Introduction to Manufacturing Software Solutions
With our society becoming more technologically advanced, the manufacturing industry is adopting technology and software solutions to streamline processes. A common function for which a manufacturing business will seek out software is a centralized location to manage manufacturing and business operations.
The manufacturing industry is full of companies with vastly different needs and processes when it comes to software. The type of manufacturing software solution a company uses will depend on various factors, including size, production needs, supply chain management, and the type of product they manufacture.
Manufacturing Software Features to Seek Out
While not every manufacturing software solution will be the right fit for every company out there, there are a few core features that manufacturers should look out for when determining which solution is right for them.
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Cloud-Based Software: While cloud-based manufacturing software is becoming the standard for most solutions, it’s still an important feature to mention. Cloud-based software is ideal as it can be accessed at any time from any location, which is beneficial for large manufacturers with multiple locations.
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Scalability: Having a highly scalable solution is an essential feature as many companies grow and expand operations. With a scalable solution, manufacturers can add users and functions, and integrate new systems to improve the solution’s usability.
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User-Friendly Interface: Manufacturing workflows are often complex and require existing knowledge to navigate. Trying to navigate these workflows using a software platform that is confusing to use and requires extensive training will cause problems in the long run. By building a solution with a user-friendly interface, users will have a positive experience and be able to complete their work.
Exploring the Need for Advanced Manufacturing Solutions
When used correctly, manufacturing software can optimize processes and streamline operations using advanced technology and automation. Advanced solutions for manufacturing businesses can create new systems and processes or modify existing ones.
The primary goal of integrating advanced technology into the manufacturing workflow is to produce high-quality products while consuming a minimal amount of raw materials. This is beneficial for companies as it can reduce labor effort, manufacturing costs, and the time required to complete the production process.
Software Solutions Manufacturing Departments Should Use
Numerous types of manufacturing software can be used by companies to improve performance. Let’s take a look at some of the top manufacturing software being used today.
Enterprise Asset Management Software
Enterprise asset management (EAM) software offers manufacturing businesses a tool to monitor their holdings. EAM software for manufacturing allows companies to manage all physical assets and analyze their performance. This makes it easier for manufacturers to manage equipment and machine health, including scheduling preventative maintenance.
Manufacturing companies can customize their EAM solution to integrate connected devices, like Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) sensors and devices. Connecting IIoT technology allows manufacturers to gather and analyze real-time data to better predict equipment and machine failure. IIoT technology also allows manufacturers to monitor equipment health remotely, making it a beneficial option for large manufacturers with multiple locations.
Manufacturing Execution Systems
A manufacturing execution system (MES) is built to structure sustainable and efficient manufacturing processes in order to produce high-quality products. Manufacturing execution systems can connect the entire production process in one solution, including manufacturing plants and sites.
Manufacturing execution systems can also connect with manufacturing machines and equipment, IIoT sensors and devices, and additional integrated software solutions. Having the ability to manage all aspects of manufacturing operations through one management system provides manufacturing companies with valuable insight into their operations. This enables companies to improve the production process and quality control while reducing waste.
Project Lifecycle Management Software
Project lifecycle management (PLM) software is designed to manage the product’s entire manufacturing process. Using PLM software enables manufacturing companies to approach project management strategically through a single solution.
PLM software also simplifies supply chain management at a time when companies are having to adapt to a global framework. By managing supply chain operations from a PLM solution, manufacturers can have multiple users managing the process at once and minimize the risk of letting important information fall through the cracks.
Enterprise Resource Planning Software
Enterprise resource planning (ERP) software provides companies with a single solution to view and manage all operations, making manufacturing and production operations more straightforward. A manufacturing company can benefit from using ERP systems as the primary function is to provide data and insight into resource utilization, allowing companies to increase their production efficiency.
Manufacturing ERP software can provide companies with data covering resource utilization, making it easy for manufacturing companies to identify and resolve issues in production management, changes in supply chains, and staff scheduling.
Additionally, the data gathered with an enterprise resource planning software solution allows companies to make informed decisions when it comes to producing the highest-quality product with the least amount of raw materials.
Inventory Management Software
Inventory management software is essential for any business in the manufacturing industry that sells any type of product or goods. Inventory management software gives manufacturers access to real-time inventory data, allowing them better control over inventory.
Inventory management software can also automate processes in the supply chain, including warehouse management, ordering products, and tracking materials. Having this type of inventory control will allow manufacturers to reduce waste and increase profits.
Customer Relationship Management Software
Custom relationship management (CRM) software is a popular solution used by manufacturers to manage and optimize customer relationships. CRM software provides a central location to manage leads, sales workflows, and customer details. Many CRM software products offer data analytic capabilities allowing companies to review metrics, such as customer satisfaction.
The Future Outlook of Manufacturing Software Solutions
Many manufacturers are expected to encounter a labor shortage, supply chain disruptions, and continuing economic uncertainty. As technology continues to advance, it will only become more prevalent in the manufacturing industry to battle these challenges.
As manufacturers continue to seek out innovative ways to improve operational efficiency and reduce the demand for skilled labor, they will find their solution in manufacturing software. More manufacturers are starting to adapt to the smart factory concept, finding ways to use IIoT technology in warehouse management and artificial intelligence to automate processes.
Work With Geneca Today
Is your manufacturing company looking for a software solution to integrate advanced technology into your daily operations? Contact Geneca today! Our team of business analysts and software developers is ready to build a software solution for your unique needs and processes.