Benefits of cloud-based MES aired

That is the message from MES consultancy firm Andea, which has developed an iCloud application, called Manufacturo. It said that a cloud-based MES could improve quality and reduce variability in the manufacturing process.

However, it warned that many companies were still hesitant to implement MES, mainly due to the initial high costs and getting it embedded.

Four main benefits​

Andea highlighted four main benefits of using a cloud-based system: cost-effectiveness, ease of roll-out, scalability and global effectiveness.

It also advised manufacturers to consider ready-to-use applications – either off-the- shelf or custom-developed apps – designed to fulfil a company’s specific needs.

“Think smartphone and app store concept, where you buy and install applications that you need,”​ said Tadeusz Dyduch, VP of innovation at Andea. “If you can’t find an application that meets your needs, you can have someone develop it.”​

Cloud based​

The firm believed using a cloud-based solution could be less expensive and more cost- effective. It also argued that these were easier to implement and roll out, as traditionally, global MES implementations could take between nine and 12 months to complete in the first pilot production site.

Its Manufacturo brand also allowed for all data to be stored in one place, then used to analyse trends and potential improvement areas, it added.