Podcast Episode Details

Rethinking manufacturing execution systems in paper and packaging

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Episode 214

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Manufacturing execution systems (MES) have long driven efficiency in paper and packaging operations. But many of these systems—often 20 to 30 years old—are now a drag on agility, innovation, and competitiveness. This episode, inspired by Rethinking manufacturing execution systems in paper and packaging, dives into why legacy MES platforms are reaching their limits and what the next generation of manufacturing technology looks like.

We examine the growing demand for semantically rich, unified data to power AI and intelligent agents, and the need to rethink the MES–ERP relationship. From moving quality management into ERP to leveraging open, adaptable MES platforms like SAP Digital Manufacturing, the conversation highlights real-world partner solutions that blend modern core capabilities with deep industry specialization.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

1. Why Legacy MES Is Hitting Its Limits

• How decades-old, heavily customized systems create rigidity
• The talent gap as expert maintainers retire
• Why outdated MES can’t keep pace with AI-driven ERP advancements

2. The Shift to Semantically Rich, Unified Data

• The importance of contextualized data for AI insights
• Avoiding costly data replication through centralized data platforms
• Turning historical production data into predictive gold

3. Breaking Down MES–ERP Silos

• Rethinking which functions belong in ERP vs. MES
• Quality management as a case study in migration to ERP
• Enabling top-floor-to-shop-floor process optimization

4. The Platform-and-Partner Model

• How SAP Digital Manufacturing provides a robust, adaptable MES core
• The role of partners in delivering industry-specific last-mile capabilities
• Examples: Delaware’s DM4Mill, ConCircle’s ConMill suite, T-Con’s die roll optimization

5. Future-Ready Manufacturing

• The need for openness, scalability, and deep integration
• Leveraging cross-industry innovation for sustained competitiveness
• Why platform-based MES may be the only viable path forward in the AI era

Key Takeaways:

• Legacy MES platforms are becoming liabilities in the face of AI and advanced ERP capabilities.
• Semantically rich, unified data is essential for predictive analytics and intelligent automation.
• Rethinking the MES–ERP divide unlocks new operational efficiencies.
• Platform-based MES with partner-driven specialization delivers both modernity and industry fit.
• Adaptation speed will determine competitive advantage in manufacturing.

Subscribe to our podcast for expert insights on manufacturing innovation, AI in industry, and digital transformation strategies. Visit The Future of Commerce for in-depth research on how technology is reshaping production systems. Share this episode with manufacturing leaders, operations managers, and technology strategists navigating the MES evolution.

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Published on 3 weeks ago