In this article:  

1. What is production software?
2. Examples of production software
3. Advantages of digitising with production software
4. vPlan as production planning software
5. Conclusion 

1. What is production software? 

As always, we start again at the basics: what is production software? Production software includes all software solutions used to manage and optimise production processes.  

Some of the main functions of production software are:   

• Production planning  
  Allows companies to plan production processes, allocate resources and track deadlines.
• Procurement 
  Software can help manage raw materials.
• Quality control 
  Software allows companies to maintain quality standards and reduce production errors.
• Data analysis 
  Manufacturing software offers companies insight into their production processes through reporting and analysis. 

2. Examples of manufacturing software 

Companies choose ERP software for several reasons. Basically, it is often purchased for accounting and customer relationship management (CRM), as it provides a centralised way to manage financial data and customer information. 

As a company grows, the ERP system can be further expanded to include modules for planning, production, HRM (Human Resource Management), logistics and more. The main advantage of ERP software is the integration of different business processes, which increases efficiency, reduces errors and enables better decision-making. 

There are several manufacturing software tools available on the market, each focusing on specific aspects of production management. We mention some examples below: 

ERP (enterprise resource planning) software 

ERP software is designed to integrate and manage various business processes. For manufacturing companies, it often offers modules for production planning, inventory management, and quality control. Examples of ERP manufacturing software are:

• Exact 
  Offers a comprehensive set of tools for production planning, inventory management, logistics and financial administration.
• AFAS 
  A cloud-based ERP solution that helps companies manage their production processes, inventory and finances.
• King Software 
  Integrates production, sales and other business processes to create a seamless workflow.
• SAP  
  Offers a comprehensive set of tools for production planning, inventory management, logistics and financial administration.
• Oracle NetSuite 
  A cloud-based ERP solution that helps companies manage their manufacturing processes, inventory and finances.
• Microsoft Dynamics 365 
  Integrates manufacturing, sales and other business processes to create a seamless workflow. 

MES Software (Manufacturing Execution Systems) 

MES software focuses on managing production floor operations. It helps manufacturing companies track and manage production processes in real-time. Examples of MES software include: 

• Wonderware by AVEVA 
  Provides tools for production and process monitoring, quality control and real-time data collection.
• Siemens SIMATIC IT 
  Focuses on optimising production processes through data analysis and automation.
• Rockwell Automation FactoryTalk
  An MES solution for monitoring manufacturing operations and improving productivity. 

PLM Software (Product Lifecycle Management) 

PLM software helps manufacturing companies manage the entire lifecycle of a product, from design to production and final distribution. Examples of PLM software include: 

• PTC Windchill 
  Provides tools for product design, collaboration, and management of technical documentation.
• Siemens Teamcenter 
  A PLM solution that supports the entire product lifecycle, including design, engineering and manufacturing.
• Dassault Systèmes ENOVIA 
  Enables companies to streamline product development and production through collaboration and data management. 

Depending on a company's specific needs, a combination of different types of software can be used to optimise production processes.  

3. Advantages of digitising with production software 

Digitisation offers numerous benefits for manufacturing companies, including: 

• Efficiency  
  Production software helps companies streamline their processes, reducing production time and increasing productivity.
• Quality 
  By using software, companies can better monitor and ensure the quality of their products.
• Flexibility 
  Digitisation allows manufacturing companies to respond quickly to changes in the market or product lines.
• Cost savings 
  By working more efficiently and reducing errors, companies can save costs. 

4. vPlan as production planning software 

With vPlan, companies can optimise their production processes while creating a better workflow. Our software offers several advantages: 

• User-friendliness 
  The software is designed with the user in mind, which means it is easy to use and understand.
• Visual capacity planning 
  With vPlan you get overview in planning grip on the capacity of your machines or employees and insight into deadlines.  
• Integrations 
  vPlan integrates with other software your company already uses, making data exchange seamless. This reduces manual work and increases efficiency.
• Flexibility 
  The software offers flexibility to quickly shift schedules and adapt production processes to changing needs. Whether for pre-calculations or adjusting deadlines, vPlan makes it easy.
• Hours registration 
  vPlan makes it easy to schedule employees and keep track of their hours. This provides insight into project progress and helps monitor deadlines and budgets.
• Easy collaboration
  The software provides a central place for communication and collaboration, allowing team members to work together effectively and solve problems quickly. 

Tip: Did you know that vPlan is very easy to integrate with different software?

5. Conclusion

Digitisation is a crucial step for manufacturing companies that want to stay competitive in the modern market. Manufacturing software provides the tools and flexibility companies need to optimise their production processes.  

vPlan is an excellent choice for companies looking to digitise their production processes and reap the benefits of modern technology. With a focus on visual planning, integrations and usability, vPlan is a valuable partner for any manufacturing company. 

Would you like to try vPlan for free to digitise your production process? Then create an account here and start today!