John Clemons, a Solution Consultant for Rockwell Automation with over 30 years of experience in Manufacturing Technology, discusses how various tools impact manufacturing enterprises and help create more resilient operations. While new technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and augmented reality (AR) play a significant role, older technologies such as manufacturing execution systems (MES) and manufacturing operations management (MOM) systems continue to have an important impact on manufacturing.
MES/MOM has evolved significantly since its inception in the early ’90s when MESA International created the MESA Model. It serves as a bridge between the business world dominated by enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems and the manufacturing world controlled by automation and control systems. MES/MOM translates manufacturing orders from ERP systems to the shop floor for execution, managing manufacturing processes from receiving to shipping.
The new MES/MOM boasts a wide range of applications that cover all aspects of manufacturing operations on the shop floor. These applications include production, quality, performance, and materials management, as well as order management, work instructions, non-conformances, labor tracking, and regulatory compliance support. The system is designed to support a variety of industries, from EPA and FDA compliance to production and quality incident tracking.
Modern MES/MOM systems have embraced new technologies such as cloud-based solutions, mobile applications, and the industrial internet of things (IIoT) to gather and contextualize data from various sources. The system utilizes descriptive analytics to provide real-time information to users, allowing for informed decision-making. With an emphasis on edge/cloud architecture and mobile accessibility, the new MES/MOM offers a flexible and comprehensive solution for manufacturing enterprises.
The reinvented MES/MOM is a vital tool for manufacturing enterprises looking to transform and improve their operations with digital technologies. By leveraging new capabilities and technologies, the system helps companies become more productive, agile, and responsive in a rapidly changing environment. Ultimately, the new MES/MOM is aimed at building more resilient manufacturing operations and driving the industry forward.
In conclusion, the evolution of MES/MOM over the past three decades has transformed the system into a comprehensive and adaptable solution for modern manufacturing enterprises. With its focus on leveraging new technologies and improving capabilities, MES/MOM is a key player in helping companies navigate the challenges of digital transformation and build more resilient operations. John Clemons’ insights shed light on the importance of embracing innovation in manufacturing technology to stay competitive and thrive in a dynamic industry landscape.
