Aberdeen Group Publishes Enterprise Applications, Manufacturing, and IT Security Research

Research Examines Cloud ERP, Financial Planning, Budgeting, and Forecasting, Lean Manufacturing, and Data Classification Initiatives


BOSTON, MA--(Marketwire - Mar 12, 2013) - Aberdeen Group, a Harte-Hanks Company (NYSE: HHS), today announced the publication of new research reports from its Enterprise Applications, Manufacturing, and IT Security research practices.

"Your Marriage with Cloud ERP: A Lifelong Commitment," prepared by Nick Castellina, Research Analyst in the Aberdeen Enterprise Applications practice, is based on the premise that the relationship between an organization and its business systems is much like a marriage, because both parties should be working together to reach a common goal. Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) is the system that contains the necessary information to run a business. It is a reflection of the people, processes, goals, and performance of an organization. At the same time, successful ERP strategies are extensive commitments. These solutions are so important to an organization's ongoing success that they require significant consideration before selection and throughout the solution's entire lifecycle. And, as with a marriage, there will be bumps in the road. Successful organizations must find a way to maintain their relationship with their ERP solution so that it can continue to support the organization effectively. To obtain a complimentary copy of this report, visit: http://aberdeen.com/Aberdeen-Library/8378/AI-enterprise-resource-planning.aspx.

"The Case for Cloud ERP in Manufacturing: Alleviating Outdated Concerns," also prepared by Nick Castellina, states that Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), with its roots in Material Requirements Planning (MRP), has long been used by leading manufacturers to reveal untapped efficiencies, reduce costs, and provide visibility into processes to support managers in making informed decisions. As the organizations with the longest ERP history, manufacturers have been hesitant to change what works. Manufacturers have been slow to accept new deployment options such as cloud when it comes to ERP. But research indicates that perceptions of cloud deployment in manufacturing may be changing. This report illustrates trends in cloud deployment, lays out the reasons for manufacturers to consider cloud ERP, and notes performance differences between organizations using cloud or on-premise ERP. To obtain a complimentary copy of this report, visit: http://www.aberdeen.com/Aberdeen-Library/6672/RA-enterprise-resource-planning.aspx.

Finally, from Nick Castellina, is "Financial Planning, Budgeting, and Forecasting: Removing the Hurdles." The three critical processes of financial planning, budgeting, and forecasting are required to define and achieve organizational goals. These processes can be detailed and time consuming, causing some employees to perceive them as productivity barriers. While accuracy is essential, organizations should make these processes as straightforward as possible. This report illustrates best practices for each critical process by increasing communication and collaboration, enabling visibility, and implementing key technologies. To obtain a complimentary copy of this report, visit: http://www.aberdeen.com/link/sponsor.asp?spid=30410182&cid=8321&camp=2.

"Lean Manufacturing: Success Starts with Visibility and Alignment," prepared by Reid Paquin, Research Associate in the Manufacturing research practice at the Aberdeen Group, highlights how top Lean manufacturers use operational visibility and executive sponsorship to enhance their continuous improvement efforts. No matter the industry, size, or enterprise location, the pressures driving Lean initiatives are consistent. The main Lean drivers are cost, efficiency, and adding value for the customer. Like most initiatives, the right plan needs to be in place prior to launch, and proper support is needed to continue its growth. Readers of this report will learn how to implement the tools to become Lean, and the required philosophy change required to be successful. To obtain a complimentary copy of the report visit http://www.aberdeen.com/link/sponsor.asp?spid=30410182&cid=8343&camp=2.

For any organization looking to safeguard their confidential information and intellectual property, segmenting -- or classifying -- the data is the cornerstone for protecting it. In "Three Steps to Successful Data Classification," Derek Brink, Vice President and Research Fellow for the Aberdeen Group IT Security research practice, describes three core steps to successful data classification initiatives: creating a data classification scheme; empowering end-users through ongoing awareness and training; and communicating the results and trends of a regular review and analysis to the owners of the business risks for data that is being protected. To access a free copy of this report, please visit http://www.aberdeen.com/link/sponsor.asp?spid=30410182&cid=8355&camp=2.

Also, join Brink and solution provider TITUS on a webcast scheduled for Tuesday, April 9, 2013 to learn more about how data classification helps to ensure that the appropriate levels of policies, controls and resources are in place, and that these investments are delivering an appropriate level of value to the business in return. To register for this free event, please visit http://bit.ly/Y1OnXS.

About Aberdeen Group, a Harte-Hanks Company
Aberdeen Group, a Harte-Hanks Company (NYSE: HHS), is a global, full-service, multi-channel marketing services firm with deep expertise in developing research-based technology marketing content. Enabled by its team of 40 analysts covering 16 industry-sector categories, Aberdeen provides B2B marketers with relevant content assets available in multiple formats that target each stage of the customer buying cycle.

Aberdeen has offices in Boston and London. Harte-Hanks operates 25 offices in the United States, and has locations throughout Asia-Pacific, Europe, and Latin America.

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