What is MES

Manufacturing Execution System - software layer between ERP and shop floor equipment. Answers: what should we produce now? Are we on schedule? Where is each job? What is quality status? How efficient are machines and workers?

Core MES Functions

Production Scheduling: work order management, Gantt chart, capacity planning. Shop Floor Control: WIP tracking, workstation status, operator assignments. Quality Management: in-process inspection, SPC, non-conformance handling, traceability. Equipment Management: OEE tracking, preventive maintenance, downtime tracking. Material Management: WIP inventory, kanban replenishment. Data Collection: auto-capture from machines, barcode/RFID scanning.

Selection Criteria

Industry fit critical - discrete vs process manufacturing have different MES needs. Scalability: can it grow from 5 to 50 workstations? Integration: must connect existing ERP (Kingdee/Yonyou/SAP) and ideally equipment directly. Usability: shop floor workers need simple touch-friendly interface. Budget range for SMEs: 50,000-500,000 RMB depending on scope.

益阳 Manufacturing Context

益阳's sector includes bamboo/wood processing, food processing, textile/garment, machinery/equipment, electronic components, new materials. Each has distinct MES requirements. Generic MES will not serve any well without significant customization.