Understanding Modern Manufacturing
The manufacturing industry is an evolving environment, especially as new technology is developed that can improve operations. The manufacturing process is complex and requires oversight throughout every step, which can be simplified using manufacturing software. Manufacturing software has greatly improved operations, as it typically allows users to manage and monitor the entire manufacturing workflow from a single platform.
Manufacturing software solutions offer companies the ability to automate processes and streamline workflows, reducing the risk of human error. Since each manufacturing business has its own unique processes and needs, it’s important to consider the different types of manufacturing software and determine which is the best fit. If having a highly scalable solution and specific features is a top priority, consider developing a custom manufacturing software solution for your company.
An Overview of the Top Software Utilized in Manufacturing
While there are plenty of types of manufacturing software for the manufacturing industry, today we will look into two of the most commonly utilized solutions.
Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Systems
Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems are designed to allow employees to manage their entire manufacturing process through a single software system. This streamlines business and production processes, as managers can access all the necessary information in a single location.
Most custom ERP software is developed to be highly scalable, allowing for easy integration and updates to the system. This allows the manufacturing business to grow without concern if their software can keep up.
ERP systems can improve supply chain management with a centralized location to manage all contacts and orders, along with access to real-time inventory data. Many ERP systems also include dashboard abilities, presenting data in charts and graphs, making it easy for the user to comprehend. This increased visibility into manufacturing processes allows management to monitor performance levels easily.
Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) Software
Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) software is a system that manages the entire product lifecycle from ideation to service and disposal. This management software allows manufacturers to strategically approach the production planning process from a single software solution.
As supply chains take on a global presence, manufacturing companies must adapt to a global framework. With PLM software, a manufacturing company can manage its supply chain in a central location, making it easy for multiple users to manage at once. This allows for quality management as companies will have all the necessary information in one place, reducing the risk of critical information falling through the cracks.
In-Depth Analysis of Top Manufacturing Software
Knowing the purpose and functions of ERP and PLM software, let’s take a look at the benefits that manufacturing companies can experience using this software.
Benefits and Application of ERP Software
A manufacturing ERP system’s core purpose is to increase operational efficiency and produce comprehensive insights using valuable data. These insights can include supply chain concerns, staff performance, and bottlenecks in the production process.
In the manufacturing industry, reducing manufacturing costs is an always-present goal. The data gathered and analyzed by the ERP system can help manufacturers identify where costs can be cut throughout the entire production process. This ability to make informed decisions is a significant benefit of utilizing ERP software.
Role of PLM in Ensuring Product Quality and Efficiency
Since PLM software manages the entire production process from a singular platform, manufacturing businesses can use it to improve quality control and production efficiency. This software can gather data on the production process and turn it into valuable insights regarding inefficiencies and waste.
PLM software can also produce an environment that fosters innovation through collaboration and insights into previous projects’ pain points. This type of collaboration throughout the product’s lifecycle often results in a higher-quality final product.
Emerging Trends in Manufacturing Software
Since the manufacturing and software industries are constantly evolving to incorporate new technology and find solutions to existing problems, let’s review some of the emerging trends we’re seeing in manufacturing software.
The Rise of Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) in Manufacturing
As the manufacturing industry continues to adopt new technology to evolve with our increasingly technological society, the Internet of Things (IoT) technology is a popular choice. IoT technology connects mobile devices, sensors, and devices to gather and transform data into valuable information.
In a manufacturing environment, the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) applies IoT technology to manufacturing operations to streamline processes and reduce downtime. IIoT can be adapted to a manufacturing company’s unique needs and processes throughout the entire supply chain.
IIoT applications tend to focus on machine learning, artificial intelligence, machine-to-machine communication, and aggregate data. To perform all of the processes, IIoT solutions will involve production sensors, smart devices, and network hardware to keep all aspects of the solution properly connected.
Some of the common benefits of utilizing IIoT technology include predictive maintenance, quality control, and safer working conditions. These benefits are derived from the data gathered by sensors monitoring machines, the production process, and sensors monitoring the facility’s environment.
Influence of Artificial Intelligence in Manufacturing
As more manufacturing companies adopt IIoT technology and take on properties common in smart factories, artificial intelligence (AI) will find its uses to improve manufacturing processes. With AI and machine learning (ML) technology, manufacturers can gather and analyze data to improve decision-making abilities and identify ways to streamline processes.
A common use of AI in the manufacturing process is predictive maintenance. Most industrial equipment and machines are now equipped with sensors that continuously monitor the machine’s health. By combining AI and IIoT technology, manufacturers can predict failures in the manufacturing process and schedule maintenance before the equipment breaks down. This ensures that the equipment and machines are in good health and do not cause downtime.
Additional uses of AI include predicting demand in the supply chain and reducing the risk of manufacturers being out of materials. This improvement in the inventory management process also reduces the risk of downtime, ensuring the business can continue production.
The Transition Toward Cloud-Based Manufacturing Software
Manufacturing companies are increasingly using cloud-based software due to the long-term benefits compared to the traditional on-premises counterpart. Cloud-based solutions can improve operational efficiency, reduce waste, and support innovative initiatives, including lean production.
Cloud-based software for manufacturing is rising in popularity because it can provide real-time visibility into the production and business processes for all users, regardless of the user’s location. As manufacturing companies expand their operations on a global level, the ability to stay connected is crucial.
Work With Geneca Today
Are you ready to take the next step and learn about how manufacturing software can improve your operations and manufacturing workflows? Reach out to Geneca today! We have a team of business analysts and software developers ready to build you a software solution that meets your every need.