How to Choose the Right MES Solution for Your Food & Beverage Plant
The thought of integrating technological systems with automation in the F&B plant seems like an expensive investment to manufacturers. However, taking this daunting step will only lead the plant one step closer to digital transformation and bring results in the future.
The introduction of MES is one such step in the process that will be beneficial for the manufacturing plant in the long run. Let's have a detailed look at what MES means and how to introduce it in the unit.
What is MES?
MES stands for manufacturing execution systems, which is software that manages and keeps a check on the physical process of the plant, monitoring, and other detailed activities in the production process.
MES software collects essential data from the plant and turns it into actionable insights that the C-Level executives later use in the decision-making process.
Read along to understand the complete importance of MES in food and beverage plants.
Importance of MES
With changing times and consumer demands, MES is the new-age requirement of the plant, which will only bear fruit in the future.
1. Real-Time Insights
The first and foremost benefit of the MES solution is the conversion of data into real-time insights to undertake better and calculated decisions. Timely insights help the manufacturer to understand the situation and make changes in existing plans for better results.
2. Process Simplifying
The MES software has complete information on raw materials, machinery, labour, and the production of final goods. With automated software integration, manufacturers can be reminded to depict raw materials and missing ingredients that may hamper production in the future.
With real-time data processing, the updates become regular, and early detection of blockage can be done and rectified. This way, the plant’s efficiency is also improved directly or indirectly.
3. Quality Enhancement
A keen eye on all processes and continuous updates helps the manufacturer maintain the standard quality of the product, which is essential in the food and beverages manufacturing industry. With correct information input in the system, the software won’t allow any other ingredient in the process that doesn’t fall under the quality norm.
How to Select a MES Solution?
Step 1: Understand your plant’s needs and requirements first. Make a list, narrow down your options, and search for potential software that offers the same or similar features.
Step 2: Compare existing plans and software options that match your requirements. Navigate through the software and take multiple trials to understand the entire software.
Step 3: After features, start the comparison based on the cost. Consider the entire cost, from implementation and training to the maintenance required.
Step 4: Know about the vendor and supplier. A strong supplier with optimum after-sales service is a must to ensure smooth operation in the future. Make sure the supplier is right and offers the best possible service.
Another major decision-making requirement while selecting the MES software is to check what type of solution your plant will need. Let’s look into that in a little detail.
Types of MES Solutions
The top three types of MES solutions largely preferred by the food and beverages industry are:
1. AI-Based MES
With the introduction of food industry 4.0, i.e., artificial intelligence implementation, MES solutions have also optimized ML algorithms to offer better results according to the changing market dynamics.
2. On-Location MES
This type of MES solution is offered and implemented, particularly on the company’s premises. Systems outside the premises won’t be able to access the MES software. This solution is preferred by businesses that want high security for their in-house data.
3. Cloud-Driven MES
Opposite to on-location MES, cloud-based solutions can be easily accessed online, irrespective of the system’s location. This MES software offers users the freedom to access data anywhere they require.
Some of the other popular MES software systems are small business MES software, enterprise MES, and customized industry-specific MES software.
Conclusion
MES software is a specific investment and strategy to successfully move towards digital transformation in the food industry. However, the steps require efforts from the manufacturer’s end, from selecting the MES software to implementation and final training. The final result will benefit the manufacturing plant in the long run.