At PCSI, it's product planning by the book

Article Abstract:

Pacific Communications Sciences (PCSI), a subsidiary of Cirrus Logic, implemented a plan to prevent the organizational efficiency that often results from rapid expansion. The company's Improved Development Process is a set of guidelines that calls for a product review committee staffed by a cross-functional core team. The guidelines are designed to help PCSI meet the continued growth in the cellular and personal communications services markets. Prior to the guidelines, rapid growth had led to a lack of uniformity in product development. By redefining the development phase, PCSI was able to set uniform standards for testing, languages, and other phases of development. This led to several core efficiencies, and avoided situations where different design teams re-invented the same technology for new projects.

Author: Curran, Lawrence J.
Management, Telecommunications services industry, Telecommunications industry, Company Business Management, Pacific Communications Sciences Inc.

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Staying ahead of the pack with standard motherboards

Article Abstract:

Vickers Electronic Systems develops the Acramatic 2100, a computer numerical control (CNC) system for machine tools, using outsourced motherboards and the Windows NT operating system. The Acramatic system, shipping since September 1994, controls machine tool movement and command inputs using two motherboards with Pentium or 486 central processing units. This has allowed Vickers to remain state-of-the-art while cutting costs and development workload compared to proprietary hardware designs. It is also easier to upgrade standardized motherboards with new microprocessors. Vickers' market share in CNC systems for cutting tools for 1995 is estimated at 5% or $38 million in a $750 mil market, according to Frost and Sullivan data.

Author: Curran, Lawrence J.
Relays and industrial controls, Computer industry, Product development, Intel-compatible system, x86 compatible computers, Control systems, Vickers Electronic Systems, Vickers Electronic Systems Acramatic 2100 (Intel-compatible system)

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Mobile scanner moves into new markets

Article Abstract:

Analogic Corp began as a supplier of high-performance industrial signal-processing equipment 30 years ago and has recently made a successful entry into the computerized tomography (CT) scanner market. The company made the decision to manufacture CT scanners for the OEM market in 1990, though it had been involved in their design since 1974. The idea to develop its lightweight CT scanner happened after a visit to Moscow by company representatives where plans were made for a space-based CT scanner. Though that project never materialized, the lightweight CT scanner found potential buyers in the US market. Development of the company's lightweight CT scanner took about 36 months and $20 million.

Author: Curran, Lawrence J.
Marketing, Company marketing practices, Company business planning, Analogic Corp., ALOG

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Subjects list: Planning
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