What is MES (Manufacturing Execution System)?
Shop floor software that tracks and monitors production in real time, bridging the gap between ERP planning and actual manufacturing.
Definition
A Manufacturing Execution System (MES) is software that monitors, tracks, documents, and controls the process of manufacturing goods from raw materials to finished products in real time. MES sits between ERP (enterprise-level planning) and the shop floor (machine-level control), providing visibility into production operations, quality tracking, labor management, and OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness) monitoring. MES helps manufacturers reduce waste, improve quality, and increase throughput.
How MES Works in ERP
Some ERP systems include built-in MES capabilities (like Epicor Kinetic's Advanced MES), while others integrate with standalone MES platforms. In an integrated setup, MES receives production orders from ERP, provides real-time production data back to ERP for scheduling and costing, and enables closed-loop manufacturing where actual performance feeds back into planning.
ERP Vendors with Strong MES
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between MES and ERP?
ERP handles enterprise-level planning (orders, financials, procurement), while MES manages real-time shop floor execution (tracking actual production, quality checks, machine status). MES provides the granularity that ERP planning modules lack.
Do I need both ERP and MES?
Most manufacturers need ERP for business management. MES is additional — it's most valuable for companies needing real-time shop floor visibility, quality tracking at each operation, and OEE monitoring. Some ERPs like Epicor Kinetic include built-in MES.