Manufacturing Execution System
MES, (Manufacturing Execution System), is a widely used term with a broad level of interpretation – mainly because a MES is made up from several differing components. There is a recognised standard for MES – ISA S95, and within this standard the scope of MES is defined. As an automation company perhaps we shouldn’t say this, but we believe that MES has over the years picked up a bad name with manufacturers – often because the implementation takes much longer than planned, the costs escalate and the promised payback is less than anticipated. This has tarnished the MES name, but often this is not the product or technology’s fault but the way in which it was implemented or the requirements controlled. Critical to an effective MES implementation is the clear definition of the objectives and the payback of achieving these, exactly the way these objectives are to be achieved, (preferably in a pragmatic way – at least initially), clear determination of all the “what ifs” together with the way in which each of these is to be handled, the involvement of all key personnel, (both technical and users), the definition of a structured, phased implementation and the strong containment of scope change. This is a large list to be complied with, but unless compliance is achieved and adhered to then the project’s success will be at risk. Having said all this, if properly implemented, key modules within an MES offer can very much provide your business with positive benefits with sensible payback times, and so MES should very much be considered by all manufacturers – in one form or another. For a pragmatic, no nonsense approach to MES contact Optimal to discuss your application.