A Manufacturing Execution System (MES)

A Manufacturing Execution System (MES) is an integrated hardware and software solution designed to measure and control activities in the production areas of manufacturing organizations to increase productivity and improve quality.

The goals of an MES system include:

1. Initiate production activities
2. Guide production activities
3. Collect production-related information from
1. Automated production equipment
2. Sensors
3. Personnel
4. Software systems
4. Monitor and control quality parameters
5. Provide information to personnel and machines necessary to perform production activities
6. Facilitate communication inside the production facility among personnel and machines
7. Facilitate communication beyond the facility to suppliers, customers, engineers, sales, and management
8. Respond to changes in
1. Demand for manufactured goods
2. Supply of components necessary for production
3. Product specification (engineering changes)
4. Availability of resources including personnel and equipment
9. Ensure compliance with applicable law, such as mandates by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Department of Defense (DOD)