has developed to 16 since fall 2010. The applications aim to address business intelligence needs in specific industries and were created with input from SAP customers.

News Brief: SAP StreamWork Receives New Enhancements, Tighter Connection with Google

Thu, 24 Feb 2011 11:55:45 EST

SAP has made changes to SAP StreamWork in response to customer requests for new enhancements. The collaborative decision-making solution now includes document versioning, worklists, and search functionalities for finding both people and activities. Also enhanced is the solution�s relationship with Google, which began offering the solution through the Google Apps Marketplace in December, allowing SAP StreamWork users to access their account directly though their Google Apps account.

News Brief: Duet Enterprise Further Connects SAP and Microsoft Users

Fri, 18 Feb 2011 9:29:33 EST

SAP and Microsoft have released the next version of Duet, the joint venture that the companies first launched in 2005 to link SAP solutions with Microsoft Office. The new version, called Duet Enterprise, connects SAP solutions and Microsoft SharePoint 2010, allowing collaboration between SAP and non-SAP users.

News Brief: Samsung and SAP Create New Partnership, Mobile BI Solution

Fri, 18 Feb 2011 9:28:14 EST

Samsung Mobile BI Dashboard, a new solution created out of a partnership between SAP and Samsung, is now available in the US, Europe, and Asia. The dashboard provides users access to their SAP systems� BI data including revenue, customer, and inventory information. Android hardware supports the solution, which uses SAP BusinessObjects software and is in accordance with SAP development guidelines.

News Brief: New SAP Business ByDesign Feature Pack Strengthens Cloud Offering

Thu, 17 Feb 2011 16:21:17 EST

SAP has released feature pack 2.6 of Business ByDesign, SAP�s cloud solution for companies wishing to run SAP systems from data centers to keep down hardware and maintenance costs.

Strategies for Successful Post-Acquisition Integration

Thu, 17 Feb 2011 15:46:51 EST

As the economy improves and companies� access to capital continues to grow, so too does the amount of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) across a variety of industries. If M&A activity reaches your company, will you be prepared to integrate unfamiliar systems together under one unified ERP environment?

What Run SAP Methodology Can Do to Improve the Success of Your SAP Projects

Tue, 8 Feb 2011 14:04:19 EST

With the recent rise in enterprise support fees, SAP systems need to be meticulously managed to achieve the lowest TCO possible and gain the most value from your investment. Learn how the Run SAP methodology can assist you in accomplishing that goal by guiding you through the solution operation components of your SAP implementations with leading practices and SAP standards.

Q&A: GRC Explained: A New Way of Looking at Risk

Thu, 13 Jan 2011 13:24:18 EST

Is the real meaning and importance behind governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) a vague notion in your company? We talked to SAP�s own Norman Marks to get his views on the subject and hear his definition of GRC.

Spring 2011 Conferences Offer More Interactive Sessions and Broader Topics

Thu, 13 Jan 2011 10:55:20 EST

Does your organization need more information about an SAP module or ideas for an upgrade? Or do your SAP professionals simply need to make some new connections? Learn what�s new in SAPinsider�s spring program of conferences and what educational opportunities are available this year.

News Brief: SAP Promotion Management for Retail 7.1 Now Available

Wed, 12 Jan 2011 17:38:28 EST

SAP has released a new version of SAP Promotion Management for Retail. SAP Promotion Management for Retail 7.1 provides more automated processes and more accurate promotional and forecasting tools to improve a company�s marketing reach and campaign power.

News Brief: SAP Promotion Management for Retail 7.1 Now Available

Wed, 12 Jan 2011 17:31:55 EST

News Brief: New Site Showcases Business Analytic Applications and Information

Wed, 12 Jan 2011 17:20:57 EST

SAP has built a site to house the industry- and line-of-business-specific business analytic applications it released in batches during Q3 and Q4 of 2010. Business Analytics at SAP EcoHub will provide a central location for companies to find answers and direction regarding their analytic needs and to purchase solutions.

Understanding SAP TAO: SAP�s Path to Automated Testing

Fri, 7 Jan 2011 11:13:12 EST

System testing can be a significant resource drain. SAP�s answer to this issue is SAP Test Automation and Optimization (SAP TAO), an automated testing tool aimed at replacing manual and time-consuming testing processes.

What Projects Professionals Are Looking for in 2011: 10 Areas of Focus to Retain Your Top Talent

Wed, 5 Jan 2011 11:46:01 EST

The economy is improving, leading to an increased number of open positions for project professionals. Learn what you can do to hang on to your best resources before they leave your organization for a better opportunity elsewhere.

News Brief: Google Apps Marketplace Now Supplies SAP StreamWork

Wed, 8 Dec 2010 14:01:23 EST

SAP StreamWork, SAP�s cloud-based collaborative decision-making solution, is now available through the Google App Marketplace, allowing users to log in to the application and share information directly from their Google Apps accounts. An upcoming StreamWork application for Blackberry devices will extend the availability of the solution to mobile users.

News Brief: Brainware and Taulia to Deliver Integrated Accounts Payable SAP Solution

Wed, 8 Dec 2010 14:01:00 EST

Brainware, a provider of intelligent data capture and enterprise search solutions, and Taulia, a provider of dynamic discounting solutions and self-service vendor portals, are partnering to create a solution to maximize SAP customers� return on investment on accounts payable automation. Markus Ament, vice president of products and solutions at Taulia, says the solution will save large buying organizations millions annually.

News Brief: SAP HANA Off and Running with New Application

Wed, 8 Dec 2010 14:00:35 EST

SAP�s new in-memory data processing platform, SAP HANA (short for High-Performance Analytic Appliance) is now generally available and a solution has already been built on top of it. SAP BusinessObjects Strategic Workforce Planning is the first of many in-memory applications that SAP plans to build based on SAP HANA.

5 Steps to Lower Your IT Costs

Wed, 8 Dec 2010 14:00:00 EST

Every IT manager is under pressure to deliver within ever-tightening budgets. But how? Cindy Rasey, a practice manager at Symmetry Corporation, follows a five-step plan that can help you lower your IT organization�s operational costs.

Making the Grade: How Bayer MaterialScience Boosted Supply Chain Performance with a User Certification Program

Wed, 8 Dec 2010 13:59:30 EST

As the economy faltered in late 2008 and early 2009, it became clear that the companies with the best chance of success were those that could adapt quickly and find new ways to improve operational efficiency. At Bayer MaterialScience, surviving the downturn would require improving several processes along its supply chain.

Q&A: The Fundamentals of ERP Success

Wed, 8 Dec 2010 13:58:59 EST

Albert H. Segars is the faculty director of the Center for Sustainable Enterprise, an RBC Bank Distinguished Professor, and the Chair of Strategy and Entrepreneurship at the Kenan-Flagler Business School at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. For the past six years, he�s studied dozens of ERP implementations as an academic and consultant. We recently spoke with Segars to gather his advice on what makes and breaks an ERP implementation.

News Brief: SAP Business One Mobile App Now Available

Wed, 8 Dec 2010 13:58:29 EST

SAP�s business management software for small businesses, SAP Business One, is now available as a mobile application for Apple devices. SAP created the application to provide businesses constant access to SAP Business One data and functionality from any location at any time.

News Brief: NEC Named Japan�s First SAP-Certified Cloud

Wed, 8 Dec 2010 13:57:41 EST

NEC Corporation, a company focused on the integration of IT and network technologies, has become the first SAP-certified provider of cloud computing services in Japan. NEC will provide SAP ERP solutions via secure data centers to companies in high tech- and manufacturing-related industries that are headquartered in Japan.

News Brief: SAP Business ByDesign Available in Mobile Form

Wed, 8 Dec 2010 13:57:10 EST

SAP's on-demand ERP solution Business ByDesign is now available on Apple devices. You can download the application, which provides small and midsized companies access to business applications in a cloud environment, from the iTunes store.

News Brief: New Sentilla Tool Integrates with SAP Carbon Impact On Demand to Monitor Data Center Energy Use

Wed, 8 Dec 2010 13:56:31 EST

Sentilla, a provider of energy management solutions for data centers, has released a new version of Sentilla Energy Manager, which monitors and manages data center energy consumption. It provides open interfaces to integrate with SAP Carbon Impact and SAP BusinessObjects Explorer. With the new version, the software is able to populate both SAP solutions with energy usage information, providing companies with more visibility into energy performance and carbon consumption.

Q&A: Lisette Bellissimo on SAP Certified Application Associate: Business Intelligence with SAP NetWeaver 7.0

Wed, 8 Dec 2010 13:56:02 EST

Lisette Bellissimo answers questions about SAP NetWeaver BI 7.0 certification and her new book, SAP Certified Application Associate: Business Intelligence with SAP NetWeaver 7.0, published by SAP PRESS.

ERP, SAP Skills Remain Hot

Wed, 8 Dec 2010 13:55:33 EST

A recent study by Gartner revealed that programmers and analysts with ERP and SAP knowledge are some of the most difficult to recruit and hire IT positions today. We talked to experts in the field to find out why developers with ERP and SAP skills are in such high demand and to see what the future holds for this job segment.

News Brief: SAP CRM App Now Available to BlackBerry Users

Wed, 8 Dec 2010 13:55:04 EST

Supporting SAP�s goal to mobilize more of their business applications since the acquisition of Sybase, the companies have extended Sybase Mobile Sales for SAP CRM to BlackBerry smartphones through the use of Sybase�s Unwired Platform. The application is scheduled to be available in November.

News Brief: SAP Extends Support for R/3 4.6C

Wed, 8 Dec 2010 13:54:36 EST

SAP has announced that support for R/3 4.6C, which was scheduled to expire December 31 of this year, will be extended until March 2013. Approximately 15% of SAP�s customers are still on R/3 4.6C.

5 Best Practices for Building a Successful Relationship with Your Systems Integrator

Wed, 8 Dec 2010 13:54:09 EST

Your systems integrator (SI) is a key partner in your mission to build and maintain a successful SAP implementation. Your relationship with that SI must be cultivated and managed carefully in order to maximize your investment. Greg Brown of Black & Veatch shares five best practices for building a successful relationship with your SI.

High Wire Act: Cirque du Soleil Blends SAP Applications with Proprietary Programs to Make Sure the Show Always Goes On

Wed, 8 Dec 2010 13:53:43 EST

Cirque du Soleil has thousands of cast members in dozens of shows performing in cities all over the world. While performers are executing astonishing acts on stage, costume designers behind the scenes are carrying out impressive feats of their own by suiting up that incredible number of performers. See how the company moved from manual processes for ordering and managing costumes to SAP solutions to gain insight into costume demand and improve capacity requirements planning.

News Brief: SAP Releases New Version of SAP Carbon Impact OnDemand

Wed, 8 Dec 2010 13:53:06 EST

An enhanced version of SAP Carbon Impact OnDemand is now available to help companies better address their energy and carbon consumption. SAP Carbon Impact OnDemand 5.0 promises to help companies reduce their energy use and carbon footprint and associated costs across the organization and around the globe.

SAP Unveils New Business Analytics Tools

Wed, 8 Dec 2010 13:52:34 EST

This year, SAP announced its goal of developing an innovative approach to providing members across an organization with mobile access to business analytics. SAP�s co-CEO Bill McDermott recently addressed a major step toward achieving that: system-agnostic applications that address line-of-business challenges in specific industries.

News Brief: Smart Grids in the Works between SAP Korea and KT

Wed, 8 Dec 2010 13:51:58 EST

SAP Korea and KT, a telecommunications company, have agreed to collaborate to create smart grids for utilities companies. According to SAP, the grids will �intelligently orchestrate electricity supply in two-way communications with appliances to help consumers and companies optimize energy use, reduce cost, and increase reliability and transparency.�

News Brief: SAP Business ByDesign added to SAP University Alliances Program

Wed, 8 Dec 2010 13:51:17 EST

SAP Business ByDesign, an on-demand business software solution for small to mid-size companies, is now part of the curriculum for universities participating in the SAP University Alliances program. The addition of this solution will allow instructors at the participating universities to include hands-on lessons using SAP Business ByDesign to students studying business administration.

News Brief: SAP Africa Donates Business One to James 1:27 Trust

Wed, 8 Dec 2010 13:50:26 EST

James 1:27 Trust, a non-profit organization focused on helping orphaned and vulnerable children affected by HIV/AIDS, has received a donation of a Business One software package from SAP Africa. The software fills the need of the James 1:27 Trust to manage its finances and improve transparency and accountability within the organization.

Four Steps to Create an Effective COE

Wed, 8 Dec 2010 13:48:53 EST

To get the most value for their investment, many companies create a center of excellence (COE) to oversee SAP projects and ensure their lasting success. David Jantzen and Dan Haynes of Deloitte discuss how to build a COE that can support your SAP project long after go-live.

SAP Aims to Reach All Corners of the World with New Mobile Strategy

Wed, 8 Dec 2010 13:48:20 EST

In their first time speaking to the press since SAP acquired Sybase, the companies addressed their mobile strategy going forward and major goals for the coming months.

Fall 2010 Conference and Seminar Planning Guide

Wed, 8 Dec 2010 13:47:44 EST

Today it�s more important than ever to stay up to speed on new and changing SAP technologies. Check out SAPinsider�s fall conference and seminar lineup and see how you can improve your skills to stay competitive.

News Brief: SAP NetWeaver Portal, Enterprise Workspaces Released to SAP Customers

Wed, 8 Dec 2010 13:43:03 EST

SAP has announced the release of SAP NetWeaver Portal, enterprise workspaces to ramp-up customers. According to SAP, the feature intends to �enable quick and easy re-combination of existing corporate assets, with emphasis on structured content such as reports or applications.�

News Brief: Black Duck Named SAP�s Open Source Provider

Wed, 8 Dec 2010 13:41:42 EST

SAP has chosen Black Duck Software�s Black Duck Suite to provide a platform for managing its use of open source software. Black Duck software is a global provider of products and services that manage the use of open source software for improved software development.

Cultivating Sales Productivity at the Scotts Miracle-Gro Company

Wed, 8 Dec 2010 13:40:22 EST

Growing a healthy business is like growing a healthy garden � you need the right amount of sunlight in just the right spots. Using the right SAP NetWeaver Portal and SAP BusinessObjects tools, the Scotts Miracle-Gro Company was able to build a robust workbench to illuminate the right data for the sales staff.

SAP Reawakens Business ByDesign

Wed, 8 Dec 2010 13:39:48 EST

SAP recently announced the availability of SAP Business ByDesign 2.5, a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) offering. Business ByDesign, which was initially released in 2007, is intended to fill the need for an on-demand solution in the small to midmarket segment. We talk to business analysts about what the new version has to offer and how it�s taking shape in the marketplace.

Author Q&A: Yosh Eisbart on Outsourcing SAP Operations

Wed, 8 Dec 2010 13:38:58 EST

Yosh Eisbart, a founding principal at NIMBL, a nationally recognized SAP consulting firm, is the author of Outsourcing SAP Operations, released by SAP PRESS this year. The book describes in detail the considerations surrounding outsourcing, including if outsourcing is right for your company, what processes within your company should be outsourced, what benefits outsourcing could bring you, and most importantly, how you should go about outsourcing your operations. We asked Eisbart some questions to help you decide if outsourcing is the right choice for your company.

Agents of Change: How Sigma-Aldrich Mastered its Audits with SAP Solution Manager

Mon, 13 Sep 2010 11:48:06 EST

Regulations like the Sarbanes-Oxley Act have created a host of new demands � and risks � for change management strategies. Learn why and how Sigma-Aldrich implemented SAP Solution Manager to manage change for its global application landscape.

Is There Any Value in Enterprise 2.0?

Wed, 23 Jun 2010 14:45:34 EST

The market for enterprise-ready social platforms is rapidly maturing, leading many companies to evaluate whether a suite of so-called �enterprise 2.0� tools is right for them. At the recent Enterprise 2.0 conference, two well-known SAP commentators discussed the pros and cons of these tool suites, and suggested various approaches companies should consider.

Highlights from SAPPHIRE NOW 2010

Wed, 9 Jun 2010 15:17:43 EST

A slice of what we saw and heard around the SAPPHIRE NOW 2010 conference � held simultaneously Orlando and Frankfurt in May 2010. Highlights include: how Duke helps faculty members manage their research budgets with an SAP system, why you have to choose carefully when implementing enhancement packages, why buy-in may be overrated, and what enhancements SAP has in store for SAP EHS Management.

10 Elements of a Successful Testing Strategy

Thu, 3 Jun 2010 11:31:08 EST

Formalizing your testing strategy will go a long way toward ensuring that issues and enhancements are dealt with quickly and at minimal cost. Nathan Sharp of Siemens shares 10 key elements of a successful testing strategy.

Dive Deep with Summer Seminars

Fri, 14 May 2010 13:55:14 EST

The slate of large SAPinsider conferences produced by Wellesley Information Services (publisher of ERP Expert) may be over, but several smaller events this summer and fall offer SAP professionals focused, in-depth education on popular topics. These four seminars offer detailed overviews and step-by-step instruction to help you optimize your SAP landscape.

Need to Collaborate? Why cFolders Might Be the Answer

Tue, 11 May 2010 12:49:06 EST

Collaboration tools are increasingly vital for SAP companies in several industries. While there are many to choose from, Alan Mendel and Eric Stajda of LeverX say SAP�s cFolders is a flexible, full-featured collaboration tool for sharing data quickly and easily with internal and external groups � with minimal implementation effort and user training.

SAP to Acquire TechniData

Tue, 4 May 2010 11:26:54 EST

To boost the reach of its environmental, health, and safety (EHS) solutions, SAP plans to acquire longtime partner TechniData.

Boost Your Data Governance Strategy with the Right Data Quality Metrics

Wed, 28 Apr 2010 9:50:44 EST

Data quality metrics are critical to proving the value of your data governance strategy to business users. However, selecting the right metrics can be challenging. In this article, Jason McClain of Deloitte & Touche, LLP, illustrates a four-point strategy for choosing the right metrics for your company.

SAP CFO Mark White: Cash Still King in 2010

Mon, 29 Mar 2010 13:28:08 EST

SAP North America CFO Mark White shares advice and success stories for attendees at the Financials 2010 and GRC 2010 events, sponsored by SAP and Wellesley Information Services.

Savings, Sustainability, Innovation Drive SAPinsider Conference Keynote

Fri, 26 Mar 2010 9:57:33 EST

As the economy begins a long, slow recovery, SAP companies must adapt to the new reality, according to two top-level SAP executives. At the keynote address for the HR 2010, Financials 2010, and GRC 2010 events, Richard Campione and Peter Graf laid out their vision for how companies can get the most out of SAP technology in order to grow during prolonged tough times.

Building a Corporate Sustainability Reporting Strategy with SAP

Wed, 17 Mar 2010 21:39:49 EST

Corporate sustainability is more than a feel-good endeavor. Identifying waste and inefficiency is a key way to boost your company's bottom line. William Newman and Bill Rudiak of Newport Consulting Group have identified several ways SAP companies can leverage technology to help them meet their financial goals while improving sustainability.

Managing Your Implementation Partner: 6 Signs of a Disaster in the Making

Mon, 15 Mar 2010 18:29:26 EST

An implementation partner can add tremendous value to many SAP projects. However, failing to properly manage the relationship with your implementation partner can have disastrous effect -- from delays to cost overruns or even project failure. In this article, Yosh Eisbart of NIMBL shares six signs that you may be mismanaging your implementation partner and offers concrete advice for avoiding calamity.

News Brief: SAP to Host SAPPHIRE in US and Europe Simultaneously

Thu, 18 Feb 2010 11:50:21 EST

The annual SAPPHIRE conference gets more interesting this year, as SAP plans to host the customer-focused event in two places at once. According to SAP, the SAPPHIRE 2010 conference will happen simultaneously in Orlando, Fla., and Frankfurt, Germany on May 17 to 19.

News Brief: New SAP MII Best Practices

Thu, 18 Feb 2010 11:49:49 EST

SAP has announced a set of preconfigured best practice templates for SAP Manufacturing Integration and Intelligence (SAP MII) that promises to boost lightweight manufacturing execution.

News Brief: Upgrade Projects Slow Down in 2009

Thu, 18 Feb 2010 11:48:54 EST

A recent survey by SAP vendor Panaya found that global economic uncertainty slowed the pace of SAP upgrade projects during 2009.

News Brief: IT on the Front Lines of Innovation

Thu, 18 Feb 2010 11:48:28 EST

A new report from management consulting firm A.T. Kearney puts CIOs and other IT leaders at the forefront of business innovation.

SAP Enterprise Support v. SAP Standard Support: What You Need to Know

Mon, 15 Feb 2010 11:17:56 EST

The media blitz surrounding SAP's recent announcement to reintroduce SAP Standard Support has died down, yet many SAP companies are still confused about their options. See what the industry's top insiders say about SAP's support offerings, and what questions you need to ask when moving forward.

6 Keys for Developing a Mobile SAP Strategy

Thu, 11 Feb 2010 10:38:22 EST

SAP companies are increasingly expanding their core systems and processes into mobile devices and applications. As mobile applications proliferate, companies must develop coherent strategies for managing the expansion of their SAP mobile solutions.

Quick Tip: Mitigating Three Key Risks of SAP NetWeaver Process Integration Implementation and Upgrade Projects

Fri, 5 Feb 2010 10:31:27 EST

SAP NetWeaver Process Integration (PI) is a valuable tool for streamlining your company�s integration efforts, however there are several challenges to SAP NetWeaver PI implementation and upgrade projects. In this quick tip, Dan King of Capgemini identifies three key risks and explains how to mitigate them.

Quick Tip: Avoiding SAP ERP 6.0 Upgrade Risks, Pitfalls, and Challenges

Fri, 5 Feb 2010 9:28:02 EST

At the Managing Your Projects 2009 event, Panaya consultant Amit Levavi offered expert guidance to help companies plan, prepare for, and overcome the biggest challenges, risks, and pitfalls of upgrading to SAP ERP 6.0. In this quick tip, he examines the top three upgrade challenges, as determined by an analysis of more than 150 systems.

Tracking SAP Implementation Metrics with the Earned Value Management (EVM) Methodology

Thu, 4 Feb 2010 9:37:51 EST

Tracking SAP Implementation Metrics with the Earned Value Management (EVM) Methodology

Six Keys to Enhancement Package Success

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 16:05:50 EST

Enhancement packages are designed to simplify the process of enhancing your SAP ERP system. However, companies must approach enhancement packages carefully. See how AEI developed its own best practices for preparing and implementing enhancement packages.

Managing Your 2010 SAP Projects

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 11:43:24 EST

With signs of economic recovery on the horizon, some predict the pace of SAP implementations, rollouts, upgrades, and other projects to pick up in 2010. Replenished budgets and additional resources may allow companies that run SAP to enhance or build on their current investments by following through on projects that were postponed during the recession.

Your Spring 2010 Conference Planning Guide

Tue, 5 Jan 2010 14:54:38 EST

As the economy improves, many companies will begin long-postponed projects and renew their commitment to enhancing their SAP systems. That means there�s no time like the present for SAP professionals to catch up on the latest tips, tricks, and tools to help them meet success in the new year.

Is Your SAP Project Lost In Translation? 6 Rules for Localizing Multilanguage Projects

Tue, 5 Jan 2010 11:55:18 EST

Securing user adoption in a multi-language global project requires careful planning beyond simply activating the language features of SAP. In this article, Camilo Mu�oz of Translation Source identifies six rules for ensuring your user community buys in from the beginning.

New BI Solutions for Defense Industry

Thu, 10 Dec 2009 10:43:25 EST

The defense industry is involved in a wider array of activities than ever before. To help keep pace, SAP has released a set of business intelligence solutions aimed at supporting humanitarian, disaster recovery, and peace-keeping missions. The solutions are offered from the SAP BusinessObjects portfolio, and include the ability to pull information from disparate data sources for rapid readiness assessment. Service force planners, commanders, and providers will be able to use the solutions to get an accurate, real-time view of available resources and readiness. The technology includes the ability to integrate with third-party geographical information solutions such as ESRI to give users the ability to visualize analytical information in map form.

'Internet of Services' Aims for Service Breakthrough

Thu, 10 Dec 2009 10:42:40 EST

SAP recently launched a new community aimed at shepherding the services industry through a new generation of technology-inspired breakthroughs. The Internet of Services community aims to accelerate access to commoditized, on-demand services � defined as a package of software functionality, and the policies that govern its usage, by which computer systems communicate � through initiatives such as the one that brought the unified services description language (USDL) to life. The USDL, developed by SAP Research, allows services to be exposed behind company firewalls. The Internet of Services is a non-profit forum for researchers, companies, users, and vendors. For more, go to www.internet-of-services.com.

New PostGartner Forecasts IT Rebound: Business Intelligence, ERP Top Technology Priorities

Thu, 10 Dec 2009 10:35:49 EST

The IT departments at many companies were rocked by reduced budgets in 2009, according to recent Gartner research. The analyst firm surveyed hundreds of CIOs and business leaders to compile its 2010 Spending Report. We highlight the top business and technology priorities to give you the inside track in your company.

Are You Getting the Most Out of Microsoft Project?

Mon, 7 Dec 2009 17:05:34 EST

Most SAP project managers are already familiar with Microsoft's top-selling project management software. However, many project managers either use the software incorrectly or don't know about certain features that can improve their project management efforts. In this article, 3Pro consultant Vikas Pathak shares insider tips for building and managing SAP initiatives with Microsoft Project.

Outsourcing Your Support? Here's 6 Reasons You Should Be Using SAP Solution Manager Anyway

Wed, 2 Dec 2009 11:41:04 EST

While every SAP customer owns a version of SAP Solution Manager, far too many overlook the full range of capabilities offered by the tool. In this article, experts weigh in on the SAP Solution Manager functionalities you should consider and offer tips for getting started.

6 Keys for Managing An Offshore Development Team

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 16:39:36 EST

Offshoring SAP development work has become a common practice for many companies looking to reduce overall project costs. However, cost reduction is only one reason to consider hiring offshore developers, according to Deloitte Consulting Senior Manager Karl Rupilius.

Separation Anxiety: What To Do When Your Consultants Leave

Tue, 3 Nov 2009 12:38:29 EST

Whether they are delivering technical work or more, consultants are a presence on many project teams. Eventually, however, they will move on to the next job, leaving you to retrace their steps when something goes awry. In this project management article, Symmetry COO Frank Powell shares insider secrets that will prepare you to maintain your project after the consultants have left.

What Every Cutover Manager Should Know to Ensure a Smooth SAP Implementation

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 15:24:58 EST

Cutover is one of the final steps for a successful implementation of any SAP project � and one of the most complex and critical components. A clear understanding of the processes, communication plan, staffing plan, resource requirements, execution steps, and expectations can help drive a successful cutover. Learn what is entailed in this process, what you need to do to make it successful, what to avoid, and what you need to keep an eye on.

How EMA Uses SAP BusinessObjects to Track Swine Flu

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 14:41:48 EST

Business intelligence (BI) is no longer the domain of weekly financial reports and simple pie charts. The ability to dissect data from various sources quickly and present it in user-friendly ways has opened the door to a new generation of BI solutions. See how Emergency Medical Associates is using out-of-the-box functionality from SAP BusinessObjects to track the spread of the H1N1 (swine flu) virus in order to stay one step ahead of a potential epidemic.

Coping with the Recession: A Project Manager's Survival Guide

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 14:31:59 EST

Recessions pose several risks that can harm your SAP project. Fortunately there are steps you can take to mitigate these risks and protect your project, even in today's economy.

Overcome Offsite Delivery Challenges and Improve Productivity

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 10:51:42 EST

Overcome Offsite Delivery Challenges and Improve Productivity

SAP Helps Organization Reach Out to Refugees

Tue, 22 Sep 2009 15:54:47 EST

For the 42 million refugees scattered throughout the globe, reconnecting with lost family members is a difficult process. To help solve this issue, an organization called Refugees United has built a searchable online database of refugees.

Pennsylvania Group Honors SAP for Green Initiatives

Tue, 22 Sep 2009 15:54:14 EST

SAP's efforts to go green in 2009 have won the company praise from a Pennsylvania-based environmental group. Citizens for Pennsylvania's Future (PennFuture) presented a �Green Power� award to SAP for its efforts at the company's Newtown Square, PA, campus.

SAP Completes Purchase of SAF

Tue, 22 Sep 2009 15:53:43 EST

Expanding its portfolio of planning and forecasting technologies, SAP recently completed a friendly takeover of SAF Simulation, Analysis and Forecasting. According to SAP, the acquisition will allow for greater innovation of the SAF planning and forecasting solution, which SAP has embedded in its retail industry solution since 2002.

Behind SAP's Internal IFRS Project

Tue, 22 Sep 2009 14:47:01 EST

Like most global businesses with subsidiaries in dozens of countries, SAP�s reporting requirements are daunting. The looming switch to IFRS in the US has complicated things even further, requiring SAP to implement a parallel accounting structure to account for both US GAAP and IFRS reporting rules. See how the company was able to manage this complex project successfully, and how it plans to build on IFRS for the future.

Five HR Security Concepts Every Project Manager Needs to Know

Wed, 16 Sep 2009 16:10:29 EST

Now that C-level executives face fines or even jail time for data breaches, the pressure to keep sensitive information secure is greater than ever. For project managers, that means including security as a top consideration when planning and executing a project.

American Standard Opens New Markets with SAP NetWeaver MDM

Wed, 9 Sep 2009 11:21:06 EST

Most Americans immediately recognize American Standard as a foremost brand name in toilets, sinks, faucets, fixtures, and other kitchen and bathroom products. However, the company's efforts to become a household name in Mexico were hampered by an unreliable Web site and inefficient product data business processes.

SAP Goes Mobile: Should You Get On Board?

Wed, 19 Aug 2009 10:13:06 EST

The boom in smartphones has led to increased demand for enterprise-ready mobile applications. In this news article, we examine how SAP and partners are collaborating to bring customers more ways to connect.

Fall 2009 Conference Planning Guide

Tue, 18 Aug 2009 15:14:33 EST

SAP professionals are increasingly asked to do more with less. To meet these challenges, those professionals need to stay on top of the latest technologies and best practices.

A Project Manager�s Guide to Implementing SAP Learning Solution

Tue, 18 Aug 2009 14:17:23 EST

Efficiency is a key goal in today�s leaner and meaner corporate environment � and one way to boost efficiency is to streamline and automate learning processes, including the eLearning process, within the company. Many organizations turn to enterprise-ready learning management systems to ensure accurate and consistent training across the entire organization.

Expert SAP Instruction On Demand

Fri, 10 Jul 2009 9:32:13 EST

Reduced expense budgets have prevented many SAP professionals from traveling to the conferences that support their educational needs. To help these professionals get the information they need, the producers of the SAP Insider conferences � including Financials 2009, HR 2009, SCM 2009 and more � have created a new Web site that offers many of the most popular sessions from those conferences in a multimedia environment.

What You Need to Know About SAP and SaaS

Fri, 10 Jul 2009 9:29:38 EST

John Wookey, vice president of Large Enterprise On-Demand at SAP, laid out SAP�s strategy for enterprise on-demand applications during a recent keynote at the SIIA ON-Demand Europe 2009.

Overcoming Key Challenges of Merging an HR System onto SAP ERP HCM

Wed, 8 Jul 2009 11:49:28 EST

Mergers and acquisitions are increasingly common during the global economic downturn. For many companies, mergers and acquisitions have become a central component of their business models.

Economist Study Finds Good News for IT Despite Economy

Mon, 6 Jul 2009 16:38:10 EST

While the economy as a whole continues to stumble forward, almost half of companies surveyed by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) plan on aggressive moves to capture market share from weakened competitors. And, the study finds, IT projects could benefit from those moves.

SAP and PlaNet Bring Microfinance Software to Ghana

Mon, 6 Jul 2009 16:37:01 EST

Microfinancing is one of the fastest growing initiatives in the developing world. The practice of issuing small loans and other banking services to impoverished people has proven successful at lifting many out of dire situations.

New Solution Aims to Simplify Public Budget Process

Mon, 6 Jul 2009 16:35:19 EST

As the public sector struggles through difficult economic times, the need for accurate budgeting and forecasting has grown. SAP recently announced a new Web-based software solution aimed at helping federal, state, and local governments prepare budgets that fit their unique requirements.

Scrum�s the Word: How Endeca Mastered an SAP Implementation in Just 22 Weeks

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 13:44:42 EST

The project team responsible for implementing a new SAP ERP system at Endeca Technologies knew what it was getting into. Several team members had worked with SAP systems at prior jobs, and knew that the pain associated with a badly executed implementation could be severe.

An Insider�s Keys to a Successful BI Project

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 14:09:14 EST

As the director of business information services at Office Depot, Brad Ferguson oversaw a variety of business intelligence (BI) initiatives that delivered and maintained a data integration and reporting analytics infrastructure for 20,000 users. Now a consultant for Meridian Partners, Ferguson helps companies within Meridian�s SAP practice get the most out of their own enterprise data warehouse (EDW) and BI projects.

Key Metrics for Reducing Errors and Cutting Costs in Accounts Payable

Fri, 12 Jun 2009 14:29:50 EST

Mark Twain famously wrote that the three kinds of mistruths were lies, damned lies, and statistics. If he were alive today and analyzing the enterprise business world, he may well have added metrics to the list.

New Software Solution Aims to Improve Transparency of Stimulus Funds

Wed, 10 Jun 2009 14:56:11 EST

Recipients of money from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act are required to provide transparency into how that money is spent. SAP has announced a software package to help the more than 4,000 organizations running SAP for Public Sector solutions handle those requirements.

Teradata Deal Opens the Door to BI for Many SAP Companies

Wed, 10 Jun 2009 14:46:35 EST

SAP and Teradata have struck a deal that promises to offer their substantial combined customer base a stronger platform for business intelligence (BI) and data analytics.

Highlights from SAPPHIRE 2009

Mon, 1 Jun 2009 13:43:23 EST

The theme of the SAPPHIRE 2009 conference, as promised by co-CEO Leo Apotheker, was clarity. In his keynote address, Apotheker emphasized the need for companies to have a clear view across multiple applications, business processes, and physical locations to hone and enhance their businesses and guard against risks. "Doing business within global networks has brought greater complexity and risk into the game. For example, recent incidents involving contaminated consumer products -- such as toys, baby formula, spinach, and peanuts -- show us how difficult it is to protect a brand when suppliers two or three steps deep in a business network fail to meet acceptable safety standards. Executives must have visibility into every aspect of their business and network to act effectively and decisively,� he said.

SAP BusinessObjects Shows Off New Tools

Mon, 1 Jun 2009 13:43:03 EST

Easy access to vital information is the holy grail of business intelligence (BI). It�s not good enough to provide a gateway through which business users can simply sift through reams of data � you have to give them a way to navigate to the right data.

Tidal Releases Self-Serve Transaction Analyzer for SAP Systems

Tue, 28 Apr 2009 13:21:55 EST

Tidal Software has released a new tool that promises to give SAP users greater visibility into how the system is being used. Tidal Transaction Analyzer for SAP Solutions version 1.9 connects to your SAP system and promises to capture 100% of SAP activity and offer scenario-based self-service reporting on that data.

Banks Taking GRC More Seriously

Tue, 28 Apr 2009 13:21:36 EST

An SAP-sponsored study by the Economist Intelligence Unit has found that while many banks hesitate to implement enterprise-wide solutions for governance, risk, and compliance (GRC), more banks are including GRC initiatives as part of a strategic view of their financial processes.

SAP BusinessObjects Offers Demo of Social Network Analyzer

Tue, 28 Apr 2009 13:21:17 EST

Plenty of tools are available to visualize external social networks such as Twitter, and now SAP BusinessObjects has announced a prototype of a new tool that promises to analyze social networks within your enterprise.

Fire When Ready: 10 Keys to a Successful Go-Live at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 14:15:55 EST

When your core business is developing everything from guided rocket launch systems to thermal protection components for NASA, you learn a thing or two about precision. At Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control (MFC) � a division of the $42.7 billion global security company � those lessons came in handy when upgrading from SAP R/3 Enterprise (4.7) to SAP ERP 6.0.

10 Tips for Justifying an Upgrade in a Bad Economy

Wed, 22 Apr 2009 16:56:34 EST

Convincing management to invest in the latest technology has never been easy. And in today�s turbulent economy, the challenge has only grown more difficult. For companies still on older versions of SAP systems, the current recession may seem like an impediment to upgrading. However, with a little information and the right approach, you can make a compelling business case for the move to SAP ERP 6.0.

No Travel Budget? No Worries – Now the Conference Comes to You

Wed, 22 Apr 2009 16:46:36 EST

Economic uncertainty has forced many companies to conserve cash by reining in their expense budgets. For SAP professionals, that means fewer are able to travel to the conferences that help them keep up with the latest tips and tricks for successfully completing SAP projects.

How Proposed Lease Accounting Changes Will Affect Your SAP System (And What You Can Do About It)

Fri, 17 Apr 2009 15:06:45 EST

While the switch to International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) is getting all the attention, the two boards that govern US and international accounting rules are mulling another change that could have a big impact on businesses that lease equipment. If passed, the proposal could add significant complexity to the way leases are accounted for at companies running SAP systems.

Changes Are Coming to Healthcare: Is Your ERP System Ready?

Tue, 31 Mar 2009 15:16:53 EST

As the stormy economy continues to batter even the sturdiest businesses, even healthcare companies are feeling under the weather. However, while many are cutting back on IT spending, there are positive signs for SAP professionals as the industry continues its march to modernization.

Outsourcing Prices Falling

Tue, 31 Mar 2009 9:32:31 EST

Analyst firm Gartner predicts that prices for outsourcing and off-shoring services will drop from 5% to 20% in 2009 and 2010. The firm blames global economic uncertainty for the decline, as outsourcing clients push for price breaks.

New Version of SAP BusinessObjects Global Trade Services Manages Global Supply Chain Risk

Tue, 31 Mar 2009 9:32:11 EST

The poor global economy has increased the risk of supply chain disruption as the threat that vendors, suppliers, or customers could go out of business has grown. Managing these risks to the overall supply chain has become even more critical.

SAP Applications Coming to the iPhone and BlackBerry

Tue, 31 Mar 2009 9:31:48 EST

SAP and Sybase, an enterprise mobile software company, have announced plans to bring SAP applications to smartphone users on the Apple iPhone, Microsoft Windows Mobile, and BlackBerry platforms.

Get Answers: When to Use SAP BW vs. SAP BusinessObjects

Fri, 20 Mar 2009 16:41:20 EST

A year ago, most companies running SAP systems were simply unsure how the company would integrate Business Objects after acquiring the business intelligence vendor.

Solving Supply Chain Problems In a Down Economy

Fri, 20 Mar 2009 16:28:34 EST

Companies in almost every industry have reduced spending to survive the economic downturn. This means getting the most out of your existing SAP investment is even more critical than ever.

Advanced Energy Industries Streamlines Planning with SAP BusinessObjects

Wed, 18 Mar 2009 16:29:33 EST

Savvy planning is key to achieving efficiency in your business processes, but for many companies the planning process itself is fraught with enough inefficiency to cause problems. Such was the case at Advanced Energy Industries, Inc. (AE), where the central finance department once constructed quarterly and annual planning reports from a flurry of emailed documents, revisions, and approvals.

Managing Difficult Personalities on Your Project Team

Tue, 10 Mar 2009 16:29:39 EST

When it comes to building and managing a successful project team, selecting the brightest minds is not enough, according to William Ziska of Deloitte Consulting. It is more important, he says, to know how the various personalities on the project team can influence the behavior of other team members.

SAP BusinessObjects Update: One Year Later: What You Need To Know About SAP and the SAP BusinessObjects Portfolio

Thu, 19 Feb 2009 11:12:55 EST

A year after acquiring business intelligence (BI) and performance management vendor Business Objects for $6.8 billion, SAP has continued to push the evolution of the combined suite of products. Business Objects is now called SAP BusinessObjects, and offers a more tightly integrated suite of tools and technologies that sit on top of SAP ERP, SAP NetWeaver Business Warehouse (SAP NetWeaver BW), and other data sources. The result is a unified platform that delivers real-time information to business users and offers business process-focused solutions for other important areas such as risk management and system performance.

Upgrades on Track at Most SAP Companies

Tue, 17 Feb 2009 9:47:47 EST

A recent survey by SAP upgrade solution vendor Panaya has found that most companies are moving ahead with their SAP system upgrades despite the downturn in the economy. Three out of four survey respondents said their upgrade projects would continue on schedule, while only 11% said they would be delayed beyond 2009.

SAP Changes SAPPHIRE Plans for Europe

Tue, 17 Feb 2009 9:46:22 EST

SAP will no longer offer a central SAPPHIRE event in Europe, instead opting for a series of smaller conferences throughout the continent.

SAP Goes Modular with SAP Business Suite 7

Tue, 17 Feb 2009 9:45:18 EST

SAP recently unveiled the latest version of its SAP Business Suite, promising to reduce the need for large upgrade projects in favor of modular, business process-focused enhancements.

IBM and SAP Deliver SAP Applications Through Lotus Notes

Tue, 17 Feb 2009 9:44:32 EST

SAP and IBM recently unveiled an add-on that offers easier access to SAP business applications via the widely used Lotus Notes collaboration software. The product, called Alloy, was formally announced at the Lotusphere 2009 conference in Orlando, FL.

Six Keys to Achieving the �Flawless Launch�

Wed, 11 Feb 2009 11:33:41 EST

In the manufacturing world, a flawless launch is one in which a new product is brought through the 90-day start of production phase with no defects or delays. It is an elusive ideal, since manufacturers must � among other things � keep development costs on target, secure production part approvals, deliver samples on time, ensure customer plant conformance, and avoid customer plant returns.

How to Manage a Remote Consulting Relationship

Mon, 9 Feb 2009 14:39:15 EST

As the economy continues to weaken, many companies are searching for ways to cut costs without shedding business-critical functions. One way to accomplish this is to use remote consultants, who typically require little or no travel cost and offer more granular billing policies than on-site consultants.

Make Better Project Decisions with the Analytic Hierarchy Process

Fri, 30 Jan 2009 13:15:48 EST

The Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) is an effective, multi-criteria decision-making method that helps you to assign logical, concrete values to your choices so you can make more informed judgments. Learn how to use AHP to intelligently structure and analyze complex problems and more easily synthesize your data with your criteria.

Opportunities Abound in Healthcare and Higher Education

Fri, 23 Jan 2009 12:21:36 EST

As the worsening economy threatens the project lifeblood of many SAP professionals, there is still hope on the horizon, according to one SAP executive. In an article posted on his blog, SAP Solution Architect Bernhard Escherich says SAP professionals can look to the healthcare and higher education industries for a lifeline even in troubled times.

More Companies Planning Conversion from GAAP to IFRS Reporting

Fri, 23 Jan 2009 12:20:57 EST

Two recent surveys show many U.S. companies and accounting professionals are already preparing for a shift toward International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). Publicly traded American companies are currently required to file reports under the Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), though the federal government has backed the switch to IFRS.

New Topics, Opportunities Top Spring Conference Schedule

Fri, 23 Jan 2009 12:20:18 EST

The annual slate of SAP educational conferences from Wellesley Information Services (publisher of ERP Expert) is expanding in 2009, in many cases offering an extra day of learning and a host of brand new topics.

Four Work Styles That Can Harm Your Project (and How to Manage Them)

Fri, 23 Jan 2009 12:19:40 EST

Every SAP project team is comprised of human beings with their own distinct characteristics, needs, and agendas. Successful SAP project managers find ways to keep those differences from impeding the progress of the project.

How Tyson Foods Streamlined Its SAP Financials Training

Fri, 23 Jan 2009 12:18:55 EST

Companies that invest in SAP ERP systems expect to realize every advantage offered by such a robust suite of technology. However, buying, customizing, and implementing the technology itself is not enough. Companies must find ways of teaching users how to get the most out of the system.

Business Objects Migration Solution, New SAP Enhancement Package Top Fall Conference Announcements

Fri, 23 Jan 2009 12:17:53 EST

Throughout the fall, SAP has used educational conferences as launching pads for many of its latest announcements. SAP kept pace at two recent conferences, where it announced a new data migration solution for Business Objects customers, a new SAP enhancement package, and an expansion of its online training courses.

Chaos Theory: The Path to Project Clarity at Siemens Energy

Fri, 23 Jan 2009 12:17:11 EST

Managing a project list at a global corporation with multiple instances of SAP is an extremely complex endeavor. Just a few years ago, Siemens Energy was challenged by rampant chaos in its project portfolio, but by adhering to a strict clarity-oriented discipline of personal accountability, the company has enjoyed vastly improved transparency and predictability in its projects.

Save Money by Getting Smarter in the Data Center

Fri, 23 Jan 2009 12:16:17 EST

As the economy continues to worsen, many IT departments will be asked to do more with less. Analyst firm Gartner says companies can save millions in energy costs just by cooling the data center more efficiently.

SAP Releases Sustainability Report

Fri, 23 Jan 2009 12:15:33 EST

On November 11, SAP released its first ever Sustainability Report. The report is aimed at demonstrating the company�s commitment to responsible environmental, social, and governance performance.

SAP Enhances Enterprise Support Offering

Fri, 23 Jan 2009 12:13:07 EST

To combat ongoing concerns over its decision to move all customers to a new support option beginning in 2009, SAP has announced several enhancements and clarifications meant to highlight the value of SAP Enterprise Support.