ERP Manufacturing

Discrete Manufacturing ERP Software

Discrete manufacturing ERP software describes one aspect of the applications of manufacturing enterprise resource planning software. Until recently, discrete manufacturing, most often employed for product layouts, was the strongest area of focus for ERP software developers and designers. But now ERP systems are capable of facilitating almost all manufacturing layouts, including hybrids of flow, product, and process models.

What are the differences between these models, and how can discrete manufacturing ERP software increase efficiency and output for each one?

Flow layouts are the leanest and most efficient manufacturing models, designed around the concept of JIT or just-in-time production. In a flow layout, only the machines, processes and labor required to fulfill specific orders are employed at any given time. This model has become popular in the auto industry, and both general and discrete manufacturing ERP software frequently play a role in the scheduling and management of flow layout manufacturing.

Product and process manufacturing are distinguished by manufacturing floor layout and product type. The process model involved uninterrupted progress from one stage to another and between similar product runs. Process manufacturing often involves the combining of ingredients or chemical compounds which, once mixed, can’t be easily separated. The end result of the process model is usually a homogeneous set of products that are measured and packaged by weight or volume. This model is usually employed in the manufacture of food, pharmaceuticals or refined substances.

Discrete manufacturing ERP software is most often required to facilitate manufacturing using a product layout. This layout is distinguished by the assembly of separate components into a whole, whereby the individual components are carried to a single destination. These components may include raw materials, or they may include previously, or discretely, assembled sub-products. Sub assembly is a form of discrete manufacturing, and discrete manufacturing ERP software can coordinate the stages involved, such as bill of material, order processing and routing. Discrete manufacturing ERP software can also facilitate engineering changes that are required during the assembly and sub-assembly process. With a discrete manufacturing ERP software platform in place, manufacturers can also track costing for finished products, and control serial number, part number, and lot tracking.

Discrete manufacturing ERP software and its applications to all three manufacturing layouts are expanding and becoming more sophisticated every year. ERP software began its evolution in the world of manufacturing, and while front office and general business functions have increased, such as customer relationship management, payroll and accounting, manufacturing applications have also become increasingly seamless, reliable and efficient. Industries involving both product and process models, such as pharmaceuticals, appliances, construction and apparel, increasingly find some form of ERP infrastructure nearly indispensible. Returns on implementation investments are rising along with improvements in efficiency and asset management.

Written by :

tracey boxer