With an overwhelming array of new technology choices, creating the right foundation requires investing in core systems that move your business in the right direction. You may be considering ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) software pieces and MES (Manufacturing Execution Systems). In addition to taking stock of your individual needs, it’s important to understand what each solution can – or cannot – do.
Keys to a Successful System FoundationThe right solution should address the critical issues within your business and move you closer to your individual goals.
- Improve your chance of successful deployments by focusing on the specific functions that provide near-term, high-value benefits.
- Minimize disruption in multisite implementations by establishing a center of excellence (COE) that includes all stakeholders, to provide enterprise-wide governance.
- Plan the roadmap to roll in other production processes into the cloud, as technology matures.
What is MES?
Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) are powerful software systems used to improve capacity, quality, delivery and visibility. Today’s MES capabilities can advance your digital maturity, maximize operational potential, facilitate continuous improvement and accelerate innovation.
What is ERP?
The right enterprise resource planning (ERP) system can help your business run more efficiently and effectively. Many manufacturers report the features and functionality of traditional ERP are just not designed for the plant floor.
The Difference Between a MES and an ERP
| What can a MES do? | What can an ERP do? |
|---|---|
| Automate production orchestration through AI-based process control and Optimize maintenance protocols with intelligent asset monitoring & predictive maintenance solutions | Tell you how much of which materials you need to complete an order, and when that order needs to leave your plant |
| Connect supply chain to the factory floor with automatic order download and execution | Help you collect production data |
Explore what’s possible with MES
A fully enabled MES will have a significant impact on all areas of your operation where execution issues often arise – machines, materials, methods and operators – and where the greatest ROI can be realized.
An MES bridges the gap between the business and manufacturing worlds, between factory leadership, engineering, line of business and supply chain.
An MES can answer these questions:
- What should I be making right now?
- What should I do next?
- Is this equipment clean?
- Which inventory should I use?
- Where is the production?
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