Selecting and Implementing Production Management Systems

Implementing new production management software is complex and risky. Learn the foundational knowledge necessary to make informed decisions and ensure your automation project delivers real value. By the end of this course, you will understand the lifecycle of a production system implementation project, from initial requirements gathering and vendor evaluation to deployment and post-implementation assessment. You will gain a structured methodology for comparing different types of systems, whether they are large-scale Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) modules or specialized Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES). What you'll learn: * Understand the core functions and distinctions between ERP, MES, and specialized production automation tools. * Learn a step-by-step process for defining clear business requirements and translating them into technical system specifications. * Apply structured evaluation criteria to compare vendor solutions, focusing on scalability, integration capabilities, and total cost of ownership. * Configure foundational data governance principles necessary for integrating real-time data streams from shop floor equipment. * Practice techniques for planning implementation phases, focusing on risk mitigation and change management within a production environment. The course begins with essential terminology and the business case for automation, then progresses through detailed modules on system selection, vendor negotiation, project planning, and post-go-live optimization strategies. You will read practical examples and case studies detailing successful and challenging implementations. This course is designed for absolute beginners, including project managers, manufacturing analysts, and IT professionals new to production automation system selection. No prior experience with specific ERP or MES software is required. Start mastering the critical decisions that drive manufacturing efficiency today.