Integration is one of the primary considerations when choosing a Manufacturing Execution System (MES) for your pharmaceutical or medical device manufacturing facility. Not only does the MES platform need to have integration capabilities, but the nature of those integration capabilities is also important.
For example, an MES solution might have integration potential, but a huge amount of engineering hours could be required to create a complex and difficult-to-scale solution to make integration possible.
Integration capabilities are one of the key features of POMSnet Aquila MES (also known as POMSnet MES). POMSnet MES is integration-ready.
In other words, POMSnet is an MES platform that comes with out-of-the-box tools that enable integration across your manufacturing software stack and beyond, including legacy equipment and siloed systems.
Information Flow Bridge
One of the best ways to describe POMSnet MES is as a bridge – a bridge between manufacturing processes on the factory floor and enterprise resource planning. This bridge optimises processes, drives OEE improvements, and facilitates a seamless flow of data across the organisation, from previously siloed legacy equipment to the most advanced ERP platforms.
Examples of the systems, platforms, and equipment that can be integrated with POMSnet MES include:
- ERP – enterprise resource planning platforms
- SCM – supply chain management systems
- PLM – product lifecycle management systems
- LIMS – laboratory information management systems
- QMS – quality management systems
- CAPA – systems that manage corrective and preventative action processes
- Training management systems
- Document management systems
- Asset management platforms
Integration Features of POMSnet MES
Integration capabilities are built into POMSnet MES, making integration possible even with legacy platforms, systems, and equipment. The flexibility of the platform is the most crucial aspect. Because of this flexibility, legacy systems and equipment can be integrated with POMSnet MES via workarounds rather than making complex changes to code or replacing equipment.
This reduces both capital expenditure costs and the engineering hours required to develop solutions. It also simplifies the integration process, speeding up project delivery timescales.
For the most common manufacturing systems and platforms, templates are available within POMSnet MES as standard. The templates use industry-standard technology that streamline implementation and reduce the complexities that can introduce risks. The standard templates that are available further reduce the engineering hours required for integration.
POMSnet MES also features direct device and process control system connectors that facilitate equipment integration with the platform. Examples of the equipment that can be integrated include barcode readers, local workstations, scales, etc
The Flexibility of POMSnet MES
The flexibility of POMSnet MES is important as the system can be set up according to business needs and the priorities and realities of your production lines and processes. For example, the order management feature of POMSnet MES that initiates work orders can operate independently, or it can be integrated with your ERP system.
SL Controls – Your POMSnet MES Integration Partner
At SL Controls, we have experience working as a POMSnet MES integration partner for companies in the life sciences sector. This experience includes implementing POMSnet MES in existing manufacturing facilities while delivering on key objectives such as retaining existing equipment and ensuring operator buy-in throughout the development and installation process.
To find out more about POMSnet MES, its integration capabilities, and the benefits to your production lines, get in touch with us at SL Controls today.
