ERP or MES software for the canning industry?

Monday 18 December 2023

In the food production industry, it is normal for companies that reach a large size to invest in an enterprise ERP system. However, just because of the size it may be necessary toimplement an MES system specifically for the food industry.

Of course , we are not saying that MES is an alternative to ERP!

What is the ESM?

A Manufacturing Execution System is a departmental system that supports production management to control, monitor, and collect information to be provided to ERP.

MES is actually halfway between ERP and process apparatuses, which is why it allows specific functionality to be provided for certain sectors such as agribusiness.

Although, in fact, many ERPs include modules for managing manufacturing operations, it is important to note that the food industry has very special and unique requirements. In this context, an MES system dedicated to the food industry is the best choice for managing production and collecting data within the plant.

Here are five benefits an MES system can offer the food industry.

5 Benefits of using MES management software for the Conseviero industry

Intuitive user interfaces: Imagine operating within a food company, where every tool must be intuitive and accessible at any stage of the process. If, from the initial stages, operators find it difficult to use, reintroducing the system later becomes a daunting task. The key to ensuring ease and simplicity of use lies in a thorough understanding of the industry and the processes usually followed by operators.
Smooth integration with other production software: Within the food industry, it is safe to say that an MES system integrates seamlessly with production tools. This synergy allows production processes to be simplified and optimized, providing detailed data on productivity performance and product quality. Integration facilitates automatic data acquisition from devices such as dynamic scales, barcode readers, vision cameras, temperature probes, and X-ray machines. This not only speeds up the production line, but also eliminates data entry errors.

For example, our AGRONET MES can be integrated with the most popular ERP systems, with interfacing of the hardware equipment already present in the company in line with Industry 4.0 directives.It can also be connected to the machines and instruments present on the production lines, so as to have widespread data collection, to increase the database for subsequent analysis.

Offline operational capability. A food-specific MES usually has offline capability; a feature often absent in ERP modules, especially those tied to remote data sources. Imagine your production lines shut down; this downtime can generate significant additional costs, including extra wages, product spoilage or downgrading, and additional overhead. Network outages are a common occurrence in every industry, including the food industry, with cable breaks, equipment failures and server restarts being recurring events. With an MES equipped with offline capabilities, you can deal with these situations with greater peace of mind.
Features specific to the canning industry. Compared to an ERP, an MES software designed for the agribusiness sector already has features that are related to the type of product being sold. For example, think of the needs of the canning market, the MES in this case can manage:
1. Campaign visit management
2. Import Catastini
3. Campaign inspection management
4. Conferments
5. Raw and drum production
6. Packaging
7. Shipments
8. Quality laboratory

Find out how you can optimize your processes with Agronet

Modularity specifically for the food industry. As we mentioned above, precisely because it is software designed specifically to meet the needs of the food industry, the MES will have a number of functions and modules-such as the receiving module, recipe module, menu customization, cooking module, label module, etc.-that will facilitate work by eliminating human error.

Among the advantages of our Agronet we cannot fail to list:

Real-time production data with objective indicators
Fast retrieval of finished product data
Easy inventory control and inventories always tracked
Increased production performance and resource efficiency
Maximum operational flexibility
Traceability of batches, product movements and deliveries
Label design and customization
ISO 22000 Certification
Keyboardless, installable on industrial Pc, and roles can be profiled.

MES Software: Agronet can be integrated with ERP

The synergy between AGRONET and the corporate ERP system manifests itself in fruitful integration, enabling a harmonious flow of information. Through this advanced connection, several crucial components of business operations can be synchronized and optimized. Master records are precisely integrated, ensuring unified and accurate management of customer information. The recording of Transportation Documents for agricultural matter, Raw Production Orders, and Packaging Orders, both in stock and for specific customers, becomes a facilitated and consolidated process. Customer Orders are managed efficiently, while the recording of stock movements and the management of the passive cycle are automated, contributing to an integrated and streamlined business management.