ERP & Supply Chain
Top Stories
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Feature
31 Jul 2026
Composable ERP strategy: Key benefits and steps for success
In this Q&A, ERP expert Sanjay Mhaskey explains the advantages and challenges of composable ERP and how to decide if this major architectural change to core systems is worthwhile. Continue Reading
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Opinion
30 Jul 2026
Who owns the workflow? Why enterprises are managing the wrong thing
Enterprises manage applications well but often lack owners for cross-functional workflows. AI automation reveals that application ownership alone doesn't ensure business outcomes. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Jun 2025
What is SAP NetWeaver?
SAP NetWeaver is an open application server platform that enables organizations to integrate many applications, standardize business processes and edit information as needed. Continue Reading
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Definition
12 Jun 2025
What is SAP BW (Business Warehouse)?
SAP Business Warehouse (BW) is a model-driven data warehousing product based on the SAP NetWeaver ABAP platform. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Jun 2025
8 use cases for generative AI in manufacturing
Generative AI can potentially help manufacturers improve daily operations and increase efficiency, among other use cases. Learn more with these examples. Continue Reading
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Feature
04 Jun 2025
12 notable ERP implementation failures and why they failed
ERP consultants share their analysis and takeaways from such spectacular ERP failures as Nike, National Grid, Revlon and MillerCoors and give advice on avoiding ERP pitfalls. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Jun 2025
8 steps to follow for an MES implementation
Manufacturing leaders can avoid unexpected challenges during an MES implementation by following this expert advice, including the importance of selecting the right system. Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Jun 2025
What is cost of goods sold (COGS)?
Cost of goods sold (COGS) is the total of the costs directly attributable to producing things that can be sold. Continue Reading
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News
03 Jun 2025
Acumatica sale to Vista expected to solidify its cloud ERP
Acumatica's new ownership by Vista Equity Partners should result in increased investment in industry-specific functionality and AI capabilities, while maintaining independence. Continue Reading
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News
30 May 2025
Grow with SAP fuels Phoenix Global's digital transition
Phoenix Global implemented S/4HANA Cloud via Grow with SAP to replace outdated systems, digitize manual processes and enable AI capabilities for its metals and mining services. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 May 2025
What is an upcharge?
An upcharge is an additional fee that is added to a bill after a contract has already been negotiated. Continue Reading
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News
27 May 2025
How SAP sustainability software helps manage ESG programs
Gunther Rothermel, who leads engineering for the SAP sustainability line, explains the challenges of regulatory reporting and what AI-infused tools can do to automate the process. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 May 2025
Demand vs. supply planning: Learn about the differences
Demand planning helps companies predict future demand for goods, while supply planning enables companies to order enough goods. Learn more about how the two differ. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 May 2025
What is cross-docking?
Cross-docking is the practice of unloading goods from inbound delivery vehicles and loading them directly onto outbound vehicles. Continue Reading
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News
21 May 2025
SAP retools its cloud-based ERP to ease migrations
The software vendor aims to simplify the shift from on-premises systems with line-of-business bundles for finance, supply chain, HR, procurement and CX. Continue Reading
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News
21 May 2025
SAP sits Joule at the helm of apps, data 'flywheel'
The vendor also made its Sapphire 2025 conference a showcase for solving AI data challenges with Business Data Cloud and integrated 'suites' of cloud applications. Continue Reading
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News
19 May 2025
SAP should balance AI talk with customer concerns at Sapphire
SAP will focus on Joule, agentic AI and Business Data Cloud at Sapphire; experts say it should also show how it can help customers deal with real-world issues. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 May 2025
7 benefits of using an OMS
The benefits of using an OMS include improving customer service. Using an OMS can also improve operational efficiency and strengthen a company's competitive edge in its market. Continue Reading
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News
06 May 2025
Epicor ERP adds agentic AI capabilities for supply chain
Epicor Prism's new agentic AI use cases aim to make supply chain processes more efficient and productive for its manufacturing customers. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 May 2025
4 steps for using predictive analytics in demand planning
Many companies are already carrying out demand planning, and predictive analytics can potentially help improve the results of that process. Learn more. Continue Reading
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Definition
29 Apr 2025
What is lean manufacturing?
Lean manufacturing is a methodology that focuses on minimizing waste within manufacturing systems while simultaneously maximizing productivity. Continue Reading
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Feature
24 Apr 2025
4 common challenges of supplier relationship management
Problems with suppliers can affect a company's supply chain and, eventually, its bottom line. Learn some of the best ways to foster a positive relationship with your suppliers. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Apr 2025
What is supply chain visibility and why is it important?
Supply chain visibility (SCV) is the ability to track parts, components, raw materials or products as they move from the manufacturer to the final destination. Continue Reading
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News
21 Apr 2025
ERP customers seek answers to AI questions before investing
ERP customers say yes to AI investments, as long as they can realize efficiency and productivity gains. Continue Reading
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News
10 Apr 2025
Infor offers process mining, automation in CloudSuite ERP
With Velocity Suite, Infor embeds process mining, automation and generative AI into its industry-specific CloudSuite ERP. Continue Reading
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Definition
09 Apr 2025
What is a lean water spider?
Lean water spider, or water spider, is a term used in manufacturing that refers to a position in a production environment or warehouse. Continue Reading
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Definition
09 Apr 2025
What is a digital twin?
A digital twin is a virtual representation of a real-world entity or process. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Apr 2025
MRP vs. MRP II: Learn the differences
MRP II software gives companies much greater control over their scheduling and production processes than MRP software. Learn more about MRP vs. MRP II. Continue Reading
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News
26 Mar 2025
Past manufacturing disruptions a roadmap for Trump tariffs
Manufacturers that survived COVID-19 disruptions are in good shape for what's to come, but don't expect jobs back in the U.S. anytime soon. Continue Reading
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Feature
25 Mar 2025
8 supplier relationship management strategies
Categorizing suppliers, then understanding how to treat each type of supplier, helps companies allocate resources appropriately. Learn some top strategies. Continue Reading
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News
19 Mar 2025
Process mining vendor Celonis sues SAP over data access
Celonis slaps SAP with a lawsuit over third-party access to data for its process mining applications. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Mar 2025
What is product as a service?
Product as a service (PaaS) is the concept of selling the services and outcomes a product can provide rather than the product itself. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Mar 2025
10 benefits of RFID in supply chain management and logistics
RFID can help companies in their supply chain operations by assisting with product tracking and potentially improving product availability. Learn some of RFID's other benefits. Continue Reading
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Definition
13 Mar 2025
What is order to cash (OTC or O2C)?
Order to cash, or OTC or O2C, is a business process that involves receiving and fulfilling customer requests for goods or services. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Mar 2025
Learn the 5 types of digital transformation
A company's business requirements affect which type of digital transformation strategy is most likely to succeed. Learn more about the five types of digital transformation. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Mar 2025
What is a general ledger (GL)?
A general ledger (GL) is a set of numbered accounts a business uses to keep track of its financial transactions and to prepare financial reports. Continue Reading
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Feature
06 Mar 2025
SAP BDC strives to be an AI catalyst, but clarity is needed
The new SAP Business Data Cloud promises to provide customers with a data platform that helps unlock enterprise AI value, but customer adoption is still in question. Continue Reading
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Definition
05 Mar 2025
What is production planning and why is it important?
Production planning is the act of developing a guide for the design and production of a given product or service. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Feb 2025
What to include in an RFP for an OMS, with template
A request for proposal can help save software buying teams time because they receive most, if not all, of the data they'll need to make a vendor selection. Learn more. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Feb 2025
8 use cases for generative AI in finance
Generative AI's data analysis capabilities and ability to help improve reports can help simplify some aspects of a finance department's operations. Learn more. Continue Reading
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News
20 Feb 2025
Goldberg: Practical value key for AI in NetSuite ERP
In this Q&A, Evan Goldberg discusses the company's position as a SaaS ERP provider for SMBs, highlighting emerging AI features and collaboration with Oracle. Continue Reading
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News
14 Feb 2025
SAP data cloud, Databricks integration aims to unify AI data
SAP unveiled a Business Data Cloud platform and Databricks partnership to support customers in AI projects, which analysts bill as an important evolution of data management. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Feb 2025
5 benefits of using demand planning software
Demand planning software can help companies plan for unexpected supply chain events like extreme weather. Learn more about the benefits of using the technology. Continue Reading
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News
07 Feb 2025
NetSuite adds more AI, introduces Anything-as-a-Service ERP
NetSuite's Anything-as-a-Service Edition ERP is aimed at SMBs with hybrid, next-generation business models, a move that could be useful for growing customers. Continue Reading
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News
05 Feb 2025
Rise with SAP will extend support deadline -- for some
SAP will offer extended ECC support to some customers with large and complex systems through a Rise with SAP subscription service. Continue Reading
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Definition
05 Feb 2025
What is SAP S/4HANA?
SAP S/4HANA is an enterprise resource planning (ERP) business suite based on the SAP HANA in-memory database that allows companies to perform transactions and analyze business data in real time. Continue Reading
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Definition
05 Feb 2025
What is SAP ERP Central Component (SAP ECC)?
SAP ERP Central Component (SAP ECC) is an on-premises enterprise resource planning (ERP) system. Continue Reading
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Definition
05 Feb 2025
What is demand planning and why is it important?
Demand planning is the process of forecasting the demand for a product or service so it can be produced and delivered more efficiently and to the satisfaction of customers. Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Feb 2025
What is SAP S/4HANA Cloud?
SAP S/4HANA Cloud is a software as a service (SaaS) version of SAP S/4HANA enterprise resource planning (ERP), a suite of integrated business applications. Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Feb 2025
What is SAP ERP?
SAP ERP is enterprise resource planning software developed by the company SAP SE. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Feb 2025
What is SAP S/4HANA Finance?
SAP S/4HANA Finance is a financial application that's part of the SAP S/4HANA enterprise resource planning (ERP) platform. Continue Reading
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News
31 Jan 2025
Changes to SAP leadership reflect AI, cloud shifts
SAP's latest executive moves have Sebastian Steinhaeuser overseeing strategy and Philipp Herzig as CTO, but analysts say the continual changes shouldn't concern customers. Continue Reading
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Definition
30 Jan 2025
What is supply chain sustainability (SCS)?
Supply chain sustainability (SCS) is a holistic view of supply chain processes, logistics and technologies that affect the environmental, social, economic and legal aspects of a supply chain's components. Continue Reading
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News
29 Jan 2025
Acumatica cloud ERP aims for industry-focused AI value
New AI functionality in the company's cloud ERP platform could help customers evolve back-office transactional systems into strategic centers in their organizations. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Jan 2025
BBC structures app development with SAP BTP
The BBC has improved its SAP Fiori app development process by using SAP Business Technology platform along with BTP Monitor from Bluestonex. Continue Reading
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Feature
21 Jan 2025
SAP S/4HANA migration: A definitive guide
Moving a business to S/4HANA comes with major risks, yet it is also a real opportunity for digital transformation. Here's the information and best practices to ensure success. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 Jan 2025
What is RFI (request for information)?
A request for information (RFI) is a formal process for gathering information from potential suppliers of a good or service. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 Jan 2025
What is financial analytics and why is it important?
Financial analytics is the creation of ad hoc analysis to answer specific business questions and forecast possible future financial scenarios. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Jan 2025
A short guide to primary SAP S/4HANA modules and LOBs
SAP organizes S/4HANA modules around lines of business. Here's a look at the modules and features, including important tools like analytics and technical modules. Continue Reading
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Feature
10 Jan 2025
A buyer's guide to S/4HANA Cloud Private Edition
S/4HANA Cloud Private Edition is likely best for new SAP users who need more flexibility and functionality than Public Edition can provide. Learn more about the software. Continue Reading
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News
10 Jan 2025
SAP S/4HANA Cloud Public Edition ready for retailers
SAP will show the now-generally available retail industry vertical platform for S/4HANA Cloud Public Edition at next week's National Retail Federation event. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Jan 2025
SAP S/4HANA on-premises vs. cloud: Learn the differences
Differences between the S/4HANA on-premises and cloud software products include flexibility, costs, scalability, security and timing of software updates. Learn about each. Continue Reading
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Feature
09 Jan 2025
Top SAP S/4HANA alternatives to add to your ERP shortlist
SAP S/4HANA alternatives from Microsoft, Oracle and QAD have much of the capability and scalability you need and are likely more flexible than S/4HANA. Here's how they compare. Continue Reading
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Feature
08 Jan 2025
A buyer's guide to SAP S/4HANA Cloud Public Edition
SAP S/4HANA Cloud Public Edition could be a good fit for companies that can accept some degree of standardization in exchange for a lower price. Learn more. Continue Reading
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Feature
07 Jan 2025
SAP's challenge ahead is making a case for cloud migrations
For SAP and its customers, 2025 is the year to make the business case for moving to the cloud. The vendor also needs to clarify its stance on innovation access via Rise with SAP. Continue Reading
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Feature
03 Jan 2025
5 SAP S/4HANA certification and training courses to consider
Companies like LinkedIn Learning, Udemy and SAP itself all offer courses to help users get up to speed on S/4HANA topics. Learn about some of the top-rated certification classes. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Jan 2025
7 benefits of using a 3PL provider for reverse logistics
A 3PL with experience working with supply chain partners and expertise in returns can help simplify a company's operations. Learn more about how a 3PL helps with reverse logistics. Continue Reading
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Feature
02 Jan 2025
9 ERP trends for 2025 and beyond
Multi-tenant SaaS, AI and automation are reshaping an ERP market that continues its long march to the cloud, as buyers seek modernization, efficiency and faster implementation. Continue Reading
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Feature
26 Dec 2024
SAP leadership turmoil needs to settle in 2025
SAP executed on a restructuring that affected thousands of employees and significant executive changes in 2024. Now it needs to rebuild trust with employees and customers. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Dec 2024
What is 3PL (third-party logistics)?
A 3PL (third-party logistics) provider offers outsourced logistics services, which encompass anything that involves management of one or more facets of procurement and fulfillment activities. Continue Reading
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Feature
19 Dec 2024
Challenges for manufacturing's digital shift in 2025
Manufacturers will continue digital transformation initiatives in 2025, although some will struggle to make those moves pay off. Continue Reading
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Definition
17 Dec 2024
What is a bill of materials (BOM)?
A bill of materials (BOM) is a comprehensive inventory of the raw materials, assemblies, subassemblies, parts and components, as well as the quantities of each, needed to manufacture a product. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Dec 2024
SAP S/4HANA vs. Oracle Cloud ERP: Which is best for you?
IT leaders must learn the differences between SAP S/4HANA and Oracle Cloud ERP to ensure they make the right choice for their organization and avoid an expensive mistake. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Dec 2024
Understand your S/4HANA deployment options
As SAP S/4HANA has matured, the vendor's ERP deployment options have narrowed. Here's a look at the main two offerings -- a public cloud option and a private cloud option. Continue Reading
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News
06 Dec 2024
Grow with SAP expands cloud ERP access for SMBs on AWS
The new offering is designed to provide companies with an easier way to implement S/4HANA Public Cloud Edition. While aimed at SMBs, it could prove useful to enterprises. Continue Reading
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Feature
05 Dec 2024
Supply chain wanes in 2025, but resilience remains key trend
The supply chain might be losing its seat at the executive table, but the work must continue to provide more resilience and agility. Continue Reading
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Feature
22 Nov 2024
Planning for supply chain uncertainty under Trump
Nothing is certain except death, taxes and supply chain disruptions. Companies should plan accordingly, especially as the administration changes hands. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Nov 2024
7 software requirements to look for in a TMS
Essential TMS features are real-time tracking, route optimization, carrier management, load planning, fleet management, automated billing and invoicing, and analytics tools. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Nov 2024
What is SAP Quality Management (QM)?
SAP Quality Management (QM) is a component of SAP ERP Central Component (ECC) that helps businesses implement and run quality control (QC) processes. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Nov 2024
What is SAP Plant Maintenance (PM)?
SAP Plant Maintenance (PM) is a component of SAP ERP Central Component (ECC) that helps businesses support and maintain equipment and systems. Continue Reading
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News
19 Nov 2024
Cloud ERP is deployment choice for top-tier systems
Microsoft Dynamics 365 costs are highest and project duration longest of the top-tier ERP 'titans,' according to Panorama's annual report. Continue Reading
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News
07 Nov 2024
ERP vendors launch professional services apps for SMBs
Professional services ERP applications have niche appeal and offer useful capabilities. But analysts say how they'll fare in the market is still to be decided. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Nov 2024
6 benefits of carrying out production planning
Production planning's benefits are helping manufacturers improve productivity, customer service, product quality, employee morale, disruption responsiveness and company expenses. Continue Reading
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Definition
31 Oct 2024
What is SAP Sales and Distribution (SAP SD)?
SAP Sales and Distribution (SAP SD) is an SAP ERP Central Component (ECC) core functional module that helps organizations store and manage customer- and product-related data. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Oct 2024
What is SAP Data Services?
SAP Data Services is a data integration and transformation software application that enables organizations to capture more meaning and value from their structured and unstructured data. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Oct 2024
What is SAP Project System (SAP PS)?
SAP Project System is a module in the SAP ERP system that enables tightly controlled project management from planning to completion. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Oct 2024
6 use cases for big data in manufacturing
Manufacturing big data use cases are demand forecasting, supply chain optimization, quality control, production line improvement, customer data analysis and pricing optimization. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Oct 2024
What is SAP Production Planning?
SAP Production Planning (SAP PP) is the component of ERP Central Component (SAP ECC) that helps businesses plan the manufacturing, sale and distribution of goods. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Oct 2024
Learn top types of tech for collecting manufacturing data
Collecting manufacturing data via IoT sensors, RFID tags or AI can point to bottlenecks, potential cost reductions and more. Learn about the top 6 data collection technologies. Continue Reading
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Definition
17 Oct 2024
What is SAP Basis?
SAP Basis is the technical foundation that enables SAP applications to function. Continue Reading
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News
16 Oct 2024
SAP aims to simplify spend management with AI copilot
SAP is injecting more generative AI into its Intelligent Spend Group via its Joule copilot. It also introduced new services for Business Network and Ariba. Continue Reading
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News
16 Oct 2024
IFS ups its industrial AI, sustainability capabilities
IFS Cloud 24R2 includes new industrial AI capabilities and a sustainability module. Analysts like the company's practical approach to AI, but customers need questions answered. Continue Reading
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News
09 Oct 2024
SAP focuses on developer efficiency in Joule, Build update
At SAP TechEd, the vendor unveiled new functionality for its generative AI copilot, Joule, as well as ABAP capabilities in its Build low-code/no-code platform. Continue Reading
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News
03 Oct 2024
Acumatica ERP debuts new UI, industry-specific capabilities
Acumatica unveiled a new UI and hundreds of new AI- and ML-based capabilities in Acumatica 2024 R2's Construction, Distribution, Manufacturing and Retail editions. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Oct 2024
Rise with SAP sweetens U.S. Sugar's cloud move
Faced with an aging on-premises ERP system, U.S. Sugar took time to plan a move to S/4HANA Cloud and settled on Rise with SAP when it felt the conditions were right. Continue Reading
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News
26 Sep 2024
Onapsis debuts SAP security capabilities for BTP
New capabilities from Onapsis are aimed at enabling customers to assess security for and protect SAP Business Technology Platform from configuration and other vulnerabilities. Continue Reading
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News
19 Sep 2024
Plex adds connected worker capabilities to MES
Connected worker capabilities are now part of the Plex smart manufacturing platform, designed for manufacturers to address worker shortages and improve safety and productivity. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Sep 2024
What is Blue Yonder (formerly JDA Software)?
Blue Yonder, formerly JDA Software, is a software and consultancy company that specializes in selling supply chain management products and services to businesses. Continue Reading
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News
12 Sep 2024
AI and sustainability on tap for Oracle Cloud applications
Oracle unveils new capabilities for AI use cases, smart manufacturing and sustainability for Oracle Cloud SCM applications at Oracle CloudWorld this week. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Sep 2024
The 7 stages of the ERP project lifecycle
The stages of an ERP project lifecycle are selection, planning, training, testing, deployment, support and the post-implementation period. Learn more about the process. Continue Reading
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News
11 Sep 2024
NetSuite ERP gets Redwood UX, more AI and procurement
At SuiteWorld, Oracle NetSuite showed a new Redwood Design System UX, as well as AI embedded across applications, a new procurement application and data sharing with Salesforce. Continue Reading
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News
06 Sep 2024
Certinia adds Customer Success Cloud to its lineup
Certinia bolsters its professional services software platform with the release of CS Cloud for customer success management shortly after its summer update to its PS Cloud offering. Continue Reading