Manufacturing Execution System (MES): Role & Benefits
More and more manufacturers are asking the same questions; what is (MES) manufacturing execution system, and do I need one? In the manufacturing industry, staying ahead of the competition can be tricky. It is therefore essential to use state-of-the-art manufacturing process management tools to stand out.
If you are wondering about the usefulness of an MES solution, it is because you already have or are considering the purchase of an enterprise resource planning (ERP) system. ERP systems are indeed incredibly beneficial for both small and large companies. They are usually the starting point for manufacturers embarking on a digital journey and developing continuous improvement initiatives.
For many, this step is enough to see their business flourish. However, what about manufacturers with complex standards or multi site operations? Find out all about these software and how an MES integration can bring your business to the next level.
What is the
difference between ERP and MES?
ERPs are manufacturing enterprise solutions that automate core business processes, plan, budget, and predict all your organization’s financial reports. You can also use them to solve your supply chain issues and get acute key performance indicators (KPIs) of your plant floor. In turn, these production data allow you to make quick and informed decisions for your business.
However, an ERP for manufacturing is just the beginning, and an MES system is a slightly more advanced solution. The manufacturing process is complex and requires a powerful platform to ensure all procedures are executed in a controlled manner. Manufacturing process control systems, such as Epicor’s, collect, integrate, and analyze the data of your factory floor from raw materials order to the finished product.
What Is
a Manufacturing Execution System?
MES stands for “manufacturing execution system” and refers to production management software. Epicor MES monitors machines on the shop floor and connects updates to your existing enterprise resource planning (ERP) system. It ensures that manufacturing operations are successfully implemented to improve production efficiency.
A production execution software such as Epicor’s Advanced MES is designed solely for manufacturing businesses. It integrates the shop floor (production process, machinery, etc.) with your business processes (logistics, supply chain, etc.). MES supersizes your backend operations and provides the missing binoculars for a clear view of global manufacturing operation, including a machine execution system.
How Does It Work and What Is the Function of a MES Software?
The mechanics behind ERP and MES systems are simple, but their implementation is not. That is why you should always contact an expert team to implement your MES ERP software solutions.
The best MES Software tracks the entire production lifecycle with real time—and highly accurate—data from the customer order until the delivery stage. For example, when the operation begins with cutting metal for a desk to work in progress (WIP) to the delivery at an office building, a manufacturing execution system supplies clear and concise information on each phase.
So, what is MES, if not the most powerful tool for understanding, optimizing, and making strategic decisions?
Manufacturing companies specializing in products made-to-order, engineer-to-order, or configure-to-order will benefit from MES since they don’t start production until an order has been placed. A functional integration that provides an extra layer between manufacturing ERP software and the controlled processes on the factory floor is critical for customized orders.
Digital Transformation
in Manufacturing - 7 Benefits of Manufacturing Execution Systems
Nothing is better than real time production monitoring, flexibility, and an optimal outlook on improving manufacturing operations. Let us show you exactly how MES is implemented and how to achieve your business goals faster with ground breaking process management.
“Epicor recognized as an MES leader in the plastics and rubber category”
According to ARC Advisory Research
How Manufacturing Execution Systems
Can Be Integrated with ERP to Boost Business Growth
While both MES and ERP are manufacturing enterprise solutions, they’re entirely different platforms that complement each other, especially in manufacturing production. It is also possible to work only with an ERP or an MES; it depends on your business needs.
A local mom and pop store would not need an MES solution as their supply and demand and profitability are just not enough to justify a new system.
What about large companies with multiple locations or managing complex plant floor operations? Can they track viable data from production to finished goods? Or are they losing profitability due to unknown circumstances? A complete understanding of what occurs on the plant floor optimizes production. It also allows executives to make decisions at the drop of a hat, ultimately facilitating the company’s growth and scalability.
Which Industries Use Manufacturing Execution Systems?
There are many ERP providers on the market, and they are typically suitable for most, if not all industries. Depending on your organization’s goals, you can add integrations and customization options that better suit your industry vertical.
These are some of the manufacturing industries that stand to gain from finding out what is MES.
- Aerospace
- Fabricated Metal
- Furniture & Fixtures
- Industrial Machinery
- Automotive
- Medical Device
- And many more.
Epicor MES: Advanced Manufacturing Execution System. Do You Need It?
As is the case with most software purchases, a company must weigh the pros and cons and conclude: is it worth it? If there’s a noticeable gap in your shop floor data collection, we highly recommend an MES Manufacturing Execution System.
Choosing an ERP is no easy task. A key player, like Epicor Kinetic, is a cloud based ERP solution designed for the manufacturing industry. Throughout the years, they have learned all about the challenges faced by manufacturers and spent time working on the ultimate solution.
Now that you know what is MES manufacturing execution system, do not hesitate to contact EC Solutions ERP consultants. We’ll help you take your business to the next level with the best practices and integrated solutions for manufacturers. Trust our Epicor certified team to take your business to the next level!
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