Abstract: Infor and IFS, two upper mid-market, stalwart vendors, were the first to respond to our questions-and-answers series directed at software application vendors. Based on our questions, these two vendors share their views on market trends, platform approaches, and mid-market issues.

Abstract: Knosys, Inc. announced on November 6, 2000 that version 3.0 of its ProClarity® Analytical Platform and OLAP client are now available. The products were developed for Microsoft SQL Server 2000 Analysis Services, so ProClarity is completely tied to Microsoft software. In addition, Knosys has announced a partnership to collaborate with integrated enterprise and eBusiness applications vendor Epicor on development of a portal-based business intelligence solution. Epicor focuses exclusively on the mid-market.

Abstract: Lawson has unveiled a new standards-based business applications platform designed to increase overall application quality and improve the product lifecycle experience for current and future Lawson clients.

Abstract: Today, almost everything has gone online, from banking to pet food. And every day, new companies are starting up with a purely Web-based business model. This means that established companies have to adopt new tactics to make their online presence felt. All this has fueled the need for a robust Web-centric application infrastructure. Find out about the 10 benefits the J2EE platform can bring to your organization.

Abstract: In recent years, the BlackBerry smartphone has transitioned from being a small-scale productivity tool to a widely used mission-critical platform. This shift has prompted IT organizations to explore what key technical capabilities and internal process standards are needed to ensure superior performance and availability. Discover why traditional monitoring technologies have failed, and what new approaches have emerged.

Abstract: Corporate information consumers now demand more dynamic reports, and expect Web-based availability wherever and whenever they need the information. Find out how to use a unified business intelligence (BI) platform to build and deliver complete and meaningful Web-based reports reliably, consistently, and affordably. You’ll also discover how to reduce costs by simplifying your IT portfolio while increasing productivity.

Abstract: Accessing more real-time intelligence can give your company the flexibility and agility to win in the marketplace. However, multiple and disparate data systems, lengthy integration cycles, and isolated business processes may well be standing in your way. The question then becomes “What kind of IT platform is going to give me the kind of information I really need to have?”

Abstract: Novell has made it clear to its NetWare customers that they must begin planning for transition. However, there is no guarantee that its customers will stay the Novell course. Few observers would disagree that many of those transitioning from NetWare will be moving to Microsoft. But operating system platform changes are no picnic—even in the most standard of environments.

Abstract: Of all the MBS' products, Solomon is apparently the purest in terms of a standard Microsoft technology stack, and without any proprietary additions. Furthermore, its sharp focus solely on Microsoft technology from ground up, coined in ''the power of one'' motto (one OS platform - Windows XP/NT/2000, one database platform - MS SQL Server, one development environment - MS Visual Basic, etc.), also presents an attractive, risk-adverse option for penny-pinching mid-market customers. Solomon IV has consequently been very competitive in speed of implementation, feasibility of customization, total cost of ownership (TCO), and price/performance ratio.

Abstract: Vignette Corporation has announced a comprehensive, three-tiered Java™ technology strategy that encompasses tools, applications and a complete Java technology-enabled platform. The Vignette V/5 e-business platform will support Java Server Pages (JSP’s) and was announced at Sun Microsystems 2000 Worldwide Java Developer Conference.

Abstract: Commerce One is seemingly stuck with yet another identity crisis being a novice provider of a Web services-based integration platform and being a still fledgling provider of business application suite built on top of that platform, and which has not yet successfully competed in the SRM arena.

Abstract: SAP AG has chosen SQL Server 7.0 as its strategic database for the Windows platform. The companies also will cooperate to make the Windows 2000 OS available as a platform choice for customers wishing to implement mySAP.com solutions. On the heels of the agreement to use IBM DB2 as a preferred backend database, Oracle continues to lose market share as a database in the ERP arena.

Abstract: Thanks to pressures in the telecom equipment manufacturing industry, application-ready platforms (ARPs) in Advanced Telecommunications Computing Architecture (ATCA) are increasingly indispensable. ARPs must provide standards-based platforms to support diverse sets of applications. The ATCA ARP provides such a platform, but in light of the ATCA specifications that define the basis for the platform, ARP implementations still present some interesting challenges.

Abstract: Many application providers and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) either select a standard platform for their applications, or provide guidelines and recommendations as to which infrastructure components will optimize their solutions. Thus, one of the critical factors that should be considered prior to selecting a standard platform is the certification it carries, and how it pertains to your organization’s needs.

Abstract: With 10 remote office locations spread across nine states, Amerisure was in need of a communications platform that would enable the company to enhance the distribution of information to employees. Employees located in satellite offices, with no direct access to the home office, can feel disconnected from corporate headquarters’ operations and activities. Amerisure needed to communicate to employees in a timely manner that would allow the flow of accurate, important information, whether that data be employee-specific, such as salary, job, or benefit information, or company news and updates. In addition to a centralized communication platform, the company wanted heightened management of its workforce through the use of business intelligence tools that would allow it to track trends and have improved monitoring capabilities for each location.

Abstract: Reporting has been significant to businesses by providing a platform for users to get immediate access to business information via using simple analysis. However, business intelligence (BI) caters to strategic, tactical, and operational needs, providing a platform for comprehensive performance management. Compare standard reports and BI in terms of functionality, capability, architecture, process, and management benefits.

Abstract: Knowledge management requires a platform that identifies all data associated with business processes—and the people that participate in or have responsibility for them. A true enterprise information management platform helps capture knowledge: it captures tacit knowledge as workers perform daily tasks and converts it to actionable knowledge items. Learn how knowledge management is vital to the nuclear industry.

Abstract: Over the past few years, Intentia International AB, a Swedish provider of business applications, has been on the quest to meet the anticipated demands its customers would have during the new e-economy era. It has been successful in its endeavors, however, with the price of posting six consecutive quarterly losses.