Abstract: Application Service Provision (ASP).There has been a trend in recent years towards the use of remote software services through application service providers. These are companies who make software applications available via the Internet to users who, rather than buying software, pay rental fees for it. The software does not have to be installed locally, the application being available through any web browser, and all support and maintenance is handled by the service provider. CMMS vendors are not the only ones offering these solutions. CAD modelling, engineering design, finance packages, purchasing, ERP and even your company Intranet can now be rented. This is an expanding sector and the signs are that major growth is about to take place. Earlier problems with slow data transfer speeds, communication costs and data security have largely been eliminated and this has made ASP a very attractive proposition. This is clearly illustrated by the proliferation of systems that have become available over the last three or four years with most of the major CMMS vendors now offering an ASP option.

Abstract: As you look for ways to get the most out of your existing operating assets, enterprise asset management (EAM) and computerized maintenance management system (CMMS) solutions are key. However, when it comes to researching, selecting, and implementing the right EAM/CMMS software, you need to avoid several mistakes. Discover 10 common errors you should avoid if you’re looking for a new or replacement EAM or CMMS solution.

Abstract: The highly competitive product manufacturing market makes true product lifecycle management (PLM) inevitable. PLM helps companies map product requirements to features, obtain control over product data, preserve product knowledge assets, and enter into the new paradigm of modular product development.

Abstract: This article looks at where computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS) end and enterprise asset management (EAM) takes over, focusing on features and functionality of EAM software. It also compares CMMS and EAM software and explores the two key differentiators.

Abstract: Anywhere from 40 to 80 percent of CMMS implementations fail to meet expectations. However, by evaluating the company's business process flow, having proper organizational structure and buy-in, you can realize the true benefits of CMMS and avoid becoming another failure statistic.

Abstract: As companies continue to look for more areas from which to squeeze out revenues and reduce expenses, enterprise asset management (EAM) and computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS) software continue to receive good press as the systems providing an answer--and with justification. But what software makes the most sense for your company and from which providers--EAM/CMMS best-of-breed incumbents or enterprise resource planning (ERP)

Abstract: Computer maintenance management system (CMMS) packages are excellent tools for collecting, analyzing, and reporting data and can offer insight into a process’ problem. Critical success factors for the effective use for the CMMS involves clear support from management and measurable drivers involving time, quality, and cost.

Abstract: Process manufacturers can no longer rely on purely reactive strategies to product safety. Now, reactive strategies such as lot tracking need to be incorporated into holistic strategies that include proactive measures to assess risk and prevent costly quality assurance (QA) events like product recalls. Learn how you can develop a product safety master plan that reduces risk, protects products, and improves profitability.

Abstract: Strem Chemicals, which manufactures and distributes specialty chemicals, implemented ProcessPro’s Warehouse Management Solution (WMS). The solution helped them streamline their processes and reduce operational costs, by reducing their overall shipping errors, eliminating the label planning function, and eliminating the dual recording of a majority of their inventory transactions.

Abstract: The continuous chemical industries typically share an objective of running at near 100% utilization. This and other realities yield unique requirements for a Supply Chain Planning (SCP) system. This article discusses some of these unique needs.

Abstract: High-tech and electronics, chemical, and oil and gas industries each have their fair share of regulatory requirements to meet, and an increasing number include environmental directives. Enterprise applications designed to meet their distinct needs should help pave the way to compliance.

Abstract: For over 30 years, Madison Chemical Industries has sold 100 percent polyurethane coatings and linings to companies around the globe. With the technical challenges it faced as a growing company, it was becoming clear that the DOS-based system it was using to maintain its inventory had to go. With an integrated enterprise resource planning (ERP) system, however, Madison has been able to reduce its inventory by 15 percent.

Abstract: Chemical manufacturers are faced with change at unprecedented levels. Some manufacturers are experiencing tremendous growth, while others are simply trying to keep their doors open. Regardless of current strengths and weaknesses, every company in the industry faces every type of operational pressure, and no company can afford to wait for the pace of change to slow before making key decisions.

Abstract: Chemical companies are living in a new, more complex world—one that calls for meeting demand through cooperating internally, opening processes to partners, suppliers, and customers, and developing newfound abilities to collaborate and change. In other words, the adaptive business network (ABN). But how do you create a successful ABN? And how does that translate into a competitive advantage?

Abstract: Learn how C&H Chemical integrated all of its critical business functions, such as its sales order and work order processing, manufacturing requirement processing, purchase order, and quality control processes.

Abstract: Product architecture can ensure product scalability, endurance, and the incorporation of emerging technologies. Consequently, LANSA 2005 offers Web Application Modules (WAM), to give developers a shorter learning curve and lower development costs to produce browser-based commercial enterprise applications and even Web services.

Abstract: There are many CMMS systems in the market that specialize in detailed maintenance, repair, and overhaul. When selecting a sysems for an airline, decision-makers have to be extra careful.

Abstract: Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) addresses the full lifecycle of a product. The focus of most of the current PLM solutions, however, does not make the most of the value available from servicing products after they have been sold. Service Lifecycle Management (SLM) promises valuable business benefits after a product has been shipped to the customer, tapping into the value of the product aftermarket.