As the entire world shifts towards Industry 4.0, new technologies are introduced to improve entire industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, entertainment, automotive, and many others.
Companies everywhere are pouring billions of dollars into developing advanced artificial intelligence solutions combined with tiny Internet of Things sensors that generate operational data and help improve decision-making.
Managing so many interconnected devices, assets, people, and data is a logistical nightmare even for the most experienced CEOs.
So instead, companies started using smart manufacturing software designed to simplify resource management and increase operational efficiency. Let’s go over the main types of manufacturing software in more detail.
Manufacturing Software Delivery Models
Before we get to the types of smart manufacturing software, we must mention the two different types of delivery models available. Both of them have their advantages and disadvantages, so let’s take a look at those first.
On-Premise Software
On-premise software is generally reserved only for the most prominent enterprises and manufacturing companies due to huge IT costs.
This type of smart manufacturing software is deployed on-premises, but only after the company updates all software and hardware.
On-premise software provides full control over updates, maintenance, and other essential processes.
However, all of the costs are also covered by the company. Lastly, this type of software includes risks, as it can break down and stop working in case of hardware failure or power outage.
Cloud Software
Cloud-based software solutions are increasing in popularity every year as more and more businesses adopt SaaS solutions to streamline their operations.
Cloud software offers some significant benefits when compared to traditional on-premises counterparts. First of all, cloud-based software solutions are much cheaper and safer as the provider covers all development, maintenance, updates, and other costs.
Moreover, all of your operational data is kept in safe spread across multiple servers, so if one goes down, you will be able to continue your operation without any issues.
Cloud software is also a great choice if you work with remote team members, as they can access the system, share data, and monitor production remotely at any time.
The downside is that you’ll have to give up some control over the software, and you always need an internet connection to use it.
Different Types of Manufacturing Software
Each type of smart manufacturing software offers different features and functionalities designed for specific business processes or industries. Here are the most common types in more detail.
ERP Manufacturing Software
ERP is an acronym for Enterprise Resource Planning, and this type of software is designed to simplify the management of key business operations.
That includes processes such as inventory management, supply chain optimization, project management, financial management, compliance, and risk management.
The software boasts a central information hub that improves operational efficiency and allows managers to access essential project information quickly.
The software can be used by multiple departments that need access to the same data and make communication easier.
On the downside, some ERP software solutions tend to be complex, hard to set up, and very expensive. They are mostly available only to large, international enterprises who can afford them.
So far, ERP software has found its place in construction, education, manufacturing, healthcare, retail, and waste management industries.
CMMS For Manufacturing
CMMS or Computerised Maintenance Management Software is used to streamline and optimize maintenance efforts across the organization.
The software also uses a central information hub to simplify maintenance management and automation features.
However, it’s mainly used to organize and carry out preventive maintenance, as it provides technicians with access to detailed instructions and lists of spare parts.
Even though the software is excellent for improving productivity and reducing maintenance costs, it requires a significant upfront investment.
Moreover, most CMMS solutions are hard to integrate with existing platforms, especially cloud-based.
Nevertheless, the software is helpful for businesses with many assets and production facilities located in different areas.
Inventory Management Software
Inventory management is a huge problem for many manufacturers, especially when part production occurs across different facilities.
Keeping track of multiple shipments, production lines, warehouses, and transport vehicles can seem impossible in some situations.
This software uses barcodes to create a detailed inventory and improve control over every element.
It allows businesses to track all parts, materials, and packages in real-time, helping them reduce waste and increase profits.
The software can also help improve forecasting, planning, and decision-making in the right hands. However, it can’t identify spoiled products in stock, which can be a problem for some manufacturers.
With that said, if you’re looking for a software solution that can help you optimize efficiency by reducing stock costs and waste, this type of smart manufacturing software is an excellent choice.
Computer-Aided Manufacturing
Computer-Aided Manufacturing or CAM is also known as software that helps automate computer-controlled machinery in manufacturing. For example, the software can be set up to take control of 3D printers, laser cutters, milling machines, and similar devices to increase productivity and reduce the number of errors.
Unlike human workers, the software can run without stopping to complete repetitive tasks and leave your workforce with more time to focus on other essential processes.
As you can imagine, it comes with a very high price tag and requires a team of experienced engineers to set up correctly. The software is especially useful in the mechanical, aerospace, air-conditioning, and similar industries.
Computer-Aided Design For Manufacturing
Computer-Aided Design or CAD software has been used for decades. It allows engineers to create 2D and 3D technical designs and product instructions.
The approach has a positive effect on design quality, documentation creation, and creating a database of designs employees can access at any time.
Furthermore, CAD software supports innovation and improves communication between different departments. As a result, it helps improve design accuracy while reducing overall design time.
Like previous smart manufacturing software solutions on our list, acquiring CAD systems can be expensive, and you’ll also have to train your staff, which takes a lot of time and effort.
However, this software is a must if you belong to the aviation, civil, consumer product, medical, or gas industry.
Conclusion
The smart manufacturing software types we covered above are only solutions used to help manufacturers increase efficiency and productivity.
Plenty of other specialized software types are used in manufacturing, such as EHS, accounting, cost estimating, and others that help streamline various processes.
Most such solutions come with a high price tag, but they provide numerous benefits that help companies save a lot of time, money, and effort in the long run.
The sooner you adopt smart manufacturing software solutions, the more advantage you will have over your competitors.
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