Manufacturing execution systems (MES) are becoming increasingly important as organisations strive to improve productivity, compliance, and control while taking advantage of the opportunities presented by digital transformation technologies. The question is increasingly becoming which MES platform to choose, as there is a variety of options available. One of those options is POMSnet Aquila MES (also known as POMSnet).
At SL Controls, we have experience implementing and integrating the POMSnet platform for companies in the life sciences sector. In this blog, we are going to explore why POMSnet should be considered for your organisation and facility.
What is POMSnet?
POMSnet is an MES platform owned by the Constellation Software Company. In various forms, it has been delivering MES functionality to manufacturing organisations since 1988.
Why Choose POMSnet?
We have identified the 11 main reasons why POMSnet should be on your list of platforms for consideration when choosing an MES platform:
- Well-established solution
- Out-of-the-box flexibility
- Comprehensive range of features
- Highly configurable
- Easy to learn
- Integration capabilities
- Web-based
- Hosting options
- Cost-effective
- Reliable support
- Facilitates paper-to-glass initiatives
We can look at each of these points in more detail.
POMSnet is Well-Established
According to POMS, the platform is used in over 200 validated sites, it is used in some of the world’s largest pharmaceutical companies, the user base continues to grow, and it is one of the most widely used MES solutions in the life sciences sector.
POMSnet Offers Out-the-Box Flexibility
Many MES solutions operate on a customisation model where the basic building blocks are provided by the vendor and then you work with an integration partner to customise the platform according to your requirements. POMSnet works differently, as it is both very comprehensive and highly configurable.
What this means is that POMSnet can be adapted to almost any life sciences manufacturing requirement without the need for potentially expensive and complex customisation.
POMSnet Comes with a Comprehensive Range of Features and Modules
As mentioned in the previous point, the out-of-the-box functionality that POMSnet offers covers all MES requirements. Those modules and features include:
- Electronic batch records
- Review by exception and release by exception
- Order management
- Equipment management
- Specification management
- Weigh and dispense for a range of material weighing requirements
- Quality management
- Personnel management
- Worksheets and log books
POMSnet is Highly Configurable
Each of the above feature categories and modules can be configured according to your requirements, ensuring you get an MES solution that is workable and delivers tangible benefits.
POMSnet is Easy to Learn
One of the biggest barriers to digital transformation strategies or the implementation of any new software platform is user buy-in. It is one of the points we address at SL Controls from the beginning of any project, and we continue to work on it throughout. Part of this task is made easier when the software platform is easy to learn and use, and POMSnet ticks both of those boxes.
POMSnet Has Advanced Integration Capabilities
The development team behind the POMSnet platform recognise one of the most powerful benefits of any MES solution is the ability to integrate with other systems in the organisation, especially enterprise-level systems. As a result, POMSnet has been developed to be integration-ready. It comes with tools out-of-the-box that enable integration across your manufacturing software stack, including with ERP, LIMS, and QMS systems.
POMSnet is Web-Based
As POMSnet is web-based, it can be accessed from anywhere and on multiple devices, including phones. The POMSnet solution is also touchscreen enabled.
You Have Multiple Hosting Options
You can host POMSnet on your cloud infrastructure or utilise the POMS SaaS MES Cloud option for comprehensive application and infrastructure delivery and support.
POMSnet is Cost-Effective
Any MES platform you choose should deliver a return on investment and then continue delivering financial benefits in areas like increased productivity, more streamlined compliance, and reduced risks. The pricing model and underlying costs of POMSnet make it a cost-effective MES solution.
You Can Expect Reliable Support
POMSnet is built using common and well-supported technologies that make supporting your implementation of POMSnet easier and more reliable, especially if you work with an experienced integration partner like SL Controls.
POMSnet Facilitates Paper-to-Glass Initiatives
One of the big trends in life sciences is the transition from paper to glass, where current manual processes (that are often paper based) are digitalised and, where possible, automated. POMSnet facilitates your paper-to-glass transition and enables a phased approach with a focus on user buy-in, compliance, process optimisation, and long-term success.
Is POMSnet Right for You?
Do the above advantages and features of the POMSnet solution mean it is the best MES option for your facility or organisation? That will depend on your current infrastructure, requirements, and future plans, but POMSnet is likely to be a contender.
The best approach is to work with an integration partner like SL Controls as we have experience across multiple MES platforms. We can analyse your requirements and match them with the best solution for your needs. Get in touch today to arrange a consultation.
