Intelligent Enterprise

In the modern e-business ecosystem, no one element stands alone. Intelligence depends upon the integration of data resources, the infrastructure to crunch through massive quantities of data, and the collaborative sharing of information among business partners. In a complex world, integration itself will demand embedded intelligence, as will improving business process infrastructures. Leadership in collaborative B2B and B2C marketplaces will go to organizations that can orchestrate harmony among all four elements - in real time.

Welcome to the 2001 edition of Intelligent Enterprise's annual editors' choice of the most influential companies in IT. This year's selection celebrates the IT solution providers most critical to making businesses smarter, faster, and more profitable. They do it by excelling with one or more of the four elements, enabling their customers to apply IT excellence to the pursuit of business success.

Our list comes in two parts. First we have the Dozen, an exclusive group of guiding lights, heavyweights, and fast risers. Next, we feature an additional list of 12 Companies to Watch - organized by the four elements of the intelligent enterprise - plus some quick mentions of companies we'd be crazy to forget.

It goes without saying that the selection process was tough. Lists were made and made again. It took a year's worth of covering the gamut of vendors that strive to bring their customers closer to the goal of an intelligent enterprise. Needless to say, some big, influential companies are missing - as are some small, fast-moving innovators and reliable mainstays. I'm sure we'll hear from all them.

We look forward to your comments, debate, and suggestions, which will help us answer the biggest riddle of all: Who should be on the list next year?

The Intelligent Enterprise Dozen for 2001

The Second Dozen: Twelve additional Hot Companies to Watch, plus a selection of others we dare not forget as critical to emerging intelligent enterprises