Manufacturing execution systems: The path to smart

Mapping the smart evolution with manufacturing execution systems (MES)

Leading manufacturers recognize that the right technologies and data, along with a culture of continuous learning and evolution, can be an effective formula for achieving unprecedented business value. And, with enthusiasm growing around smart manufacturing as more compelling use cases come to light, organizations can take real steps today to ensure a smarter tomorrow.

In a recent Deloitte study, 86% of manufacturers think smart factory initiatives will be the main driver of competitiveness within five years. However, just 5% of manufacturers have at least one factory at full smart status, and only 30% have smart factory initiatives underway.

For organizations still relying on legacy systems and operations, there’s likely no straight line to smart. To truly move the needle, executives must launch holistic initiatives that enhance productivity and savings while simultaneously setting the groundwork for overhauled operations, standardized processes, and the dynamic agility that smart factories can bring. A critical component of this process is the manufacturing execution system.

This article series explores considerations, strategies, and best practices for manufacturing leaders on how they can leverage MES to propel their organizations into the future of manufacturing. In each article, we explore ways MES technologies can enable next-level progress in the current manufacturing environment and break down the primary hurdles that companies often face as they build and scale MES solutions.