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July/August issue
Cover Story
DeepDive: What's the Right Blend in Automation Platforms?
by Stephanie Neil
Manufacturers don’t have the time or money to overhaul antiquated automation systems in pursuit of 21st century control platforms. So they are turning to data sharing, common applications, and, yet, standards to boost their efficiency.
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Features
Inventory Management: Pulling Back
by Keith Nash
Not every inventory management problem demands the use of sophisticated optimization tools. How a return to simple, pull-based principles can help manufacturers tackle today’s complex challenges.
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Readers' Choice Poll: Now Hear This!
by Jeff Moad
The ballots are in and counted … MA/ME readers weigh in on which vendors in a wide range of technology categories really get manufacturing, and which providers they would recommend to peers.
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Commentary
Take 1
A Walk in the Clouds
by David R. Brousell
The new form of delivering computing power, called cloud computing, may have some benefits, but be prepared to ask hard questions about it in order to get beyond the hype.
Next
Saved by Digital Manufacturing?
by Robert Malone
Manufacturing is finally entering a new digital era. The technology, if adopted by manufacturing enterprises, would support a healthier and more vigorous U.S. economy.
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Notes
SAP's Database Revolution
by Joshua Greenbaum
By suggesting that a new approach to database technology can power the core transactional system in its Business Suite, the enterprise vendor takes aim at Oracle..
Product Scan
Product Scan, July/August 2009
A round-up of some of the latest tools available to help you run your manufacturing business, from the shop floor to the top floor and beyond.
Monthly Web Exclusive
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