Article Abstract:
SAP America's R/3 integrated application suite is a key element in the plans of hundreds of companies developing global networks and electronic commerce. The R/3 suite was released in 1992 and includes over 70 software modules devoted to necessary client-server-based corporate operations. In adopting R/3, companies have had to put a tremendous amount of resources into implementation, training, and consulting, with a total cost estimate of $12 billion. Some companies have been able to save millions of dollars with the system while improving their responsiveness, although most will continue to refine their systems in the long run. R/3 is particularly important to large multi-national companies needing a global supply chain. There is hope that the multiple uses of R/3 will allow enough commonality to ease electronic commerce tasks. Computer and electronics companies would like to see refinements to R/3's forecasting and allocated product handling and SAP America is planning improvements.
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Article Abstract:
US Robotics reached $800 million annual sales by a combination of internally developed advanced technologies, empowering management, and co-location of product development and manufacturing. These strategies are being applied to the emerging ISDN market. International Data analyst Maribel Lopez Howard says that ISDN modems will have a 61% growth rate with shipments exceeding 900,000 units by 1999. ISDN market growth has been slow because of hesitant marketing by regional Bell operating companies, high service charges, and complexity of installing ISDN service. US Robotics delivered a complete ISDN solution in a few months, including analog ISDN modem, easy-to-use software, support and a strategy for creating and marketing ISDN services. The company utilized DSP chips from Texas Instruments to achieve the cost, performance and time-to-market goals. Manufacturing worked with product design from the beginning, and individuals are empowered to resolve problems.
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Article Abstract:
The CD-ROM drive shortage will soon end, with major suppliers increasing production of quad-speed drives to meet demand from computer manufacturers. However, uncertain pricing and new technologies will continue to stir the market. Samsung, Matsushita and Mitsumi Electronics are among those increasing production. Sixty CD-ROM drive makers are anticipated to ship 34 million units in 1995, increasing volumes by 50% from 1994 and doubling earlier prediction volumes. Analysts warn the increasing demand will surpass supply capabilities through early 1996. Other industry observers say the gap between demand and supply will diminish later in 1996, but will persist. Despite the CD-ROM drive shortages, PC sales volumes for computer houses increased by 20% over the forecasts. CD-ROM drive penetration rates, propelled by booming multimedia sales, leaped to 80% of consumer units for 1995.
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