What is MES?

  • MES (Manufacturing Execution System) is a system that mainly manages the manufacturing process. It collects and analyzes production line data in real time, and enables the identification and improvement of bottlenecks and waste in the production process.

    As globalization progresses, production sites are now required to produce a wide variety of products in small quantities rather than the traditional mass production. To meet this demand, the introduction of MES is essential.
    Furthermore, as the manufacturing industry promotes digital transformation, the importance of MES is increasing. MES is a system that specializes in managing information at production sites, which can be said to be the backbone of the manufacturing industry, and can be said to be an essential system for maximizing the strengths of manufacturing by utilizing data.
    MES is not an independent entity, but has the unique feature of being able to "link with each manufacturing process on the factory production line." MES also has functions such as "task scheduling," "allocation and monitoring of production resources," "quality control," "data collection," and "maintenance management."

    There is a system that is often confused with MES, ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning/Enterprise Business System), but ERP is the higher-level system of MES. To elaborate further, ERP manages the planning layer (sales management, production management, human resources management, etc.), while MES manages the execution layer. Also, below MES are the control layer, "PLC" and "DCS", which collect data essential for MES processing.

Why MES is needed in the pharmaceutical industry

The reasons why MES is required in the pharmaceutical industry are as follows:

  • Meeting strict regulations

    The pharmaceutical industry is highly regulated and compliance with regulations is essential.
    The MES tracks and analyzes all production data in real time, facilitating reporting to regulatory authorities.

  • Strengthening quality control

    MES provides detailed tracking and analysis of quality data at each step of the manufacturing process, allowing quality issues to be identified quickly and necessary corrective measures to be taken in a timely manner.

  • Efficient production management

    MES maximizes production efficiency by capturing production line data in real time, identifying and improving waste and bottlenecks.

  • Ensuring traceability

    The MES tracks the entire flow from raw materials to the finished product, ensuring traceability.
    This allows you to quickly identify the cause and take appropriate measures if a problem occurs.

  • Achieving Data Integrity

    The MES centralizes production data and ensures its accuracy and consistency.
    This helps prevent duplication and inconsistencies in data and allows you to make decisions based on reliable data.

For these reasons, MES has become an indispensable system for production management in the pharmaceutical industry.

Products and services provided by IDEC Factory Solutions

We provide comprehensive "MES product packages" and "system construction" that are optimal for the pharmaceutical industry.

MES product package "SIEMENS Opcenter Execution Phama"

  • "SIEMENS Opcenter Execution Phama" is a paperless MES system for the pharmaceutical industry provided by IDEC Factory Solutions, a system integration partner of Siemens KK with over 20 years of experience in Japan.
    Our proven electronic batch record solution enables completely paperless manufacturing within regulated processes. From designing batch records to issuing batch reports, we drive operational and manufacturing efficiencies in both manual and highly automated environments.

System construction (system integration)

As a system integrator, IDEC Factory Solutions provides consistent support for the introduction of MES systems, from the planning stage to system operation and maintenance.

Basic steps of MES integration

  • 1

  • Needs analysis

    We understand our customers' business needs and requirements and propose optimal MES solutions.

  • 2

  • System Design

    Design system architecture and data flows based on customer needs.

  • 3

  • System Integration

    Integrate your MES with other systems (ERP, PLC, DSC, etc.) for data consistency and seamless workflow.

  • 4

  • Customization and settings

    We customize and configure MES functions to suit the customer's business processes.

  • 5

  • Testing and debugging

    Check the system functionality and performance and fix any issues.

  • 6

  • Training and Support

    We provide training to help users use the system effectively and provide technical support as needed.

  • 7

  • CSV Document

Strengths of IDEC Factory Solutions

IDEC Factory Solutions, as a system integrator of the IDEC Group, has been involved in the construction of numerous systems. Below, we have summarized the skills required of a system integrator that have been cultivated over many years of experience.

Skills required of a system integrator

System integrators who build MES systems are required to have the following technologies and skills:

  • System integration skills

    Since MES works with multiple systems (PLC, ERP, DSC, etc.), it requires the ability to integrate with those systems.

  • Manufacturing knowledge

    Building an MES requires an understanding of the characteristics and requirements of the manufacturing industry, which calls for a deep understanding of manufacturing processes, equipment, regulations, etc.

  • Data Analysis Skills

    MES handles large amounts of manufacturing data, so data analysis skills are necessary. The ability to analyze data and extract useful information is required to improve the efficiency and quality of production lines.

  • Project management skills

    The implementation of an MES is a large-scale project, which requires project management skills such as project scheduling, resource management, and risk management.

  • Communication Skills

    Since MES systems require collaboration with many stakeholders (manufacturers, system vendors, end users, etc.), strong communication skills are required.