AI-Enabled Manufacturing Execution Systems Key to Overcoming Legacy System Challenges, Says Info-Tech Research Group

AI is reshaping the future of manufacturing execution systems (MES), and Info-Tech Research Group's new research insights highlight the significant benefits of adopting AI-powered platforms. The firm advises that by harnessing AI, manufacturers can unlock predictive maintenance, optimize energy consumption, and enhance real-time decision-making, enabling more agile and efficient operations. The recently published resource offers a clear path for manufacturers to transition from outdated systems and drive a successful digital transformation.

TORONTO, March 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ - As manufacturers navigate the demands of Industry 4.0, outdated manufacturing execution systems (MES) are proving to be a major roadblock to efficiency, scalability, and real-time decision-making. Legacy systems, often operating in isolated data silos, hinder predictive maintenance capabilities and lead to costly downtime. To help IT leaders modernize their MES strategies and drive digital transformation, Info-Tech Research Group has released its blueprint, Accelerate Your Smart Factory Initiatives Using a Next-Generation MES.

The firm's comprehensive resource equips CIOs and manufacturing leaders with the insights and frameworks needed to transition from outdated MES solutions to advanced, cloud-native platforms. By adopting a next-generation MES, organizations can enable seamless data integration, enhance operational agility, and gain a competitive edge in an increasingly digitized manufacturing landscape.

"Manufacturing execution systems, once the foundation of shop floor control, are increasingly considered expensive, rigid, and outdated," says Shreyas Shukla, principal research director at Info-Tech Research Group. "Legacy MES systems lack the flexibility to scale with modern manufacturing needs and are becoming a barrier to embracing Industry 4.0 technologies. As manufacturing has become more complex and global, these systems are failing to keep pace with the need for connectivity, real-time visibility, and advanced analytics."

Info-Tech outlines in the new blueprint the challenges of MES implementation, including integration complexities, data security risks, and regulatory compliance concerns, especially with cloud-based solutions. The firm's research insights highlight the need for a best-fit MES that seamlessly integrates with enterprise software while leveraging AI, industrial IoT (IIoT), and cloud infrastructure to enhance efficiency. Info-Tech advises organizations to take a strategic approach, focusing on careful planning, risk management, and long-term operational alignment for successful MES adoption.

Key Advantages of Modern MES Platforms
In its blueprint, Info-Tech explores how AI-enabled MES platforms are delivering significant benefits, enabling manufacturers to optimize efficiency, reduce downtime, and enhance decision-making. The resource highlights key ways AI enhances MES functionality, including:

• Predictive maintenance – Anticipates equipment failures, enabling proactive maintenance before breakdowns occur.
  
  
• Process optimization – Adjusts production variables dynamically to maximize yield and minimize waste.
  
  
• Quality control – Detects deviations from quality standards to ensure defect-free products.
  
  
• Supply chain integration – Ensures raw material availability aligns with production needs, reducing delays.
  
  
• Energy efficiency – Optimizes energy consumption by continuously analyzing production data.
  
  
• Real-time decision-making – Delivers actionable insights to operators for faster and more informed decisions.

By offering practical tools and a strategic roadmap, Info-Tech's blueprint provides CIOs and IT leaders with the guidance needed to successfully transition to next-generation MES platforms. Manufacturers can use the guidance to overcome the limitations of outdated systems, streamline operations, and accelerate their smart factory initiatives.

As digital transformation reshapes the industry, the firm states that transitioning to cloud-native, AI-enabled MES solutions will be critical for driving operational excellence and maintaining a competitive edge in the manufacturing industry.

For exclusive and timely commentary from Shreyas Shukla, an expert in the manufacturing sector, and access to the complete Accelerate Your Smart Factory Initiatives Using a Next-Generation MES blueprint, please contact pr@infotech.com.

About Info-Tech Research Group
Info-Tech Research Group is one of the world's leading research and advisory firms, proudly serving over 30,000 IT and HR professionals. The company produces unbiased, highly relevant research and provides advisory services to help leaders make strategic, timely, and well-informed decisions. For nearly 30 years, Info-Tech has partnered closely with teams to provide them with everything they need, from actionable tools to analyst guidance, ensuring they deliver measurable results for their organizations.

To learn more about Info-Tech's divisions, visit McLean & Company for HR research and advisory services and SoftwareReviews for software buying insights.

Media professionals can register for unrestricted access to research across IT, HR, and software and hundreds of industry analysts through the firm's Media Insiders program. To gain access, contact pr@infotech.com.

For information about Info-Tech Research Group or to access the latest research, visit infotech.com and connect via LinkedIn and X.

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SOURCE Info-Tech Research Group