Understanding Process Manufacturing Software
What is Process Manufacturing Software?
Process manufacturing is a type of manufacturing that produces final products by mixing raw materials and ingredients together. The production process can include combining, blending, boiling, or joining the materials and ingredients together, known as a process. Instead of resulting in individual final products, process manufacturing produces final products in bulk.
Process manufacturing software is designed to streamline manufacturing processes and provide companies with insights into resource utilization. With enterprise resource planning (ERP) features, manufacturers can gain control over production scheduling, supply chain management, and quality control.
Importance of Process Manufacturing Software
Process manufacturing ERP software can transform how a process manufacturer manages their daily operations. ERP systems are designed to increase operational efficiency and provide companies with valuable data insights into their processes, which enables manufacturers to make data-driven decisions.
Process manufacturing businesses have different requirements than discrete manufacturers, meaning they require their own type of software systems. Having an ERP system designed around the unique workflows of process manufacturers is essential to becoming a leader in the manufacturing sector.
Difference between Process Manufacturing Software and Discrete Manufacturing Software
Discrete manufacturing is a type of manufacturing that produces individual final products by assembling parts, such as electronic devices or vehicles. Process manufacturing produces final products in large batches by combining materials, such as paint or food ingredients.
Due to the differences in these manufacturing styles, the type of software these companies will need is different to manage daily operations—for example, the assembly workflows, inventory management, and production monitoring.
Key Features of the Best Process Manufacturing Software
While the features included in process manufacturing software solutions can be different based on the software development company, there are a few key features that will be included in most solutions. Let’s take a look at some of the features and how they benefit manufacturing companies.
Materials Requirement Planning (MRP)
Materials requirement planning (MRP) software is a tool used by manufacturers to improve resource management and streamline operations. MRP software is used to enhance productivity in production processes, from ordering raw materials to packaging the final product, ultimately improving efficiency throughout manufacturing operations. Manufacturing companies can also use MRP software to improve data management with access to real-time data analytics that support informed decision-making.
Inventory and Warehouse Management
Inventory management is a valuable feature for manufacturing companies, regardless of the industry or market. Inventory management software provides manufacturers with real-time data insights into their current inventory levels. With access to current and historical inventory data, manufacturing companies can identify trends and plan their orders accordingly.
Inventory management can also include notification features that notify users when stock levels reach a defined threshold, alerting manufacturers when they need to order more materials.
Integration Capabilities with Other Systems
In today’s manufacturing industry, most companies will already be utilizing at least one software system to manage their operations. When introducing a new software solution, manufacturing companies should ensure it can be fully integrated with the existing systems for seamless data migration, which reduces the risk of data errors.
When systems are not integrated, manufacturing companies also run the risk of users not using the software systems to their fullest extent. Users are less likely to effectively use software solutions if they have to go back and forth, entering duplicate data.
How to Choose the Right Process Manufacturing Software for Your Business
Searching for a software solution can be daunting. To make the process easier, manufacturing companies should think through the following considerations when choosing a process manufacturing software solution.
Evaluating Your Business Needs and Requirements
Before a manufacturing company starts searching for process manufacturing software solutions, they must first evaluate their needs and requirements to ensure they select the right solution. These requirements can stem from current pain points, essential workflows in daily operations, and growth avenues identified by management. Once a manufacturer understands what features are essential for their success, searching for a solution becomes easier.
Comparing Different Process Manufacturing Software
Once a manufacturer has evaluated the various business needs and requirements for a process manufacturing software solution, they will have a better idea of the type of software that will be the best fit. If the requirements are aligned with the industry standard, then an off-the-shelf software solution is likely the best fit. However, a custom software solution could be the best step forward if there are unique requirements and workflows.
Cost vs. Benefit Analysis
The cost of manufacturing software can vary based on a number of variables, including if it’s an off-the-shelf or custom solution, the software development company, and the size of the software solution. When deciding on a software solution, it’s important to evaluate the cost and compare it to the benefits a manufacturer will experience.
For example, custom software solutions have a significant upfront cost but typically provide manufacturers with more value than an off-the-shelf solution since it’s built around a manufacturer’s unique requirements and workflows. This can result in a higher ROI and provide long-term value for the company.
Why Embrace Process Manufacturing Software
Implementing a robust software system can transform how process manufacturers operate daily business and operations processes. Let’s take a look at some of the benefits and challenges of implementing ERP software and how technology can transform a manufacturing organization.
Benefits and Challenges of Implementing Process Manufacturing Software
Implementing a robust software system can improve a manufacturer’s overall operations, optimize production schedules, and result in substantial cost savings. Implementing the right ERP software solution can also provide a manufacturing organization with valuable business data that enables them to make meaningful changes to the manufacturing process.
A common challenge to implementing new software is training employees on how to use the system effectively. When working with a software development company to build a process software solution, manufacturers should ensure employee training is included in the project. Employees should be provided with multiple training opportunities, including in-person sessions, recorded walkthroughs, and a user manual that walks through common workflows and troubleshooting guidance.
The Path to Digital Transformation in Manufacturing
Technological advances will continue to transform how manufacturing companies utilize software to manage daily operations. Some of these advances we’ve seen in the past include the Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence (AI). IoT technology is used to track assets throughout the warehouse, manage preventive maintenance schedules, and improve inventory management. Manufacturers are utilizing AI to automate processes, implement machine learning technology, and improve supply chain management.
As new and advanced technology finds its way into the manufacturing industry, companies will find ways to implement it into software solutions. New technological advances will only further transform how manufacturing companies manage business operations and streamline workflows.
How Geneca Can Help
Geneca has over 25 years of experience creating and maintaining high-quality, reliable custom software solutions. Our partners choose us because we:
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Understand software and business, including industry processes and regulations
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Use cutting-edge technology paired with trusted, evergreen tools
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Communicate changes, progress, and expectations through every step of the development process
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Honor your budget and timeline from the start
If you’re ready to learn more about how process manufacturing software can put you a step ahead of your competition, contact us today.