Manufacturing Execution System Application within Manufacturing Small–Medium Enterprises towards Key Performance Indicators Development and Their Implementation in the Production Line

Augusto Bianchini, Ivan Savini (), Alessandro Andreoni, Matteo Morolli and Valentino Solfrini
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Augusto Bianchini: Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Bologna Alma Mater Studiorum, Via Fontanelle 40, 47121 Forlì, Italy
Ivan Savini: Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Bologna Alma Mater Studiorum, Via Fontanelle 40, 47121 Forlì, Italy
Alessandro Andreoni: Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Bologna Alma Mater Studiorum, Via Fontanelle 40, 47121 Forlì, Italy
Matteo Morolli: Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Bologna Alma Mater Studiorum, Via Fontanelle 40, 47121 Forlì, Italy
Valentino Solfrini: Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Bologna Alma Mater Studiorum, Via Fontanelle 40, 47121 Forlì, Italy

Sustainability, 2024, vol. 16, issue 7, 1-20

Abstract: This paper explores the importance of smart manufacturing in the context of Industry 4.0, highlighting the crucial role of Manufacturing Execution Systems (MESs) in facilitating Industry 4.0, particularly in data capture and process management. It is worth noting that Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) face several obstacles, unlike large companies that have the resources to adopt these principles. This text explores the challenges that SMEs encounter when adopting Industry 4.0, considering budget constraints and technology transfer difficulties. The potential benefits of such projects are often difficult to measure during the initial stages, but they can facilitate the digital transformation of small businesses. To support this thesis, this paper presents an example of MES implementation in a manufacturing SME, showcasing the creation of a comprehensive data monitoring and industrial performance assessment system. This paper aims to introduce a systematic approach for integrating a Key Performance Indicator (KPI) framework using MESs within an SME. This paper highlights the importance of transitioning from big data to smart data to achieve outcomes in terms of operational efficiency, cost analysis, workload management, resource utilisation, knowledge dissemination, and enhanced operator engagement.

Keywords: manufacturing execution system; key performance indicator; small–medium-sized enterprise; industry 4.0; big data; performance measurement (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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