What is EZ-MES?

A Manufacturing Execution System (MES) is an information system for managing, tracking, controlling, documenting and improving work-in-process on a factory floor. EZ-MES is a real time, browser based Manufacturing Execution System. Real time means that all changes in a multi-user environment are immediately processed and visualized. For example, if an operator makes a change, this change will be immediately visible on the screen of a supervisor, without the need to refresh or reload the browser page.

 

The Core of EZ-MES

The central core of the EZ-MES Manufacturing Execution Software has a very flexible model for manufacturing operations, enabling you to model virtually any kind of manufacturing process:

  1.  You have a manufacturing process (flow) that is a sequence of operations.
  2.  Each operation has:
    • Inputs
    • Equipment
    • Material
    • Consumables
    • Labor
    • Location / Facilities
    • Instructions
    • Trigger that starts the operation
    • Outputs
    • Information (Data Collection)
    • Material
  3.  To complete the operation checks can be performed
    • Check any information (can be calculated) with process specifications
    • Check information with product specifications
  4.  Based on the information gathered automatic actions can be taken
    • Send out email notification
    • Show popup message
    • Reposition material to other flows
  5.  On top of this you have time triggered automatic checks for:
    • Preventative Maintenance (PM)
    • Material expiration dates
    • And many more

 

Learn more details about the main functionalities of EZ-MES.

 

The difference between MES and ERP

The main difference between MES (Manufacturing Execution System) and ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) is the focus. The focus of the ERP System is the Purchase Order, while the focus of the MES is the actual Manufacturing Operation. According to the ISA 95 model both systems are located in different layers. MES is settled within Level 3 for Manufacturing Operations and Control. ERP on the other hand is found in Level 4 for Business Planning and Logistics. By using interfaces between the system to exchange information, each can focus on the process it has been developed for.

As a MES is focused on the actual Manufacturing Operation, it can handle much better the complex, continually varying environment of a factory floor, including variations such as:

  • Machine breakdowns
  • Absent workers
  • Cleaning and maintenance times
  • Changing delivery dates
  • Quality problems
  • Alternative work plans
  • Alternative parts list
  • Availability of transport
  • etc...

A  MES operates in real time basis, allowing operators and supervisors to react to immediate variance on the factory floor, helping making faster decisions on such things as costing over-runs, poor quality and late deliveries.